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Fall movie preview

Hollywood hopes big stars equal big blockbusters

After a record-breaking summer, the major movie studios are banking on the Toms (Hanks and Cruise), Julia, Nicole and Angelina to keep churning out box-office hits this fall.

Charlie Wilson's War
December 25
Charlie Wilson's War
Universal Pictures (GE)
"The Kite Runner" isn't the only fall movie about Afghanistan. But while "Charlie Wilson's War" may not be based on a best-selling novel, it does have a chance of doing as well, if not better, than "The Kite Runner."

That's because this movie, based on a true story chronicled in the book of the same name by the late CBS journalist George Crile, stars Tom Hanks (you may have heard of him) as Texas congressman Charlie Wilson and Julia Roberts (you have heard of her) as Joanne Herring, a friend and political ally of Wilson.

Sure, a movie about a politician using his influence to covertly help Afghan rebels fight the Soviets may sound like a bit of a snoozer. But did we mention that it stars Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts? What's more, legendary director Mike Nichols is behind the camera for the film.

So don't be surprised if the movie does decent business, especially if it racks up prominent award buzz for its two larger-than-life stars and its director.


The Brave One

The Kingdom

The Darjeeling Limited

Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married?

Saw IV

American Gangster

The Kite Runner

Bee Movie

Lions for Lambs

No Country for Old Men

Beowulf

The Golden Compass

I Am Legend

National Treasure: Book of Secrets

Charlie Wilson's War
Blockbuster and Netflix are slugging it out in the DVD market. And the two companies are now taking their battle to the online movie download and streaming business as well. (more)
Powerhouse director Peter Rosten prepares high school students for film careers from an outpost in Montana. (more)
A series of sequels and other blockbusters like "The Simpsons" and "Transformers" helped heat up the silver screen this summer. (more)
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