It’s true that it might be difficult to beat the high caliber of films that came out in 2015, but if my weekend of trolling trailers online proves nothing else, it’s that 2016 is shaping up to be another great year at the movies. From superhero installment adventures, to horror franchise frights, to highly anticipated Oscar winning directors returning to the big screen, there are so many amazing looking movies slated for release this year.
So don’t let the rain and cold get you down, warm up with this hot list of flicks heading our way in the coming year (and be sure to shout out what you’re looking forward to in the comments.)
The Revenant
This film has a nationwide release January 8th after critically acclaimed reviews in the wake of it’s limited December release. Stark, chilling, and quiet, this movie is a hell of a shock to the system. Leonardo DiCaprio has never looked scarier, and against the backdrop of snowy plains, even Tom Hardy looks more menacing than usual. Based on Michael Punke’s novel detailing the true story of explorer Hugh Glass, this relentless story is sure to keep you out of the woods until springtime.
Deadpool
The wisecracking merc with the mouth has been brought to life by Ryan Reynolds, quite possibly the only actor out there who could deliver on the fast-talking, shade throwing underdog hero. A long time comics fan favorite, Wade Wilson takes the big screen in his origins story, showing how he went from Special Forces operative to a faceless mercenary out to protect his former girlfriend. A perfect Valentine’s Day date.
Hail Caesar!
The Coen Brothers bring The Golden Age of Hollywood to life in this quirky time-travel flick featuring Josh Brolin, Channing Tatum, Scarlett Johansson, and Jonah Hill.
The Little Prince
The classic children’s storybook finds it’s way to Hollywood in this beautifully animated Paramount film with the vocal talents of Jeff Bridges, Rachel McAdams, James Franco, and Benicio Del Toro. From the trailers, it seems that filmmakers have maintained the style of the original story, which follows a young prince who crash lands on a planet and makes his way home, one misadventure after the next.
Eye in the Sky
Starring Helen Mirren and Alan Rickman, this Colin Firth produced film follows Colonel Katherine Powell, a UK based military officer remotely commanding drone operations. Examining the human side of war casualties, and the emotional connection between actions and consequences, this drama is a timely, relevant addition to the 2016 film lineup.
Captain America: Civil War
Steve Rogers and Buckey resume their patriotic hijinks but with higher stakes than either hero anticipated. Joined by fan favorite Iron Man and adding in Black Panther, this follows the comics event of the same title, where superheroes are forced to register their true identities to “protect” mankind. Get your popcorn ready, this is going to be an action-packed punchfest.
Ghostbusters
To all of the whiny bros complaining about how the all-female lineup is ruining their childhoods: thhhhp! I can’t wait to see Melissa McCartney and team take over the paranormal posse this summer. No official trailer has been released, but from the stills, it looks like a fun, freaky summer blockbuster. The ladies stepping into the leading roles are poised for comedic perfection, and I can’t wait to see how they update a true classic.
Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them
I didn’t think I would ever get over the sadness of Harry Potter movies being released around my birthday, but this fall JK Rowling brings her in-world tale to the big screen. Although it doesn’t include the usual Hogwarts suspects, this story, set in 1920s New York, follows a “magizoologist” and his escaped pets. So much fangirling!
Gambit
Channing Tatum wasn’t my first choice for the Gambit solo movie, but as the release draws closer, I can’t wait to see how he brings Remy LeBeau to life. The slick, southern mutant has always been one of my X-Men favorites, and it’s about time he has his own film. Even more fangirling!
The Conjuring 2: The Endfield Experiment
The Conjuring is one of my all-time favorite horror movies, and director James Wan is returning for the second installment from the files of Ed and Lorraine Warren. Wan has a knack for making movies feel retro without the obviousness of a period-piece and enough solid scares to make an impact, and I hope he brings the same tone of the film’s predecessor to the sequel.
Doctor Strange
Yes, ANOTHER comic book movie–what can I say, 2016 is an outstanding year to be a nerd. Benedict Cumberbatch perfectly embodies the stoic, esoteric Dr. Strange, who uses his psychic powers to battle baddies. With the ethereal Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One, this movie is sure to be dramatic and entertaining.
Suicide Squad
Yep, yet ANOTHER comic book movie–but this one, well, I’m not sure about. I’m including it because Harley Quinn is an amazing character, and the styling looks on-point, but I’m just gonna say this might be the worst superhero movie of the year.
