Written by DAVID KEYES

May 29, 1998 (Reprinted online August 24, 1998)

We have waited since September to hear the words "summer is here." Now, these words can finally be heard, because we are stepping directly into it after a long hard year of school and work ends. Seniors graduate soon, semester exams come up shortly, report cards are almost ready to be mailed, etc. So, what’s to do this summer?

June looks to start off the summer film season very well. By this time, the eagerly anticipated "Godzilla" will be playing all around in theaters, and the world will be waiting for the premieres of two eagerly anticipated films. The first of these is Disney’s "Mulan." Most teenagers don’t care for those Disney animated features, but this one is different. It is likely to be the second animated Disney feature in history to receive a PG rating, due to its use of graphic violence on screen.

"Mulan" tells the story of a young girl in China who pretends to be a warrior so she can save her family and ultimately, her whole country. It takes place during the 5th century, and the whole concept of the movie is based on a famous Chinese legend. Among the voice talents is Eddie Murphy, who is voicing a comical dragon named Mushu. Reports are filtering out everywhere that "Mulan" will be unlike any Disney feature ever before. In fact, it’s practically a war epic.

Expect something profound when it is released on June 19. A few critics are already calling it the best animated feature in over 25 years.

The next big film of the summer will be "Armageddon," which, at this time, is still scheduled for release sometime in July.

"Armageddon" is the second blockbuster of the year to be focused upon a series of asteroids that have the possibility of colliding with Earth. The first feature, "Deep Impact," is already out, but instead of involving asteroids, it involves comets. But unlike that movie, "Armageddon" is getting tons of publicity, not only for its fancy special effects, but for its star-studded cast as well. Just look at the lineup: Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Billy Bob Thornton and Liv Tyler. The movie would have to be good in order for this list of actors to turn out.

"Armageddon" and "Mulan" are almost guaranteed to be summer’s biggest hits. But you better be sure that there are a whole lot more coming your way. Farewell and have a film-filled summer!