The year 2015 was a huge year for the movie industry and franchise fans, alike. "Avengers: Age of Ultron," "Jurassic World," and "Star Wars The Force Awakens" were just a few films to appease fans and critics while achieving major box office success (while smashing a few world records along the way). The year 2016, however, is no slouch when it comes to bringing some big films and franchises our way. It turns out, the list of anticipated movies is so long, it deserves two separate lists. So, here are some of the most anticipated movies from January to June 2016.
"The Revenant" (January 8).
Leonardo DiCaprio takes another swing at Best Actor in the western, thriller, drama: The Revenant. Directed by Oscar-winning director Alejandro Iñárritu, the film, inspired by a true story, chronicles a fur trapper's survival in the 1800s. After an early release at the end of 2015, critics are applauding the Revenant for its stunning cinematography, gripping action sequences and a standout cast. A must see for film enthusiasts and DiCaprio super fans.
"The Finest Hours" (January 29).
Starring Chris Pine and Eric Bana, "The Finest Hours" is the story of a coast guard team who attempted the daring rescue of a group of oil workers off the coast of Cape Cod, in the middle of a blizzard. Also based on a true story, but produced by Walt Disney Studios, expect a great story, with already impressive looking special effects, without the dark. gritty disturbing aspects of films like "The Revenant." A must see for history lovers.
"Kung Fu Panda 3" (January 29).
Another installment in the "Kung Fu Panda" franchise, Jack Black returns as Po, along with Angelina Jolie and Seth Rogan. Po is reunited with his family, which could add an emotional depth to the film, or distract from its central purpose. A must see for families, panda families, and panda fans.
"Deadpool" (February 12).
Ryan Reynold returns to the comic book movie universe with Marvel in the rated-R action comedy Deadpool. If you follow Reynolds on social media, you know how excited he is to cast of the shadow of The Green Lantern, which was concerned a critical and box office flop, with the character of Deadpool. This movie looks to be everything fans of the comic want: violent, raunchy and an overall great time. A must see for: Comic fanboys desperate for a rated-R Comic book movie
"Zoolander 2" (February 12).
What to think of "Zoolander 2." Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson are back, as is Will Ferrell as the crazy fashion mogul Mugatu. Zoolander (Stiller) and Hansel (Wilson) are teaming up to foil a plot to kill the world's most beautiful people. Expect more shenanigans, outrageous fashion and, of course, the iconic Blue Steal in this comedy comeback. A must see for fans of the "Zoolander," Ben Stiller or Owen Wilson.
"Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" (March 25).
Ben Affleck is introduced as Batman in DC's first movie introducing their cinematic universe. The newest trailer has given some fans some cause for concern, releasing almost the entire's movie plot in less than three minutes, but many are still excited to see Batman return to the big screen after the conclusion of the Dark Knight trilogy. It looks as though DC is sticking to its dark and gritty persona, and this is the movie they need to see their cinematic universe succeed as Marvel's has. A must see for those desperate to see the DC Cinematic Universe to succeed.
"The Jungle Book" (April 15).
Directed by Jon Favreau, Disney continues their line of animated classics transformed into live-action masterpieces with the Jungle Book. Visually stunning along with an all-star cast including Bill Murray, Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken, Idris Elba and Lupita Nyong'o, The Jungle Book has everything going for it, and everyone seems excited to see this world come to life. A must see for Classic Disney animated movie fans.
"Captain America: Civil War" (May 6).
Kicking off the summer blockbuster season is "Captain America: Civil War." The next entry in the MCU timeline is considered by many to be intrinsic to the Avengers storyline, featuring not only Captain America, but Black Widow and, most importantly, Iron Man. "Civil War" will also introduce Black Panther to the MCU, as well as Spider-Man, who was acquired by Disney and Marvel after a long negotiation with Sony Entertainment. A must see for anyone trying to stay up with the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
"Snowden" (May 13).
Chronicling the story of Edward Snowden, the CIA whistleblower who leaked thousands of documents to the press, Snowden is written and directed by Oliver Stone and stars Joseph Gordon Levitt as Edward Snowden. This biographical drama is timely as the United States continues to debate the role of government surveillance techniques in an increasingly dangerous world. Oliver Stone knows how to direct controversial subjects, and critics are excited to see how it all turns out. A must see for conspiracy theorists and CIA operatives, alike.
"X-Men: Apocalypse" (May 27).
Bryan Singer knows how to make an "X-Men" movie, and from the trailers "X-Men: Apocalypse" looks no different. A once again all-star cast rejoins the X-Men as they battle Apocalypse, played by the incredible Oscar Isaac, who seems to be in just about anything successful coming out of Hollywood. 20th Century Fox is doing a great job keeping the X-Men fresh and vibrant in a film industry saturated with superheroes and villains coming from DC and the Marvel team over at Disney. A must see for "X-Men" fans, and anyone thirsty for more Oscar Isaac.
"Finding Dory" (June 17).
Its been a long 13 years since "Finding Nemo" was in theaters, and after years in production "Finding Dory" hits theaters this summer. Ellen DeGeneres will once again voice the forgetful, yet lovable blue tang Dory as she finally remembers something, her family. Pixar has shown the strength of their storytelling team time and time again, and well as their evolving and incredible animation technology as seen in 2015's "Inside Out" and "The Good Dinosaur;" expect it again with "Finding Dory." A must see for everyone, because who doesn't love Dory?
Stay tuned for part two!
