Friday’s openings: Never-say-die Statham

We’re approaching the end of summer, which means the fall films should start hitting theaters soon. That usually means more artsy type movies, or at least those with a modicum of seriousness — in any event, movies that don’t require 3D glasses to see.

Whatever, the coming week boasts at least four nation-wide premieres. Friday’s openings are as follows:

“Mechanic: Resurrection” : Following in the does-Jason-Statham-ever-die? genre, this sequel has our intrepid assassination protagonist forced to pull off a series of jobs to protect the woman he loves. Note: Jessica Alba in a swimsuit.

“Don’t Breathe” : Blending heist and horror flick, this heart-grabber pits a bunch of robbers against the wealthy blind man whose house they target. Question: Whom do we root for?

“Southside With You” : It’s Chicago in the summer of 1989, and a guy named Barack goes out on a date with a woman named Michelle. And the rest, as they says, is herstory (which is as much a word as biopic).

“Hands of Stone” : Roberto Duran (Edgar Ramirez) fought his way to legendary status in the ring, but the trailers make this biopic (there’s that word again) seem all about the trainer who helped him, Ray Arcel (Robert De Niro).

Still no word on when (or whether) the Magic Lantern will open. Stay tuned. I’ll update as needed.