Dec. 1
The Nativity Story – The birth of Jesus is never something to be scoffed at, but with no big-name actors taking part and not much press, this film will probably wilt before it reaches the big screen.
Dec. 8
The Holiday – The four big-name actors (Jack Black, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet and Jude Law) will make this movie the best feel-good Christmas flick of the season. While the guys may run, the women will love this romantic story.
Apocalypto – Mel Gibson is back with his first project since “Passion of the Christ,” and while his anti-Semitic tirade may drive away some, the Oscar-buzz surrounding this film is huge. Whether it will be a mega-hit is yet to be seen.
Blood Diamond – Leonardo DiCaprio is back (and with an English accent!) for a serious romp through South Africa. When the quest for a rare and valuable diamond “men will do anything to posses,” becomes the center of the action, the plot picks up and keeps you at the edge of your seat. Judging from the movie trailer, the film is sure to keep your heart pounding while simultaneously making you ashamed of that necklace you’re wearing.
The Good German – This black and white picture featuring George Clooney, Cate Blanchett and Tobey Maguire is about the post-World War II conflict and controversy. Rather than centering on themes of war, the film is more about the relationship between the main actors. Judging by the mild Oscar-buzz and a lackluster trailer, this one won’t be worth it.
Dec. 15
Dreamgirls – What do you get when you pack lots of famous black actors in Hollywood into one historical epic? This much-talked about movie features Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé Knowles, Eddie Murphy and Danny Glover. But with the feel of the movie mimicking last year’s hit “Ray,” how much will “Dreamgirls” set itself apart?
Eragon – With the fantasy feel of “Harry Potter” and “Lord of the Rings,” the popular novels are turned into a big-screen epic, but will this only semi-popular cult hit make it in the chaos of so many other new movies? Doubtful – have fun geeks and book worms!
The Pursuit of Happyness – Last time Will Smith tried drama we got “The Legend of Bagger Vance.” Needless to say, audiences should have low expectations for this one. But if the movie can pull it together and look anything like the trailer, it should be a heartwarming and emotional film.
Dec. 22
Charlotte’s Web – Dakota Fanning will embody the classic little girl in this iconic children’s story. With voices by Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, Kathy Bates, Robert Redford, Reba McEntire and Cedric the Entertainer, this will be the biggest children’s movie of the year.
The Good Shepherd – This “untold” story about the formation of the Central Intelligence Agency looks appealing. Matt Damon, Robert De Niro and Angelina Jolie star in what looks like an intense and entertaining film about this secret agency.
Rocky Balboa – Adrian! Yes, Rocky is back in action for a sixth time, nearly two decades after we all thought the “Rocky” epic was finished. The trailer proclaims “Rocky is back for one last time,” but with Sylvester Stallone pushing 60, how much more can he milk this story? Let’s just hope this is indeed the last time Rocky makes his “comeback.”
Dec. 25
Black Christmas – On Christmas Day let’s pack up the kids in the SUV, head to the local cinemas and see torture, blood and horrific death! That’s the idea behind this new Christmas horror movie. The story is based on a sorority that finds its members slowly disappearing after ominous phone calls. The only good thing about this movie: one less sorority.
Children of Men – Set in the year 2027, this interesting plot centers on one pregnant woman. This wouldn’t be important if natural procreation was possible. Clive Owen and Julianne Moore team up to protect the last naturally born baby and the future of humankind. It may sound a bit far-fetched but entertaining as hell.