The Founder
US release date: December 16th, 2016
UK release date: February 17th, 2017
What is it? A biographical drama about travelling salesman and entrepreneur Ray Kroc, who stumbled upon a well-run family restaurant, persuaded the brothers that owned it to franchise it with him, and eventually turned it into an iconic global corporation – ousting the original owners in the process.
Who made it? The film is directed by John Lee Hancock (Saving Mr Banks), from a script by Robert D. Siegel (The Wrestler).
Who’s in it? Michael Keaton, Linda Cardellini, Patrick Wilson, Laura Dern, Nick Offerman, John Carroll Lynch, B.J Novak.
What do we think? In no uncertain terms, it’s the presence of Michael Keaton that makes The Founder a must-see movie. The nature of the lead role in this film – a man who is presented here as being an ambitious, dissatisfied, scheming individual, who intends to win at all costs – is a perfect fit for the signature kinetic style of the Oscar-winning actor. That he is supported by such a notable cast only bolsters interest in what could well prove to be this year’s The Social Network.
Passengers
US/UK release date: December 21st, 2016
What is it? This dramatic sci-fi adventure takes place on a spacecraft transporting humans to a distant planet, where they intend to make their lives in a new colony. The passengers make the lengthy trip in sleep chambers, but a malfunction results in one man, and one woman being awakened 90 years too early.
Who made it? The film is directed by Morten Tyldum (The Imitation Game), from a script by Jon Spaihts (Prometheus, Doctor Strange).
Who’s in it? Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt, Michael Sheen, Andy Garcia, Laurence Fishburne.
What do we think? It’s a giant special effects movie starring two of the biggest stars working in film today. Audiences will undoubtedly turn out in droves.