“Glass,” Jan. 18
If you haven’t heard of “Glass,” you’ll for sure have heard of its director. M. Night Shyamalan is known for bringing us “Unbreakable,” “Signs” and his most recent hit “Split.”
“Glass” premiers in January and is the long-anticipated connection between the world of “Split” and “Unbreakable.” With names such as Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and James McAvoy, you know this film is sure to be a winner.
Griffen Winget | Argonaut
“Us,” March 15
In 2017, Jordan Peele, who previously unknown for his directorial prowess, blindsided us with “Get Out” — a thriller that became an instant classic.
I would usually hesitate to recommend a movie based on an “unproven” director. However, “Get Out” is a masterclass film and his follow-up thriller, “Us,” gives me confidence. Not much is known plot-wise, but this only heightens the anticipation.
“Dumbo,” March 29
If I told you Colin Farrell, Eva Green, Michael Keaton and Danny DeVito were starring in a live-action “Dumbo” remake you’d say I was crazy. If I said it was directed by Tim Burton, you’d say it all makes sense now.
I am usually the first to shoot down live-action remakes as nostalgia grabs, but this seems different. Burton directing this veteran cast gives me hope our favorite flappy-eared elephant can soar to new heights.
“Toy Story 4,” June 21
“Toy Story 4” made this list for reasons you might not expect. I think “Toy Story 3” was the perfect wrap-up to a beloved trilogy. I see no reason for a fourth film to come out, therefore, this will either be a huge failure or an incredible success.
This is director Josh Cooley’s first feature-length film, and I don’t envy the pressure he must feel. We’ve seen bits and pieces about this film, such as a spork in an existential crisis, but not much more is known. I can only hope that the short film at the beginning of the movie is good.
“Once Upon a Time In Hollywood,” July 26
Many of us would see this just because it’s a new Quentin Tarantino film. Pile on names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Al Pacino, and you’ve got an Oscar winner in the making. This film follows an aspiring actor and his stunt double as they forge a career in 1969 Hollywood. Not to mention, Tarantino has thrown in a little Manson Family twist for added fun.
“It: Chapter Two,” Sept. 6
Andres Muschietti and Bill Skarsgård are back to tell the final half of Pennywise’s story. This time the children have grown-up and are out for blood, much like our favorite space clown.
Once I learned Skarsgård would be reprising his role I was sold. His genuinely creepy movement and stare had me hooked from minute one in the 2017 hit. I’ll take any chance I can get to see him back on the silver screen, plus the ending of “It” felt like Pennywise gave up too easily. I can’t wait to see what he has in store.
“Sonic the Hedgehog,” Nov. 15
Now hold on, don’t stop reading yet. I know Sonic is the last video game character you want to see adapted into a movie, much less a live-action hybrid. However, who doesn’t love an underdog?
James Marsden has doffed his cowboy hat and will be going fast with our favorite blue hedgehog as they take theaters in November.
“Star Wars: Episode IX,” Dec. 20
Fans may be happy — keyword may — to learn that Rian Johnson has passed the laser-torch to J.J. Abrams for the finale of the newest “Star Wars” trilogy.
Our four mainstays return along with “Black Panther” star Lupita Nyong’o to take us to new depths of space. I hope to see a fitting conclusion to a lackluster trilogy. May the Force be with Abrams — he’s going to need it.
“Wicked,” Dec. 20
Any theatre nerd knows the Broadway hit “Wicked.” The musical follows Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and her constant bickering with Glinda, the Good Witch. The story is a unique prequel to the “Wizard of Oz,” which took the stage by storm in 2003.
Now, after 15 years, we are getting a silver-screen adaptation and fans couldn’t be happier. Hopefully Stephen Daldry lives up to the hype, bewitching fans everywhere.
Griffen Winget can be reached at [email protected]