MISSOURI WATCH: COMING SOON TO A THEATER NEAR U.S.

Many Americans eagerly await the release of new movies, and so as the new summer and early-fall season approaches, perhaps you will be interested in these highly anticipated Hollywood extravaganzas. Look for them at your favorite movie house where it is still possible to purchase eight cents worth of popcorn for only $3.75 a bag.

A MAN FOR ALL REASONS. This will be a remake of the 1992 remake, which in turn was a remake of one issued in 1988, which in turn was remade from the 1984...well, you get the idea. This year's newest version will feature the highly acclaimed veteran actor, Rob Sole, whose performances have long won applause from discerning audiences, dating back to the first talkies. In this certain-to-be spectacular, Sole will portray an itinerant servant who goes about the nation spreading joy, encouragement and determination to the trodden underdogs of society. It's certain to become a cult movie, although Rob's supporting actor has not yet been chosen. If past casting decisions are any guide, look for someone young, trustworthy, obedient and who won't stand between the cameras and the star.

HILLBILLY HEAVEN---PART TWO. One of moviedom's most widely known actors in recent years, Gil Clint, will appear in an updated version of Hillbilly Heaven---Part I. Still playing in scattered movie houses in remote areas, the first spectacular was boffo at the box office, attracting 42 percent of the nation's estimated movie audience. Fans may recall that Clint, portraying a barefoot baby boomer, accidentally wanders into a forbidden forest where he is immediately attacked by angry gnomes and wolves, a battle that goes on for years and eventually wears out Gil's fans. Moviegoers may remember that the hero attempted to dodge his adversaries with amazing footwork that won mixed reviews from the critics. Sources say Part Two will feature more terpsichorean tricks, with background music provided by an all-girl choir which will introduce several new hit tunes, including "Whitewater, Oh, Whitewater, Where Did All That Sludge Come From?"

BULLS RUSH IN WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO STEP. Who but the amazing Newtonian Grinch could star in the new Disney movie that will feature favorite animated characters, such as Porky Pig, Donald Duck and the Seven Dwarfs? Grinch will portray a lovable, cuddly yet angry animal trainer as he attempts to restore order to the disorderly lives of Disney characters who spend their time living off the fat of the land. The hero is so successful that he earns the undying hatred of the now hard-working animals who plot his overthrow from power The story line appears to be somewhat thin, but that should prove no barrier for Grinch's avid fans.

CLUELESS IN DALLAS. This is reportedly a love story with great heart that stars none other than top romantic actor Moss Gerot. The script reportedly makes proper use of Gerot's romantic skills as he seeks the ideal wife to create a better world for everyone. The story line follows the hero from his early days as a penniless salesman up to his fate of carrying for his addled aunt in the basement. It is a story of - warm-hearted devotion to one's family, even when no one else can stand them. Gerot has just wrapped up another comedy, this one about a corporate director who makes himself so obnoxious that companies actually pay him to retire.

SIMPSON. Oliver Stone will be back this summer with another blockbuster, this one detailing the life of J.O. Simp, the Little Rock Pakistani barber who staked a wannabe presidential candidate to a Big Mac and later alleged that the beneficiary traded him a worthless piece of Arkansas land in exchange for an order of double fries. The movie will reportedly include cameo roles by JFK, Nixon and members of the memorial post of the Viet Cong.

ME AND MAGGIE. This low-budget movie may prove to be a real crowd-pleaser in the fall lineup. Sources say this independently produced film details the daily routine of two Missourians who have nothing in common except a desire to improve the lives of their fellow citizens. Authored by a chronically depressed screenwriter, the film will show both the male lead, Dell, and the female star, Maggie, as they eat breakfast, prepare to leave for their state jobs at respective offices and then return to their homes for a quiet evening of watching TV and reading 10-year-old Reader's Digests. The movie is designed to illustrate the mundane chores that must be performed day in and day out, and some critics are already saying it could be the season's biggest sleeper. In fact, some physicians are advising insomniacs to reserve videos when they become available. Look for this film at your neighborhood drive-in theater.

~Jack Stapleton of Kennett is the editor of the Missouri News and Editorial Service.