A Good Year for Cinema

If you are at all interested in movies, film, cinema, or any other synonyms of the sort you may think of, you've come to the right blog post.  And you should be interested in them, because you are in the Humanities Scholars.  So there.  I've compiled a brief list of must-sees for myself, and decided to share it with you, because what good would my list be if it wasn't shared?  So, without further ado, I present to you, THE LIST:

Life of Pi - Released November 21, 2012
This tale of Piscine "Pi" Patel and his adventures on a lifeboat with a tiger has become a classic in its own right.  I recommend reading the book first, because it is resplendent in its detail, deep in its meaning, and simply an interesting read.  I have not seen the film yet, but I am told it is as wonderful as its novel.  It is a witty and profound meditation on life and spirituality, and I expect it to sweep me off my feet.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - Released December 14, 2012
Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is not usually inclined to seek adventure, finds himself on an epic trek across Middle Earth with a band of dwarves to defeat a malevolent dragon.  I also recommend reading the book first, as I have just finished it myself, and it is as charming and wonderful as I imagined it would be.  Just as the Lord of the Rings films it is the prequel to, it will be released in three movies, and in the same grand proportions.  This tale proves that being a hero doesn't mean being big and tough, but small and wise.

Les Miserables - Released December 25, 2012
Even if you aren't a musical-lover, you should see this movie.  If you like, read Victor Hugo's novel first, although it is quite long.  It transcends its genre, and is one of the most well-loved musicals of all time.  Also, this movie isn't made like other musicals that have been translated onto the big screen; the actors sing live, and the full orchestra is added in later, so the emotion is real and in the moment, not canned and pre-recorded.  It is the story of many people spanning many years, beginning in 1815 and culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion in France. It is a story of love, hate, hope, destitution, freedom, and the fight to be better. 

Warm Bodies - Released February 1, 2013
As trusty old IMDb puts it, this flick is about "a zombie [who] becomes involved with the girlfriend of one of his victims, [and] their romance sets in motion a sequence of events that might transform the entire lifeless world."  While most likely not as profound as some of the other movies on this list, it is sure to be both funny, quirky, and thought-provoking.  Apparently, it is also based on a recently published novel that is widely loved.  Also, ZOMBIES.  Need I say more?

The Great Gatsby - Released May 10, 2013
The decadence and excess of the Jazz age is captured within Jay Gatsby, contrasted with detached, cynical neighbor Nick Carraway.  If you've read the book in high school and liked it, you will definitely appreciate this film.  If you read it and didn't like it, see the movie anyway - you may come to like it.  I mean, really, it's got Leonardo DiCaprio, people...

Star Trek Into Darkness - Released May 17, 2013
Since all my other movie suggestions have been based on novels, here's one for you that isn't.  Everyone knows about Star Trek, at least a little.  It promises to be an action-packed ride for everyone, even if you've never seen an episode of Star Trek (like me).  Also, it has Benedict Cumberbatch in it, if that isn't enough to make you go see it all on its own.

Click on the title of each film to see it's trailer, and if you don't get excited about even one of these, please consult a doctor or licensed psychiatrist immediately.  Also, if you have a suggestion of your own, leave a comment about it!  Get pumped people!  This year and next is going to be a great year at the movies!