It's release date time with one change and three new films to add to the 2013 slate. Sony Picture Classics is getting its house in order for the summer, and CBS Films is making one change late in the year. Break out the pencils and put them in your calendar now.
First up, Sony Pictures Classic has set Richard Linklater's "Before Midnight" picture starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy for a May 24 limited release that will begin in New York and Los Angeles (you can read our review from Sundance here). Following a similar strategy, SPC will release Pedro Almodovar's upcoming comedy, "I'm So Excited" for a NY/LA bow on June 28. Penelope Cruz, Antonio Banderas and Paz Vega are the biggest names in an ensemble that features many character actors from Almodovar's trusted troupe over the years. Next up, starring Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin, Peter Sarsgaard and Louis C.K., SPC has dated Woody Allen's latest film, "Blue Jasmine," for a July 26 limited NY/LA release.
And finally, CBS Films has moved up the release date for "Last Vegas," its comedy starring Michael Douglas and Robert De Niro, from December 20 to Nov 1. That's in the heart of Oscar season, but De Niro has a poor track record with comedies, minus "Silver Linings Playbook," so we'll take a guarded approach to that one. [BOM/Exhibitor Relations]