HOLLYWOOD—There are slim pickings this week for the avid theatergoer, but two movies hitting multiplexes are sure to target two different audiences.  As I’ve warned in previous weeks, Oscar bait is in full-force with awards season just mere months away, and “Captain Phillips” is likely to land on many list.

The drama is a biopic that chronicles the heroism of Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks) who was held hostage by a group of Somali Pirates in 2009, during a hi-jacking of the Maersk Alabama. The picture is based on the book, A Captain’s Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea by Phillips and Stephen Talty. There has been tremendous buzz behind the picture which has catapulted Hanks to a possible Oscar nomination for Lead Actor. It doesn’t hurt to have director Paul Greengrass at the helm of the picture. His work in “United 93” earned the genius a Best Director nomination.

The movie is a tense thriller that will place the spectator into the realm of two completely different cultures: one where everyday necessities are taken for granted and another where the bare essentials are available to survive day by day.  If it’s drama, with intensity you’re looking for this weekend “Captain Phillips” is a must-see.

If you’re looking for a picture with a bit more light fare, than perhaps “Machete Kills” is on the list.  I already know what most of you are thinking, “There’s a sequel to this movie?” Yes, a sequel has been made, for what reason who knows, but if camp is your cup of tea, then this movie is for you.  This time around there is more star power for this vehicle. For those not in the know, the original picture was a fake trailer in the Robert Rodriguez/Quentin Tarantino double-feature “Grindhouse.” It inevitably drew so much buzz, a film was made in 2010.

Returning actors include Danny Trejo, Michelle Rodriguez and Jessica Alba. Other big time names not to be missed include Mel Gibson, Sofia Vergara, Lady Gaga and Charlie Sheen.  Sheen is cast as the President, while Gibson portrays the picture’s villain. Sounds like the perfect movie that is so bad it’s good. The picture does not take itself too seriously and neither should the spectator.

Next week, one of the most anticipated movies of the year “12 Years a Slave” starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Brad Pitt arrives.  The buzz for this movie is beyond epic on a critical level. Also hitting theaters is the remake of the 1976 classic “Carrie” starring Julianne Moore and Chloe Grace Moretz.  Just in time for Halloween something spooky!

By LaDale Anderson