Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Who’s in it? Jake Gyllenhaal, Gemma Arterton, Ben Kingsley
Director: Mike Newell
Anyone suggesting you see a movie based on a video game usually sets the alarm bells ringing – just think Hitman, Street Fighter, Doom or either of the Tomb Raider movies. But Disney is aiming high with this one, hoping to have another Pirates of the Caribbean-sized hit franchise on its hands. How do we know? Because it has roped in acting heavyweights like Ben Kingsley and Jake Gyllenhaal, added slick CGI and the talents of Pirates producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
Release date: May

Robin Hood

Who’s in it? Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett
Director: Ridley Scott
Eagle-eyed movie buffs will recognise the Crowe/Scott partnership as one that made Gladiator such a success, and hopes are high that this reimagining of the Robin Hood saga will tread similar ground. Judging by the recent trailer, it definitely seems heavy on the gritty, no-nonsense fighting that the duo’s previous movie had. Crowe’s tough-guy Hood will hopefully make Kevin Costner’s pansy mulletted version a distant memory.
Release date: May

Shrek Forever After

Who’s in it? Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy (voices)
Director: Mike Mitchell
You remember Shrek? The big green ogre with a Scottish accent? We do, and we’re glad he’s back – as we imagine Eddie Murphy must be, seeing as voicing the character of Donkey is the only credible and vaguely funny film role he’s had in the past 20 years. This is sure to be more of the same, presented to us this time in Avatar-style 3D.
Release date: May

Toy Story 3

Who’s in it? Tom Hanks, Tim Allen (voices)
Director: Lee Unkrich
It’s been a while since we last saw Woody and Buzz. The second movie never quite restarted the merchandise craze of the original, but perhaps it’ll be third time lucky with this entry – although we wonder if a grown-up Andy who leaves and goes to college, meaning that his toys get donated to a children’s home and want to escape to find their way back, will hold the same appeal for younger ones. The trailer has a few laughs, though – like the cheesy Ken doll who welcomes the toys to their new abode.
Release date: June

Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Who’s in it? Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner
Director: David Spade
There’s no getting away from the Twilight movies at the moment. If you’re not a fan, you may at least be interested to know that this third entry is the first one to be directed by David Spade – who also directed vampire flick 30 Days of Night. That could mean this particular movie is a little darker.
Release date: June •