Festivity is in the air, the snow is falling, pumpkin spice lattes are at every Starbucks, the radio won't stop playing Christmas music. We all know what this means: the holiday season is here. And what better way to spend your winter break than binge-watching movies on Netflix or driving to your local cinema to catch the new film? If you're a movie addict (like me), I've got you've covered -- from the classics to new releases.
In Theaters
"Macbeth"
Directed by: Justin Kurzel
Rated: Unrated
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88 percent
Release Date: Dec. 4
Reasons to see it: If seeing the movie version of the epic Shakespearean play isn't reason enough, the film has gotten rave reviews from major newspapers like The Telegraph and The Guardian. It'll be a suspenseful and exciting adaptation of the classic play.
" Star Wars: Episode VII"
Directed by: J.J. Abrams
Rated: PG-13
Rotten Tomatoes Score: N/A
Release Date: Dec. 18
Reasons to see it: It's "Star Wars." You're either in or you're out. You don't need much convincing from me.
"Joy"
Directed by: David O. Russell
Rated: PG-13
Rotten Tomatoes Score: N/A
Release Date: Christmas Day
Reasons to see it: The movie has an all-star cast with Jennifer Lawrence as the lead, and Robert De Niro and Bradley Cooper supporting. If you enjoyed "Silver Linings Playbook," (and let's be honest, who didn't?) "Joy" is a movie for you.
Classics
"It's A Wonderful Life"
Directed by: Frank Capra
Rated: PG
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94 percent
Reasons to see it: This classic Capra movie is a must during the holidays. Gather the family around with a bag a popcorn. Plus, it's available on Amazon Prime.
"Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas"
Directed by: Ron Howard
Rated: PG
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 53 percent
Reasons to see it: The Rotten Tomatoes score doesn't do this movie justice. This movie is timeless and is great to show to children on the holidays.
"Elf"
Directed by: Jon Favreau
Rated: PG
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84 percent
Reasons to see it: Elf had instant success when it was released, and is still a favorite today over 10 years later. This feel-good movie is great for all ages, and Will Ferrell shines as Buddy.
In Case You Missed It
"Bridge of Spies"
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Rated: PG-13
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91 percent
Reasons to see it: Spielberg offers a thrilling take on the Cold War's U-2 negotiations in a way that is captivating and touching in unexpected ways. Tom Hanks does a wonderful job as the lead, and although the whole cast is outstanding, Mark Rylance (as Rudolf Abel) is particularly intriguing. A must-see if you missed it.
"Spotlight"
Rated: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97 percent
Reasons to see it: The movie follows the Boston Globe's investigation of the Catholic Church's sexual abuse to children. It's based on the true, year-long investigation by the spotlight team at the Globe. It is thought provoking and near perfect in many ways, and will make you question the power of large institutions.
