So I'm a pretty avid movie lover, as most of the population. There's nothing better than seeing a highly anticipated movie on opening weekend with a box full of popcorn. So here are my opinions and observations of some of the most memorable and greatest movies to hit the screens in 2016.
1) Finding Dory
Greatly anticipated and long awaited, Disney and Pixar's Finding Dory flooded theaters this summer. As Dory sets sail on the journey to find her parents, new friends and familiar faces are found along the way. This box office hit leaves your heart warm and thankful for your family.
2) Hell or High Water
Jeff Bridges, Chris Pine and Ben Foster knock the ball out of the park on this modern Western movie. Brothers Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster) plan a series of bank heists in order to stop the bank from foreclosing their family ranch. This movie encompasses suspense, sacrifice, justice and desperation as it tells the story of two brothers fighting till hell or high water. The superb dialogue in conjunction with the brilliant plot create this chase one not to forget.
3) The Jungle Book
This recreation of the beloved childhood favorite does not disappoint. The impeccable animation of the jungle's animals come alive in beautiful colors to retell this adventure fantasy story. The special-effects that surround man-cub Mowgli in conjunction with the classic songs like "The Bare Necessities" and "I Wanna Be Like You" create an experience that is engaging and lively.
4) Sully
This biography and drama tells the miraculous and heroic story of Chelsea Sullenberger, the American pilot who safely landed the damaged plane on the Hudson River, saving the entire crew and 155 passengers. This movie not only gives more insight on the events of that day, but also the investigation that would threatening his career. Tom Hanks gracefully leads this production in the true story of the "Miracle on the Hudson".
5) Hacksaw Ridge
Based on the incredible true story, Hacksaw Ridge tells the story of WWII Army Medic Desmond T. Doss, who went into one of the bloodiest battles without firing a single bullet. Directed by Mel Gibson, this intense and courageous movie highlights Doss' fight for his beliefs and his passion for serving. Doss saved a total of 75 men's lives on the front line of battle, without ever having a firearm to protect himself.
6) Pete's Dragon
This magical meets reality movie transcends from humor to suspense to adoration. Orphan boy Pete befriends Elliot the dragon in the forest outside a town that's been telling folk tales of this mysterious dragon for decades. Pete is discovered by a loving family and a forest ranger, who go on a quest to find Elliot. This childhood remake is heartwarming family favorite and a treat for the inner child in you.
7) Arrival
A linguist (Amy Adams) helps the military in deciphering and communicating with aliens that landed 12 gigantic spaceships on earth. The incredible cast, director and plot make this science-fiction movie an attention grabber.
8) La La Land
This dazzling film is recent to the theaters, but quick to win over the audience. La La Land is already nominated for 7 Golden Globes (not to mention another 30 wins and 36 nominations). The story follows an aspiring actress (Emma Stone) and her love affair with a struggling jazz musician (Ryan Gosling) as they beat the odds to acheive success. The film's charm, beautiful scores, impeccable cinematography and swooning romance will have your heart and eyes glued to the production unfolding before you.
