FIVE UNDERRATED MOVIES THAT EVERYONE SHOULD SEE

We all love our share of blockbusters- the movies that gross hundreds of millions and receive all the press and praise. A lot of big-budget films are truly great and tell deep, meaningful stories in their quests for financial bonanzas, while others are heartless and hollow. Without a doubt, these big-name films are the ones which the movie community likes to buzz about the most. But what about the unappreciated gems? What about the unheralded classics? Clearly there is no rule which says box office success and popularity guarantee quality. The following lists details five personal favorites which have been overshadowed, forgotten or misunderstood. They may not appear on many viewers lists of favorites, but these movies are deserving of a much larger audience than they may have received.

In Bruges (2008)

"In Bruges" is not what it looks to be on the surface. Though it may seem so, it does not fit comfortably into the category of fast talking British action-comedies. The banter between the film's two hitmen in hiding is droll and clever, and their relationship is often very amusing. However, the story of Ray, who is guilt-ridden and broken down by some unintended consequences of his profession, becomes increasingly dark and emotional as the plot progresses. In the best performance of his career, Colin Farrell is effectively complex at the center of this movie, while Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes round out a cast which makes for flawed and zany characters. Its unpredictability and impulsive turns are its strengths, so discussing its plot too much would be doing a disservice to future viewers, but you can be sure that "In Bruges" will garner reactions as unusual and surprising as its story is.

A River Runs Through It (1992)

Some of my greatest childhood memories revolve around fishing with my father and my brother, so perhaps my love for this movie is simply on a personal level, but "A River Runs Through It" remains one of the most heartfelt, beautifully crafted films I have ever seen. The story is one of two vastly contrasting brothers who are raised in rural Montana by a stern minister. A single quote can explain much of the basic principles of the film: "In Montana, there's three things were never late for: church, work, and fishing". As the brothers grow, they develop very different courses and outlooks for their lives. While fishing is at the center of many of the movie's events, its more a story of family, brotherhood, and father-son relationships than anything else. A musing story, a beautiful score, dazzling scenery, and three brilliant unsung performances (including one of Brad Pitt's absolute best) come together to form a charming picture. It will resonate with any family man, fisherman, or film-lover.


The Iron Giant (1999)

Its likely that "The Iron Giant" seems to have gone relatively unnoticed upon its release because it came out at a time when Disney, and Pixar in particular, had unquestionable dominance over the animation world. But ignoring this film in favor of its more popular contemporaries is a vital mistake. A film about a young boy's unlikely friendship with an extra-terrestrial metal behemoth, "The Iron Giant" contains enough adult humor and little boy "wow" factor to be as exciting to me today as it was when I was 6. For an adventure movie geared towards family viewing, it contains subject matter which is actually quite mature. It's exciting and wholehearted while maintaining a humorous edge. While I am usually not in favor of big-money remakes, I must say that this seems like a film that would translate into a jaw-dropping live action revival.

Swingers (1996)

What I appreciate most about "Swingers" is that it doesn't rely on the crass, in-your-face jokes that many modern comedies do. Instead, it brings bright writing and enjoyable characters to its spot-on depiction of the awkwardness that is, at times, inescapable in certain social scenes. The movie is ironic but honest, not to mention any film-lover cannot help but appreciate the subtle references to classic films, such as the "Goodfellas" inspired tracking shot on the way into the bar. Its greatest entertainment factor is, in my opinion, Vince Vaughn's funniest performance to date as the charismatic and loyal pal, Trent. "Swingers" is not a masterpiece; its not hard to tell that it was a low-budget production from some industry newcomers, but Jon Favreau's script manages to be intelligently goofy yet unusually touching. It's a film which greatly exceeds what viewers likely expect from it.

Road to Perdition (2002)

Many people saw this film when it came out and it was received fairly well, so it may not seem like a choice for an "underrated" list. But personally, I cannot seem to grasp why the movie isn't consistently ranked with the best mob films of modern times. "Road to Perdition" is a beautiful film. It is a mobster picture which, better than most, ties in complications of family (biological family, that is) and morality. Detailing crime life from the eyes of a child, "Road to Perdition" establishes authentic, haunting, and deeply conflicted characters. With a cast featuring names such as Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, and a deeply disturbing Jude Law, you really do not need me to tell you that it's well acted. Director Sam Mendes creates a palpable atmosphere which is cold and subtly threatening. At its heart is a complicated father-son relationship, leading us to an eventually gut-wrenching conclusion. I find everything about this film, from the story, to the acting, to the music, to be profoundly captivating. It is not underrated because people don't like it, but because people don't like it enough.

TOP 8 VOCAL PERFORMANCES IN ANIMATED MOVIES

It takes a great deal of talent to deliver an on-screen performance which creates a memorable and complete character. Under-appriciated however, is the skill it takes for an actor to make a lasting mark on a film without even being seen. Voice acting is a vital element in any animated film, and the casting and performances of actors are as important in animated productions as they are in any live action film. The artists and technology of animation studios show us characters, but voices are what bring them to life and broadcast their personalities. The following are my personal favorite examples of the voices behind some classic animated tales.

8. Eddie Murphy as Donkey- "Shrek"
While its reputation may have been damaged by the unnecessary and ultimately tasteless sequels which followed it, the original "Shrek" of 2001 remains a classic for anyone who grew up with it. Eddie Murphy's hilarious delivery of the dopey but harmless Donkey is a big reason why. It helps that the dialogue written for the smiling sidekick is so fittingly Eddie Murphy, but the actor's fast-talking and lighthearted performance make it very clear who is behind the voice of the movie's funniest character. His lines sound so excitable and cheerful that he leaves viewers with grins as wide as his character's.

                                          7. Kevin Spacey as Hopper- "A Bug's Life"
The 1990's saw Kevin Spacey play some iconic bad guys. "Se7en"'s John Doe and Verbal Kint/Keyser Soze of "The Usual Suspects" clearly come to mind first, but Hopper, the tyrannical grasshopper of Disney's "A Bug's Life", is no slouch at villainy. Obviously this performance is not nearly as dark and deep as his others, but Spacey's dry and subtly furious intonation make for a cold, cruel antagonist to the ant community. Spacey masters the balance of calm sarcasm and sporadic rage which make Hopper so intimidating.

6. Peter Sallis as Wallace- "Wallace and Gromit" films
Peter Sallis provides a quintessentially British voice behind "Wallace and Gromit"'s cheese loving hero. He brings energy and unconventionality to the delightful and comical character. Wallace's unique voice is so distinct and fitting to his character, and Sallis' performances across the short and feature films of the franchise are all the more impressive due to the fact that the other chief character never utters a word.

                                          5. Tom Hanks as Woody- "Toy Story" films
Much of what Tom Hanks has done in his career is iconic. But, undoubtedly, Sheriff Woody is one of his best. Woody is "Toy Story"'s true central character, and as the leader of Andy's band of toys, Tom Hanks displays range which make the character loud and controlling, but also loyal and sentimental. Woody has become one of Disney Pixar's most recognizable characters, and Hanks' consistent presence gives the character a surprisingly complex personality. Today, I must say I hear a bit of Woody every time I hear Tom Hanks speak.

4. Ellen DeGeneres as Dory- "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory"
For the role of Dory, the forgetful and loveable companion in "Finding Nemo", one of the best casting decisions of animation history was made. DeGeneres provides the scatterbrained and cheery dialogue that create a heartily beloved character. Although a supporting character, Ellen steals the spotlight in "Finding Nemo" to a degree which warranted a sequel film of her own. Her vocalization is ideal for the darling innocence of Dory.

3. Brad Bird as Edna Mode- "The Incredibles"
"No capes!" Though not a major character, Edna Mode is without a doubt the funniest character of one of Pixar's best films. Just as comical is the fact that the movie's writer and director, Brad Bird, voices the tiny, eccentric supersuit designing woman. The dialogue and the lively, unusual articulation created for Edna is unforgettable, and riotously funny.

2. Jeremy Irons as Scar- "The Lion King"
I'm aware of the overwhelming Disney representation on this list, but when it comes to animated films, isn't that how it should be? Scar may be one of the best examples of how a good English accent can make a film baddie that much more devious. The award-winning Jeremy Irons brings a smooth yet devious tone for the power-hungry lion. His vocal presence permeates the film and brings precise wickedness to one of Disney's most successful films. As villains in family movies go, Scar is incredibly dark and dreadful, thanks to Jeremy Irons' subdued inflection.

                                           1. Robin Williams as Genie- "Aladdin"
Isn't it obvious? Robin Williams revolutionized voice-over with his boisterous exclamations and improvised lines in "Aladdin". He is flamboyant, comical and spirited; he breaks the fourth wall and appeals to audiences of adults and children alike. The actor's style is unprecedented in this film, probably because no one else did comedy quite like Williams. We've never had a comedian like Robin Williams, before or since is career, and his rapid, larger-than-life delivery in "Aladdin" deservedly tops many moviegoers' lists of vocal performances in animated film.

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

Frank Darabont's "The Shawshank Redemption" may very well be Hollywood's quintessential prison film. It includes many of the essential elements in a story of confinement; the high-walled, barren setting, a complicated community of inmates, and a villainous and corrupt overseer. However, while Shawshank Prison is the setting of the film, and ultimately the cause of the characters' difficulties, what this film brings, far more essentially than a prison story, is one of movie history's best friendship stories.

Adapted from a short story by author Stephen King, the film chronicles nearly twenty years in the prison lives of Andy Dufresne and Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding. Both men are seen serving life sentences for murder, although Dufresne is truly innocent of the crime which he was sentenced for. As he becomes acclimated to his new life of incarceration, Dufresne befriends Red, a veteran of Shawshank, and quickly becomes a popular figure amongst the captives and the prison guards. While many of the jailbirds grow to appreciate and depend on the penitentiary, Andy Dufresne subtly proves to be less compliant than those around him.

Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman each deliver iconic characters with their leading roles. As Dufresne, Robbins brings an air of intelligence, curiosity and innocence (both legal and moral). His delivery is understated, yet complex, which is essential to outlining his character as a unique presence compared to his fellows within Shawshank. Morgan Freeman narrates the story, telling of Andy's intelligent defiance through the point of view of his friend Red. With Red, as he does in many of his best roles, Freeman creates a sense of experience and wisdom. His character, while developing a strong liking for Andy, appears in many ways as a foil for Robbins', and must bring about changes within himself to truly achieve his elusive "redemption".

As I stated earlier, the friendship between Andy and Red is the true catalyst for the deeper subjects which become central in this film. The characters introduce the themes of hope, camaraderie, and, of course, redemption. Being so comfortable with his prison existence after years of captivity, Red is initially unable to grasp and understand Andy's enduring sense of hope. While many of the prisoners engage in senseless conflict and monotony, Andy builds his library and brings knowledge and learning back to Shawshank. His presence as the intellectual leader amongst them gives the inmates optimism. The development of Red in particular spurs the question of whether or not society's most violent criminals are able to be rehabilitated and redeemed. Knowing early on that Andy Dufresne is innocent of his crime, we as the audience easily sympathize with him. Freeman's character lends himself to far more complicated interpretations. Red has a legitimately violent past, but in his years of punishment has become a peaceful man who understands the nature of the people around him and is increasingly comfortable with himself and his situation. Although viewers are conscious of Red's history, offenses, and flaws, he becomes a character who we hope to see find peace upon the story's payoff.   

While escape is often at the center of movies about prison, "The Shawshank Redemption" brings about its climactic breakout artfully and triumphantly. The humble Andy Dufresne is deservedly allowed the chance to finally be in control of his own life, and while his return to the outside world is less daring and dramatic, so is Red. It seems ironic that this film creates such an uplifting bond between its characters, as much of it is set in a place which would normally be filled with despair, but these deep characters are exactly what makes the film so significant. Direction, acting, writing, and even music combine to make "The Shawshank Redemption" an air-tight production, but ultimately its characters make it an unforgettable film.

RATING: 9/10

LOGAN

I am of the opinion that the output of the massive superhero franchises of recent years has been generally underwhelming. Most rely on action, spectacle, and a religiously devoted fan base to drive their endless streams of revenue. For those reasons, when films come along that are only slight exceptions to these commonalities, the movie community tends to react impetuously. Marvel's 2017 blockbuster, "Logan", is an example of a film which seems to benefit not from its own achievements, but from the monotony of the genre which it falls into.

"Logan" marks the ninth time that Hugh Jackman has played Logan, also known as Wolverine, in a Marvel film. Jackman's character is arguably the most iconic hero of the X-Men franchise, and this is the role which has earned Jackman his most high-profile attention in popular culture. In this installment in the saga of Wolverine, the claw-wielding mutant is a shell of his former self. He's warn out, beat down, and forced to spend much of his time caring for the aging Professor X (Patrick Stewart). We find Logan living a somewhat normal and slow life at the beginning of the film, as he attempts to shield himself and Professor X from the hostile world around them and their controversial pasts. However, society's malicious attitude toward mutants and the discovery of a similarly gifted daughter spawned from the DNA of Logan prevent the character from staying hidden from the world.

While playing Logan over the course of the past twenty years has made Hugh Jackman an international star, I look forward to him hopefully acting in a wider variety of films upon the end of his Marvel days. In this film however, Jackman excellently fills the aging, cynical hero role. Patrick Stewart delivers as usual in his return to Professor X, but the pleasant surprise of the film comes in the form of newcomer Dafne Keen's turn as Logan's tight-lipped, introspective young daughter, Laura. Keen consistently handles action and dramatic scenes well beyond her years.

"Logan" has received praise from not only superhero fans, but critics as well. I have heard things from "best superhero movie ever" to comparisons to Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight" in its combination of thoughtful storyline and explosive action. My apologies to Marvel diehards, but "Logan" is simply not on that level. I do appreciate its relative lack of  reliance on computer graphics and special effects, but the story of a grouchy, weathered former tough-guy is simply too familiar. Nothing about the script or the story is as groundbreaking as the film wants us to believe. Its possible that my lack of appreciation for Marvel films overall plays into my immunity to "Logan"'s attempted poignancy, but the film does not truly sustain the deep emotional quality which it seeks. That being said, I will not deny that it is head and shoulders above many other Marvel films in its establishing of deep characters and in its focus on individuals over visuals.

"Logan" is a good superhero film, but it is not any kind of cinematic landmark. Do not be surprised if hardcore members of the comic book community push for this film to be highly represented in next year's Oscar conversations. When compared to many other productions from the Marvel money making machine, it excels, but when looking at it as a stand-alone film, I am not as stirred as the rest of the movie world seems to be.

RATING: 6.8/10

TOP 10 BADASS MOVIE CHARACTERS

The silent killers, the temperamental wise guys, and the steady leaders. Over the years, cinema has given us a horde of kick-ass, rebellious, tough and stylish characters. Many of them are vigilantes who play by their own rules, while others are the most virtuous and gallant of leaders. Their methods vary, but one thing is for sure, you really would not want to mess with any of the following individuals. Taking into account everything from one-liners (or lack thereof) to weaponry, I present my list of the top 10 badass movie characters.

Honorable Mentions:

Jules Winnfield ("Pulp Fiction"), V ("V for Vendetta"), Léon ("Léon: The Professional"), Leonidas ("300"), Ginger ("Chicken Run"), Atticus Finch ("To Kill a Mockingbird"), Professor McGonagall ("Harry Potter"), Princess Leia ("Star Wars"), Darth Maul ("Star Wars"), The Iron Giant ("The Iron Giant"), William Wallace ("Braveheart"), Terminator ("The Terminator"), Quint ("Jaws"), Billy Costigan ("The Departed"), R.P. McMurphy ("One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest"), Luke ("Cool Hand Luke"), Jimmy Conway ("Goodfellas"), English Bob ("Unforgiven"), Bill the Butcher ("Gangs of New York"), Jim Stark ("Rebel Without a Cause"), and yes, James Bond.

10. Clarice Starling- "The Silence of the Lambs"
Being tasked with collaborating with Hannibal Lecter is a tall order for this FBI agent, and all the while she is still only a trainee. Clarice Starling is deeply devoted to her mission of sniffing out the deranged "Buffalo Bill", and her suspenseful showdown and eventual termination of the serial killer makes for one of the most courageous solo efforts from any film hero. She's a bold, independent heroine, and she's surely a badass.

                                          9.The Bride- "Kill Bill"
Of all the bruisers on this list, The Bride may have the highest on-screen body count, and she does her fighting with a damn samurai sword. Her over-the-top tactics are so overwhelmingly Tarantino, and they make for some of the most artfully violent scenes of modern film. I find that the pursuit of revenge makes for some top rate badasses, and The Bride certainly deserves mention on this list.


                                          8. Sonny Corleone- "The Godfather"
"Bada bing!" Sonny is the fiery tough-guy of the Corleone family. He believes in the mob using their "muscle" whenever is necessary, especially when family is involved. Personally, I've always loved the fact that (forgiving the greatest movie ever made for containing one of the worst-filmed punches in film history) nothing sets Sonny off as much as someone taking advantage of his sister. His pummeling of the abusive Carlo is easily one of the best older brother moments in film.

7. Boba Fett- "Star Wars: Episode V-The Empire Strikes Back"
When you really think about it, the iconic status of the character of Boba Fett actually doesn't make much sense. His screen time is limited and we hear him utter fewer than ten lines in the entire original "Star Wars" trilogy. However, the fact is, the galaxy's top bounty hunter is just undeniably cool. Everything from the deadpan, threatening gaze of his helmet, to the idea that he needs to be reminded not to disintegrate his enemies, contributes to his unspoken aura of danger. We do not know much about him, but its not hard to tell that Boba Fett is an experienced, ass-kicking badass.


                                          6. Django- "Django Unchained"
The freed slave turned bounty hunter, wants nothing more than to be reunited with his enslaved wife. But on the way to her rescue, he takes a few names with him. His reserved nature makes him the epitome of "quiet cool". He is quick on the trigger when he needs to be, and it is very effective, but when it comes to loyalty, they don't come much better than Django.

5. Anton Chigurh- "No Country for Old Men"
I must admit, the first time I watched "No Country for Old Men", I had to take to Google to figure out what exactly that thing was that Anton was using to kill people. Let's just say he's rather creative. At first sight, his interesting looks may cause one to raise an eyebrow, but it's quickly clear that Anton is one of the most frightening, cold-blooded killers that film has ever given us. If you need more evidence of badassery, look no further than his casual limping away from a deadly car accident, with his shattered arm in a sling made from a button-down shirt. That is tough.

                                          4. Maximus Decimus Meridius- "Gladiator"
Maximus' fall from his glorious position as a Roman general only makes his character far more awesome. "Are you not entertained?" remains one of the best victory lines ever from a film hero, and the character's willpower to work his way up from slave status and achieve vengeance for his murdered family makes him easy to root for. He approaches his battles with a no-holds-barred edge, and its rare that anyone crossing his path to retribution actually stands a chance.

3. Han Solo- "Star Wars"
The woman who has been reluctant to return Han Solo's affection professes her love seconds before he is about to be frozen in carbonite. Unsure whether or not he will survive, how does Han respond? "I know". He is the most suave, maverick scoundrel in the "Star Wars" universe, and deservedly, today he is one of the most recognizable characters in film history. For all the sarcasm and short tempered wisecracking, as viewers we are confident that when it matters most, Han is dependable and undaunted.

                                          2. Aragorn- "Lord of the Rings" Trilogy

Throughout all three chapters of Peter Jackson's masterpiece trilogy, we never truly see a weak moment from the character of Aragorn. A wise leader, lionhearted warrior, and constant companion, Aragorn maintains his humble devotion to the well-being of Middle Earth, no matter what ties he has to royalty and glory. Whether it means taking the four Hobbits under his wing, battling multiple Ring Wraiths on his own, or confronting the Dead Army, Aragorn understands the importance of the fellowship's mission and never allows himself to be tempted by power or the Ring. While Frodo represents the classic unlikely hero story of "Lord of the Rings", Aragorn is the trilogy's valiant luminary.

1. Jason Bourne- The "Bourne" Saga
Many movie fans would likely argue for a certain agent from across the pond to be placed over Bourne, but the protagonist of the "Bourne" saga is the best government-trained assassin, and best movie badass, of all time. And quite frankly, Jason Bourne would kick James Bond's ass. Bourne is haunted, wanted, and dragged into a cycle of crime and corruption that he is tied to by his blurry past. He is seemingly emotionless and maintains his stoic composure throughout run-ins with other "assets" and with the law. He is invisible when he wants to be and deadly when he needs to be. There is nothing flashy about his personality or methods, but I cannot think of a movie character who liquidates enemies with his bare hands as well as Bourne does. Never in sight, but always watching, he's an afflicted hero, and a lonesome absolute badass. 

THE DEPARTED

By the time 2006 rolled around, Martin Scorsese was already well established as Hollywood royalty, and his flair for the gangster genre was no secret. Many of the director's early films depict the crime system in America to be as glamorous and exciting as it is dark and sinister. More than pictures like "Goodfellas" and "Casino" however, "The Departed" keeps its focus on the gritty, dishonest, two-faced realities of organized crime, and how they permanently affect those involved. It weaves together the stories of two contrasting, yet equally deceitful, leading characters; materializing as one of the finest, most suspenseful gangster pictures ever made.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon each deliver some of the best work of their careers as Billy Costigan and Colin Sullivan. DiCaprio's character is a newly commissioned member of the Massachusetts State Police who is assigned the hazardous mission of establishing a long-term undercover position in a powerful South Boston Irish crime syndicate. Conversely, Sullivan is a life-long associate of the mob who has been tactfully imbedded in the police force from a young age. The character is deeply connected with Frank Costello, the villainous kingpin of the neighborhood, who tasks Sullivan with identifying which member of the gang is a "rat" operating under cover for the State Police. As the characters become deeply rooted in their covert roles, Costigan becomes increasingly paranoid, while Sullivan's life, on the surface, appears to be unfairly ordinary.

The co-leads' performances oppose each other perfectly. DiCaprio delivers a sense of desperation and torment as his character is faced with the dangers of his undertaking. It is obvious that Costigan is tragically broken down by his mission, which make his heroism far more apparent at the end of the film. As Sullivan, Matt Damon brings the right amount of arrogance and moral disregard. Scorsese's supporting cast is additionally brilliant. As the twisted Frank Costello, Jack Nicholson appears to be the embodiment of evil. His looming hostility and unsettling dialogue blend to create one of the most menacing characters of Nicholson's career, and he has plenty of experience with menace. Mark Wahlberg shines in his critically acclaimed turn as the ill-tempered yet devoted "statie", Sergeant Dignam, whose large impact on the film is not apparent until its very last scene. Martin Sheen, Alec Baldwin, and Vera Farmiga round out the impressive ensemble.

Adapted from "Internal Affairs", a 2002 film out of Hong Kong, "The Departed" is considered to be one of the most successful international film adaptations to date. The story brings a considerable amount of darkness and tension. It differs from Scorsese films like "Goodfellas" in that it has relatively little lighthearted gangster banter. Instead, it centers on the complicated issues and questions about human nature and loyalty which surround its central characters. While most of the 151 minute runtime is meticulous and intricate, the film's final act delivers sudden thrills and impulsive action. In the span of a few minutes, characters and situations unravel in knee-jerk moments which shock the audience, but ultimately bring about a satisfying conclusion. We are left with a story about a hopeless, tragic hero, and his shallow, vain, and naive rival.

Martin Scorsese himself has said in the past that "The Departed" was the first film he ever directed that truly had a plot. To some extent, this could not be more true. The picture's plot is robust and enthralling. Through complex relationships and marginal loyalties, it takes the traditional cops and robbers and good versus evil structures and turns them on their heads. While Scorsese's crime-centered films of the 70's, 80's and 90's are often cited as some of his best work, "The Departed" deserves to be remembered as one of the most well-crafted films of his storied career.

RATING: 9.2/10

MOST ANTICIPATED FILMS FOR (THE REST OF) 2017

As the award season wraps up, 2016 proves to have been quite a memorable year for cinema. While the beginning of March may seem a bit late to start discussing expectation for 2017, now is the time when we can fully focus on this year's films, as the award discussions for last year's winds down. With that said, I give you the movies which I personally am anticipating the most for the remainder of 2017. Bear in mind, these are choices based on my personal preference, so do not be alarmed by the lack of blockbuster superhero franchise presence. In no particular order, here are the films which the coming year has me most excited about:

DUNKIRK
I have found myself thoroughly enjoying almost one of Christopher Nolan's past films. As cinema history unfolds, the director has begun to truly cement himself as one of the premier filmmakers of his generation. While much of his filmography deals with the science fiction and superhero universes, "Dunkirk" tells the story of an allied evacuation from the beaches of Dunkirk, France during World War II. A period war epic like this one is unknown territory for Nolan, but all of the familiar elements of his films seem to be present. Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Cillian Murphy, and Kenneth Branagh lead the cast, while the combination of an immense budget and Nolan's unique style of storytelling assure audiences that "Dunkirk" should be massively entertaining. Hollywood has experienced no shortage of WWII pictures, but Christopher Nolan's track record leaves us believing that his may be one of the best. 

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES
With many moviegoers, the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise fell out of favor many years ago, which is understandable. The installments following 2003's original film have been increasingly lackluster in the eyes of many. However, for me, these films feel as personally connected to my childhood as any. Not to mention, to this day Captain Jack Sparrow remains one of the most quotable, entertaining characters of the 21st century. A cast comprised of Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, and Javier Bardem promises to, at the very least, deliver some entertaining exchanges. While it likely will not contend as one of the best critically accepted movies of the year, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" will certainly have me in a theater seat upon its release, for old times' sake.

THE SNOWMAN
Little is known about the production details of this film, but, to be frank, Martin Scorsese's attachment to the project has me hopefully awaiting it. Michael Fassbender, Rebecca Ferguson, and J.K. Simmons star in this crime drama about an English detective investigating the mysterious winter murder of a woman. Scorsese is no longer attached as the film's director, but remains on board as executive producer, while Swedish filmmaker Tomas Alfredson fills the directing role. Set to be released in the fall, the names attached to the film in acting and production capacities give it promise.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Disney has a lot to live up to in this live action remake of the 1991 animated classic. The original "Beauty and the Beast" became the first animated feature to receive a Best Picture nomination, and was commended for its score and artistry. I do however expect Disney to deliver on their high expectations. Emma Watson, possessing all the elements required of classic princess, appears to be a perfect choice for this role, and first-rate talent including Emma Thompson and Ian McKellen occupy supporting roles. Excitement and anticipation are high for this film, but Disney has given us little reason to doubt that the movie's quality will amount to its hype.


STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI
If Disney truly plans to continue its trend of releasing one "Star Wars" film every year, you can expect those films to be perennially among my most anticipated. As a life long, zealous "Star Wars" fan, "The Force Awakens" and "Rogue One" both had me thrilled that the franchise has experienced a recent rebirth. When the subtitle "The Last Jedi" was announced recently, excitement only grew. The film will begin to answer questions about the "Star Wars" universe which fans have mulled over endlessly since "The Force Awakens". Rian Johnson takes the reigns as director for this installment, and it has been reported that the story is so strong that it had J.J. Abrams regretting stepping away from his directing role. While fans will not know until December what comes next in the stories of Rey, Finn, and the legendary Luke Skywalker, Disney's first two releases at the helm of the "Star Wars" brand have viewers hopeful for the future of the galaxy far, far away.