2016, like many years before, is another year of movie sequels. I mean, of course there are plenty of original movies to look forward to as well, but these series are really what's raking in the money these days. Listed below are my top 10 must-see sequels or continuances in a series slated to be released in 2016.
10. "Ice Age: Collision Course"
Starring: Simon Pegg, Melissa Rauch, Jennifer Lopez
Release Date: July 22
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3416828/
Viewing Format: TV release (only see in theaters if with young kids)
My Thoughts: I was actually just really surprised that they were making another "Ice Age" movie, but I haven't seen any of the more recent ones they have made. This is the only cartoon/kid sequel to make my list mostly out of spite. Most people are looking forward to "Finding Dory", but seeing as I strongly disliked "Finding Nemo", you couldn't pay me to see it.
9. "X-Men: Apocalypse"
Starring: Oscar Issac, Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender
Release Date: May 27
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3385516/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Viewing Format: Theater (or if, like me, you haven't seen the other movies in theaters and wait for the DVD and have a marathon)
My Thoughts: This movie looks exciting and I want to watch it, but I haven't had time to see the other movies in the series. Luckily, this creates the perfect opportunity for an epic movie marathon which is always fun.
8. "Jack Reacher: Never Go Back"
Starring: Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, Danika Yarosh
Release Date: October 21
Trailer: No trailer or movie poster yet
Viewing Format: DVD or Redbox
My Thoughts: To be honest, as much as I love Tom Cruise, especially in the "Mission Impossible" movies, the first "Jack Reacher" movie was sort of a disappointment. However, I do believe in second chances so I will watch this movie just not on the big screen. In the meantime, watch the latest "Mission Impossible" movie, it really holds up.
7. "Alice Through the Looking Glass"
Starring:Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter, Mia Wasikowska
Release Date: May 27
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2567026/?ref_=nv_sr_2
Viewing Format: Theater (or if you're lazy, Redbox)
My Thoughts: I'm sure I'm not the only one who thought the original "Alice in Wonderland" cartoon was a little scary as a kid, yet I didn't mind Tim Burton's remake so much especially because of the all-star cast. So I guess I wouldn't mind seeing this movie and the effects really lend itself to the big screen.
6. "Bourne 5"
Starring: Matt Damon, Alicia Vikander, Julia Stiles
Release Date: July 29
Trailer: No trailer, plot, or movie poster released...yet.
Viewing Format: Theater...probably
My Thoughts: I'm pretty excited about this for two reasons. Firstly, because I really liked the first three movies and I am glad Matt Damon is coming back to the series. Not that I have anything against Jeremy Renner, but it just wasn't the same. And secondly, Alicia Vikander is an awesome actress and sure to make the movie amazing.
5. "Neighbors: Sorority Rising"
Starring: Chloe Grace Moretz, Rose Byrne, Zac Efron, Dave Franco, Seth Rogan
Release Date: May 20
Trailer: No trailer, plot, or movie poster released yet
Viewing Format: Theater if with friends, Redbox otherwise
My Thoughts: Although, the first Neighbors movie wasn't the funniest movie I have ever seen, I did have a few solid laughs. And undoubtedly my friends and I will go see this one too because frankly, who can say no to Zac Efron and Dave Franco? The answer is no one. But I do hope we see less naked Seth Rogan in this one.
4. "Now You See Me 2"
Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Mark Ruffalo, Dave Franco, Jesse Eisenberg
Release Date: June 10
Trailer: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3110958/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Viewing Format: Theater
My Thoughts: No joke, the first "Now You See Me" movie blew my mind. Which unfortunately means this sequel has a big screen to fill. Regardless, nothing will stop me from rushing to the theater June 10th full of anticipation, hoping to be thrilled all over again. I mean, Daniel Radcliffe is going to be in it, and if Harry Potter can't make a movie magical then nothing can.
3. "The Divergent Series: Allegiant"
Starring: Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Miles Teller
Release Date: March 18
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3410834/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Viewing Format: Theater
My Thoughts: Normally the movies in this series are on the top of my to-see list, but their departure from the book makes me wary. Luckily, looking at pictures of Theo James helps with that. That being said, if you haven't read the books and have just been enjoying the movies as they come out then definitely go see this movie.
2. "The Huntsman: Winter's War"
Starring: Emily Blunt, Jessica Chastain, Chris Hemsworth
Release Date: April 22
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2381991/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Viewing Format: Theater
My Thoughts: Basically, this movie has to be great because they got rid of the only thing that made the first one bad: Kristen Stewart. And they added the amazing Emily Blunt so it's a win-win. Plus, when is Chris Hemsworth not a joy to watch or admire on the big screen?
1. "Captain America: Civil War"
Starring: Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Elizabeth Olsen
Release Date: May 6
Trailer:http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3498820/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Viewing Format: Theater
My Thoughts: At number 1 is the movie I am most excited for in 2016. Captain America is my favorite avenger so any movie about him is welcomed, but this one has the Robert Downey Jr. bonus factor. Of course if Iron Man wins this "Civil War" I will be less than pleased to say the least #TeamCaptainAmerica4ever.
Well, that's my official list and official ranking, but I'm sure you all have very different lists than this one. Maybe some of you are looking forward to the sequel to "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" or "The Conjuring 2", but regardless I wish you a pleasant year of movie watching. May your popcorn be buttery, your audience quiet and your movie amazing.