Trailer Park

By R. Kurt Osenlund, Correspondent

Behold -- some of the newest trailers for some of the most exciting films in the pipe.

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
This wacko story - about a man (Brad Pitt) who's born a wrinkled infant and ages in reverse - is given the lyrical treatment by stylistic master David Fincher. Buzz has been growing for months about Pitt's literally transformative performance, as well as expectedly solid work from co-star Cate Blanchett and "Hustle & Flow"'s Taraji P. Henson. The trailer may look humorous, but the material has apparently been handled with great seriousness and care.

QUANTUM OF SOLACE
Daniel Craig returns for another round as 007, in this inexplicably titled follow-up to the worldwide smash, "Casino Royale." Also back is Dame Judi Dench, stepping into the stern shoes of boss lady M once more. This chapter reportedly has Bond taking his work much more personally, following the betrayal and death of his "Royale" love interest, Vesper (Eva Green). Look for more gritty action, more scantily-clad broads, and more shaken martinis.

AUSTRALIA
The latest preview for Baz Luhrmann's ("Romeo + Juliet," "Moulin Rouge!") highly anticipated Down Under saga ups the excitement level ten-fold. With sweeping shots of the countryside, aerial attacks from fighter planes, and romance galore, it looks like the epic film event of the year. With talent like Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman (a Luhrmann alum) and Hugh Jackman (like Kidman, a real-life Aussie), the acting should match the spectacle.