Summer is fast approaching, and that can only mean two things — brutal heat and blockbuster movies. The summer movie season, more than any other, is known for its big-budgeted flicks that appeal to a wide array of audiences. From family movies such as “Shrek the Third” to superhero franchises such as “Spider-Man 3” and “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer” to R-rated gore fests such as “Hostel: Part II,” fans of any film genre will be able to beat the heat this summer by taking in a movie or two. With that in mind, 210SA presents some of the hottest movies invading the multiplexes this summer, plus extensive movie-related news and features.

Dark moment

Who knew Spider-Man could be such a mean son of a bitch? Granted, he swoops across the city saving innocent citizens in peril. And OK, that pasty Peter Parker seems harmless enough. (He sure is sensitive. Sheesh.) But as the trailers for “Spider-Man 3” imply, our beloved superhero and his mortal counterpart also share a dark side.

What to watch for

“Spider-Man 3” is considered by many as the crown jewel of the 2007 summer movie season, but since this is summer, there won't be a shortage of high-profile movies unspooling in theaters every weekend. From sequels to chick flicks, superheroes to action stars, the summer can always be relied on to deliver major business to movie studios. With that in mind, take a look at 20 of the most anticipated movies releasing in theaters this summer.

The songs that accompany a film also play a significant role in the assemblage of a quality film. After all, it's quite possible that you'll hear a movie's soundtrack more times than you'll actually see the film.

We're judgmental come summertime

The summer movie season is rife with hits and misses. So many movies, coupled with so much hype, are sure to produce a polarizing effect. Some movies rock. Some movies suck. And some are not so much bad as forgettable. Here are some examples.

Summer blockbusters are also beltbusters

Often, particularly in the case of a really bad movie, the actual film isn't even the best part of going to the movies. Rather, the food you ingest while watching the film might be the highlight of the night.

Here's the ticket to a better time at movies

As a former movie theater assistant manager, I experienced some unbelievable things. People complained there were too many kids in G-rated movies, others wanted compensation when a film wasn't showing when they expected (weekend listings are just for the weekend, folks) and some hot dogs, although they're supposed to be served with an internal temperature of more than 100 degrees, were just not hot enough.

Who could be the next Spider-Man?

So what if Tobey Maguire gives up the mask for good after “Spider-Man 3”? There are plenty of entertaining fellows who could squeeze into the spandex for the next Spidey flick.

These guys have Spider-Mania

As Spider-Man fans go, the collecting bug bit Andrew Flores about seven years ago. Since then, his spider-sense has tingled for just about any action figure, toy car or other Spidey stuff he can cram into a bedroom full of collectibles.

Bar Hopping: For drinks and a movie, Drafthouse is an easy date

The Drafthouse isn't the only movie theater in town that offers food and beverage service during the show (the Bijou at Crossroads and Rialto Cinema Bistro are the two others), but it has the largest and most diverse selection of alcohol.

The Indie Film Fix

Reviews of 'The Inland Empire,' 'First Snow'

Chris Quinn: Enough with the cartoons, Spider-Man needs live action

It is no secret I owned Spider-Man Underoos as a lad. It is even less of a secret that I still have them.

Vianna Davila: Silver screens and dating go together like two teens in love

Ah, yes, the summer rapidly approaches, and with it comes the time-honored tradition of summer movies. Movies are an interesting animal for the single person.

Meena Thiruvengadam: Calculate your salary to make that Pinto will feel like a BMW

Thanks to Bankrate.com's movie star salary calculator, I can get a glimpse of what my life would be like if I were a box-office leading lady.