14 Movies To Look Forward To This Month

Christmas is always an excellent time to be a film fan. Coinciding with the peak of awards season, yuletide movie releases are usually guaranteed to be among the best of the year. It's traditionally a time for studios to unveil some of their most anticipated titles, and for filmmakers and performers to flex their most impressive artistic muscles. 2016 is no exception, with a vast tidal wave of cinematic efforts reaching our theatres in the space of just a few weeks. It's a notably crowded Christmas slate, but thankfully, we've put together this handy guide to help you sift through the broad range of possibilities. These 14 theatrical releases are the films that will be dominating the chatter around the water-cooler for the next two months, and the films you might not want to miss on the big screen. We've got comedies, dramas, crime sagas, animations and historical epics but, most importantly, we've got a great Christmas season at the movies. La La Land US release date: December 9th, 2016 UK release date: January 13th, 2016 What is it? La La Land is characterized as a romantic musical comedy drama, and tells the story of two aspiring artists in Los Angeles – one an actress, and one a jazz musician. They meet, and fall in love, but find that the pressures of pursuing their professional dreams sometimes prove to be problematic for their personal happiness. Who made it? It's written and directed by Damien Chazelle (Whiplash), with original music by Justin Hurwitz – who previously collaborated with Chazelle on the same. Who’s in it? Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend, Rosemarie DeWitt, J.K Simmons, Tom Everett Scott. What do we think? This is the film that has emerged as the project of note from the festival circuit, where it has already collected awards for cinematography, song, cast and film as a whole. Unsurprisingly, the ‘buzz’ around La La Land has now turned to Oscar-talk – particularly with regard to the performance of Emma Stone. This is the third onscreen collaboration for Stone and Gosling – after 2011’s Crazy, Stupid, Love, and 2013’s Gangster Squad – and these past projects have always proved their artistic chemistry to be captivating. All of these factors combine to make La La Land one of the must-see films of the Christmas season, and of the year. Office Christmas Party US release date: December 9th, 2016 UK release date: December 7th, 2016 What is it? A seasonal comedy in which CEO of Zenotek, Carol Vanstone, arrives at the branch headed up by her brother, Clay, to announce its imminent closure. Clay then teams with his Chief Technical Officer to throw the Christmas party to end all Christmas parties, in an effort to impress an important new client, and save the livelihoods of his employees. Who made it? The film is directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck (The Switch), from a script by Justin Malen (Trophy Wife) and Laura Solon (Hot In Cleveland). The story was developed by Jon Lucas (The Hangover), Scott Moore (The Change-Up), and Dan Mazer (Borat). Who’s in it? Kate McKinnon, Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, T.J Miller, Olivia Munn, Jamie Chung, Abbey Lee, Jillian Bell, Ron Corddry, Karan Soni, Courtney B. Vance, Matt Walsh, Sam Richardson, and Randall Park. What do we think? Come for the all-star cast, stay for the zingers and physical comedy. It’s a simple premise, but in the hands of this impressive collection of comedy talents, Office Christmas Party is a shoo-in for the title of ‘Uncomplicated Guilty Pleasure’ of the Christmas season. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story US release date: December 16th, 2016 UK release date: December 15th, 2016 What is it? The first of the new ‘Anthology’ films for the rebooted Star Wars cinematic universe, Rogue One chronicles the events mentioned in the opening crawl of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. The Rebellion enlists the help of the daughter of the Death Star architect, and she must lead a team to steal the plans before the Empire can engage its weapon of mass destruction. Who made it? Rogue One is directed by Gareth Edwards (Godzilla), from a script written by Chris Weitz (Cinderella), Tony Gilroy (The Great Wall), John Knoll, and Gary Whitta (After Earth). Who’s in it? Felicity Jones, Mads Mikkelsen, Alan Tudyk, Ben Mendelsohn, Diego Luna, Forest Whitaker, Riz Ahmed, Jimmy Smits, Donnie Yen, Genevieve O’Reilly, Wen Jiang. What do we think? Being a Star Wars film, this is essentially guaranteed to be a box office success. Trailers would suggest that the film provides plenty of spectacle, and great action sequences, while keeping with the overall themes of the Star Wars universe – of light battling dark against a backdrop of family drama. Most of the creators here are entirely new to the Star Wars universe, however, so it will be interesting to see what they bring to the table. Collateral Beauty US release date: December 16th, 2016 UK release date: December 26th, 2016 What is it? A drama in which a grieving man writes letters to Love, Time, and Death, questioning the nature of existence. When he begins to receive answers, he gradually finds a new perspective on human connection. Who made it? The film is directed by David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada), from a script by Allan Loeb (Rock Of Ages). Who’s in it? Will Smith, Keira Knightley, Kate Winslet, Edward Norton, Naomie Harris, Helen Mirren, Michael Pena, Enrique Murciano. What do we think? The gimmick of having Love, Time, and Death physically manifest as people in order to answer the questions of a man is reminiscent of classic tales, such as A Christmas Carol – making Collateral Beauty perfect for the Christmas season. In the hands of a lesser cast, this might seem a little trite, but with performers such as Smith, Mirren, Norton, Pena, Harris and Winslet on board, this seasonal drama will likely be elevated beyond clichéd themes – making it noteworthy family entertainment. The Founder US release date: December 16th, 2016 UK release date: February 17th, 2017 What is it? A biographical drama about travelling salesman and entrepreneur Ray Kroc, who stumbled upon a well-run family restaurant, persuaded the brothers that owned it to franchise it with him, and eventually turned it into an iconic global corporation – ousting the original owners in the process. Who made it? The film is directed by John Lee Hancock (Saving Mr Banks), from a script by Robert D. Siegel (The Wrestler). Who’s in it? Michael Keaton, Linda Cardellini, Patrick Wilson, Laura Dern, Nick Offerman, John Carroll Lynch, B.J Novak. What do we think? In no uncertain terms, it's the presence of Michael Keaton that makes The Founder a must-see movie. The nature of the lead role in this film – a man who is presented here as being an ambitious, dissatisfied, scheming individual, who intends to win at all costs – is a perfect fit for the signature kinetic style of the Oscar-winning actor. That he is supported by such a notable cast only bolsters interest in what could well prove to be this year’s The Social Network. Passengers US/UK release date: December 21st, 2016 What is it? This dramatic sci-fi adventure takes place on a spacecraft transporting humans to a distant planet, where they intend to make their lives in a new colony. The passengers make the lengthy trip in sleep chambers, but a malfunction results in one man, and one woman being awakened 90 years too early. Who made it? The film is directed by Morten Tyldum (The Imitation Game), from a script by Jon Spaihts (Prometheus, Doctor Strange). Who’s in it? Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt, Michael Sheen, Andy Garcia, Laurence Fishburne. What do we think? It’s a giant special effects movie starring two of the biggest stars working in film today. Audiences will undoubtedly turn out in droves. Assassin’s Creed US release date: December 21st, 2016 UK release date: January 1st, 2017 What is it? Based on the hugely popular video game series of the same name, this action adventure film sees a man enlisted to access the memories of his ancestor, who was a prominent member of a historical society of secret assassins. Who made it? The film is directed by Justin Kurzel (Macbeth), from a script by Michael Lesslie (Macbeth), Adam Cooper (Allegiant), and Bill Collage (Exodus: Gods And Kings). Who’s in it? Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons, Brendan Gleeson, Charlotte Rampling, Michael Kenneth Williams. What do we think? This is a highly anticipated movie, thanks to the presence of Michael Fassbender, and the legion of fans already associated with the Assassin’s Creed brand. The promotional footage so far released certainly bodes well for the film, however it has an uphill battle ahead to prove itself against the long history of terrible film adaptations of video games. Word of mouth will make all the difference to the theatrical release of this title. Sing US release date: December 21st, 2016 UK release date: January 27th, 2017 What is it? An animated comedy in which a group of anthropomorphic animals must stage one final, mind-blowing event – a singing competition - in order to save their theatre. Who made it? The film is co-directed by Garth Jennings (Son Of Rambow) and Christophe Lourdelet, from a script by Garth Jennings. Who’s in it? Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly, Taron Egerton, Nick Kroll, Nick Offerman, Peter Serafinowicz, Leslie Jones, Jay Pharoah, Jennifer Saunders, Rhea Perlman, Jennifer Hudson, Wes Anderson, Adam Buxton. What do we think? As a concept, a desperate group coming together to stage a redemptive event is hardly groundbreaking, but great animation, and a cast of energetic voices will likely make Sing an enjoyable family movie for Christmas season cinema trips. Patriots Day US release date: December 21st, 2016 UK release date: February 24th, 2017 What is it? A dramatic thriller based on the real events surrounding the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. The film is framed by the narrative of Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis, and chronicles actions taken in preparation for the marathon, during the immediate aftermath of the bombing and the intensive man-hunt that followed. Who made it? The film is directed by Peter Berg (Deepwater Horizon), from a script by Berg, Matt Cook (Triple 9), Joshua Zetumer (Robocop), Eric Johnson (The Fighter), and Paul Tamasy (The Finest Hours). Who’s in it? John Goodman, Mark Wahlberg, J.K Simmons, Michelle Monaghan, Melissa Benoist, Kevin Bacon, Rachel Brosnahan, Michael Beach, Alex Wolff, Khandi Alexander. What do we think? Peter Berg is renowned for his unflinching, grounded approach to heroism that has, in recent years, led to films such as Lone Survivor, and Deepwater Horizon. The director is the logical choice to create the first film to address the horrific events of April 15th, 2013, and the unprecedented and shocking manhunt that besieged the city of Boston in the days that followed. A Monster Calls US release date: December 23rd, 2016 UK release date: January 1st, 2017 What is it? A dramatic fantasy tale in which the young boy of a single mother finds a way to deal with his mother’s terminal illness, by summoning a tree monster. Who made it? The film adaptation is directed by J.A. Bayona (The Impossible), from a script by Patrick Ness (Class). Ness adapted his own novel, which came from an original idea by the late Siobhan Dowd. Who’s in it? Lewis MacDougall, Felicity Jones, Sigourney Weaver, Toby Kebbell, Geraldine Chaplin, Liam Neeson. What do we think? Of the films released this Christmas season, A Monster Calls is perhaps the movie most likely to have us weeping throughout, if the trailers are any indication. The depiction of an isolated young boy finding comfort and, most significantly, courage within - with the help of his imagined tree monster - is guaranteed to be deeply moving, not least because J.A. Bayona is at the helm. Silence US release date: December 23rd, 2016 UK release date: January 1st, 2017 What is it? A long-gestating historical drama, based upon the 1966 novel by Shusaku Endo. It's set during the 17th century and sees two Jesuit priests travel to Japan to find their mentor, who has disappeared after publicly denouncing god. Who made it? The film is directed by Martin Scorsese, from a script he co-wrote with frequent collaborator, Jay Cocks (Gangs Of New York, The Age Of Innocence). Who’s in it? Adam Driver, Andrew Garfield, Liam Neeson, Ciaran Hinds, Michie, Shin’ya Tsukamoto, Yasushi Takada, Yosuke Kubozuka, Issey Ogata. What do we think? Silence is a highly anticipated film by virtue of the fact that it is a passion project of filmmaking legend Martin Scorsese, which he has been developing for more than a quarter of a century. Based in historical fact, the personal mission of the two leads unfolds against the backdrop of Kakure Kirishitan – Hidden Christians – in Japan, when Catholicism was outlawed, and religious persecution was officially sanctioned. Fences US release date: December 25th, 2016 UK release date: February 10th, 2017 What is it? An adaptation of an award-winning dramatic play, which centres on an African-American family in the 1950s, and specifically, the patriarch – former baseball player Troy. His ambitions for himself and his family are constantly under siege from the difficulties of race relations within the United States, and these tensions ultimately impact upon everyone around him. Who made it? The film is directed by Denzel Washington, with a script by August Wilson – based on Wilson’s own play. Who’s in it? Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Mykelti Williamson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Stephen Henderson. What do we think? All signs point to Fences being an excellent movie. It's the third feature film from Denzel Washington as director and sees him take the helm of a story he knows well - reprising the lead role he played in the 2010 revival of the August Wilson play. It also pairs him with his partner in that stage revival – Viola Davis – who played the role of Rose, to Washington’s Troy. Not only are these two actors legendary in their own right, they both won Tony Awards for their Fences roles on Broadway. We can fully expect all involved to knock this one out of the park. 20th Century Women US release date: December 25th, 2016 UK release date: January 20th, 2017 What is it? A semi-autobiographical comedy-drama about three women in southern California in 1979, and their influence on a teenage boy. Who made it? The film is written and directed by Mike Mills (Thumbsucker, Beginners), and features characters that are fictionalised versions of those that influenced him in childhood. Who’s in it? Annette Bening, Elle Fanning, Greta Gerwig, Billy Crudup, Alia Shawkat. What do we think? Trailers suggest that this is a charming, intimate movie with stellar performances from an impressive cast. The most intriguing aspect is the idea of three very different women being depicted through the perception of a teenage boy in a way that seems far more complex than the usual ‘cinematic male gaze.’ Live By Night US release date: December 25th, 2016 UK release date: January 13th, 2017 What is it? A Prohibition Era tale, set in Florida, which chronicles the rise of the son of a Boston Police Captain, as he becomes a bootlegger and gangster - achieving notoriety in the world of organized crime. Who made it? The film is written and directed by Ben Affleck, and is adapted from the novel of the same name by Dennis Lehane. Who’s in it? Ben Affleck, Zoe Saldana, Elle Fanning, Scott Eastwood, Chris Sullivan, Sienna Miller, Brendan Gleeson, Anthony Michael Hall, Robert Glenister, Titus Welliver, Chris Messina, Chris Cooper, Max Casella. What do we think? For his fourth feature-length directorial outing, Ben Affleck returns to the literary work of Dennis Lehane – which he previously adapted for his debut, Gone Baby Gone. He clearly has an affinity for the material, as promotional footage indicates a beautifully shot, well paced saga with pitch-perfect performances from the supporting cast. This film is expected to provide a tonally unique alternative for Christmas season cinema audiences.