So movies are … back? Maybe? November proved to be a gigantic issue for bigger films, with more delays and shifts to digital platforms. Even December isn’t safe, as Dune – the science fiction book-to-film adaptation starring everyone from Javier Bardem to Zendaya – was rescheduled for October 2021.
In Theaters
For now, there are still some must-sees coming to theaters, so let’s start with one that already got pushed, and hopefully won’t again: Free Guy. Ryan Reynolds stars as Guy, a non-playable character in a computer game who becomes aware that his world is not what he thought it was. Jodie Comer, Joe Keery and Taika Waititi also show up in supporting roles, both to aid Guy and stand in his way. It’s definitely going for a blockbuster vibe, with big explosions and slick digital effects, coupled with comedy and a character with a heart of gold. Director Shawn Levy cut his teeth on these kinds of films with the Night at the Museum trilogy and others like Date Night and Real Steel. It’s set to release Dec. 11, and should hopefully bring those looking for action and jokes back to the cinema.
If, instead, you want a more somber drama, try The Father. Starring Anthony Hopkins as a man struggling with dementia and Olivia Coleman as his daughter trying to deal with everything after moving in with him, the film premiered back in January at Sundance. It received universal praise for the acting and for its depiction of this devastating disease. Directed by Florian Zeller and based off his 2012 play Le Pere, The Father and its raw performances are sure to tug at heartstrings, especially for anyone who has gone through something similar. The movie is scheduled for release on Dec. 18.
Streaming
On the streaming front, Netflix releases Mank. Starring Gary Oldman as Herman J. Mankiewicz, the story focuses on the screenwriter and his troubles writing Citizen Kane with Orson Welles, along with the myriad issues that arose during production of what is now considered one of the best films of all time. Directed by David Fincher (Fight Club, The Social Network) and written by his late father Jack Fincher, the film also features Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins and Charles Dance. The trailer indicates the movie will pay tribute to Citizen Kane by being shot in black and white with monaural sound. This is the first film from Fincher since 2014’s Gone Girl and is likely a big award contender. It’s available to stream starting Dec. 4.
If you want a television show to binge while you try and forget 2020 happened, Showtime brings you the legal drama miniseries Your Honor. Bryan Cranston stars as a well-respected judge who tries to help his son after a hit-and-run goes very, very wrong. Michael Stuhlbarg plays the primary antagonist – the head of a vicious crime family. The trailer promises intense drama, action, deceit and many terrible choices for Cranston’s character. It will premier sometime this month. Hang in there – at least 2020 is almost over!
