Will Harry Potter Fail to Live Up to Record Hype?

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Two short weeks ago, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 was the biggest box-office thing ever in Hollywood.

Now, it's getting beat by Captain America.

Is the wizard out of magic—and so soon?

RELATED: Will this be Emma Watson's first post-Potter movie?

Hardly.

Deathly Hallows: Part 2 just became the first movie to break $900 million after only 15 days in theaters worldwide, Box Office Mojo reported. (The film opened in some foreign countries on July 13.) It's already the Earth's 19th-biggest-ever grosser.

But, domestically, Harry Potter's wand has indeed lost its zip—and lost it fast.?

On these shores, HP8 was at about $298 million through Wednesday. At the same point in its runs, The Dark Knight, which Deathly Hallows: Part 2 blew past to take the opening-weekend record, was at $342.7 million.

How did Harry Potter blow such a big lead?

"Even a huge franchise like this has a ceiling, and the base hasn't expanded that much," BoxOffice.com Phil Contrino said via email.

In other words, Potter fans here rushed to see the franchise's final film the first second (read: weekend) they got, and then after that… Well, let's just say, Twilight fans could tell Potter fans that ginormous debuts don't mean Avatar-toppling runs.

Speaking of the all-time box-office champ…

"[Deathly Hallows: Part 2] doesn't have a shot at Avatar's record," Contrino said.

And no one ever thought it did because Avatar is Avatar: one of those flukes and/or James Cameron movies. (For what it's worth, HP8 is currently running ahead of Avatar's pace.)

Of course, with Deathly Hallows: Part 2 long expected to gross $1 billion worldwide, it's OK to be Harry Potter, too.

FLICK PICS: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

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Denise Richards Talks Boobs, Babies and Dating: I Want To Get Married Again!

Albert Michael/startraksphoto.com

Denise Richards doesn't understand the fascination with her breast implants.

"Hasn't half of Los Angeles had their boobs done?" she says while feeding her seven-week-old adopted daughter Eloise and promoting her new memoir, The Real Girl Next Door. "Yes, I'm happy with my boobs now. I have the boobs I wanted when I was 19. I never thought it would be such a big deal."

Her chest certainly wasn't the only thing we chatted about. Read on to find out what the former E! reality star has to say about dating, trash-talking Charlie Sheen and more...

READ: Who was at Denise Richards' star-studded baby shower?

With baby Eloise and daughters Sam and Lola taking up most of her time and energy these days, Richards admits her romantic life isn't exactly in full swing. "I'm dating," she said. "But you know, it's not marriage material. It's dating-ish."

She does hope to remarry some day. "I loved being married and I loved being a wife—for the short time that I was," Richards said. "I love men and I love being in love, so I know I will definitely meet the right someone some day."

Richards says of her ideal man, "I'm attracted to men with children and obviously someone who is great with kids and could be a very good role model.

"Like I said in the book," she continued, "whoever it is, he will be in a house fill of girls who love and adore him."

So how did she keep the adoption so private? Surprisingly, not one celebrity tabloid got wind of it before she was ready to announce the news earlier this month. "I was so grateful to the few people that I did tell," Richards said. "They kept it a secret and were very loyal and protective. I started the process almost two years ago. There were times it was discouraging, when I thought I was going to adopt and then it didn't happen. But I've always wanted more kids."

As for the rumors that Comedy Central has asked her to participate in its upcoming roast of Charlie Sheen, Richards says she hasn't received any such offer.

"Sure it could be funny and clever to have one of the ex-wives come and be a part of the roast, but at the same time, I don't know if it's the best thing to do or the classiest thing to do," she said. "I would just be taking cheap shots, right?"

You certainly would.

Now we want to hear from you. Should Denise Richards roast Charlie Sheen or stay out of it? Chime in below.

PHOTOS: Famous Families

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So Bromantic: Which Harry Potter Star Is Wearing His Love for Tom Felton?

Todd Williamson/WireImage

Why try and squeeze all your love on a measly old sleeve when there's an entire chest available for proclaiming your affections?

That was the thought that likely crossed this Harry Potter star's mind when he decided to share with the world his warm and fuzzy feelings for his big-screen costar, Tom Felton.

So who is embracing his bromantic side and baring his soul (or at least chest) for the budding blond heartthrob?

MORE: Which Harry Potter stars will be big after the franchise ends? We break down the odds!

Todd Williamson/WireImage

It's Rupert Grint!

The super supportive and adorably cheeky actor proudly wore the adoring (and presumably homemade?) T-shirt while walking the red carpet for the Hollywood premiere of the Felton-starring Rise of the Planet of the Apes last night.

And hey, if there's anyone who could appreciate his, um, interesting fashion choice, it's Tom.

Awww. Now who needs fans when you've got costars like that?

VIDEO: Tom Felton is just one of many who's sad to see Harry Potter end

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Is James Franco Not Returning to General Hospital?

James Franco is a pro at keeping people on their toes. We already know the guy loves taking on new projects—his latest being guest lecturer at MOMA in New York. But could it be that James is saying no to a project? It seemed that was the case when his return to General Hospital was brought up at last night's Rise of the Planet of the Apes premiere.

Our own Ben Lyons caught up with the actor on the red carpet and got the info straight from James on his rumored return...

MORE: James Franco's Latest Gig? Art Instructor

"I'm sad to say that that was a little bit of misinformation," James said. "I don't know why they announced that I would be back in September. I am currently making The Wizard of Oz in Detroit. I am the lead. I am working every day, so I don't know when I would be able to fly back to do any episodes of General Hospital in the near future."

Say what?!

Don't worry too much though, G.H. fans. While James says the immediate future might be up in the air, that doesn't mean he won't be returning one day. "I'm very close with them and I do have plans to do other stuff with them." Guess he finally reached a point where he realized he could only take on so much at one time.

Check out the video above to see more of muti-talented star's interview and all the glowing words his costar Tom Felton used when asked about James. Here's a peek: Tom thinks James is "gorgeous."

GALLERY: Movie Premiere Pandemonium!

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Sneak Peek! Behold the Avengers, Assembled on the Big Screen!

We've seen them assembled in dramatic poster form, but now we're getting a first video look at this band of superheroes from the upcoming Joss Whedon flick, The Avengers.

But be warned, spoilers are ahead. The peek comes following a glimpse at the last scene of Captain America. So if you haven't seen the flick and want to keep yourself pure, this is your final notice.

If you're ready to check it out, hit the jump...

WATCH: Eddie Murphy Teaches Ben Stiller Bad Things in New Tower Heist Trailer

Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans) and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) are all on display, and RDJ provides more of his trademark Iron Man banter as he gives Thor kudos on his hammer-throwing skills. They're gonna make a great team.

Also getting blink-and-you-miss-'em glimpses here are Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo), aka The Hulk.

What do you think? Have superheroes run their course or is this shaping up to be the best so far?

PHTOTOS: Flick Pics: Avengers

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New Ides of March Trailer: Vote George Clooney in 2011!

Need a break from the current political climate? Well then how about we shift gears and focus on George Clooney's run for the White House with Ryan Gosling as his right-hand man?

With Clooney back in the director's chair, The Ides of March takes a peek behind the curtain of big-time politics and shows that even for the most well-intentioned, it isn't easy to hold on to your integrity.

MORE: George Clooney & Ryan Gosling Go Head-to-Head for Ides of March

Still riding the wave of his overconfident lady killer from Crazy, Stupid, Love, Gosling is political wunderkind Stephen Myers, a standout with ego and charm to spare...if not an overly naive view of how the political world works:

"Nothing bad happens when you're doing the right thing," he says. Candidate Mike Morris (Clooney) is amused and dryly replies: "Is that your personal theory? Because I can shoot holes in it."

With such wide-eyed beliefs early on, it's no surprise we see Ryan begin to buckle under the pressures of loyalty and back-room deals. And in the end, the one-time asset has morphed into the campaign's biggest enemy.

The Ides of March hits theaters Oct. 7. What do you think: Is this a candidate you can support?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future

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More Sexy Pics From The Hunger Games! Vote on the Actors' New Looks!

Jeff Riedel/ EW

Yesterday we showed you this hunky Entertainment Weekly cover showcasing the new hair colors and buff biceps of Hunger Games' leading men, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth.

Well today, the mag is giving us a li'l more man candy. And even a sneak peek of an in-character Jennifer Lawrence!

So what do you, our trusty readers and Hunger Games fans (or haters), think of the actors' new looks? Do ya buy ‘em in the roles?

READ: First Look! Hotties Liam Hemsworth & Josh Hutcherson Are Set for the Hunger Games!

Judging by comments on yesterday's Hunger Games piece showing the fellas as their characters, y'all have mixed emotions!

"I am really impressed! I was skeptical about the casting for all of the main characters but these two look very much their parts in this pic, and Jennifer Lawrence looked great as Katniss too. Now if only the script is as good as the books..." wrote YellowRose.

While commenter "no" says, "NO this is wrong. I just pictured it all differently. I pictured Gale to be the more muscle-y one but here it looks like Peeta is. I am not saying I had high hopes for this but I just expected better casting....who knows though...they may surprise us."

Whatever your opinion, there's no denying that the guys look mighty good in these new pics!

Inside the mag on newsstands tomorrow, the photos showcase the three lead characters in their elements—such as Peeta flexing his biceps outside of the bakery and Katniss and Gale plotting in the woods.

So what do you think?

Did swapping hair colors make Liam right for the role of Gale and Josh look like Peeta?

PHOTOS: The Hunger Games: Meet the Cast!

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Movie Review: Cowboys & Aliens Needs Better Aliens, More Cowboys

Universal Studios/DreamWorks

Review in a Hurry: Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford make a great onscreen team...so who thought it would be a great idea to just totally split them up for most of this movie? Was it you, director Jon Favreau? You used to be better than this. A handful of good scenes do not a great movie make.

WATCH: Eddie Murphy Teaches Ben Stiller Bad Things in New Tower Heist Trailer

The Bigger Picture: Craig plays an outlaw named Jake Lonergan, who has lost his memory and woken up with a strange metal device on his wrist. He seems like a natural good guy, but he has a dark past. Ford is Dolarhyde, a small-town big-shot who is widely disliked, both for not suffering failure well and for letting his alcoholic nutcase of a son (Paul Dano) get away with anything he likes. Yet beneath it all, the old grump has a soft side.

When metal flying things attack the town, scorching cattle and abducting humans, it's team-up time. But James Bond and Indiana Jones don't work all that well together, at least at first. Some epic staredowns and face-punches ensue. For a mismatched buddy movie, this is a good start.

Shame, then, that this isn't that kind of movie. Craig is soon paired off with Olivia Wilde (playing a tough cookie who hides a ridiculous secret) while Ford is left to hang with a dozen or so other characters who get established with no payoff. Sam Rockwell, Adam Beach, Keith Carradine and Clancy Brown are among the more notable supporting players left without much material, but they're far from the only ones.

Ford, who so often sleepwalks through generic hero parts these days, shows some real fire as a more ambiguous figure, lighting up the action (emotional and physical) when he can. Then the narrative cuts away from him and momentum gets lost again.

Poor pacing isn't the only problem. The aliens are really ineptly thought out compared to the cowboy side of the equation. Their motivations are silly, as is their biologically unlikely anatomy. Like the creature in Super 8, many of the things they do serve immediate story needs without making any sense once the grand scheme is unveiled.

Director Favreau used to have a good feel for genuine emotion. Think of the fraternal bonding in Zathura, or the daddy issues in Elf. Sad to say, he now falls for easier shortcuts, using a manipulative and treacly score to enunciate moments that haven't earned their weight.

But damn, that wrist-blaster thingy Craig wears is cool. Every kid who sees this will want one.

The 180—a Second Opinion: If it performs decently at the box office and a sequel is made that understands the Ford-Craig pairing is what makes things work as well as they do, all might not be in vain.

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future

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K-11 Keeps Working Kristen Stewart Connection!

Libertine Films, National Photo Group

And so another game of he said/she said concerning our girl Kristen Stewart begins!

While sources very in-the-know about K.Stew's movie schedule told us that the Twilight babe wasn't planning on biting into a role in her mom's directorial debut (and hadn't been in a tres long time), peeps working on K-11 are singing a totally different tune.

So what's the word this time? And does it even matter?

RELATED: First Look: Kristen Stewart in Snow White and the Huntsman!

A rep for K-11 tells us exclusively that, "Kristen was originally attached to participate but is unable to because of her shooting schedule with Snow White and The Huntsman. She is still wildly supportive of K-11 and Jules Stewart's directorial debut and her brother's [Cameron Stewart] theatrical debut."

Well, duh. Of course she's happy her fam is finding T-town success. We are, too!

And we certainly never said otherwise. Just that her connection to the film lasted a lot longer than she ever did. But that's the exact deet that is up for dispute: how long exactly was Kristen attached to star in the flick?

"Kristen had always planned to do K-11," a source close to the film promises. "It's all not as sensational as posited, but the simple reality is that it came down to a scheduling conflict."

Point is: They want you to know that if she weren't wielding a sword opposite Chris Hemsworth, she'd be getting acquainted with the inner workings of the L.A. prison system right about now.

So see the movie! Because it's what K.Stew would want you to do!

And we still say we think the slammer stuff is more K.Stew's speed anyways. 'Cause the role she was supposed to play is described as "a beautiful young waif named Butterfly" who, get this, is a transgender man.

How chic-ly controversial, no?

And to the actress playing Butterfly now—that's Portia Doubleday—we wish you luck, babe! You've got some big, Stewart shoes to fill.

PHOTOS: Fashion Spotlight: Kristen Stewart!

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Venice Film Festival: It's Clooney vs. McConaughey (Plus, Firth, Knightley, Winslet, Mulligan & More!)

Sony Pictures; Working Title Films; See-Saw Films; Voltage Pictures

There is some major top-tier talent preparing to take the Lido by storm this summer.

It turns out the George Clooney-directed (and starring) political thriller The Ides of March, which will open the 68th Venice Film Festival on Aug. 31, is only the tip of the iceberg as far as this year's competition goes.

Twenty-one films will be battling for the Golden Lion, and it will up to a jury of their cinematic peers to see what roars the loudest, be it Matthew McConaughey as a cop and hitman in Killer Joe; Colin Firth and Tom Hardy as a couple of dashing Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy types; Jodie Foster and Kate Winslet as battling yuppie wives in Roman Polanski's Carnage; or a remake of Wuthering Heights starring a bunch of pretty Brits!

And the star wattage isn't the only thing that's special about these films...

MORE: Who's top-lining the star-studded Toronto Film Festival?

Every single movie in the Competition and Out of Competition categories will be making their world premiere during the always-glamorous festival.

Also vying for a prize are David Cronenberg, who directed Viggo Mortenson, Michael Fassbender and Keira Knightley in the sexy psychological drama A Dangerous Method, starring Mortenson as Sigmund Freud, Fassbender as Karl Jung and Knightley as a patient Jung seduces; Todd Solondz, whose Dark Horse stars Selma Blair and Justin Bartha as a couple of typical Solondzian malcontents; and Steve McQueen, whose Shame (the title says it all, doesn't it?) stars Fassbender and Carey Mulligan as brother and sister.

Among the films that are in the fest for the exposure rather than the competition are Steven Soderbergh's Gwyneth Paltrow-killing thriller Contagion, with Winslet and Matt Damon; the Al Pacino-directed docudrama Wilde Salome; and Madonna's feature directorial debut W.E., a dual-period romance about King Edward and divorcée Wallis Simpson and a modern-day affair between a woman and a married man.

But first, The Ides of March, costarring Ryan Gosling as the campaign staffer who pulls Clooney's presidential candidate into a shady predicament, kicks everything off Aug. 31 in the refurbished Sala Grande.

The festival runs until Sept. 10, and it sounds as if tons of A-listers are going to be invited—and, happily, they always go!

GALLERY: Movies From the Future!

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Han Solo and Chewbacca Reunite! (Thanks to Jimmy Kimmel)

Now this is what we call Cowboys & Aliens.

Making the publicity rounds for his latest summer movie, Harrison Ford turned up on Wednesday night's Jimmy Kimmel Live only to find himself greeted unexpectedly in his dressing room by an old—and hairy—friend: Chewbacca!

Lest you think it was a happy occasion, take a gander at the clip. Seems the Millennium Falcon captain had an old score to settle with his big furry oaf of a first mate.

Laugh it up, fuzzball, indeed!

PHOTOS: Cowboys & Aliens!

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Christina, Selena, Sofia, Demi and Cameron Spice Up the ALMAs

AP Photo/Dan Steinberg; Donna Ward/Getty Images; Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

They're back!

After their temporary shelving late last year, the Latino-honoring entertainment awards are back, slightly retooled and better than ever for another go this year, with nominees for the 2011 NCLR ALMA Awards announced bright and early this morning.

Back as always to host the do is Eva Longoria, who'll be joined this year by George Lopez. And—perhaps in an attempt to make it up to fans who missed out last year—this time, the public is king. To say nothing of the Hollywood royalty that made the nomination cut…

MORE: Speaking of awards, check out this year's Emmy noms!

Leading the spicy pack this year are Christina Aguilera and Selena Gomez, each of whom scored three nods for their triple-threat work on the big, small and musical screens, getting pitted against each other for Favorite Female Music Artist and Favorite Movie Actress—Comedy/Musical, for Burlesque and Monte Carlo, respectively.

Up against them in the former category is Jennifer Lopez, Naya Rivera and Shakira; in the latter category, they face off against The Other Guys' Eva Mendes and Bad Teacher's Cameron Diaz.

Making the cut for Favorite Movie Actress—Drama/Adventure is Machete's Jessica Alba, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' Penelope Cruz, Unstoppable's Rosario Dawson, Battle: Los Angeles' Michelle Rodriguez and Takers' Zo? Saldana.

As for the small screen nods, it's a battle of the Lopi. In addition to Aguilera, honored for her Voice work, and dog whisperer extraordinaire Cesar Millan, nominees for the Favorite TV Reality, Variety or Comedy Personality or Act include George Lopez, Jennifer Lopez and Mario Lopez.

As for other hot battles, the Favorite TV Actress—Leading Role in a Comedy category sees Disney besties Gomez and Demi Lovato face off, alongside Modern Family's resident hot tamale Sofia Vergara, Glee's Naya Rivera and Victorious' Victoria Justice.

Other big name nominees include Grey's Anatomy's Sara Ramirez, Parks and Recreation's Aubrey Plaza, The Office's Oscar Nu?ez, Antonio Banderas, Enrique Iglesias, Taio Cruz, Bruno Mars, Ricky Martin and Pitbull.

In any case, there's more changes in the works: as of now, the awards will officially be playing favorites. Literally. Starting this year, rather than value one performance over another, the organizers have finally given in to the popularity contest that these things are and decided to name all categories "Favorite" instead of "Best." It seems particularly appropriate, given that this year fan votes will help determine the winners of the annual show (incidentally, preferences can be logged through Sept. 5).

The winners will be revealed in an hourlong special airing on NBC Sept. 16.

MORE: Must be karma—check Christina Aguilera's good deed of the day

Here's the complete list of nominees:

Favorite Movie Actor
Antonio Banderas, You Will Meet A Tall Dark Stranger
Demián Bichir, A Better Life
Bobby Cannavale, Win Win
Michael Pe?a, Battle: Los Angeles
Danny Trejo, Machete

Favorite Movie Actress – Drama/Adventure
Jessica Alba, Machete
Penélope Cruz, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Rosario Dawson, Unstoppable
Michelle Rodriguez, Battle: Los Angeles
Zo? Saldana, Takers

Favorite Movie Actress – Comedy/Musical
Christina Aguilera, Burlesque
Eva Mendes, The Other Guys
Alexa Vega, From Prada to Nada
Cameron Diaz, Bad Teacher
Selena Gomez, Monte Carlo

Favorite TV Series
CSI: Miami
Desperate Housewives
Modern Family
Wizards of Waverly Place

Favorite TV Reality, Variety, or Comedy Personality or Act
Christina Aguilera, The Voice
George Lopez, Lopez Tonight
Jennifer Lopez, American Idol
Mario Lopez, Mario Lopez: Saved By the Baby
Cesar Millan, Dog Whisperer With Cesar Millan

Favorite TV Actor – Leading Role
Ricardo Chavira, Desperate Housewives
Ian Gomez, Cougar Town
Joshua Gomez, Chuck
James Roday, Psych
Adam Rodriguez, CSI: Miami

Favorite TV Actor – Supporting Role
Oscar Nu?ez, The Office
Rico Rodriguez, Modern Family
Michael Trevino, The Vampire Diaries
Tristan Wilds, 90210
David Zayas, Dexter

Favorite TV Actress – Leading Role in a Drama
Cote de Pablo, NCIS
Eva LaRue, CSI: Miami
Francia Raisa, The Secret Life of the American Teenager
Sara Ramirez, Grey's Anatomy
Sara Shahi, Fairly Legal

Favorite TV Actress – Leading Role in a Comedy
Selena Gomez, Wizards of Waverly Place
Victoria Justice, Victorious
Demi Lovato, Sonny With a Chance
Naya Rivera, Glee
Sofía Vergara, Modern Family

Favorite TV Actress – Supporting Role
Maria Canals-Barrera, Wizards of Waverly Place
Constance Marie, Switched At Birth
Aubrey Plaza, Parks and Recreation
Sarah Ramos, Parenthood
Lauren Vélez, Dexter

Favorite Male Music Artist
Taio Cruz
Enrique Iglesias
Bruno Mars
Ricky Martin
Pitbull

Favorite Female Music Artist
Christina Aguilera
Selena Gomez
Jennifer Lopez
Naya Rivera
Shakira

PHOTOS: Fashion Spotlight: Selena Gomez

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Olivia Wilde to Play Porn Star Linda Lovelace?

Jim Spellman/WireImage

Olivia Wilde as a porn star?

It's certainly a possibility.

And not just any porn star. We're talking the late Linda Lovelace, who helped bring porn to the mainstream with the hit 1970s X-rated flick Deep Throat.

Wilde exclusively tells me...

READ: Olivia Wilde admits she's dating a celebrity

She is considering starring in Lovelace, a biopic form Oscar-winning codirectors Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman. Recent reports wrongly claimed she was already signed on for the racy role. In April, it was reported that James Franco was being wooed by his Howl collaborators Epstein and Friedman for the project, too.

"It would be a tremendous honor," Wilde said last night at Nylon magazine's denim issue party at the Mondrian's Sky Bar in West Hollywood. "It's such a cool role. She was a fascinating woman—with where she came from to Deep Throat to then working with Gloria Steinem and Nora Ephron. It's really fascinating." (She's obviously done her research.)

This is separate from another Lovelace movie with Malin Akerman, who replaced Lindsay Lohan in the starring role.

"I'm being very careful about my next project since I'm now in a position where I can be really picky—thank God, finally," Wilde said.

WATCH: Olivia Wilde in The Change-Up trailer

Meanwhile, Wilde continues her humanitarian work with the launch of Operation Happiness, a nonprofit encouraging young people to help the less fortunate. "It's to engage young people to dedicate part of their lives to giving," she explained. "In a generation chock full of anti-depressants, we really believe that the path to happiness for some of them may not be through medication but by turning their energy outward and giving to those who need more than they do."

The group is set to release a line of "products for a purpose," Wilde said. Proceeds from a new Alternative Apparel backpack will benefit The Academy for Peace and Justice, a free secondary school in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

VIDEO: Cowboys & Aliens sequel? Get the scoop in Marc's daily video blog

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Movie Review: The Smurfs Is a Giant Smurfing Pile of Smurf

Courtesy of Sony Pictures Animation

Review in a Hurry: It's a Smurfs movie. What did you expect? If your answer is "a kid-friendly adaptation of the Peyo comics," you're not thinking enough like a Hollywood executive. There's more character and expressiveness in the cartoon drawings over the film's end credits than is shown at any other point. But on the bright side, at least some of the actors actually try to make it all work.

MORE: Is the NPH planning a wedding?

The Bigger Picture: Yes, this really is the epitome of cynical studio cash grabs that it appears to be. Take a property with brand-name identification, throw a ton of money and a couple of name actors at it, add in some inappropriately adult-themed stuff for parents and a shoehorned-in moral for kids. Then make sure there's product placement galore, as well as prominent usage of some of the same classic-rock songs that are in everything.

Voila: The Smurfs.

The Hanna-Barbera cartoon that this is most based upon was never really that good to begin with; it was a preposterous fantasy tale for kids, offering little to remember beyond the infernally catchy "La, la, la-la-la la" theme song. It'd be easier to forgive this live-action/animated adaptation, however, if it kept the kids in mind, perhaps by telling a tale set in that realm of wizards and monsters, featuring the Smurfs' traditional (and young) human pals Johan and Peewit/Peewee.

Instead, because of the idea that parents should be marketed to as well, the Smurfs have to leave medieval Europe via an accidentally generated magic portal and come to modern-day New York City, where they can involve themselves in the life of a put-upon marketing strategist (Neil Patrick Harris) and his pregnant wife (Jayma Mays). Along the way, of course we have to put up with gratuitous references to other films, including some mature titles that are really jarring in this context (Midnight Cowboy, Brokeback Mountain, Braveheart).

Harris works hard to make the movie work, at one point literally pointing out every single absurdity of the Surfs' entire existence, which makes for a funny moment despite undermining the whole premise.

Hank Azaria's hammy, evil wizard Gargamel, here augmented with an odd foreign accent, is a hoot, particularly when interacting with his occasionally digital feline sidekick Azrael. And among the Smurfs, special props to Fred Armisen, whose impersonation of the original Brainy Smurf's voice is far better than any mimicry the SNL star has ever done before.

All else feels forced, from the plot points to the unrealistic behavior of every major human character to the stagey nature of the pratfalls. It isn't desperately painful to sit through, but you're likely to hate yourself if you pay for it.

The 180—a Second Opinion: An early moment with the Smurfs flying on storks is both faithful to the source and thrilling in 3-D. Everything most of the movie isn't.

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future!

photo source: HD Wallpapers

First Look! Hotties Liam Hemsworth & Josh Hutcherson Are Set for the Hunger Games!

Entertainment Weekly

It's here!

So hot: First Entertainment Weekly debuted this magazine cover of a bangin' brunette Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss in The Hunger Games and now we get to see the man candy!

Liam Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson (and their bulging biceps) heat up this week's cover and we can't help but notice the the duo swapped hair color and are apparently now closer in height, too?

So what did the famous young fellas have to say about their new life and look-changing roles?

READ: The New Hunger Games Poster Is on Fire...Literally!

"I don't want to be the actor who's like, 'Yeah, man, the role is so me.' But it is!" Hutcherson excitedly explained to E.W. "I am Peeta. His humility, his self-deprecating humor, his way he can just talk to anybody in any room."

Well, well, well, sounds like someone is very please with himself these days! Good thing Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins totally agrees.

"People may get thrown off by, say, the color of an actor's hair," explained Collins of her casting choices. "But I tell you, if Josh had been bright purple and had six-foot wings and gave that audition, I'd have been like, ‘Cast him! We can work around the wings.' He was that good."

And H.G. director Gary Ross has the same kudos for the film's other leading man, Liam.

"On first glance he's such a hunk that it's easy to just sort of ascribe a hunk-like simplicity to him," dished the director. "But this is a phenomenally subtle actor."

But Ross (and Miley Cyrus!) aren't the only Liam fans!?

Turns out that Hutcherson and Hemsworth totally bonded on set during their six weeks filming together ,and after a jaunt to visit Josh's grandma in Kentucky together, the onscreen rivals have decided to look for an apartment together in real life in Los Angeles.

"I think it's going to blow people's minds when they see that Peeta and Gale are actually best friends in real life," says Hutcherson. And their third musketeer? J.Lawrence, duh.

"There is a brother-sister quality to them which I think is actually great for the dynamic in the relationship," says Ross of the Katniss-Peeta relaysh. "For Katniss, Peeta is an acquired taste…not the hot guy that she's into in the beginning."

And nowhere did the bro/sis relaysh come out more than the on-the-set pranks between castmates.

"We have this fake dummy on the set, this really gnarled-up, scary-looking thing," Josh says of his antics with J.L. "The other day I put it in her bathroom trailer, and she told me she actually peed her pants, she was so scared. I'm sure she's going to pay me back."

Good thing this cast seems to be in the midst of a totally adorable and slighty too much lovefest, ‘cause they only have three more flicks to film!

PHOTOS: The Hunger Games: Meet the Cast!

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Five Things to Know About Riot-Causing Electric Daisy Carnival Rave Flick

Beck Starr/FilmMagic

They were yelling,?battling cops, lying in the street—you'd think this crowd was protesting war or bleeding for a major cause.

Instead, the mob was assembled near Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles last night to celebrate the premiere of Electric Daisy Carnival Experience, a documentary about a techno music festival.?The impromptu party began after one musician?in the film?tweeted that loyal Electric Daisy Carnival fans should gather?in the streets for a "block party" in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre, but?the LAPD?quickly showed up in riot gear to shut?it?down.

Why all this insanity?over a?music festival documentary?

MORE: Another riot inducer

1. First, What Is This Thing? Electric Daisy Carnival is an annual techno music festival, where tens of thousands enjoy live music, DJs on multiple stages, pyrotechnic shows, rides and acrobats. Usually held on the last weekend in June?in Southern California, this year the three-day fest moved to Vegas. There is an 18 and over requirement to attend the rave, which has featured acts like Kaskade, Basement Jaxx, Steve Aoki and Armin Van Buuren. VIP tickets cost $500.

2. Paris Hilton?Calls for Peace in the Streets, Says Film Is "Huge": The reality star attended last night's premiere where the riot went down, and took to Twitter to chronicle the chaos. "Omg! What's going on on Hollywood Blvd? Trying to get to EDC Movie Premiere. The cops are blocking the streets and saying there is a riot," she wrote.

She soon retweeted?a tweet from DJ Kaskade, saying: "EVERYONE CHILL NOW!!! The block party has officially been shut down!?BUT?THIS IS TOO CRAZY AND WE NEED TO BE SAFE!"?

But Paris?quickly got back into the party groove,?later tweeting: "Loved the EDC movie! danced in my seat throughout the whole film. Such amazing music! House music is taking over! Loves it! Huge! :)"

3. What Is the EDC Experience Actually About? Aside from what you can see in the trailer—the lights, the crowds, the music—the film documents?the 2010 EDC festival, held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Exposition Park. Then in its 14th year, the event drew nearly 200,000 people, including will.i.am and Lil Jon. EDC Experience was?helmed by music video director Kevin Kerslake and features interviews with festival DJs and a touching?tribute to DJ AM.??

4. Deaths and Injuries at the EDC: At the 2010 dance fest, more than 100 people were admitted to the hospital for injuries, per the Los Angeles Times, and a 15-year-old girl died of an ecstasy overdose. The Dallas version of the event this year was shut down after a 19-year-old boy died and nearly two dozen others in the crowd suffered medical emergencies.

5. Party All Night: The official hours for the Electric Daisy Carnival are 8 p.m. until sunrise every night. The crowd comprises mostly '90s-era warehouse ravers, armed with glow sticks and?whatever else they need to have a good time and stay awake.

MORE: Speaking of dancing we love

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Movie Review: Crazy, Stupid, Love All Kinds of Crazy, Stupid Fantastic

Warner Bros. Pictures

Review in a Hurry: Steve Carell is a sad sack suburbanite. Ryan Gosling an über-cool urbanite. And both extremes find themselves in a romantic comedy about finding one's soul mate. Crazy, Stupid, Love supplies plenty of laughs but truly impresses in the low-key moments, revealing genuine warmth for its characters.

That they look like Emma Stone, Julianne Moore and Kevin Bacon is just an added bonus.

WATCH: New Ides of March Trailer: Vote George Clooney in 2011!

The Bigger Picture: Fortysomething Cal (Carell) has bailed on his life. After his spouse of 25 years (Moore) tells him she wants a divorce—and that she slept with another man (Bacon)—Cal literally falls out of a moving vehicle. So he starts hanging out at a singles bar where he meets Jacob (Gosling), a smooth thirtysomething who gets every woman he hits on.

Jacob decides Cal needs his help, partly because Jacob is a nice guy but mostly because he's simply tired of having to hear Cal whine on night after night about his failed marriage.

Let the man makeover begin!

"Be better than The Gap!" is Jacob's mantra.

Cal's transformation leads to one of the film's highlights. A random encounter with a "crazy" gal played by Marisa Tomei (hilarious and unpredictable). The setup is familiar—lonely dude gets freaky with a freaky gal—but Carell convinces as a big bundle of nerves and joy. Funny? Absolutely, but better than that, it's hard not to root for the guy.

Structurally, we're constantly dropping in and out of the lives of people who are all in some way or another obsessed with finding "the one." (Except Cal, who believes he did that 25 years ago and just wants her back.) As is standard for these stories, the characters lives seem unrelated, linked only by the city they reside in: a suburban-feeling Los Angeles.

While Crazy is an ensemble it's Cal's struggle to be the man his wife fell in love many years ago that resonates most. Carell is superb, never letting the jokes get in the way from allowing us to sympathize with Cal's heart ache.

Ryan Gosling has impressed as an actor (Blue Valentine), but Jacob might be his most likable part. He exudes the confidence of a star. Which is why when he admits to shopping QVC 24/7 it's still cool.

The supporting roles are all well cast. Stone (Easy A) is frazzled and lovely as a single gal. Moore makes her character's infidelity heartbreaking. Watch for a cameo by singer Josh Groban, schmucking it up as lousy boyfriend.

Peeling away the layers these people think they are in order to reveal the better person they can be ties the whole film together. This could have gone really cheesy, really fast. Some of the situations do seem born from a sitcom—like a teen babysitter who has a crush on Cal and whose son has a crush on her—but the script by Dan Fogelman and direction by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa slows things down to just observe their lives.

Past the crazy, and the stupid, is just a whole lotta love, actually.

The 180—a Second Opinion: A few scenes play way too big. Like, a car chase (really?) that feels out of place. Why do so many comedies feel the need to deliver such big moments when a story with characters we relate to makes pratfall gags unnecessary?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future

photo source: HD Wallpapers

First Look: The Avengers (Posters) Assembled!

Marvel

These superheroes know how to kick butt on their own. But as a collective, they're indestructible.

The new movie poster (er, posters) for Marvel Studio's The Avengers is out and it's awesome.

MORE: The Avengers' Iron Man and Nick Fury Team Up for Captain America Premiere

The who's-who of classic Marvel characters, most of whom have their own big-screen franchise, unite as agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. to fight covertly for the good of mankind in this Joss Whedon-directed flick: Robert Downey Jr.,'s Iron Man; Chris Hemsworth's Thor, Chris "Captain America" Evans; the Hulk, featuring Mark Ruffalo (taking over the role from Ed Norton); Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow and Samuel L. Jackson as S.H.I.E.L.D.'s leader Nick Fury along with newcomer Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye.

Marvel debuted the individual posters of the team, but stitched together, they make for one dazzling one-sheet—and one potentially cool movie.

PHOTOS: Check out all the photos in Flick Pics: The Avengers

photo source: HD Wallpapers

James Franco's Latest Gig? Art Instructor

Alexandra Wyman/WireImage

His ever-expanding résumé includes actor, NYU professor, Oscar host, author, musician, installation artist and even a dance theater director.

Jeez, what in the world hasn't James Franco done?

How's about art teacher.

MORE: So True? So False? Is James Franco Hooking Up With a Drag Queen?

The multi-multihyphenated liberal-arts geek will juggle his big-screen career (he's appearing in next week's Rise of the Planet of the Apes and just started filming a Wizard of Oz prequel), a recently announced return to the cast of General Hospital and the thousand other activities he's got going on with a turn at New York City's MOMA PS1 as a guest lecturer leading master classes with his Milk director, Gus Van Sant.

Per the museum's website, Franco will lead "lectures and discussions that bring students together to take part in a new conversation around contemporary practice with artists, authors, musicians, curators, theorists and scholars."

Just the perfect fit for Hollywood's favorite Renaissance Man. And he'll even be doling out homework—and holding film screenings!

In fact, Franco and Van Sant will kill two birds with one stone by showing off a recent artistic collaboration of their own—a film called My Own Private River which will be installed in the museum's main theater and run through July 30.

The project came about after the filmmaker showed the 33-year-old thesp old outtakes, deleted scenes, and other unuused footage of the late River Phoenix from his 1991 movie My Own Private Idaho and Franco persuaded Van Sant to let him create an experimental flick for exhibition.

?We give him an A for effort.

Watch: The Rise of the Planet of the Aples trailer

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Kellan Lutz Sheds His Fangs (and Shirt) for Fashion

Courtesy of Yu Tsai

Kellan Lutz, who famously (or infamously) plays one of Robert Pattinson's vampire bros (duh), is once again in front of the camera, but not in the way you'd expect. Lutz is going back to his modeling roots and striking a pose for two campaigns this upcoming fall.

You may remember that the Twilight star modeled for the 2010 Calvin Klein X underwear campaign and gave us all those drool-worthy pics. Well, Kellan and his washboard abs are back. Sorry, no underwear modeling this time, but that doesn't mean he's covering up the goods...

RELATED: Twilight Stars Surprise Hungry, Sleepy Comic-Con Fans With Breakfast

Courtesy of Yu Tsai

Lutz's handsome mug will be the face of the Dylan George and Abbot + Main by Dylan George Fall 2011 campaigns. And to say that the pictures are steamy is an understatement. Hope these aren't up on billboards because these babies certainly have the potential to distract drivers. Damn your eye-catching six-pack, Kellan!

And that's not all he's been up to.

Kellan has also gone Project Runway on us and joined the world of fashion design. He and Dylan George founder Danny Guez have created a new ready-to-wear men's line that will launch this fall called The Abbot + Main by Dylan George, which, yes, is also one of his modeling campaigns.

For all you classy young gents who don't like to fork over massive amounts of dough for your duds, you can rest easy. The Abbot + Main by Dylan George collection includes 25 Venice Beach-inspired pieces that will range from $44 to $178.

Can we just say that we find your little foray into men's fashion amusing, Kell? It's kind of strange seeing as you really shouldn't be wearing any clothes at all. But we'll wait for Heidi Klum to throw in her two cents.

May we suggest you combine your fashion line with your love for four-legged creatures and design outfits for rescues? Cute knits and shirts for animals? We already love it. And you know Jacob would love to have some A-list apparel for when he's in wolf form. Make it happen, Lutz.

PHOTOS: Breaking Dawn: Stills to Swoon Over

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Eddie Murphy Teaches Ben Stiller Bad Things in New Tower Heist Trailer

Hollywood is constantly looking for ways to identify with the general moviegoer. If that means saying a new action movie is based on a beloved board game from childhood, despite a few alien liberties, to tap into the existing sentiment, then so be it.

Now it seems that enough time has passed from the financial crisis for it to get its own big time comedy with a star-studded cast that includes Ben Stiller, Alan Alda, Casey Affleck, Matthew Broderick and Eddie Murphy.

Check out the new trailer for Tower Heist:

WATCH: New Ides of March Trailer: Vote George Clooney in 2011!

From director Brett Ratner, this heist involves a group of employees from a high-rise luxury residence looking to get back at the man who defrauded them out of their pensions (Alda)...And it just so happens the guy lives in their building.

Their plan for justice? Find his $20 million nest egg stashed somewhere inside. But with no criminal experience, they turn to Murphy, an out-on-bail thug who schools them in the nuances of thievery and, um, getting shot in the cheek. It's actually the funniest thing we've seen from the comedian in years.

But we can't help but notice the whole thing feels a lot like it could be Ocean's 14, just in New York and with a slightly less famous cast.

Tower Heist breaks into theaters Nov. 4. Are you down for some revenge comedy?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Halle Berry's Unwanted House Guest Hit With Burglary Charge

Fame Pictures

The legal hole just got deeper for the man accused of stalking Halle Berry.

The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office has charged Richard Anthony Franco with an additional count of burglary Wednesday resulting from his arrest earlier this month when he tried to break into a guesthouse on the actress' estate.

MORE: Stars Vs. Stalkers: How Celebs Keep the Kooks Away

After previously professing his innocence to one count of felony stalking, Franco pleaded not guilty to the new charge, which by itself carries a six-year prison term.

The 27-year-old was taken into custody July 11 at Berry's Hollywood Hills mansion after he was spotted scaling an outer wall of her residence three days in a row. At one point, he spied on the Oscar winner through a kitchen door, prompting Berry to call police fearing for her safety.

A judge subsequently granted the thesp's request a temporary restraining order barring the unwanted houseguest from coming within 500 yards of her, her home and her family and attempting to contact her.

Franco, who is on probation in a separate misdemeanor battery case for which he pleaded no contest, remains behind bars and bails is set at $150,000.

A preliminary hearing is schedule for Aug. 4.

PHOTOS: Stars With Stalkers

photo source: HD Wallpapers

New Battleship Trailer Is Chock-Full of Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker and...Aliens?

Prepare for battle!

Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsg?rd, Liam Neeson and Rihanna are taking to the high seas to protect us from a deadly alien (yes, alien) force that clearly has its eyes set on taking over the world.

Um, was that in the board game? And will we be able to figure out their coordinates?

First Look: The Avengers (Posters) Assembled!

If you're hoping to hear phrases like "B, 5!" and "You sank my battleship!" in director Peter Berg's big-screen adaptation of the beloved game, all we can say is, Sorry. (Pun, possibly intended...)

Once again, Kitsch finds himself playing a screw-up. In fact, he's such a screw-up that Neeson has no idea what his daughter, Brooklyn Decker, who does a great job of standing on the shore watching boats go by, sees in him.

Naturally, this is all a misunderstanding. All he needs is a situation to prove himself. Cue the aliens. When Skarsg?rd in all his Naval officer glory gives Kitsch the order to investigate a mysterious craft at sea, things quickly turn from naval exercise into a Transformers-meets-Armageddon-meets-beer-commercial fiasco. At least the alien ammunition kinda looks like the original pegs from the game.

Check out the trailer and tell us what you think: Is Battleship a miss or are you ready to play?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future

photo source: HD Wallpapers

George Clooney & Ryan Gosling Go Head-to-Head for Ides of March

Coumbia Pictures

At first glance, the new poster for the highly anticipated political drama The Ides of March might weird you out a little bit.

After all, it's not everyday one sees the faces of George Clooney and Ryan Gosling morphed together like this.

But that''s just what we get here in this one-sheet promoting the upcoming movie (out Oct. 7) revolving around a presidential candidate (Clooney) who finds his campaign in possible jeopardy after his press secretary (Gosling) winds up involved in a political scandal.

So what do you think? Kinda creepy? Or are we actually gazing upon the perfect man?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future!

photo source: HD Wallpapers

Plumped-Up Joe Pesci Tries to Whack Gotti Filmmakers

John M. Heller/Getty Images; AP Photo/Evan Agostini (2)

Joe Pesci's fat and angry. And that's not a good thing.

The volatile Oscar winner is suing mad after packing on 30 pounds to play a plump part in the upcoming mob film Gotti: In the Shadow of My Father, only to see producers pull a switcheroo and offer him a much leaner role.

Now, Pesci's going to the mattresses.

MORE: Another big name joins the Gotti cast

In his lawsuit filed yesterday in Los Angeles, Pesci claims he was offered the role of Angelo Ruggiero, an enforcer and longtime confidant of boss John Gotti Sr., along with a $3 million paycheck.

View the lawsuit

But after Pesci joined other high-powered castmembers like John Travolta and Al Pacino (and, in a supporting role, Lindsay Lohan) to hype the project, he says producer Fiore Films pulled a fast one by offering him the smaller role of Anthony "Gaspipe" Casso, a mobster who tried to kill Gotti. The lesser role came with a considerably lesser paycheck of just (we say just) $1 million.

For his part, Pesci claims his initial casting was used to garner attention for the movie and that he had an oral contract with producers for the role of Ruggiero. To add insult to possibly legal injury, he also says he broke his strict diet to gain some considerable pounds, which he now must lose to take on the new role.

"Defendant has no intention of paying Pesci $3 million or having him portray Ruggiero in the film," the lawsuit states. "Rather plaintiff secretly planned to use Pesci's name and likeness to promote the film and then to later concoct some pretext for terminating the contract so as to avoid paying plaintiff anything for the substantial publicity and 'buzz' that was generated."

But Fiore Films CEO Mark Fiore denies the claims, saying that Pesci walked away before a deal was ever inked and says he may now file a countersuit because Pesci never actually signed a contract to play a role in the movie.

"He's got nothing in writing and I guess he is looking for publicity to be honest with you," Fiore tells E! News, not commenting on Pesci's claims that he had an oral agreement with the film's producers. "He certainly doesn't have a contract from us. We were moving forward. We had come to an understanding."

Apparently not.

Besides claiming Pesci never even had a contract, Fiore further says the actor was brought into the project by former director Nick Cassavetes, who is no longer working on the movie. Fiore claims Pesci did not want to talk contract terms until the movie had a new director.

"We told him April 28 that if that is their stance, then we have to pull the offer. It's all documented," he said, adding that he's not going to allow Pesci to "push him around."

And as for Pesci?munching his way to mobsterville, Fiore says he's baffled as to why.

"I don't know why he would gain 30 pounds," Fiore says. "I don't know who told him to gain 30 pounds. It certainly wasn't me. Why would you gain 30 pounds when you have on your manager's desk on April 28 that we pulled the offer, why would you continue to gain weight? Honestly that doesn't seem very rational."

The film is supposed to begin production Jan. 3.

And here we thought Lohan would be the distraction.

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future!

photo source: HD Wallpapers

George Clooney & Ryan Gosling Go Head-to-Head for Ides of March

Coumbia Pictures

At first glance, the new poster for the highly anticipated political drama The Ides of March might weird you out a little bit.

After all, it's not everyday one sees the faces of George Clooney and Ryan Gosling morphed together like this.

But that''s just what we get here in this one-sheet promoting the upcoming movie (out Oct. 7) revolving around a presidential candidate (Clooney) who finds his campaign in possible jeopardy after his press secretary (Gosling) winds up involved in a political scandal.

So what do you think? Kinda creepy? Or are we actually gazing upon the perfect man?

PHOTOS: Movies From the Future!

photo source: HD Wallpapers