Ted

When a kid's teddy bear comes to life, it's a Christmas miracle in this raunchy romantic comedy. This live action romp features an animated bear who channels the uncensored spirit of Family Guy's Stewie. Mark Wahlberg and Mila Kunis star in this hilarious spoof of the buddy films and tribute to the '80s. Look for lots of cameos in this politically inappropriate film that takes shots at everything including Garfield. This early focus group screening was of an unfinished cut and the scheduled release date is in July for this "R" rated film (for language, drug use, sexual content, and nudity)

Alien gives it a preliminary 3 "thunder buddies for life" stars out of 4.

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Wrath of the Titans (3D)

Humans are caught in the middle of a war between the gods as it pits brother against brother and father against son. The sons of Zeus and Poseidon must team up to save humanity. This action packed extravaganza manages to become a monotonous 3D CGI monstrosity as every scene is smash and crash plus a cloud of dust and embers. You'll get some favorites from Greek mythology as well as some lava men and some strange Siamese warriors. The gods are no longer immortal, but Perseus (Sam Worthington) is like a Timex watch; he takes a licking, but keeps on ticking. Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes as Zeus and Hades seemed to be just walking through their green screen scenes. this sequel is better than the first, but not by much.

Alien gives it 2 "demigod" stars out of 4.

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Mirror, Mirror

It's Snow White with Julia Roberts (as the evil step-mother) and some twists in this fractured fairy tale. This children's film is a bit over acted and too lavishly ornate for Alien's tastes; more show than substance. It's an unconventional version that feels more like a three ring circus with acrobatics, marionettes, giant dwarfs, and a doggie show. Nathan Lane is always his usual self and Armie Hammer has a hard time keeping his shirt on. It is fine kiddie entertainment, but Alien hoped for something more slyly clever for the adults to be blended into the mix. This mirror movie wasn't quite the crack up expected.

Alien gives it 2 "puppy love" stars out of 4.

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The Hunger Games

This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.

It's a disturbing "Brave New World" where a "Coal Miner's Daughter" must be become a "Gladiator" in a "Death Race" on virtual "Westworld" isle for the "Condemned". This fascinating fantasy world reflects 2 of today's major news interests: the decline of the general public welfare and the exploitation of reality TV. Jennifer Lawrence is unbelievably outstanding and will win your heart from the get-go as Katniss, the underdog girl on fire. Themes of love, courage, sacrifice, hope, alliance, manipulation, survival, and being true to yourself echoed in this complex script. Alien hasn't read any of the books, but this gripping thriller kept my attention for the entire 2 1/2 hours starting after midnight and after previewing another screening earlier that evening. Head for the theaters to see if the odds will favor your tribute choice, but once you get a taste of "The Hunger Games" you'll just crave more.

Alien gives it 4 "three finger salute" stars out of 4.

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American Reunion

Those crazy kids from the Class of '99 are back for their high school reunion. They are still outrageously raunchy, but they are also somewhat more mature with jobs, wives, and kids, except Stifler who hasn't changed a bit. It's good to see those familiar faces again and reminisce about the good old days. Seeing the previous movies is not mandatory, but if you did, you'd get more of the jokes. It's a fitting story explaining this latest chapter of the gang's lives. Look for some cameo appearances. Stay seated at the beginning of the credits for a final funny clip and a photo gallery of past and present.

Alien gives it 2 ½ "bucking bucket of popcorn" stars out of 4.

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Swan Lake (3D)

This is not a sneak preview. This showing was a one night only event.

This contemporary re-interpretation of the classic Swan Lake ballet is a unique 3D experience. From seedy club to royal bar, Alien was mesmerized by the magical moments created through music and movement. There are no swans in tutus as power and strength commingle with grace and elegance in this all male ballet bevy at the lake. Magnificent choreography as well as creative theatrics and lighting shadows make it a visual treat. Look for little humorous touches that will bring a surprising smile to your face.

Alien gives it 3 ½ "tragic love story" stars out of 4.

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Jeff, Who Lives at Home

Jeff (Jason Segel) is a 30-year-old pothead living in his mom's (Susan Sarandon) basement. The film starts out as a comedy of errors by a couple of idiots (Ed Helms plays Jeff's older brother), but it takes an enlightening turn at the end. If you believe in signs, you may enjoy this quirky little tale of a family of lost souls finding their destiny. However, the film doesn't seem to what genre it wants to be as it plods along until it reaches the punchline.

Alien gives it 2 "catching the Kevin clues" stars out of 4.

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John Carter (3D)

It's "Avatar" meets "Star Wars" when "Conan" on Mars rescues "Xena, Princess Warrior"/"Runaway Bride". A Confederate soldier who has lost his purpose finds himself on Mars and caught in the middle of another civil war in Disney's version of Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel. Alien loved the primitive/high tech civilization and its 4-armed green bipeds and dog-like creature. The special effects, storyline, characters, action, and humor will make this movie popular with audiences, not the 3D. A warning to those who don't speak Martian, there will be some subtitles early on.

Alien gives it 3 ½ "transport medallion" stars out of 4.

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