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Last month, The Da Vinci Code, Mission: Impossible III and X-Men: The Last Stand broke the movies out of their winter doldrums. So has Hollywood blown its blockbuster load? If you ask Jerry Bruckheimer, there are plenty of mindless thrills left for Summer 2006. The time for introspective dramas it is not. What else are you going to look at while eating a tub of popcorn? Here are five flicks to check out this summer.

JUNE 2

THE BREAK-UP

What happens when a cohabitating couple breaks up and neither wants to move out? This comedy pits exes Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston in a war to keep the incredible apartment they shared as a couple. Rumor has it the teary reaction of test audiences caused studio executives to film a new ending. The conclusion now has Aniston and Vaughn making nice and sticking it good to Brangelina. It sure would make a killer twin bill with Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Also starring Jason Bateman and Jon Favreau. thebreakupmovie.net.

JUNE 30

SUPERMAN RETURNS

Geeks have been alternately complaining and obsessing about this one for a year now. Why is Superman wearing the “evil super suit” from Superman III? Why is Lois Lane married to Cyclops from X-Men? This is director Bryan Singer’s reboot of the Superman franchise that ground to a pitiful halt with the late Christopher Reeve’s final flight in 1987. And it will probably be the highest-grossing movie of the year. Starring Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth and Kevin Spacey. supermanreturns.warnerbros.com.

JULY 7

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’S CHEST

Pirates have always been the rockstars of the seven seas, but Johnny Depp put an exclamation point on that fact by infusing his Captain Jack Sparrow with a double shot of Keith Richards in the original film. Now Depp’s swashbuckler is back in hot water with Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightly in tow for another misadventure. Nothing like a friend’s blood debt to a vindictive sea captain to ruin your summer wedding plans. disney.go.com/disneypictures/pirates.

AUGUST 4

TALLADEGA NIGHTS: THE BALLAD OF RICKY BOBBY

It was only a matter of time. NASCAR may be the largest subculture in America and writing partners Will Ferrell and Adam McKay are taking it head on with Talladega Nights. Ferrell is the titular star and racing’s No. 1 driver until he is challenged by a French newcomer played by Ali G’s Sasha Baron Cohen. Those who hated Anchorman need not apply. Also starring Amy Adams and John C. Riley. sonypictures.com/movies/talladeganights.

AUGUST 11

WORLD TRADE CENTER

This summer at the movies ends on a somber note with controversial director Oliver Stone’s depiction of the events of 9/11 as seen through Port Authority officers who are trapped in rubble while trying to save lives. Billed as a “true story of courage and survival,” the action drama will have plenty of hype. However, audiences may find it is too soon after 9/11 to view a real-life tragedy as entertainment. Starring Nicolas Cage, Maria Bello and Maggie Gyllenhaal. wtcmovie.com.