December 2017 Movie Releases: Blockbusters & Hidden Gems
Hey movie buffs! Get ready to dive into the cinematic treasure trove that was December 2017. This month delivered a mix of blockbuster hits and under-the-radar gems, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of epic space operas, heartwarming dramas, or thrilling adventures, December 2017 had you covered. Let's take a nostalgic trip back to the theaters and explore the standout films of that month.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Star Wars: The Last Jedi absolutely dominated the box office and cultural conversation in December 2017. As the eighth installment in the Star Wars saga, it picks up right after The Force Awakens, following Rey as she seeks to understand the Force and Luke Skywalker's role in the Resistance. Directed by Rian Johnson, The Last Jedi took bold narrative risks, challenging fan expectations and sparking intense debate.
The film’s stunning visuals, coupled with John Williams' iconic score, created an immersive cinematic experience. The performances were top-notch, with Mark Hamill delivering a nuanced portrayal of a disillusioned Luke Skywalker, and Daisy Ridley shining as the determined Rey. Adam Driver's Kylo Ren continued to be a compelling and conflicted villain, adding depth to the ongoing battle between the light and dark sides. The storyline introduces new characters like Rose Tico, played by Kelly Marie Tran, who brought a fresh perspective to the Resistance. The Last Jedi pushed the boundaries of what a Star Wars film could be, exploring themes of failure, hope, and the importance of letting go of the past. Its impact on the franchise is still felt today, making it a memorable and significant release of December 2017. Guys, this movie was such a cultural phenomenon; everyone was talking about it!
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
Switching gears from space operas to action-comedy, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle brought a fresh twist to the beloved Jumanji franchise. Starring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan, this film reimagines the board game as a video game, sucking four teenagers into the jungle world as their chosen avatars. The humor and chemistry between the cast members were the highlights, making it a fun and entertaining ride for audiences of all ages.
The premise of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is simple but effective: four high school students stumble upon an old video game console and get transported into the game as their chosen characters. Each character has unique strengths and weaknesses, leading to hilarious situations as they navigate the dangerous jungle environment. Dwayne Johnson plays Dr. Smolder Bravestone, the archetypal action hero; Kevin Hart is Franklin “Mouse” Finbar, the diminutive zoologist; Jack Black embodies Professor Shelly Oberon, a middle-aged cartographer; and Karen Gillan portrays Ruby Roundhouse, the martial arts expert. The film cleverly plays with the actors' personas, creating a dynamic and comedic ensemble. The action sequences are thrilling, and the visual effects are impressive, making the jungle environment feel alive and dangerous. Beyond the humor and action, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle also explores themes of self-discovery and teamwork, as the characters learn to overcome their insecurities and work together to survive. This movie was a total crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to see why it became a box office smash. For those looking for a lighthearted adventure, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle was definitely a standout release in December 2017.
The Greatest Showman
For those who enjoy a good musical, The Greatest Showman, starring Hugh Jackman, was a visual and auditory treat. This vibrant and uplifting film tells the story of P.T. Barnum and the creation of his famous circus. With catchy songs and dazzling choreography, The Greatest Showman celebrated diversity, inclusion, and the power of dreams. While it took some liberties with historical accuracy, its message of acceptance resonated with audiences worldwide.
The Greatest Showman is a cinematic spectacle that combines music, dance, and drama to tell the story of P.T. Barnum, a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionized the world of entertainment. Hugh Jackman delivers a charismatic performance as Barnum, capturing his ambition, charisma, and determination to create a show that celebrates uniqueness and diversity. The film features an impressive soundtrack with original songs that blend pop, musical theater, and anthemic styles. Tracks like "This Is Me," "A Million Dreams," and "The Greatest Show" became instant hits, topping charts and inspiring listeners with their messages of self-acceptance and empowerment. The choreography is equally stunning, with elaborate dance numbers that showcase the talent and energy of the ensemble cast. Michelle Williams plays Charity Barnum, P.T.'s supportive wife, while Zac Efron portrays Phillip Carlyle, a wealthy playwright who joins Barnum's circus. Zendaya shines as Anne Wheeler, a talented trapeze artist who faces prejudice due to her interracial relationship with Carlyle. The film's visual design is vibrant and colorful, creating a sense of wonder and enchantment that captures the spirit of Barnum's circus. Beyond the spectacle, The Greatest Showman also explores themes of ambition, family, and the importance of embracing one's true self. This movie proved to be a feel-good hit, encouraging audiences to chase their dreams and celebrate what makes them unique. Definitely a memorable December 2017 release!
Pitch Perfect 3
Rounding out the musical offerings of December 2017 was Pitch Perfect 3. The Barden Bellas returned for one last hurrah, embarking on a USO tour and facing new challenges and rivalries. While it may not have reached the heights of the first film, Pitch Perfect 3 delivered the same a cappella fun and camaraderie that fans had come to love. The familiar faces and catchy tunes made it a comforting and entertaining watch for the holiday season.
Pitch Perfect 3 sees the Barden Bellas reuniting after graduation, struggling to find their place in the real world. Yearning for the camaraderie and excitement of their college a cappella days, the Bellas jump at the opportunity to join a USO tour across Europe. The film reunites the core cast, including Anna Kendrick as Beca Mitchell, Rebel Wilson as Patricia “Fat Amy” Hobart, Brittany Snow as Chloe Beale, and Hailee Steinfeld as Emily Junk. As the Bellas travel across Europe, they encounter new challenges and rivalries, including a competing band fronted by the talented and ambitious Calamity, played by Ruby Rose. The film features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing the Bellas' signature a cappella style. The humor is still present, with Rebel Wilson delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. However, Pitch Perfect 3 also explores themes of friendship, ambition, and finding one's path in life. The Bellas learn to support each other as they navigate their post-college lives, facing challenges and making tough decisions about their futures. The film's finale brings the Bellas' journey to a satisfying conclusion, celebrating their bond and their love for music. While Pitch Perfect 3 may not be the strongest installment in the series, it still offers plenty of a cappella fun and heartwarming moments for fans of the franchise. This was a fun one to catch with friends during the holiday season!
Ferdinand
For family-friendly animation, Ferdinand told the heartwarming story of a gentle bull who prefers flowers to fighting. Based on the classic children's book, this film delivered a message of peace, kindness, and staying true to oneself. With vibrant animation and a charming story, Ferdinand was a delightful choice for families during the holiday season. The film highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, making it a valuable watch for audiences of all ages.
Ferdinand is an animated film that tells the story of a gentle bull who would rather smell flowers than participate in bullfights. The film is based on the classic children's book The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson. Ferdinand is a kind and peace-loving bull who grows up on a ranch in Spain. Unlike the other young bulls, who dream of fighting in the bullring, Ferdinand prefers to spend his time in the pasture, smelling the flowers and enjoying the beauty of nature. One day, Ferdinand is mistakenly selected to compete in the bullfights in Madrid. Despite his gentle nature, Ferdinand is forced to confront the expectations and pressures of the bullfighting world. The film features a talented voice cast, including John Cena as Ferdinand, Kate McKinnon as Lupe, a calming goat, and Anthony Anderson as Bones, a one of Ferdinand’s bull friends. The animation is vibrant and colorful, bringing the Spanish countryside to life. Ferdinand explores themes of non-violence, empathy, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Ferdinand's gentle nature and unwavering commitment to his values inspire audiences to embrace kindness and reject violence. The film also highlights the importance of understanding and accepting others, even if they are different from us. Ferdinand is a heartwarming and uplifting film that is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. What a sweet film to enjoy during the holiday season with the whole family!
December 2017 was a fantastic month for movies, offering a wide range of genres and stories to enjoy. Whether you were captivated by the space battles of Star Wars, the jungle adventures of Jumanji, or the musical spectacle of The Greatest Showman, there was something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn and relive the magic of these memorable films!