December evokes images of warm fireplaces, snow falls, and of course, Christmas, but it is also the time of year for the final push of high-profile film releases. Theaters are packed with dramas and comedies cast with household names that promise future Academy Awards. This year, studios are covering every demographic, from high dollar comedies to action to family-friendly to drama, making sure everyone is enticed to see a movie during the holidays. Oh yeah, and in case you haven’t heard, there's also a little flick coming out on December, maybe something from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…
1. Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Dec. 18
By far the most anticipated film coming to theaters this year, producer J.J. Abrams brings back the well-loved Han, Leia, and Luke to the big screen. Set 30 years after "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi," this film pairs old favorites with a whole new cast of characters, promising to be everything avid "Star Wars" fans have been hoping for. The last installment in this series was "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith" (2005), but this new seventh entry in the sci-fi series was undertaken by Disney, who acquired Lucasfilm in 2012.
If "Star Wars" isn’t your thing, or you’re looking to watch something to pass time before the greatest day of your life arrives, here are another four movies that are must-sees this December.
2. Joy – Dec. 25
Marking the third time Jennifer Lawrence leads in a film produced by David O. Russell ("Silver Linings Playbook" and "American Hustle"), "Joy" promises to be a smashing success. With co-stars Robert De Niro and Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence plays a woman, Joy Mangano, who is a single mother of three that builds a business empire after creating the “Miracle Mop.” This comedy-drama stretches across four generations and features the overcoming of personal and professional obstacles as Joy uses her determination and imagination to continue on.
3. Concussion – Dec. 25
This sport drama headlining Will Smith as the accomplished pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu follows the study of brain damage in football players who suffer from repeated concussions during play. In a race against time, the film follows Dr. Omalu as he fights against the National Football League for publicity on his findings in order to save the lives of the players. Early ratings have expressed mediocre reviews, but this medical thriller combines a compelling character with a current “hot topic” just in the midst of American football season.
4. Sisters – Dec. 18
Tina Fey and Amy Poehler team up in this comedy, from the same director as "Pitch Perfect," as estranged sisters who, due to their parents selling the family home, reunite to clean out their childhood bedroom and decide to throw one last, wild going-away party. With the hilarious two leading ladies as juxtaposing personalities, this film promises two hours of laughter for all and sentimental musings among the raunchy humor. Fey and Poehler seem absolutely perfect for these roles, perhaps because it was written specifically for them to be cast.
5. Point Break – Dec. 25
The final movie on this holiday must-see list is inspired by the classic of 1991, "Point Break," as a modern take on the crime-action thriller. Backed by fast-paced, adrenaline pumping trailers, this film features a “young FBI agent [who] infiltrates an extraordinary team of extreme sports athletes he suspects of masterminding a string of unprecedented, sophisticated corporate heists.” For action movie buffs or adrenaline junkies, this movie, filmed on four continents, will be sure to keep the audience on the edge of their seats and spark the desire of travel and adventure in all.
