War Horse
(Dec. 25)
Academy Awards committees love three things: war movies, uplifting stories about unlikely heroes and Steven Spielberg. War Horse combines all three elements into a surefire awards hit. The story follows a horse named Joey who is separated from his young owner to join the cavalry in World War I. Make sure to bring tissues if you are one of those people who cry uncontrollably whenever an animal even looks sad.
The Artist
(Late December)
The film is a loving ode to the silent era of film as it follows the rise and fall of movie stars with the introduction of sound in the late 1920s. There is virtually no dialogue, only a wonderful score that accompanies the movie. It is both hilarious and charming, the perfect holiday treat. For a full review, see the Oct. 20 edition of The Lamron.
The Girl With the
Dragon Tattoo
(Dec. 21)
What do you get when you combine the director of The Social Network, the screenwriter of Schindler's List and star of the new James Bond movies? The American version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo.
Many have been skeptical of the film since Swedish versions of the extremely popular Millennium trilogy came out only a few years ago. The reputations of those involved, however, are too great to ignore. With a breakout performance by Rooney Mara and the National Board of Review naming it one of the 10 best films of the year, this is not a film to miss.
Shame
(Dec. 2)
What's something you would rather be doing than reading this article? The protagonist of Shame, along with 80 percent of the population, would probably answer "having sex."
Rising star Michael Fassbender plays Brandon, a successful businessman who also happens to be a sex addict. Shame is a highly artistic film that chronicles a man slowly ruining his life. Fassbender gives a gritty, raw and naked performance, both literally and figuratively. If the thought of a nude Fassbender excites you then this is the movie for you; however, make sure to have ID on-hand, as this is a rare awards contender with an NC-17 rating.
Young Adult
(Dec. 9)