Today marks the culmination of a year of anxious waiting for many movie fans, as today is the official coast-to-coast release of “Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2.” Although the film may hog the spotlight this weekend, it’s not the only one out there showing promise.

For the next three weeks, an entire brigade of potentially great films will hit theaters, including a few long, and not so long, awaited returns and some new, fresh movies fit for the silver screen.

Today

“Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2”

Well, what can be said about this film? The original spurred innovation in the industry, broke countless independent film records and made numerous audiences a tad bit queasy in their seats at the theater.

And for the sequel? Director Joe Berlinger, who has directed such award-winning documentaries as “Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills,” says he has gone against all expectations of the film.

So, today is judgment day. And win or lose, succeed or fail, this sequel nonetheless looks to be great.

Rated R

“Lucky Numbers”

Coming off his sour performance in “Battlefield Earth,” John Travolta stars in Nora Ephron’s new dark comedy. Despite Travolta’s lack of popularity after “Earth,” he looks like he is back in the swing of things.

Also starring Lisa Kudrow, the film follows Travolta, a weatherman desperate to get back on his feet after some bad experiences, as he tries to rig the state lottery and make off with millions.

This film is a big change from Ephron’s norm, which includes sweet-hearted comedies “Michael,” “Hanging Up” and “My Blue Heaven.”

Rated R

Nov. 3

“Charlie’s Angels”

Well, this is the long-awaited return - at least for some. The angels, consisting of Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu, are back and armed with enough punch to shatter the box office.

The only problem: Most audiences might be quick enough to dodge the strike. But director McG, who is growing out of his music video shoes with this, his first feature film, could end up being the next Spike Jonze.

But then again, too many explosives may cause it to bomb.

Rated PG-13

“The Legend of Bagger Vance”

This film marks yet another return; this time of veteran comic Will Smith, only now in a more serious role.

Also starring Matt Damon and Charlize Theron, directed by Robert Redford and based on the best-selling novel by Steven Pressfield, “Legend” may prove to be one of the biggest feel-good films of the year. The plot has a lot to offer, including a little divine magic and some life lessons.

Rated PG-13

Nov. 10

“Men Of Honor”

It’s almost amazing how some films can amass such award-winning casts. And with Robert DeNiro, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Charlize Theron heading this all-star cast, it’s no wonder expectations are high.

Based on the true story of Carl Brashear, the Navy’s first black master diver, this movie spans nearly 25 years and may prove to be more than just a run-of-the-mill military drama. Inspiration seems to be one of its strong points.

Rated R

“Little Nicky”

This is probably the return most wanted by audiences across the country.

Adam Sandler, along with countless cameos by stars including Dana Carvey, Quentin Tarantino and Ozzy Osborne, is back in this devilish comedy about the son of Satan.

This film is from the same group that brought “Billy Madison,” “Happy Gilmore” and “Big Daddy.” What more needs to be said?

Rated PG-13