Adam Rodriguez

CHICAGO – It turns out that Channing Tatum did a bit of male stripping on the way up the show business ladder, which adds some spice and verisimilitude to “Magic Mike,” a backstage tale about the masculine side of theatrical disrobing, supported by Matthew McConaughey and Alex Pettyfer.

CHICAGO – In our latest crime edition of HollywoodChicago.com Hookup: Film, we have 25 admit-two passes up for grabs to the advance Chicago screening of the new film “Caught in the Crossfire” starring 50 Cent!

CHICAGO – “Caught in the Crossfire,” directed by Brian A Miller, is a gritty, essential cop drama about urban gang warfare, law enforcement corruption and police informants. It includes breakout roles for Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and the usual comedic Chris Klein, and features a standout performance by Adam Rodriguez of “CSI Miami.”

CHICAGO – Tyler Perry has made a fortune with films that play off easy comedy and obvious moral messages. He weaves common themes into modern entertainment that usually connects with audiences but not critics. Usually. Perry’s “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” surprised many of the critics who sought it out, displaying a new confidence in Perry’s direction, only held back by minor flaws that viewers will easily overlook on the home market.