‘Tis the season for moviegoers to be faced with a new batch of winter blockbusters: everything from feel-good family comedies to epic action-packed dramas to the occasional foot-tapping musical. This year is no different. Here are the five of the most promising films opening this winter.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1
Nov. 21
It’s the beginning of the end for the much-loved “Hunger Games” saga with the release of “Mockingjay – Part 1.” Based on the final novel of Suzanne Collins’ popular series, the film will pick up where “Catching Fire” left off: Katniss’ (Jennifer Lawrence, “X-Men: Days of Future Past”) home district is destroyed, her best pal Peeta (Josh Hutcherson, “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”) is captured by the evil Capitol and she finds herself the symbol for a newborn rebellion. Expect the series to take an even darker turn, with this latest installment poised to be a full-out war film. Tough days lay ahead for the beloved and perpetually unlucky Katniss Everdeen—so grab some popcorn and enjoy the fray.
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Dec. 17
Tolkein fans were understandably miffed by the original announcement of a three-film adaptation of “Lord of the Rings” precursor “The Hobbit.” However, Peter Jackson’s sixth and final film in the Middle-Earth saga just may be the payoff worth waiting for. “Battle of the Five Armies” promises to be a fitting final flourish to the mammoth franchise, wrapping up stories and characters now so culturally beloved. The title implies a massive battle—given Jackson’s track record with the like, it won’t disappoint—but the film will also address the power of unlikely heroes in the ever-present battle between good and evil. Look no further for what’s sure to be the holiday season’s biggest epic.
Annie
Dec. 19
Some of Hollywood’s biggest stars—Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jay-Z and Jamie Foxx—teamed up to make this new adaptation of the classic and much-adored musical “Annie.” Starring Quvenzhané Wallis (“Beasts of the Southern Wild) as the titular little orphan and Foxx (“The Amazing Spider-Man 2”) as the Daddy Warbucks character, now called William Stacks, this is “Annie” for a new generation. Rounding out the cast are Cameron Diaz (“Sex Tape”) as the vile Miss Hannigan and Rose Byrne (“This is Where I Leave You”) as the funny and warm Grace. This modern retelling, paired with a revamped soundtrack produced by Jay-Z, will be a winner for the whole family.
Big Eyes
Dec. 25
Tim Burton is probably best known for his quirkier works—“Edward Scissorhands,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Alice in Wonderland,” etc. But this Christmas, Burton will release his first drama in decades. “Big Eyes” is based on the life of artist Margaret Keane (Amy Adams, “American Hustle”) and her husband Walter (Christoph Waltz, “Django Unchained”). In the 1960s, Margaret’s paintings of unusually big-eyed people garnered popularity and adoration—but her husband took all of the credit. “Big Eyes” follows this tumultuous relationship, with Burton dialing back on the special effects, monster make-up and Johnny Depp in favor of straightforward drama and storytelling.
Into the Woods
Dec. 25
Rob Marshall’s highly anticipated adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s fairy tale musical “Into the Woods” is sure to be the holiday’s biggest smash. A Tony Award winning soundtrack matched with all-star talent—including Meryl Streep (“The Giver”), Emily Blunt (“Edge of Tomorrow”), Anna Kendrick (“Dinking Buddies”), Chris Pine (“Star Trek Into Darkness”) and Johnny Depp (“Transcendence”)—is a cinematic dream come true. “Into the Woods” tells the story of famous fairy tale characters wrapped up in a quest of wishing and witches—there are magic spells, dashing princes and even a giant or two. This fantastical feature will spellbind audiences as the perfect holiday treat.
So bundle up and enjoy a movie or two—or five—this holiday season. Keep in touch over break @DUClarion and on our Facebook page to let us know which films got your vote.
