La La Land
US release date: December 9th, 2016
UK release date: January 13th, 2016
What is it? La La Land is characterized as a romantic musical comedy drama, and tells the story of two aspiring artists in Los Angeles – one an actress, and one a jazz musician. They meet, and fall in love, but find that the pressures of pursuing their professional dreams sometimes prove to be problematic for their personal happiness.
Who made it? It’s written and directed by Damien Chazelle (Whiplash), with original music by Justin Hurwitz – who previously collaborated with Chazelle on the same.
Who’s in it? Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend, Rosemarie DeWitt, J.K Simmons, Tom Everett Scott.
What do we think? This is the film that has emerged as the project of note from the festival circuit, where it has already collected awards for cinematography, song, cast and film as a whole. Unsurprisingly, the ‘buzz’ around La La Land has now turned to Oscar-talk – particularly with regard to the performance of Emma Stone. This is the third onscreen collaboration for Stone and Gosling – after 2011’s Crazy, Stupid, Love, and 2013’s Gangster Squad – and these past projects have always proved their artistic chemistry to be captivating. All of these factors combine to make La La Land one of the must-see films of the Christmas season, and of the year.
Office Christmas Party
US release date: December 9th, 2016
UK release date: December 7th, 2016
What is it? A seasonal comedy in which CEO of Zenotek, Carol Vanstone, arrives at the branch headed up by her brother, Clay, to announce its imminent closure. Clay then teams with his Chief Technical Officer to throw the Christmas party to end all Christmas parties, in an effort to impress an important new client, and save the livelihoods of his employees.
Who made it? The film is directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck (The Switch), from a script by Justin Malen (Trophy Wife) and Laura Solon (Hot In Cleveland). The story was developed by Jon Lucas (The Hangover), Scott Moore (The Change-Up), and Dan Mazer (Borat).
Who’s in it? Kate McKinnon, Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, T.J Miller, Olivia Munn, Jamie Chung, Abbey Lee, Jillian Bell, Ron Corddry, Karan Soni, Courtney B. Vance, Matt Walsh, Sam Richardson, and Randall Park.
What do we think? Come for the all-star cast, stay for the zingers and physical comedy. It’s a simple premise, but in the hands of this impressive collection of comedy talents, Office Christmas Party is a shoo-in for the title of ‘Uncomplicated Guilty Pleasure’ of the Christmas season.