This Holiday Season is jam-packed with choices. From Awards Season contenders, to guaranteed blockbusters, there’s something for everyone. I’ve made the list – and checked it twice:
FAMILY FARE
“Penguins of Madagascar” (PG) The DreamWorks Animation spinoff to the highly-successful “Madagascar” trilogy is the final animated release of 2014. New voice cast members include Benedict Cumberbatch, John Malkovich and Ken Jeong. Nov. 26
“Annie” (PG) This updated version of the classic musical stars Oscar nominee Quvenzhane Wallis (“Beasts of the Southern Wild”), Jamie Foxx, and Cameron Diaz as Ms. Hannigan – a controversial casting choice since announced last year. Dec. 19
“Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” (PG) 5 1/2 years since 2009’s “Battle of the Smithsonian”, we finally get the third installment in the Ben Stiller-starring franchise. Rebel Wilson and Sir Ben Kingsley join the cast, and the film features the final on-screen performances of both Robin Williams and Mickey Rooney. Dec. 19
“Into the Woods” (PG) Disney’s holiday musical boasts an all-star cast of Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine, James Corden, and Johnny Depp. Looking to become The Mouse House’s first live-action Best Picture nominee since “Mary Poppins” 50 years ago. Dec. 25
ACTION!
“The Pyramid” (R) ‘Tis the one horror movie option of the season. Dec. 5
“Exodus: Gods and Kings” (PG-13) Ridley Scott directs Christian Bale and Joel Edgerton as Moses and Ramses in this Biblical epic. Co-stars Aaron Paul, Sigourney Weaver, and a busy Sir Ben Kingsley. Dec. 12
“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” (PG-13) The 3rd and final chapter in Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” prequel trilogy, as Bilbo Baggins and Co. go on one, final “precious” quest. Dec. 17
HO! HO! HO!
“Horrible Bosses 2” (R) Follow-up to the 2011 hit with the all-star ensemble of Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudekis, and Jamie Foxx. New to the clan this time around are Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz. Nov. 26
“Top Five” (R) Chris Rock writes, directs, and stars in this romantic/inside Hollywood comedy. Supporting cast includes Kevin Hart, Rosario Dawson and Tracy Morgan. Early buzz is quite good. Dec. 12
“The Interview” (R) Seth Rogen and James Franco reunite and play a talk show producer and host who travel to North Korea to interview Kim Jong-Un. But the CIA has other ideas. Could be really funny or a huge, edgy flop. Dec. 25
CRIME DRAMAS
“Inherent Vice” (R) Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin and Reese Witherspoon (in a
supporting role) star in this ensemble dramedy from director
Paul Thomas Anderson (“The Master”). Dec. 12 (Limited)
“The Gambler” (R) Mark Wahlberg wants money and John Goodman wants his money back. Dec. 19 (Limited)
“A Most Violent Year” – Oscar Isaac (“Inside Llewyn Davis”) and Jessica Chastain star. Dec. 31 (Limited)
THE CONTENDERS (aka Based on a True Story)
“The Imitation Game” (PG-13) Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley give nomination-worthy performances as British mathematicians Alan Turing and Joan Clarke looking to break the Nazi Enigma Code and end WWII. An inspiring drama. Nov. 28 (Limited)
“Wild” (R) Witherspoon seeking another Best Actress win as Cheryl Strayed, who’s seeking purpose in her life while on a 1,100 mile hike. Dec. 5 (Limited)
“Mr. Turner” (R) From British director Mike Leigh. This is one of two painter biopics this season. Here, Timothy Spall plays J.M.W. Turner. Dec. 19 (Limited)
“Unbroken” (PG-13) Directed by Angelina Jolie, it’s the true, incredible story of Olympian Louis Zamperini’s fight for survival. Jack O’Connell is getting some Best Actor buzz. Dec. 25
“American Sniper” (R) Clint Eastwood directs Bradley Cooper in this true story of one of the most influential Navy SEALs in U.S. history. Dec. 25 (Limited)
“Big Eyes” (PG-13) Some are calling this Tim Burton’s most “normal” movie in years. Amy Adams (going for her sixth Oscar nomination) plays successful painter Margaret Keane, with Christoph Waltz as her husband. Dec. 25 (Limited)
“Selma” (R) The Martin Luther King biography has David Oyelowo (“Lee Daniels’ The Butler”) in the lead role. Dec. 25 (Limited)
Plenty of big films to see, so getting your shopping done early.