Remember what I said in December about the glass being half full and half empty? Looking at the titles this month reminds me that the shelves aren't empty, but quantity doesn't always equal quality particularly when you're looking at the losses.
Let's take a look at the highlights. It's always welcome to see an Oscar winner or two in the mix so a welcome back to Amadeus (Jan. 1) is in order as well as a welcome to Training Day (Jan. 4) which won best actor for Denzel Washington. In less celebrated but still welcome returns, you can enjoy a case of cabin fever gone all so wrong with Jack Nicholson in The Shining (Jan. 1), the romance between Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr in An Affair to Remember (presumably Jan. 1), John Wayne finding Irish romance with Maureen O'Hara in The Quiet Man (Jan. 1), Jimmy Stewart investigating the conviction of an innocent man in Call Northside 777 (probably Jan. 1), and young Sean Penn and Tom Cruise leading a battle to save their military school from shutting down in Taps (likely Jan. 1). And I almost forgot Love is a Many-Splendored Thing (probably Jan. 1). That's not that bad, although it pales compared to the losses on New Year's Eve/Day.
In more modern fare, the welcome return of Pee-Wee's Big Adventure (Jan. 1) kicks things off, presumably due to an upcoming Pee-Wee movie for Netflix. We trade out one Hugh Grant romance (Love Actually) for another in Notting Hill (Jan. 1). Kids might enjoy the life lessons of Nanny McPhee and the brave literary mouse Tales of Despereaux (both Jan. 1) while action fans will probably get a kick out of Rumble in the Bronx with Jackie Chan and The Rundown with The Rock (both Jan. 1). Comedy fans will probably appreciate Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers (both Jan. 1) as well as two comedies from the Coen brothers: Intolerable Cruelty (Jan. 1) and The Ladykillers with Tom Hanks (Jan. 12). Sci-fi fans might enjoy The Faculty (Jan. 1) as well as the return of four Star Trek films (all Jan. 1). Drama fans can revel in the searing We Need to Talk About Kevin (Jan. 1) with Tilda Swinton and Bill Murray as FDR in Hyde Park on Hudson (Jan. 16). Musical fans might get their mix from Across the Universe (Jan. 3). And if you want shut down your brain fun, Flashdance (Jan. 1), Sharknado 3 (Jan. 22), or even 2 Fast 2 Furious (Jan. 1) might fill the bill. And for some reason, I hadn't gotten to get into David O. Russell's Three Kings (Jan. 1), but it's coming as well.
For those seeking newer fare, we got some mixed news. There's no films that everyone and their mother have heard about this month like Home which came out in November or Minions or Hotel Transylvania 2. But there are familiar names and titles this month. Such as Anna Kendrick in the romantic musical drama The Last Five Years (Jan. 15). Or Adam Scott in The Overnight (Jan. 14), a drama about what happens when two couples consider swapping partners overnight. Although I don't know much about the next three titles, I've heard good things about documentaries The Testimony (Jan. 14), Cartel Land (Jan. 18), and Drone (Jan. 20). Moonwalkers (Jan. 15) has me intrigued by its premise that the moon landing was faked by filmmakers; I don't believe it personally, but it sounds interesting nonetheless. And finally, did we have a movie escape Epix's deal? I ask this because I have a Words and Pictures (Jan. 31) sighting.
In TV, comedy series take the spotlight in the first month of the new year. We get welcome new seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and New Girl (both Jan. 5) as well as the last season of Parks and Rec (Jan. 13). Kids could go for Dragons: Race to the Edge (Jan. 8) as well as the revived Littlest Pet Shop (Jan. 11). Sports fans will probably enjoy Four Falls of Buffalo (Jan. 2) dealing with the Bills team in their glory days. Fans of Everyone Loves Raymond might like I'll Have What Phil's Having (Jan. 2), a food series featuring the creator of that sitcom smash. Adults might enjoy new seasons of the paramedic comedy Sirens (Jan. 15), the zombie dramedy Z Nation (Jan. 17), the small town romantic entanglements of When Calls the Heart (Jan. 21), or the vampire versus humans drama of From Dusk Til Dawn (probably Jan. 25). And then there's the ice filled documentary Frozen Planet (likely Jan. 28) from Sir Richard Attenborough and company. Finally, I'm technically obligated to mention Netflix original titles Degrassi: The New Class (Jan. 15) and Chelsea Does (Jan. 23), although I've heard better things about the former than the latter.
As for shame of the month, I liked Catwoman (Jan. 1) more than some even with its flaws. Neither Adam Sandler comedy up this month, Mr. Deeds and 8 Crazy Nights (both Jan. 1), appear to be all too promising or funny. Rock Star (Jan. 1) is equal measures hokey and schmaltzy. But I'll go with A Matter of Faith (Jan. 4), a film where a Christian father debates evolution with a biology teacher (Harry Anderson). Magic may be involved, but it would probably require a bit much to suspend the disbelief necessary for it to work.
Happy streaming and may we get some unexpectedly good presents in January!
Movies:
January 1:
2 Fast 2 Furious: Former cop and his ex-con buddy team up to transport dirty money to a shady importer/exporter. But they're working with an undercover agent who's helping them to bring the bad guys down; with Paul Walker and Tyrese Gibson.
8 Crazy Nights: His hard partying ways have Davey sentenced to hard time as a ref's assistant in a teen basketball league. Since the title refers to Hannukah, one can imagine that we'll be hearing that one song by the end; with Adam Sandler and Jackie Sandler.
An Affair to Remember: Two people meet in an ocean liner and fall deeply in love. Only problem is that both of them are engaged to other people; with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.
Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer: This documentary goes inside the tumultuous life of Aileen Wuornos, a woman convicted of killing six truck drivers who she insisted raped her. Her story became the basis for the movie Monster with Charlize Theron.
Aileen Wuornos: Selling of a Serial Killer: Documentary focuses on the media attention created by the trial of Wuornos for multiple cases of murder.
Along Came Polly: An uptight insurance adjuster who gets dumped on his honeymoon reconnects with a childhood friend who helps him live on the edge. It's like Dharma and Greg, only with a ferret; with Ben Stiller and Jennifer Aniston.
Alonzo Bodden: Who's Paying Attention?: Bodden riffs on modern day pirates, swine flu, and the merging of rap music and real estate in this stand up special.
Amadeus: Composer rival, jealous of the success and the ease of which Wolfgang Mozart can compose fine works, cooks up a scheme of revenge; with F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce.
American Girl: Grace Stirs Up Success: Grace is a talented baker who gets a chance to go on a trip to Paris to work in a French pastry shop with relatives.
Andaz Apna Apna: Two broke young men with no plans for the future decide to charm a stunning heiress in order to win her hand in marriage; with Aamir and Salman Khan.
Bajatey Raho: A clever con man is oblivious to a plot by four of his victims who are driven to the dark side to get revenge on him.
Ben Bailey: Road Rage & Accidental Ornithology: The host of Cash Cab takes to the stage to take on owls and New York City traffic issues.
Bewitched: Isabel is cast as Samantha in a big screen adaption of Bewitched, but she's hiding a secret...she's a witch; with Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell.
Big Significant Things: A young man on the verge of commitment goes on a road trip where he learns that he has much to learn about life.
Biggie & Tupac: Documentary that examines the murders of the two rival rappers, unearthing some surprises in the process.
Bill Bellamy: Crazy Sexy Dirty: The comic riffs on killer whales and their trainers, Jay-Z and Beyonce, and making it rain in strip clubs in this stand up set.
Blood Cells: Ten years after a personal crisis, a man returns home to contemporary Britain and comes across old friends, exes, and cruel realities.
Bring It On: Fight to the Finish: When her mom gets remarried and moves the family to Malibu, Lina vows to whip her school's cheerleading squad into shape; with Christina Milian.
Bring It On: In It to Win It: Carson vows to lead her cheerleading squad to victory. In addition, both Carson and her rival are battling for the affections of a boy.
California State of Mind: The Legacy of Pat Brown: With the help of his granddaughter, the life and legacy of former California Governor Pat Brown is explored in this documentary.
Call Northside 777: Dogged journalist is persuaded by the mother of a prisoner convicted of killing a cop a decade before; with Jimmy Stewart.
Catwoman: When a worker discovers a conspiracy involving skin care products, she's left for dead until being revived by cats and becomes a vigilante with cat powers; with Halle Berry and Sharon Stone.
Chittagong: In the turbulent 1930s, an Indian teen joins a ragtag army of schoolboys determined to overthrow their English conquerors.
Consinsual: A typical married couple hits choppy waters when the wife wants to try something daring and the husband ends up getting charged with rape.
Constantine (2005): Private detective with a taste for the supernatural investigates an apparent suicide; with Keanu Reeves and Rachel Weisz.
Counting: Documentary examines some of the greatest, most diverse cities of the world and shows that the magic of urban life has some similarities globally.
Darr @ the Mall: Six people get trapped overnight at a mall and only a security guard can keep them from getting slayed by a supernatural force. Worse than having your card declined.
Debra DiGiovanni: Single Awkward Female: Brutal honesty marks the stand up routine by the award winning radio host and TV star (Last Comic Standing Season 5).
The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel: The life of Erwin Rommel from his military high points to his plot to overthrow Hitler onto his final days; with James Mason and Jessica Tandy.
Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!: In Calcutta during World War 2, a rookie detective finds himself in opposition to a malevolent genius with world domination in mind.
Don Friesen: Ask Your Mom: The self-depreciating comic hosts a stand up performance in front of a packed crowd.
Dreamcatcher (2015): Former prostitute helps women get off the Chicago streets and change their lives in this inspiring documentary.
Dum Laga Ke Haisha: Unambitious high school dropout is forced to marry an educated, plus-sized woman. The two, who have nothing in common, find themselves involved in an unusual contest.
The Faculty: High school students notice an alien infection and attempt to stop faculty members from taking over the school and the student body; with Elijah Wood and Jordana Brewster.
Fandry: A spunky lower caste lad falls for a lovely upper caste girl, but their social divide could prove to be a stumbling block on the way to true love.
Filmistaan: Islamic militants targeting an American documentary crew kidnap an Indian actor by mistake, but he bonds with the village's young film buffs.
Flashdance: She works as a welder by day and stripper by night, but all Alex wants is to become a professional dancer. Oh, and some love from her welding boss can't hurt; with Jennifer Beals and Michael Nouri.
Four Rooms: An exasperated bellboy is the linking element in four stories that take place in separate rooms of a hotel; with Tim Roth and Bruce Willis.
Galaxy Quest: Aliens recruit washed up stars of a sci-fi hit series to help them on an intergalactic rescue mission. By Grabthar's hammer; with Tim Allen and Alan Rickman.
The Good Road: A rural Indian highway is the setting for three stories involving various travelers there.
Greater Elephant: While searching for his lost elephant, a mahout meets others also looking for missing things.
Greatest Show on Earth: Oscar winner for Best Picture, this film explores a rivalry between acrobats, a clown with a secret, and a circus owner trying to keep his business afloat; with Charlton Heston and James Stewart.
Heropanti: Goons kidnap a guy who helps his friend escape with a powerful man's daughter, but while in captivity, he falls for her sister. Something tells me daddy won't be happy.
Hostage: A former hostage negotiator has his peaceful tranquility shattered when his neighbors are taken hostage by wayward thieves; with Bruce Willis and Kevin Pollak.
House of Wax (2005): A group of friends heading to a football game find themselves endangered by two bloodthirsty men who own a wax museum with lifelike sculptures; with Elisha Cuthbert and Chad Michael Murray.
How to Change the World: Documentary focuses on the creation of Greenpeace as an anti-nuclear testing group and how it got involved with global warming.
Ice Age 2: The Meltdown: Speaking of global warming, the deep freeze is over and the melting ice threatens the habitat of Diego, Manny, and Sid; with voices of Ray Romano and Denis Leary.
Inshallah Football: This documentary reveals the story of a young skilled soccer player from Kashmir whose quest to attend an elite academy is threatened by his father's past.
Intolerable Cruelty: It's a battle of the sexes when a respected attorney squares off with his client's gold digging ex-wife; with George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Jack the Bear: Host of a late night talk show deals with alcoholism and depression when his wife dies which leads to the oldest son having to pick up the pieces; with Danny DeVito and Miko Hughes.
Journey to Le Mans: Documentary examines the engineering and endurance efforts that are expended by a British private team to compete in Le Mans, a 24 hour car race; with Patrick Stewart.
Journey to the Center of the Earth (1959): An expedition team makes a perilous journey to the center of the Earth; with Pat Boone and James Mason.
Kangaroo Jack: The efforts of two boyhood pals to deliver mob money in Australia is thwarted by a talking kangaroo. Crikey; with Jerry O'Connell and Anthony Anderson.
Katiyabaaz: Battle of wills ensue between the CEO of a power company and a modern day Robin Hood who funnels electricity to the poor in this documentary.
Katt Williams Presents: Katthouse Comedy: Stand up star Katt Williams turns the stage over to talented newcomers who join him on his tour, a group known as the Katt Pack; with Lunell (Borat).
Katt Williams: Nine Lives: This documentary shows the rise to fame of Katt Williams from young stand up comic to BET staple and headliner.
The Kite: Six person's divergent paths intersect during a kite festival in Ahmedabad, India.
Kshay: A housewife's sudden obsession with acquiring a statue threatens to destory her happy life and marriage.
Lego: Adventures of Clutch Powers: Master builder and adventurer and his plastic pals must pit their brick building skills against an evil wizard; with Ryan McPartlin and Yvonne Strahovski.
Love is a Many-Splendored Thing: Widowed Eurasian doctor falls for a married American journalist, but laws preventing sex between different races forces them to keep their romance hidden; with William Holden and Jennifer Jones.
Main Aur Charles: The story of a serial killer told through the eyes of the Indian police official who handled the case.
Meet the Firm: Revenge in Rio: Two soccer hooligans follow drug dealers to Brazil during the World Cup to avenge their friend's death at the hand of Russians.
Meet the Fockers: A newly engaged Greg and Pam join her straightlaced family in a RV on a trip to Miami to meet his parents. Culture clash ensues; with Ben Stiller and Robert DeNiro.
Meet the Parents: Talk about your third degree. Greg knows how that feels when he attempts to win over his fiance's father, a former CIA agent, before he can pop the question to her; with Ben Stiller and Robert DeNiro.
Miracle on 34th Street (1994): Dorey Walker and her daughter befriend a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal. And a trial ensues; with Mara Wilson and Richard Attenborough.
Mo'Nique: I Coulda Been Your Cellmate: The comic turned actress (Precious) holds nothing back in this stand up special set at the Ohio Reformatory for Women. And the title makes perfect sense now.
Mr. Deeds: A greeting card writer inherits a media empire and heads to New York where he draws the attentions of a reporter and the disdain of a rival; with Adam Sandler and Winona Ryder.
Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project: Documentary paints a portrait of caustic comedian Rickles which blends TV appearances, stand up highlights and interviews; with Don Rickles and Chris Rock.
Na Maloon Afraad: A group of unemployed friends about to lose their own home cook up an illegal insurance scheme financed with local mob money. This'll end real well.
Nanny McPhee: A recent widow and his domineering aunt can't control his naughty children. Enter McPhee, magical and understanding, with a plan for fixing everyone in the family; with Emma Thompson and Colin Firth.
Notting Hill: A chance meeting leads to an improbable romance between a reserved bookstore owner and a Hollywood star; with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
Ok Kanmani: A young couple who fell in love at first sight eschews marriage until they meet their neighbors, an older couple.
Pablo Francisco: They Put It Out There: The MadTV alum combines celeb impressions with crazy situations and clever insights in this stand up special.
Pacific Warriors: Documentary covers pro rugby players from Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa as they head to France to play for the world championship; narrated by Brian Cox.
Pee Wee's Big Adventure: Childlike prankster Pee-Wee Herman goes across the country to recover his stolen bike. Remember, there's no basement in the Alamo; with Herman and Elizabeth Daily.
Piku: Taxi driver transporting a young architect and her curmudgeonly father gets involved in dysfunctional family dynamics while driving from Delhi to Kolkota; with Amitabh Bachchan and Irrlan Khan.
Pooh's Heffalump Movie: Pooh, Tigger, and the other residents of the Hundred Acre Woods search for the elusive Heffalump; with voices of Brenda Blethyn and Jim Cummings.
Pride and Prejudice (2005): In 19th century England, Mrs. Bennett is hoping to have her daughters marry prosperous gentlemen, including newcomer Mr. Darcy; with Keira Knightley and Brenda Blethyn.
Pulp Fiction: Several stories blend into each other involving a philosophical hitman, his partner, and a washed up boxer; directed by Quentin Tarantino with Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta.
The Quiet Man: An ex-boxer courts a lovely Irish lass, but he might have to knock some sense into her stubborn brother; with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.
Rock Star: Wannabe singer for a tribute band gets selected to take over as lead singer in the band itself; with Mark Wahlberg and Jennifer Aniston.
Rumble in the Bronx: Cheerful martial artist leaps into action when thugs threaten his uncle's store that he's helping out at; with Jackie Chan.
The Rundown: A bounty hunter looking to retire and open his own restaurant agrees to help his boss find his errant son in the Amazon jungle; with Dwayne Johnson and Seann William Scott.
Saadey CM Saab: Three politics hating friends are shocked when the one who hates it the most ends up getting elected head minister.
Scary Movie 3: A reporter tries to get at the bottom of a tape that causes its viewers to die within a week while two farmers spot crop circles on their land. Is there a connection; with Anna Faris and Charlie Sheen.
Sebastian Maniscalco: What's Wrong With People?: The stand up comic riffs on modern behavior and decorum in this stand up special.
The Shining (1980): For Jack Torrence, all work and no play leaves an aspiring writer on the verge of madness as he oversees a hotel with his family during its off-season; with Jack Nicholson and Shelly Duvall.
Shout Gladi Gladi: Documentary focuses on a former African nurse and her efforts to prevent fistula, which is a condition caused by obstructed labor which leads to various consequences.
Shuruaat Ka Interval: The word interval is the common theme of eight separate short films in this anthology.
Sid the Science Kid: The Movie: It's up to inquisitive Sid and his young scientist friends to save the day when a robot goes berserk in a museum; featuring Christopher Lloyd.
Singh is Kinng: Due to crazy circumstances, a kindhearted bumbler ends up in charge of a mighty underworld gang and attempts to use his new power for good; with Akshay Kumar and Om Puri.
Smokin' Aces 2: Assassin's Ball: Federal agent has 12 hours to make things right before he's pursued by throngs of assassins and mayhem ensues; with Tom Berenger.
Something New: A black accounting executive agrees to go on a blind date with a sexy white architect; with Sanaa Lathan and Simon Baker.
Star Trek: The Voyage Home: To save mankind on planet Earth in the future, Kirk, Spock and the members of the Enterprise go back to present day San Francisco; with William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
Star Trek: The Undiscovered Country: Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock are suspected of murder when a Klingon ship is attacked during peace negotiations; with William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
Star Trek: Generations: Captain Picard and the Enterprise crew investigate a disaster in an outlying settlement; with Patrick Stewart and Jonathan Frakes.
Star Trek: Insurrection: Captain Picard and the Enterprise crew stumble onto a conspiracy in a world where metastatic radiation has halted the aging process of its citizens; with Patrick Stewart and Brent Spiner.
Stephen Fry Live: More Fool Me: The British comic hits the stage to recount his hard partying days in the late 1980s and early 1990s in this stand up special.
Swordfish: Rogue DEA agent enlists an encryption expert just out of prison to help him get $9 billion in a secret account to fight terrorism; with John Travolta and Hugh Jackman.
The Tale of Despereaux: An unusually gifted mouse falls in love with a human princess in this animated story adapted from a kid's book; with Matthew Broderick and Emma Watson.
Taps: Student cadet leads his military classmates into an armed rebellion to prevent authorities from turning their school into condos; with George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton.
Three Kings: Three American soldiers in Iraq stumble across a map that they suspect will take them to a huge cache of stolen Kuwaiti gold nearby; with George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg.
Trophy Kids: This documentary examines parents who push their kids to succeed in sports and lose sight of their humanity in the process.
Uncle John: When a rough customer in a Wisconsin town disappears, some suspect a kindly local farmer might have had something to do with it.
We Need to Talk About Kevin: A mother debates how much impact she had when her 15 year old son lashes out in a horrific violent incident; with Tilda Swinton and Ezra Miller.
We Were Here: The impact of AIDS in the lives of five San Francisco people is the focus of this documentary that demonstrates how the disease affected gay culture.
The Wedding Date: A woman distressed to learn that her ex is going to attend the nuptials of her sister decides to hire a male escort to accompany her to the ceremony; with Debra Messing and Dermot Mulroney.
What's Love Got to Do With It?: Documentary explores the concept of arranged marriages through the true stories of eight unlikely candidates.
The Whole Ten Yards: In this sequel, Jimmy the Tulip tries to go straight with his new wife Jill as his neighbor Oz enjoys wedded bliss with Jimmy's ex Cynthia. That is until Cynthia ends up kidnapped; with Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry.
Youngistaan: The death of the prime minster causes his son to enter politics, much to the chagrin of his boisterous girlfriend.
January 2:
Bou Chau Mai Sing (aka Wild City): Disgraced lawman turned bar owner helps a patron who's carrying a suitcase full of cash, drawing attention of criminals and cops alike.
The Golden Cane Warrior: Martial arts warrior upsets two of her proteges when she selects a third to take her post and the legendary weapon that comes with it. Let me guess, a golden cane?
January 3:
Across the Universe: During the turbulent 1960s, a British lad falls in love with an American girl in this musical featuring Beatles songs; with Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood.
Eden: Surviving soccer team members of a plane crash in a deserted island break into factions and battle to dominate their rivals making paradise much less so.
January 4:
Big Sky: Agoraphobic teen en route to a treatment center with her mom must face her fears when they're attacked in the middle of the desert; with Bella Thorne and Kyra Sedgwick.
Blunt Force Trauma: In underground dueling, a talented young shooter crosses paths with a girl looking for vengeance; with Ryan Kwanten and Freida Pinto.
Training Day: During a ride along, a rookie cop tries to prove himself to a narcotics agent but he soon suspects something's not quite right; with Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke.
January 6:
Je Suis Charlie: Documentary examines the circumstances that led to the 2015 terrorist attack on the French publication known as Charlie Hebdo that killed 12 staffers.
Pumping Iron: Documentary examines competitors for the title of Mr. Olympia, focusing on five time champion Arnold Schwarzenegger and rival Lou Ferrigno.
January 7:
Apostles of Comedy: From Nashville, Christian stand up comics Jeff Allen, Brad Stine, Anthony Griffith, and Ron Pearson unleash their family friendly jokes.
Breathe (2011): Documentary examines the efforts of a Kiwi to break his own record in the extreme sport of free diving
Chic!: Major fashion house faces disaster when their head designer goes into a creative tailspin following a bad breakup leading one of her colleagues to help her recover her mojo before a big runway show.
Crossroad: A father's plans to meet the killer of his family go off track when the restaurant chosen for the discussion gets robbed.
A Family Man: Hard drinking Navy vet and former miner takes to gambling to fund his dream business: an African drive-in movie theater.
Paul Mooney: Piece of My Mind: Stand up comedy legend spares no politician or pop culture icon from his scathing wit in this stand up special.
The Scroll Volume 1/Transformation/Revelation: Series of testimonials highlight these feature length programs that show how faith can carry people through troubling times.
Streets: Musically talent hangs out in a tough crowd and ends up in a murder investigated by her district attorney mother; with Drake punching bag Meek Mill.
January 8:
Adult World: A recent college graduate pursues her dream of becoming a famous poet by stalking her poet idol and by working at a sex shop to pay the bills; with Emma Roberts and John Cusack.
The House That Jack Built: Drug dealer buys Bronx building for his parents and siblings to inhabit, but issues arise when they refuse to conform to his ideas of family.
Tom Segura: Mostly Stories: In this stand up special, the bearded and comically bitter comic riffs on body piercings, Mike Tyson, and the Area 51 of men's bodies.
January 9:
Chronicles of Evil: When a decorated cop accidentally kills a man and covers up the crime, he's led on a cat and mouse game by an unseen witness.
January 10:
Dos Hermanos: A man who feels he's finally free after his controlling mother dies deals with life changing circumstances while in exile at a Uruguayan spa.
Esperando La Carroza: An 80 year old woman named Cora gets asked about which of her four children will inherit her wealth during a family reunion.
El Hombre De Al Lado: A designer's quiet existence is interrupted by a neighbor who decides to make some home improvements without a permit.
The Marziano Family: Down and out loner is too poor to afford treating a mysterious ailment so he seeks the help of his rich, estranged brother.
Rosario Tijeras: Sexy hit woman is caught in a steamy love triangle while working for urban crime lords in the crime infested streets of Medellin, Colombia in 1989.
Un Ojo Roso: A violent man named Oso is freed after seven years in prison for murder and he just wants to start a new life and win back his family.
January 12:
Contracted: Phase 2: Two years after the first movie, Riley attempts to cure Samantha of the sexually transmitted zombie virus before it takes out LA. No pressure.
In the Basement: We learn about the basements of a neighborhood's houses where its residents reveal their true secrets in this fascinating documentary.
The Ladykillers: A genteel Southern professor turned criminal mastermind leads a group of thieves with intentions of robbing a New Orleans riverboat casino, but their plans are threatened by an elderly landlady; with Tom Hanks and Irma P. Hall.
Meet the Patels: A man close to 30 and torn between his American dreams and Indian traditions decides to do a global search for a woman deemed suitable for himself and his family in this documentary.
January 14:
50 Feet from Syria: Documentary short dealing with a surgeon who volunteers two weeks to help the sick and wounded refugees at a Syrian camp.
Chau, Beyond the Lines: Despite birth defects due to the indiscriminate use of Agent Orange, a teenager becomes an artist. Nominated for Best Documentary Short.
Last Day of Freedom: A man's decision to stand by his brother who killed a man places him at the center of racism, war, mental health issues, and criminal justice. Nominated for Best Documentary Short.
Minertia: Three women who serve as night watchpeople in lawless Bolivian mines deals with a culture of brutal violence in this documentary short.
Starting Point: Young woman in prison for murder changes her life when she cares for a sick woman in a rest home outside the prison walls as seen in this documentary short.
The Testimony: Documentary short dealing with a rape trial in the Congo where its soldiers stand accused of crimes against its citizens that they were charged with protecting.
Unleashed! A Dog Dancing Story: Quixotic stage director faces various challenges as he attempts to do a show involving dogs dancing with their owners and kites in this documentary.
World of Tomorrow: From Don Hertzfeldt (It's Such a Beautiful Day), this deals with a little girl who answers a phone and learns many things from her clone 227 years in the future. Up for Best Animated Short.
January 15:
9 Muses of Star Empire: Nine young women dreaming of stardom learn of the work and pain that they have to endure to become a pop music supergroup.
All That Glitters: Two working class friends break into big city high society using magazines for tips, but it takes a toll on their personal lives; with Virginie Ledoyen (The Beach).
Being Ginger: Filmmaker Scott P. Harris proves that gingers have souls in this touching, humorous documentary about his quest to find love and self confidence as a red-headed man.
Chase by Desire: While working on a case in the French coast, a Paris cop learns that his wife is having an affair with his partner and best friend. Ouch; with Jean Dujardin.
Contre-enquete (Counter Investigation): An overworked police captain re-examines the case of a man convicted of killing his daughter after the convict continues to plead his innocence; with Jean Dujardin.
Everly: Call girl is targeted by her ex who's a mob boss and waves of hit men intent on wiping her out and her family. Fortunately, she proves quick witted and sharp with a gun; with Salma Hayek.
Female Agents: During World War 2, a group of French servicewomen and freedom fighters are recruited to rescue a British geologist and kill a German Colonel; with Sophie Marceau.
Go With Le Flo: In Berlin, a French deli owner falls for the daughter of a prominent director, unaware that she's engaged to a movie star. Will there be that happy ending? Signs point to yes.
The Last Five Years: A novelist and actress recall the story of their relationship through music as they skip through the beginning and end, meeting in the middle; with Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan.
The Last Survivors: In a post-apocalyptic drought, several Oregon teens try to fix an old crop duster and fly away before gangs of marauders can capture them; with Michael Welch and Jon Gries.
Lessons from a Kiss: Teen boy falls in love with beautiful girl, seeks advice from three experts. Too bad they all have different ideas on how to approach things.
The Lifeguard: A 29 year old woman has a midlife crisis, quitting her journalism career, moving back home to her parents, and working as a lifeguard; with Kristen Bell and Mamie Gummer.
LOL: Lola dumps her boyfriend due to his infidelity and finds herself falling for his best friend, against her better judgement; with Sophie Marceau.
Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies: The murder of a young woman leads the media to hound and vilify a retired schoolteacher whose crimes are having overbearing manners and looking odd. Perhaps a counterpoint to Nancy Grace.
Loving Annabelle: A Catholic boarding school poetry teacher risks freedom, her reputation, and her job when she has an affair with a female student.
Meet the Small Potatoes: Small Potatoes, which met on a small Idaho farm, become musical stars in this family adventure that stars Malcolm McDowell; is this his low point?
My Father's Guests: The children of an elderly doctor panic and have questions when he marries a young refugee to save her from deportation.
My Friends, My Love: Two single dads move in to help each other in raising their kids, but housekeeping habits and romance makes the situation complex; with Virginie Ledoyen.
The Overnight: An innocent invitation to dinner leads a couple new to LA into some unexpected situations with their hosts; with Adam Scott and Taylor Schilling.
Paris by Night: A Paris police commander patrols his precinct aware that criminals protected by his department run the area, but he unexpectedly walks into a trap.
A Place on Earth: Lonesome photographer finds a source of inspiration in a beautiful pianist, but she's battling her own demons.
Spanish Lake: Documentary examines the residents of a small Missouri town whose turbulent recent past led to white flight due to shifting demographics and a vein of racism.
Till det som ar vackert: A young woman from the slums lies her way to a job in a concert hall because she's inspired by classical music, but it won't be easy to pull off; with Alicia Vikander.
Tony Hinchcliffe: One Shot: The comic breaks new ground as his stand up routine at the Ice Palace in Pasadena, California is shot in one continuous take; paging Dr. Inarritu.
What's in a Name?: A married couple join her brother and his wife along with a friend for dinner and the topic shifts towards pregnancy and an impending birth.
When Animals Dream: A rash by their 16 year old daughter means that a family will have to face town prejudice and reveal their secrets.
Why Not Us?: Documentary film examines successful people who were the first to attend college; with John Legend.
You'll Be a Man: A close friendship develops between a 10 year old boy and a 20 year old man, causing concern in the boy's father.
January 16:
Alpha and Omega 2: A Howl-iday Adventure: Wolf couple is ready to share their holidays with their pups, but panic sets in when one of them vanishes.
Alpha and Omega 3: Great Wolf Games: Humphrey coaches a team of underdogs in the titular competition after an unforeseen accident takes out the scheduled athletes.
Alpha and Omega: Secret of the Sawtooth Cave: Wolf pup sneaks off into a mysterious cave and befriends a wolf shunned from her pack due to her being blind.
Happily Ever After: Two married men struggle to stay faithful while their single friend looks for a long term relationship; with Johnny Depp and Charlotte Gainsborough.
Hyde Park on Hudson: President Franklin Roosevelt must fulfill his duties while tending to the various women of his life; with Bill Murray and Laura Linney.
Serenity: Captain Mal Reynolds and his scrappy but loyal crew must protect themselves and a couple of passengers from the relentless Operative; with Nathan Fillion and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
January 18:
Cartel Land: Documentary examines two vigilante gangs that have popped up in Mexico to combat the increasing dominance of drug cartels there.
January 19:
Ayanda and the Mechanic: A young woman struggles to keep her late father's auto repair shop running while recycling materials to make her own contribution.
Curve: A young bride to be drives her truck off the road while eluding a dangerous hitchhiker and finds herself fighting for her life; with Julianne Hough and Teddy Sears.
The Cut: Armenian genocide survivor loses hope until he learns that his twin daughters may be alive, leading to a desperate search.
Incompresa (Misunderstood): Neglected little girl struggles to find her way when her self-centered parents file for divorce until she makes a bold decision; with Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Out of My Hand: When a Liberian plantation worker's attempts to unionize fails, he decides to start over at New York City driving a cab.
The Veil: Lone survivor of a mass suicide revisits the scene years later with a film crew, which leads to dark memories and unexplained phenomena; with Thomas Jane and Jessica Alba.
Visions: Star studded horror with a pregnant woman investigating the past of a vineyard and getting some disturbing hallucinations; with Isla Fisher and Jim Parsons.
January 20:
Drone: International documentary explores the world of drone warfare focusing on those who are groomed to kill and those grieving in the aftermath.
January 22:
Breathe: The dreams of a pregnant mother turn into a nightmare when doctors dismiss her odd symptoms and her concerns; with Elise Neal and Steven Williams.
Kal No Haa No: A trio of friends learn about themselves and how to celebrate life no matter what it brings.
Ricardo O'Farrill: Abrazo Genial: O'Farrill brings his sharp observational humor to the stage with relentless sarcasm and Mexican sensibility.
Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!: After receiving a heroism award from the President of the United States, Fin and April must do it again...this time in DC and the theme parks in Orlando, Florida (which naturally come from the same parent company that owns Syfy). Product placements galore; with Ian Ziering and Tara Reid and cameos aplenty.
Swim Little Fish Swim: The differences between a practically minded nurse and her struggling musician husband grow greater when they take in a young artist.
January 23:
Loins of Punjab: Mockumentary focuses on several Indian immigrants and a non-Indian as they compete in a ramshackle singing competition in New Jersey.
Ungli: Undercover cop finds himself in an awkward situation after infiltrating a gang that plays popular pranks on corrupt Mumbai officials; with Sanjay Dutt.
January 25:
Maz Jobrani: Brown and Friendly: The Iranian American comic (The Descendants) riffs on stereotypes and other contemporary issues in his stand up special featuring The Iron Sheik.
Turbo Kid (2015): In a post-apocalyptic world, a teen orphan struggles to survive until turning into a superhero to save his threatened female friend.
January 28:
Inshallah, Kashmir: Documentary examines the 20 year long civil conflict between insurgents, Hindu natives, and the Indian government.
January 30:
Assassination: In Japanese occupied Korea, a resistance group breaks out an assassin to do a sniping job, unaware that there's a traitor among them.
TV:
January 1:
Angry Bird Toons Season 1: In this animated comedy series based on the video game, Red, Chuck, Bomb, and Matilda team up to take on the accident prone pig army.
Born to Explore Season 1: Explorer Richard Wiese takes viewers on a trip around the world to explore fascinating people, places, and nature in this series.
The Celebrity Plastic Surgeons of Beverly Hills Season 1: These surgeons will their work cut out keeping their A-list clients looking their best in Hollywood, the land of good looks.
Comics Without Borders Season 1: Host Russell Peters introduces us to various comics from around the world who showcase their routines for American audiences.
Detective Conan: When a poison shrinks a detective down to the size of a child, he solves crimes under a different name while looking for the ones responsible.
Durarara!!X2 Season 10: As new characters enter the fray, Mikado must purge Ikeburo of the Dollars, face the Yellow Scarves and dive into chaos as the series reaches its conclusion.
Forensic Files Collection Two: More episodes of the true crime documentary series about how crimes are solved using the latest forensic procedures. I'll say as a warning that it can get addicting.
Fresh Meat Series 1: College students move into an off campus home and deal with booze, drugs, and sex in this British comedy drama series.
Friday Night Tykes Seasons 1-2: You think Texas high school football is rough? It's nothing compared to the demands and pressures of Texas youth football, as shown in this docuseries.
Gangster: Faces of the Underworld Seasons 1-2: True crime author Bernard O'Mahoney interviews British and Irish gangsters in this series where many have never appeared in front of cameras before.
Gunslinger Girl Season 1: An orphaned girl abandoned by the system hides behind emotional walls and becomes a killer.
Gunslinger Girl: Il Teatrino Season 1: Despite concerns about losing their humanity, Henrietta and her friends learn that the training must go on.
Jack Hanna's Into the Wild Season 1: Hanna, a zoo director and wildlife director, takes a global tour of shores, deserts, and forests in search of amazing animal stories.
Lucid Dream Season 1: Two people haunted by a dream of paramours who lived a thousand years before find an online video game based on that dream.
Monster Allergy Seasons 1-2: Allergy prone boy has the ability to see invisible monsters living among us, which allows him to tame misbehaving monsters. Bless you.
Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin Season 1: Corwin travels around the world exploring the aquatic environments and their inhabitants from sharks to crocodiles.
Rock the Park Season 1: Two hosts explore the adventurous side of national parks in California, Florida, Hawaii, and other locales.
Run Season 1: A single mother, a Polish woman, an illegal Chinese immigrant, and a middle aged drug addict see their lives intersect and face challenges in this series.
So Awkward Season 1: Three young Brits lacking social graces attempt to survive the challenges of school and life in this series.
Sonic Underground: Sonic the Hedgehog's rock band has been prophesied to overthrow Dr. Robotnik and restore the rightful ruler to the throne; with voice of Jaleel White.
Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle Season 3: Stand up comic Stewart Lee has his material accentuated by sketches, short films, and cameos from other comics and TV personalities in this series.
Under Arrest Season 1: Real life cops are captured by cameras performing their daily duties of cracking cases and chasing down criminals in this series that's not to be confused with COPS.
January 2:
30 for 30: Four Falls of Buffalo: Sports documentary examines the glory days of the Buffalo Bills who went to four consecutive Super Bowls in the 1990s.
I'll Have What Phil's Having Season 1: Phil Rosenthal, creator of Everybody Loves Raymond (but do they), travels around the world in search of the perfect culinary dishes.
January 3:
Sofia the First Season 2: The princess deals with being stuck in an enchanted painting and entering a Flying Derby race during season 2.
January 5:
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 10: In this tenth season, Frank retires, a rumored cannibal enters the bar, and the group has a drinking contest on a cross country flight; with Charlie Day and Danny DeVito.
The New Girl Season 4: The group makes last ditch attempts at romance before the end of the wedding season and Jess gets a visit from her father and his young fiancee; with Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson.
Rurouni Kenshin Season 1: Nomadic swordsman ends up involved in an opium trade conflict when he arrives at a martial arts school.
January 6:
Strange Voices: The parents of a college age girl desperately search for answers when erratic behavior on her part leads to a diagnosis of schizophrenia; with Valerie Harper and Nancy McKeon.
January 8:
Dragons: Race to the Edge Season 2: Hiccup, Toothless and their crew square off against the evil Ryker and his Dragon Hunter army in this second season of the animated series.
Nurse Jackie Seasons 6-7: The final two seasons of the nurse from New York who copes with the day to day traumas of working in a crowded ER one pill at a time; with Edie Falco.
January 10:
The Spoils Before Dying Season 1: Fictional director presents installments of a film noir which has a detective examining the case of a 1950s jazz musician framed for murder; with Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig.
January 11:
Littlest Pet Shop Season 4: Blythe and her toy pets have fun adventures together as they deal with various situations in this fourth season.
January 13:
Parks and Recreation Season 7: Say goodbye to the people of Pawnee, Indiana as various members of the Parks staff deal with last season's finale which leapt forward in time; with Amy Poehler and Adam Scott.
January 15:
Born to Explore Season 1: Host Richard Wiese travels across the globe for a good story in this travel series.
Degrassi: Next Class: Real world high school drama is explored by teens old and new in this reboot of the Degrassi series.
Occupied Season 1: Russia's attempt to quietly invade Norway in the near future to restart oil production leads to uncertainty, chaos, and danger.
Sirens Season 2: Raunchy comedy series about the absurd situations that three EMTs in Chicago find themselves in at work and at home; with Bill Nunn.
Sparticle Mystery Season 2: When adults disappear off the face of the Earth, there's celebrations everywhere, but one group is concerned about civilization breaking down; so basically like the Jimmy Neutron movie.
Total Drama Season 6: 16 new castaways deal with building their campsites and competing in challenges in this animated spoof of reality series like Survivor.
January 17:
Z Nation Season 2: In the second season, the team of survivors split up to survive a nuclear blast and hunt the person responsible for launching it; with Kellita Smith and DJ Qualls.
January 18:
Beating Again: Ruthless young investment director dedicates himself to revenge against a greedy uncle who ruined his family until a heart transplant changes things.
Can We Get Married: For four young couples, marriage is only the beginning as the first year brings doubts, families, and old relationships into play.
Rock This Boat: New Kids on the Block: Several lifelong fans of the New Kids on the Block spend a week long cruise with their favorite band having fun and enjoying music.
Secret Affair: A gifted young pianist has an affair with a middle aged married woman who appreciates him romantically and artistically.
This Is My Love: Renowned actor still hurting over the loss of his first real love writes an autobiography about his memories of her, hoping for a reconciliation.
January 21:
When Calls the Heart Season 2: Basically, the rich young woman turned schoolteacher has decided to stay in Coal Valley, but new loves and challenges threaten her relationship with mountie Jack; with Lori Loughlin and Jack Wagner.
January 23:
Chelsea Does: In Season One of the docu-comic series, Chelsea Handler examines such topics as marriage, racism, drugs, and electronics with each show focusing on a topic.
Yudh Season 1: A businessman must fend off revolutionaries and betrayal in his company while dealing with a terminal illness; with Amitabh Bachchan.
January 25:
From Dusk to Dawn Season 2: A seductive vampire threatens the scheme of the Gecko Brothers to commit another heist in the same town; with DJ Cotrona.
January 27:
Ripper Street Series 3: The inspectors who have been searching to capture the Jack the Ripper serial killer deal with a train crash and a conspiracy in the third season of the series; with Matthew MacFadyen.
January 28:
Frozen Planet Season 1: David Attenborough takes us on the journey to the Arctic and Antarctic, examining the wildernesses and the inhabitants there including polar bears, penguins and the albatross.
Frozen Planet: On Thin Ice: In this episode, David Attenborough examines the polar regions and investigates how rising temperatures will affect the people and wildlife that live there.
Frozen Planet: The Epic Journey: Highlights from the Frozen Planet series looks at a year in the polar environments and the people and animals that live there.
The Making of Frozen Planet: This making of documentary explores the challenges and rewards faced by the crew of filmmakers that created Frozen Planet.
Zapped: A girl finds that a dog training app that gets boys to obey her every command has unintended drawbacks; with Zendaya.
January 30:
Ever After High: Dragon Games: In season 4 of the youth skewing animated series, Raven and her friends must team up to stop the Evil Queen's nefarious plans for their school, which ends up pitting mother against daughter.
Let's take a look at the highlights. It's always welcome to see an Oscar winner or two in the mix so a welcome back to Amadeus (Jan. 1) is in order as well as a welcome to Training Day (Jan. 4) which won best actor for Denzel Washington. In less celebrated but still welcome returns, you can enjoy a case of cabin fever gone all so wrong with Jack Nicholson in The Shining (Jan. 1), the romance between Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr in An Affair to Remember (presumably Jan. 1), John Wayne finding Irish romance with Maureen O'Hara in The Quiet Man (Jan. 1), Jimmy Stewart investigating the conviction of an innocent man in Call Northside 777 (probably Jan. 1), and young Sean Penn and Tom Cruise leading a battle to save their military school from shutting down in Taps (likely Jan. 1). And I almost forgot Love is a Many-Splendored Thing (probably Jan. 1). That's not that bad, although it pales compared to the losses on New Year's Eve/Day.
In more modern fare, the welcome return of Pee-Wee's Big Adventure (Jan. 1) kicks things off, presumably due to an upcoming Pee-Wee movie for Netflix. We trade out one Hugh Grant romance (Love Actually) for another in Notting Hill (Jan. 1). Kids might enjoy the life lessons of Nanny McPhee and the brave literary mouse Tales of Despereaux (both Jan. 1) while action fans will probably get a kick out of Rumble in the Bronx with Jackie Chan and The Rundown with The Rock (both Jan. 1). Comedy fans will probably appreciate Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers (both Jan. 1) as well as two comedies from the Coen brothers: Intolerable Cruelty (Jan. 1) and The Ladykillers with Tom Hanks (Jan. 12). Sci-fi fans might enjoy The Faculty (Jan. 1) as well as the return of four Star Trek films (all Jan. 1). Drama fans can revel in the searing We Need to Talk About Kevin (Jan. 1) with Tilda Swinton and Bill Murray as FDR in Hyde Park on Hudson (Jan. 16). Musical fans might get their mix from Across the Universe (Jan. 3). And if you want shut down your brain fun, Flashdance (Jan. 1), Sharknado 3 (Jan. 22), or even 2 Fast 2 Furious (Jan. 1) might fill the bill. And for some reason, I hadn't gotten to get into David O. Russell's Three Kings (Jan. 1), but it's coming as well.
For those seeking newer fare, we got some mixed news. There's no films that everyone and their mother have heard about this month like Home which came out in November or Minions or Hotel Transylvania 2. But there are familiar names and titles this month. Such as Anna Kendrick in the romantic musical drama The Last Five Years (Jan. 15). Or Adam Scott in The Overnight (Jan. 14), a drama about what happens when two couples consider swapping partners overnight. Although I don't know much about the next three titles, I've heard good things about documentaries The Testimony (Jan. 14), Cartel Land (Jan. 18), and Drone (Jan. 20). Moonwalkers (Jan. 15) has me intrigued by its premise that the moon landing was faked by filmmakers; I don't believe it personally, but it sounds interesting nonetheless. And finally, did we have a movie escape Epix's deal? I ask this because I have a Words and Pictures (Jan. 31) sighting.
In TV, comedy series take the spotlight in the first month of the new year. We get welcome new seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and New Girl (both Jan. 5) as well as the last season of Parks and Rec (Jan. 13). Kids could go for Dragons: Race to the Edge (Jan. 8) as well as the revived Littlest Pet Shop (Jan. 11). Sports fans will probably enjoy Four Falls of Buffalo (Jan. 2) dealing with the Bills team in their glory days. Fans of Everyone Loves Raymond might like I'll Have What Phil's Having (Jan. 2), a food series featuring the creator of that sitcom smash. Adults might enjoy new seasons of the paramedic comedy Sirens (Jan. 15), the zombie dramedy Z Nation (Jan. 17), the small town romantic entanglements of When Calls the Heart (Jan. 21), or the vampire versus humans drama of From Dusk Til Dawn (probably Jan. 25). And then there's the ice filled documentary Frozen Planet (likely Jan. 28) from Sir Richard Attenborough and company. Finally, I'm technically obligated to mention Netflix original titles Degrassi: The New Class (Jan. 15) and Chelsea Does (Jan. 23), although I've heard better things about the former than the latter.
As for shame of the month, I liked Catwoman (Jan. 1) more than some even with its flaws. Neither Adam Sandler comedy up this month, Mr. Deeds and 8 Crazy Nights (both Jan. 1), appear to be all too promising or funny. Rock Star (Jan. 1) is equal measures hokey and schmaltzy. But I'll go with A Matter of Faith (Jan. 4), a film where a Christian father debates evolution with a biology teacher (Harry Anderson). Magic may be involved, but it would probably require a bit much to suspend the disbelief necessary for it to work.
Happy streaming and may we get some unexpectedly good presents in January!
Movies:
January 1:
2 Fast 2 Furious: Former cop and his ex-con buddy team up to transport dirty money to a shady importer/exporter. But they're working with an undercover agent who's helping them to bring the bad guys down; with Paul Walker and Tyrese Gibson.
8 Crazy Nights: His hard partying ways have Davey sentenced to hard time as a ref's assistant in a teen basketball league. Since the title refers to Hannukah, one can imagine that we'll be hearing that one song by the end; with Adam Sandler and Jackie Sandler.
An Affair to Remember: Two people meet in an ocean liner and fall deeply in love. Only problem is that both of them are engaged to other people; with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.
Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer: This documentary goes inside the tumultuous life of Aileen Wuornos, a woman convicted of killing six truck drivers who she insisted raped her. Her story became the basis for the movie Monster with Charlize Theron.
Aileen Wuornos: Selling of a Serial Killer: Documentary focuses on the media attention created by the trial of Wuornos for multiple cases of murder.
Along Came Polly: An uptight insurance adjuster who gets dumped on his honeymoon reconnects with a childhood friend who helps him live on the edge. It's like Dharma and Greg, only with a ferret; with Ben Stiller and Jennifer Aniston.
Alonzo Bodden: Who's Paying Attention?: Bodden riffs on modern day pirates, swine flu, and the merging of rap music and real estate in this stand up special.
Amadeus: Composer rival, jealous of the success and the ease of which Wolfgang Mozart can compose fine works, cooks up a scheme of revenge; with F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce.
American Girl: Grace Stirs Up Success: Grace is a talented baker who gets a chance to go on a trip to Paris to work in a French pastry shop with relatives.
Andaz Apna Apna: Two broke young men with no plans for the future decide to charm a stunning heiress in order to win her hand in marriage; with Aamir and Salman Khan.
Bajatey Raho: A clever con man is oblivious to a plot by four of his victims who are driven to the dark side to get revenge on him.
Ben Bailey: Road Rage & Accidental Ornithology: The host of Cash Cab takes to the stage to take on owls and New York City traffic issues.
Bewitched: Isabel is cast as Samantha in a big screen adaption of Bewitched, but she's hiding a secret...she's a witch; with Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell.
Big Significant Things: A young man on the verge of commitment goes on a road trip where he learns that he has much to learn about life.
Biggie & Tupac: Documentary that examines the murders of the two rival rappers, unearthing some surprises in the process.
Bill Bellamy: Crazy Sexy Dirty: The comic riffs on killer whales and their trainers, Jay-Z and Beyonce, and making it rain in strip clubs in this stand up set.
Blood Cells: Ten years after a personal crisis, a man returns home to contemporary Britain and comes across old friends, exes, and cruel realities.
Bring It On: Fight to the Finish: When her mom gets remarried and moves the family to Malibu, Lina vows to whip her school's cheerleading squad into shape; with Christina Milian.
Bring It On: In It to Win It: Carson vows to lead her cheerleading squad to victory. In addition, both Carson and her rival are battling for the affections of a boy.
California State of Mind: The Legacy of Pat Brown: With the help of his granddaughter, the life and legacy of former California Governor Pat Brown is explored in this documentary.
Call Northside 777: Dogged journalist is persuaded by the mother of a prisoner convicted of killing a cop a decade before; with Jimmy Stewart.
Catwoman: When a worker discovers a conspiracy involving skin care products, she's left for dead until being revived by cats and becomes a vigilante with cat powers; with Halle Berry and Sharon Stone.
Chittagong: In the turbulent 1930s, an Indian teen joins a ragtag army of schoolboys determined to overthrow their English conquerors.
Consinsual: A typical married couple hits choppy waters when the wife wants to try something daring and the husband ends up getting charged with rape.
Constantine (2005): Private detective with a taste for the supernatural investigates an apparent suicide; with Keanu Reeves and Rachel Weisz.
Counting: Documentary examines some of the greatest, most diverse cities of the world and shows that the magic of urban life has some similarities globally.
Darr @ the Mall: Six people get trapped overnight at a mall and only a security guard can keep them from getting slayed by a supernatural force. Worse than having your card declined.
Debra DiGiovanni: Single Awkward Female: Brutal honesty marks the stand up routine by the award winning radio host and TV star (Last Comic Standing Season 5).
The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel: The life of Erwin Rommel from his military high points to his plot to overthrow Hitler onto his final days; with James Mason and Jessica Tandy.
Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!: In Calcutta during World War 2, a rookie detective finds himself in opposition to a malevolent genius with world domination in mind.
Don Friesen: Ask Your Mom: The self-depreciating comic hosts a stand up performance in front of a packed crowd.
Dreamcatcher (2015): Former prostitute helps women get off the Chicago streets and change their lives in this inspiring documentary.
Dum Laga Ke Haisha: Unambitious high school dropout is forced to marry an educated, plus-sized woman. The two, who have nothing in common, find themselves involved in an unusual contest.
The Faculty: High school students notice an alien infection and attempt to stop faculty members from taking over the school and the student body; with Elijah Wood and Jordana Brewster.
Fandry: A spunky lower caste lad falls for a lovely upper caste girl, but their social divide could prove to be a stumbling block on the way to true love.
Filmistaan: Islamic militants targeting an American documentary crew kidnap an Indian actor by mistake, but he bonds with the village's young film buffs.
Flashdance: She works as a welder by day and stripper by night, but all Alex wants is to become a professional dancer. Oh, and some love from her welding boss can't hurt; with Jennifer Beals and Michael Nouri.
Four Rooms: An exasperated bellboy is the linking element in four stories that take place in separate rooms of a hotel; with Tim Roth and Bruce Willis.
Galaxy Quest: Aliens recruit washed up stars of a sci-fi hit series to help them on an intergalactic rescue mission. By Grabthar's hammer; with Tim Allen and Alan Rickman.
The Good Road: A rural Indian highway is the setting for three stories involving various travelers there.
Greater Elephant: While searching for his lost elephant, a mahout meets others also looking for missing things.
Greatest Show on Earth: Oscar winner for Best Picture, this film explores a rivalry between acrobats, a clown with a secret, and a circus owner trying to keep his business afloat; with Charlton Heston and James Stewart.
Heropanti: Goons kidnap a guy who helps his friend escape with a powerful man's daughter, but while in captivity, he falls for her sister. Something tells me daddy won't be happy.
Hostage: A former hostage negotiator has his peaceful tranquility shattered when his neighbors are taken hostage by wayward thieves; with Bruce Willis and Kevin Pollak.
House of Wax (2005): A group of friends heading to a football game find themselves endangered by two bloodthirsty men who own a wax museum with lifelike sculptures; with Elisha Cuthbert and Chad Michael Murray.
How to Change the World: Documentary focuses on the creation of Greenpeace as an anti-nuclear testing group and how it got involved with global warming.
Ice Age 2: The Meltdown: Speaking of global warming, the deep freeze is over and the melting ice threatens the habitat of Diego, Manny, and Sid; with voices of Ray Romano and Denis Leary.
Inshallah Football: This documentary reveals the story of a young skilled soccer player from Kashmir whose quest to attend an elite academy is threatened by his father's past.
Intolerable Cruelty: It's a battle of the sexes when a respected attorney squares off with his client's gold digging ex-wife; with George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Jack the Bear: Host of a late night talk show deals with alcoholism and depression when his wife dies which leads to the oldest son having to pick up the pieces; with Danny DeVito and Miko Hughes.
Journey to Le Mans: Documentary examines the engineering and endurance efforts that are expended by a British private team to compete in Le Mans, a 24 hour car race; with Patrick Stewart.
Journey to the Center of the Earth (1959): An expedition team makes a perilous journey to the center of the Earth; with Pat Boone and James Mason.
Kangaroo Jack: The efforts of two boyhood pals to deliver mob money in Australia is thwarted by a talking kangaroo. Crikey; with Jerry O'Connell and Anthony Anderson.
Katiyabaaz: Battle of wills ensue between the CEO of a power company and a modern day Robin Hood who funnels electricity to the poor in this documentary.
Katt Williams Presents: Katthouse Comedy: Stand up star Katt Williams turns the stage over to talented newcomers who join him on his tour, a group known as the Katt Pack; with Lunell (Borat).
Katt Williams: Nine Lives: This documentary shows the rise to fame of Katt Williams from young stand up comic to BET staple and headliner.
The Kite: Six person's divergent paths intersect during a kite festival in Ahmedabad, India.
Kshay: A housewife's sudden obsession with acquiring a statue threatens to destory her happy life and marriage.
Lego: Adventures of Clutch Powers: Master builder and adventurer and his plastic pals must pit their brick building skills against an evil wizard; with Ryan McPartlin and Yvonne Strahovski.
Love is a Many-Splendored Thing: Widowed Eurasian doctor falls for a married American journalist, but laws preventing sex between different races forces them to keep their romance hidden; with William Holden and Jennifer Jones.
Main Aur Charles: The story of a serial killer told through the eyes of the Indian police official who handled the case.
Meet the Firm: Revenge in Rio: Two soccer hooligans follow drug dealers to Brazil during the World Cup to avenge their friend's death at the hand of Russians.
Meet the Fockers: A newly engaged Greg and Pam join her straightlaced family in a RV on a trip to Miami to meet his parents. Culture clash ensues; with Ben Stiller and Robert DeNiro.
Meet the Parents: Talk about your third degree. Greg knows how that feels when he attempts to win over his fiance's father, a former CIA agent, before he can pop the question to her; with Ben Stiller and Robert DeNiro.
Miracle on 34th Street (1994): Dorey Walker and her daughter befriend a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal. And a trial ensues; with Mara Wilson and Richard Attenborough.
Mo'Nique: I Coulda Been Your Cellmate: The comic turned actress (Precious) holds nothing back in this stand up special set at the Ohio Reformatory for Women. And the title makes perfect sense now.
Mr. Deeds: A greeting card writer inherits a media empire and heads to New York where he draws the attentions of a reporter and the disdain of a rival; with Adam Sandler and Winona Ryder.
Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project: Documentary paints a portrait of caustic comedian Rickles which blends TV appearances, stand up highlights and interviews; with Don Rickles and Chris Rock.
Na Maloon Afraad: A group of unemployed friends about to lose their own home cook up an illegal insurance scheme financed with local mob money. This'll end real well.
Nanny McPhee: A recent widow and his domineering aunt can't control his naughty children. Enter McPhee, magical and understanding, with a plan for fixing everyone in the family; with Emma Thompson and Colin Firth.
Notting Hill: A chance meeting leads to an improbable romance between a reserved bookstore owner and a Hollywood star; with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
Ok Kanmani: A young couple who fell in love at first sight eschews marriage until they meet their neighbors, an older couple.
Pablo Francisco: They Put It Out There: The MadTV alum combines celeb impressions with crazy situations and clever insights in this stand up special.
Pacific Warriors: Documentary covers pro rugby players from Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa as they head to France to play for the world championship; narrated by Brian Cox.
Pee Wee's Big Adventure: Childlike prankster Pee-Wee Herman goes across the country to recover his stolen bike. Remember, there's no basement in the Alamo; with Herman and Elizabeth Daily.
Piku: Taxi driver transporting a young architect and her curmudgeonly father gets involved in dysfunctional family dynamics while driving from Delhi to Kolkota; with Amitabh Bachchan and Irrlan Khan.
Pooh's Heffalump Movie: Pooh, Tigger, and the other residents of the Hundred Acre Woods search for the elusive Heffalump; with voices of Brenda Blethyn and Jim Cummings.
Pride and Prejudice (2005): In 19th century England, Mrs. Bennett is hoping to have her daughters marry prosperous gentlemen, including newcomer Mr. Darcy; with Keira Knightley and Brenda Blethyn.
Pulp Fiction: Several stories blend into each other involving a philosophical hitman, his partner, and a washed up boxer; directed by Quentin Tarantino with Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta.
The Quiet Man: An ex-boxer courts a lovely Irish lass, but he might have to knock some sense into her stubborn brother; with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.
Rock Star: Wannabe singer for a tribute band gets selected to take over as lead singer in the band itself; with Mark Wahlberg and Jennifer Aniston.
Rumble in the Bronx: Cheerful martial artist leaps into action when thugs threaten his uncle's store that he's helping out at; with Jackie Chan.
The Rundown: A bounty hunter looking to retire and open his own restaurant agrees to help his boss find his errant son in the Amazon jungle; with Dwayne Johnson and Seann William Scott.
Saadey CM Saab: Three politics hating friends are shocked when the one who hates it the most ends up getting elected head minister.
Scary Movie 3: A reporter tries to get at the bottom of a tape that causes its viewers to die within a week while two farmers spot crop circles on their land. Is there a connection; with Anna Faris and Charlie Sheen.
Sebastian Maniscalco: What's Wrong With People?: The stand up comic riffs on modern behavior and decorum in this stand up special.
The Shining (1980): For Jack Torrence, all work and no play leaves an aspiring writer on the verge of madness as he oversees a hotel with his family during its off-season; with Jack Nicholson and Shelly Duvall.
Shout Gladi Gladi: Documentary focuses on a former African nurse and her efforts to prevent fistula, which is a condition caused by obstructed labor which leads to various consequences.
Shuruaat Ka Interval: The word interval is the common theme of eight separate short films in this anthology.
Sid the Science Kid: The Movie: It's up to inquisitive Sid and his young scientist friends to save the day when a robot goes berserk in a museum; featuring Christopher Lloyd.
Singh is Kinng: Due to crazy circumstances, a kindhearted bumbler ends up in charge of a mighty underworld gang and attempts to use his new power for good; with Akshay Kumar and Om Puri.
Smokin' Aces 2: Assassin's Ball: Federal agent has 12 hours to make things right before he's pursued by throngs of assassins and mayhem ensues; with Tom Berenger.
Something New: A black accounting executive agrees to go on a blind date with a sexy white architect; with Sanaa Lathan and Simon Baker.
Star Trek: The Voyage Home: To save mankind on planet Earth in the future, Kirk, Spock and the members of the Enterprise go back to present day San Francisco; with William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
Star Trek: The Undiscovered Country: Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock are suspected of murder when a Klingon ship is attacked during peace negotiations; with William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
Star Trek: Generations: Captain Picard and the Enterprise crew investigate a disaster in an outlying settlement; with Patrick Stewart and Jonathan Frakes.
Star Trek: Insurrection: Captain Picard and the Enterprise crew stumble onto a conspiracy in a world where metastatic radiation has halted the aging process of its citizens; with Patrick Stewart and Brent Spiner.
Stephen Fry Live: More Fool Me: The British comic hits the stage to recount his hard partying days in the late 1980s and early 1990s in this stand up special.
Swordfish: Rogue DEA agent enlists an encryption expert just out of prison to help him get $9 billion in a secret account to fight terrorism; with John Travolta and Hugh Jackman.
The Tale of Despereaux: An unusually gifted mouse falls in love with a human princess in this animated story adapted from a kid's book; with Matthew Broderick and Emma Watson.
Taps: Student cadet leads his military classmates into an armed rebellion to prevent authorities from turning their school into condos; with George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton.
Three Kings: Three American soldiers in Iraq stumble across a map that they suspect will take them to a huge cache of stolen Kuwaiti gold nearby; with George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg.
Trophy Kids: This documentary examines parents who push their kids to succeed in sports and lose sight of their humanity in the process.
Uncle John: When a rough customer in a Wisconsin town disappears, some suspect a kindly local farmer might have had something to do with it.
We Need to Talk About Kevin: A mother debates how much impact she had when her 15 year old son lashes out in a horrific violent incident; with Tilda Swinton and Ezra Miller.
We Were Here: The impact of AIDS in the lives of five San Francisco people is the focus of this documentary that demonstrates how the disease affected gay culture.
The Wedding Date: A woman distressed to learn that her ex is going to attend the nuptials of her sister decides to hire a male escort to accompany her to the ceremony; with Debra Messing and Dermot Mulroney.
What's Love Got to Do With It?: Documentary explores the concept of arranged marriages through the true stories of eight unlikely candidates.
The Whole Ten Yards: In this sequel, Jimmy the Tulip tries to go straight with his new wife Jill as his neighbor Oz enjoys wedded bliss with Jimmy's ex Cynthia. That is until Cynthia ends up kidnapped; with Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry.
Youngistaan: The death of the prime minster causes his son to enter politics, much to the chagrin of his boisterous girlfriend.
January 2:
Bou Chau Mai Sing (aka Wild City): Disgraced lawman turned bar owner helps a patron who's carrying a suitcase full of cash, drawing attention of criminals and cops alike.
The Golden Cane Warrior: Martial arts warrior upsets two of her proteges when she selects a third to take her post and the legendary weapon that comes with it. Let me guess, a golden cane?
January 3:
Across the Universe: During the turbulent 1960s, a British lad falls in love with an American girl in this musical featuring Beatles songs; with Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood.
Eden: Surviving soccer team members of a plane crash in a deserted island break into factions and battle to dominate their rivals making paradise much less so.
January 4:
Big Sky: Agoraphobic teen en route to a treatment center with her mom must face her fears when they're attacked in the middle of the desert; with Bella Thorne and Kyra Sedgwick.
Blunt Force Trauma: In underground dueling, a talented young shooter crosses paths with a girl looking for vengeance; with Ryan Kwanten and Freida Pinto.
Training Day: During a ride along, a rookie cop tries to prove himself to a narcotics agent but he soon suspects something's not quite right; with Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke.
January 6:
Je Suis Charlie: Documentary examines the circumstances that led to the 2015 terrorist attack on the French publication known as Charlie Hebdo that killed 12 staffers.
Pumping Iron: Documentary examines competitors for the title of Mr. Olympia, focusing on five time champion Arnold Schwarzenegger and rival Lou Ferrigno.
January 7:
Apostles of Comedy: From Nashville, Christian stand up comics Jeff Allen, Brad Stine, Anthony Griffith, and Ron Pearson unleash their family friendly jokes.
Breathe (2011): Documentary examines the efforts of a Kiwi to break his own record in the extreme sport of free diving
Chic!: Major fashion house faces disaster when their head designer goes into a creative tailspin following a bad breakup leading one of her colleagues to help her recover her mojo before a big runway show.
Crossroad: A father's plans to meet the killer of his family go off track when the restaurant chosen for the discussion gets robbed.
A Family Man: Hard drinking Navy vet and former miner takes to gambling to fund his dream business: an African drive-in movie theater.
Paul Mooney: Piece of My Mind: Stand up comedy legend spares no politician or pop culture icon from his scathing wit in this stand up special.
The Scroll Volume 1/Transformation/Revelation: Series of testimonials highlight these feature length programs that show how faith can carry people through troubling times.
Streets: Musically talent hangs out in a tough crowd and ends up in a murder investigated by her district attorney mother; with Drake punching bag Meek Mill.
January 8:
Adult World: A recent college graduate pursues her dream of becoming a famous poet by stalking her poet idol and by working at a sex shop to pay the bills; with Emma Roberts and John Cusack.
The House That Jack Built: Drug dealer buys Bronx building for his parents and siblings to inhabit, but issues arise when they refuse to conform to his ideas of family.
Tom Segura: Mostly Stories: In this stand up special, the bearded and comically bitter comic riffs on body piercings, Mike Tyson, and the Area 51 of men's bodies.
January 9:
Chronicles of Evil: When a decorated cop accidentally kills a man and covers up the crime, he's led on a cat and mouse game by an unseen witness.
January 10:
Dos Hermanos: A man who feels he's finally free after his controlling mother dies deals with life changing circumstances while in exile at a Uruguayan spa.
Esperando La Carroza: An 80 year old woman named Cora gets asked about which of her four children will inherit her wealth during a family reunion.
El Hombre De Al Lado: A designer's quiet existence is interrupted by a neighbor who decides to make some home improvements without a permit.
The Marziano Family: Down and out loner is too poor to afford treating a mysterious ailment so he seeks the help of his rich, estranged brother.
Rosario Tijeras: Sexy hit woman is caught in a steamy love triangle while working for urban crime lords in the crime infested streets of Medellin, Colombia in 1989.
Un Ojo Roso: A violent man named Oso is freed after seven years in prison for murder and he just wants to start a new life and win back his family.
January 12:
Contracted: Phase 2: Two years after the first movie, Riley attempts to cure Samantha of the sexually transmitted zombie virus before it takes out LA. No pressure.
In the Basement: We learn about the basements of a neighborhood's houses where its residents reveal their true secrets in this fascinating documentary.
The Ladykillers: A genteel Southern professor turned criminal mastermind leads a group of thieves with intentions of robbing a New Orleans riverboat casino, but their plans are threatened by an elderly landlady; with Tom Hanks and Irma P. Hall.
Meet the Patels: A man close to 30 and torn between his American dreams and Indian traditions decides to do a global search for a woman deemed suitable for himself and his family in this documentary.
January 14:
50 Feet from Syria: Documentary short dealing with a surgeon who volunteers two weeks to help the sick and wounded refugees at a Syrian camp.
Chau, Beyond the Lines: Despite birth defects due to the indiscriminate use of Agent Orange, a teenager becomes an artist. Nominated for Best Documentary Short.
Last Day of Freedom: A man's decision to stand by his brother who killed a man places him at the center of racism, war, mental health issues, and criminal justice. Nominated for Best Documentary Short.
Minertia: Three women who serve as night watchpeople in lawless Bolivian mines deals with a culture of brutal violence in this documentary short.
Starting Point: Young woman in prison for murder changes her life when she cares for a sick woman in a rest home outside the prison walls as seen in this documentary short.
The Testimony: Documentary short dealing with a rape trial in the Congo where its soldiers stand accused of crimes against its citizens that they were charged with protecting.
Unleashed! A Dog Dancing Story: Quixotic stage director faces various challenges as he attempts to do a show involving dogs dancing with their owners and kites in this documentary.
World of Tomorrow: From Don Hertzfeldt (It's Such a Beautiful Day), this deals with a little girl who answers a phone and learns many things from her clone 227 years in the future. Up for Best Animated Short.
January 15:
9 Muses of Star Empire: Nine young women dreaming of stardom learn of the work and pain that they have to endure to become a pop music supergroup.
All That Glitters: Two working class friends break into big city high society using magazines for tips, but it takes a toll on their personal lives; with Virginie Ledoyen (The Beach).
Being Ginger: Filmmaker Scott P. Harris proves that gingers have souls in this touching, humorous documentary about his quest to find love and self confidence as a red-headed man.
Chase by Desire: While working on a case in the French coast, a Paris cop learns that his wife is having an affair with his partner and best friend. Ouch; with Jean Dujardin.
Contre-enquete (Counter Investigation): An overworked police captain re-examines the case of a man convicted of killing his daughter after the convict continues to plead his innocence; with Jean Dujardin.
Everly: Call girl is targeted by her ex who's a mob boss and waves of hit men intent on wiping her out and her family. Fortunately, she proves quick witted and sharp with a gun; with Salma Hayek.
Female Agents: During World War 2, a group of French servicewomen and freedom fighters are recruited to rescue a British geologist and kill a German Colonel; with Sophie Marceau.
Go With Le Flo: In Berlin, a French deli owner falls for the daughter of a prominent director, unaware that she's engaged to a movie star. Will there be that happy ending? Signs point to yes.
The Last Five Years: A novelist and actress recall the story of their relationship through music as they skip through the beginning and end, meeting in the middle; with Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan.
The Last Survivors: In a post-apocalyptic drought, several Oregon teens try to fix an old crop duster and fly away before gangs of marauders can capture them; with Michael Welch and Jon Gries.
Lessons from a Kiss: Teen boy falls in love with beautiful girl, seeks advice from three experts. Too bad they all have different ideas on how to approach things.
The Lifeguard: A 29 year old woman has a midlife crisis, quitting her journalism career, moving back home to her parents, and working as a lifeguard; with Kristen Bell and Mamie Gummer.
LOL: Lola dumps her boyfriend due to his infidelity and finds herself falling for his best friend, against her better judgement; with Sophie Marceau.
Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies: The murder of a young woman leads the media to hound and vilify a retired schoolteacher whose crimes are having overbearing manners and looking odd. Perhaps a counterpoint to Nancy Grace.
Loving Annabelle: A Catholic boarding school poetry teacher risks freedom, her reputation, and her job when she has an affair with a female student.
Meet the Small Potatoes: Small Potatoes, which met on a small Idaho farm, become musical stars in this family adventure that stars Malcolm McDowell; is this his low point?
My Father's Guests: The children of an elderly doctor panic and have questions when he marries a young refugee to save her from deportation.
My Friends, My Love: Two single dads move in to help each other in raising their kids, but housekeeping habits and romance makes the situation complex; with Virginie Ledoyen.
The Overnight: An innocent invitation to dinner leads a couple new to LA into some unexpected situations with their hosts; with Adam Scott and Taylor Schilling.
Paris by Night: A Paris police commander patrols his precinct aware that criminals protected by his department run the area, but he unexpectedly walks into a trap.
A Place on Earth: Lonesome photographer finds a source of inspiration in a beautiful pianist, but she's battling her own demons.
Spanish Lake: Documentary examines the residents of a small Missouri town whose turbulent recent past led to white flight due to shifting demographics and a vein of racism.
Till det som ar vackert: A young woman from the slums lies her way to a job in a concert hall because she's inspired by classical music, but it won't be easy to pull off; with Alicia Vikander.
Tony Hinchcliffe: One Shot: The comic breaks new ground as his stand up routine at the Ice Palace in Pasadena, California is shot in one continuous take; paging Dr. Inarritu.
What's in a Name?: A married couple join her brother and his wife along with a friend for dinner and the topic shifts towards pregnancy and an impending birth.
When Animals Dream: A rash by their 16 year old daughter means that a family will have to face town prejudice and reveal their secrets.
Why Not Us?: Documentary film examines successful people who were the first to attend college; with John Legend.
You'll Be a Man: A close friendship develops between a 10 year old boy and a 20 year old man, causing concern in the boy's father.
January 16:
Alpha and Omega 2: A Howl-iday Adventure: Wolf couple is ready to share their holidays with their pups, but panic sets in when one of them vanishes.
Alpha and Omega 3: Great Wolf Games: Humphrey coaches a team of underdogs in the titular competition after an unforeseen accident takes out the scheduled athletes.
Alpha and Omega: Secret of the Sawtooth Cave: Wolf pup sneaks off into a mysterious cave and befriends a wolf shunned from her pack due to her being blind.
Happily Ever After: Two married men struggle to stay faithful while their single friend looks for a long term relationship; with Johnny Depp and Charlotte Gainsborough.
Hyde Park on Hudson: President Franklin Roosevelt must fulfill his duties while tending to the various women of his life; with Bill Murray and Laura Linney.
Serenity: Captain Mal Reynolds and his scrappy but loyal crew must protect themselves and a couple of passengers from the relentless Operative; with Nathan Fillion and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
January 18:
Cartel Land: Documentary examines two vigilante gangs that have popped up in Mexico to combat the increasing dominance of drug cartels there.
January 19:
Ayanda and the Mechanic: A young woman struggles to keep her late father's auto repair shop running while recycling materials to make her own contribution.
Curve: A young bride to be drives her truck off the road while eluding a dangerous hitchhiker and finds herself fighting for her life; with Julianne Hough and Teddy Sears.
The Cut: Armenian genocide survivor loses hope until he learns that his twin daughters may be alive, leading to a desperate search.
Incompresa (Misunderstood): Neglected little girl struggles to find her way when her self-centered parents file for divorce until she makes a bold decision; with Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Out of My Hand: When a Liberian plantation worker's attempts to unionize fails, he decides to start over at New York City driving a cab.
The Veil: Lone survivor of a mass suicide revisits the scene years later with a film crew, which leads to dark memories and unexplained phenomena; with Thomas Jane and Jessica Alba.
Visions: Star studded horror with a pregnant woman investigating the past of a vineyard and getting some disturbing hallucinations; with Isla Fisher and Jim Parsons.
January 20:
Drone: International documentary explores the world of drone warfare focusing on those who are groomed to kill and those grieving in the aftermath.
January 22:
Breathe: The dreams of a pregnant mother turn into a nightmare when doctors dismiss her odd symptoms and her concerns; with Elise Neal and Steven Williams.
Kal No Haa No: A trio of friends learn about themselves and how to celebrate life no matter what it brings.
Ricardo O'Farrill: Abrazo Genial: O'Farrill brings his sharp observational humor to the stage with relentless sarcasm and Mexican sensibility.
Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!: After receiving a heroism award from the President of the United States, Fin and April must do it again...this time in DC and the theme parks in Orlando, Florida (which naturally come from the same parent company that owns Syfy). Product placements galore; with Ian Ziering and Tara Reid and cameos aplenty.
Swim Little Fish Swim: The differences between a practically minded nurse and her struggling musician husband grow greater when they take in a young artist.
January 23:
Loins of Punjab: Mockumentary focuses on several Indian immigrants and a non-Indian as they compete in a ramshackle singing competition in New Jersey.
Ungli: Undercover cop finds himself in an awkward situation after infiltrating a gang that plays popular pranks on corrupt Mumbai officials; with Sanjay Dutt.
January 25:
Maz Jobrani: Brown and Friendly: The Iranian American comic (The Descendants) riffs on stereotypes and other contemporary issues in his stand up special featuring The Iron Sheik.
Turbo Kid (2015): In a post-apocalyptic world, a teen orphan struggles to survive until turning into a superhero to save his threatened female friend.
January 28:
Inshallah, Kashmir: Documentary examines the 20 year long civil conflict between insurgents, Hindu natives, and the Indian government.
January 30:
Assassination: In Japanese occupied Korea, a resistance group breaks out an assassin to do a sniping job, unaware that there's a traitor among them.
TV:
January 1:
Angry Bird Toons Season 1: In this animated comedy series based on the video game, Red, Chuck, Bomb, and Matilda team up to take on the accident prone pig army.
Born to Explore Season 1: Explorer Richard Wiese takes viewers on a trip around the world to explore fascinating people, places, and nature in this series.
The Celebrity Plastic Surgeons of Beverly Hills Season 1: These surgeons will their work cut out keeping their A-list clients looking their best in Hollywood, the land of good looks.
Comics Without Borders Season 1: Host Russell Peters introduces us to various comics from around the world who showcase their routines for American audiences.
Detective Conan: When a poison shrinks a detective down to the size of a child, he solves crimes under a different name while looking for the ones responsible.
Durarara!!X2 Season 10: As new characters enter the fray, Mikado must purge Ikeburo of the Dollars, face the Yellow Scarves and dive into chaos as the series reaches its conclusion.
Forensic Files Collection Two: More episodes of the true crime documentary series about how crimes are solved using the latest forensic procedures. I'll say as a warning that it can get addicting.
Fresh Meat Series 1: College students move into an off campus home and deal with booze, drugs, and sex in this British comedy drama series.
Friday Night Tykes Seasons 1-2: You think Texas high school football is rough? It's nothing compared to the demands and pressures of Texas youth football, as shown in this docuseries.
Gangster: Faces of the Underworld Seasons 1-2: True crime author Bernard O'Mahoney interviews British and Irish gangsters in this series where many have never appeared in front of cameras before.
Gunslinger Girl Season 1: An orphaned girl abandoned by the system hides behind emotional walls and becomes a killer.
Gunslinger Girl: Il Teatrino Season 1: Despite concerns about losing their humanity, Henrietta and her friends learn that the training must go on.
Jack Hanna's Into the Wild Season 1: Hanna, a zoo director and wildlife director, takes a global tour of shores, deserts, and forests in search of amazing animal stories.
Lucid Dream Season 1: Two people haunted by a dream of paramours who lived a thousand years before find an online video game based on that dream.
Monster Allergy Seasons 1-2: Allergy prone boy has the ability to see invisible monsters living among us, which allows him to tame misbehaving monsters. Bless you.
Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin Season 1: Corwin travels around the world exploring the aquatic environments and their inhabitants from sharks to crocodiles.
Rock the Park Season 1: Two hosts explore the adventurous side of national parks in California, Florida, Hawaii, and other locales.
Run Season 1: A single mother, a Polish woman, an illegal Chinese immigrant, and a middle aged drug addict see their lives intersect and face challenges in this series.
So Awkward Season 1: Three young Brits lacking social graces attempt to survive the challenges of school and life in this series.
Sonic Underground: Sonic the Hedgehog's rock band has been prophesied to overthrow Dr. Robotnik and restore the rightful ruler to the throne; with voice of Jaleel White.
Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle Season 3: Stand up comic Stewart Lee has his material accentuated by sketches, short films, and cameos from other comics and TV personalities in this series.
Under Arrest Season 1: Real life cops are captured by cameras performing their daily duties of cracking cases and chasing down criminals in this series that's not to be confused with COPS.
January 2:
30 for 30: Four Falls of Buffalo: Sports documentary examines the glory days of the Buffalo Bills who went to four consecutive Super Bowls in the 1990s.
I'll Have What Phil's Having Season 1: Phil Rosenthal, creator of Everybody Loves Raymond (but do they), travels around the world in search of the perfect culinary dishes.
January 3:
Sofia the First Season 2: The princess deals with being stuck in an enchanted painting and entering a Flying Derby race during season 2.
January 5:
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 10: In this tenth season, Frank retires, a rumored cannibal enters the bar, and the group has a drinking contest on a cross country flight; with Charlie Day and Danny DeVito.
The New Girl Season 4: The group makes last ditch attempts at romance before the end of the wedding season and Jess gets a visit from her father and his young fiancee; with Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson.
Rurouni Kenshin Season 1: Nomadic swordsman ends up involved in an opium trade conflict when he arrives at a martial arts school.
January 6:
Strange Voices: The parents of a college age girl desperately search for answers when erratic behavior on her part leads to a diagnosis of schizophrenia; with Valerie Harper and Nancy McKeon.
January 8:
Dragons: Race to the Edge Season 2: Hiccup, Toothless and their crew square off against the evil Ryker and his Dragon Hunter army in this second season of the animated series.
Nurse Jackie Seasons 6-7: The final two seasons of the nurse from New York who copes with the day to day traumas of working in a crowded ER one pill at a time; with Edie Falco.
January 10:
The Spoils Before Dying Season 1: Fictional director presents installments of a film noir which has a detective examining the case of a 1950s jazz musician framed for murder; with Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig.
January 11:
Littlest Pet Shop Season 4: Blythe and her toy pets have fun adventures together as they deal with various situations in this fourth season.
January 13:
Parks and Recreation Season 7: Say goodbye to the people of Pawnee, Indiana as various members of the Parks staff deal with last season's finale which leapt forward in time; with Amy Poehler and Adam Scott.
January 15:
Born to Explore Season 1: Host Richard Wiese travels across the globe for a good story in this travel series.
Degrassi: Next Class: Real world high school drama is explored by teens old and new in this reboot of the Degrassi series.
Occupied Season 1: Russia's attempt to quietly invade Norway in the near future to restart oil production leads to uncertainty, chaos, and danger.
Sirens Season 2: Raunchy comedy series about the absurd situations that three EMTs in Chicago find themselves in at work and at home; with Bill Nunn.
Sparticle Mystery Season 2: When adults disappear off the face of the Earth, there's celebrations everywhere, but one group is concerned about civilization breaking down; so basically like the Jimmy Neutron movie.
Total Drama Season 6: 16 new castaways deal with building their campsites and competing in challenges in this animated spoof of reality series like Survivor.
January 17:
Z Nation Season 2: In the second season, the team of survivors split up to survive a nuclear blast and hunt the person responsible for launching it; with Kellita Smith and DJ Qualls.
January 18:
Beating Again: Ruthless young investment director dedicates himself to revenge against a greedy uncle who ruined his family until a heart transplant changes things.
Can We Get Married: For four young couples, marriage is only the beginning as the first year brings doubts, families, and old relationships into play.
Rock This Boat: New Kids on the Block: Several lifelong fans of the New Kids on the Block spend a week long cruise with their favorite band having fun and enjoying music.
Secret Affair: A gifted young pianist has an affair with a middle aged married woman who appreciates him romantically and artistically.
This Is My Love: Renowned actor still hurting over the loss of his first real love writes an autobiography about his memories of her, hoping for a reconciliation.
January 21:
When Calls the Heart Season 2: Basically, the rich young woman turned schoolteacher has decided to stay in Coal Valley, but new loves and challenges threaten her relationship with mountie Jack; with Lori Loughlin and Jack Wagner.
January 23:
Chelsea Does: In Season One of the docu-comic series, Chelsea Handler examines such topics as marriage, racism, drugs, and electronics with each show focusing on a topic.
Yudh Season 1: A businessman must fend off revolutionaries and betrayal in his company while dealing with a terminal illness; with Amitabh Bachchan.
January 25:
From Dusk to Dawn Season 2: A seductive vampire threatens the scheme of the Gecko Brothers to commit another heist in the same town; with DJ Cotrona.
January 27:
Ripper Street Series 3: The inspectors who have been searching to capture the Jack the Ripper serial killer deal with a train crash and a conspiracy in the third season of the series; with Matthew MacFadyen.
January 28:
Frozen Planet Season 1: David Attenborough takes us on the journey to the Arctic and Antarctic, examining the wildernesses and the inhabitants there including polar bears, penguins and the albatross.
Frozen Planet: On Thin Ice: In this episode, David Attenborough examines the polar regions and investigates how rising temperatures will affect the people and wildlife that live there.
Frozen Planet: The Epic Journey: Highlights from the Frozen Planet series looks at a year in the polar environments and the people and animals that live there.
The Making of Frozen Planet: This making of documentary explores the challenges and rewards faced by the crew of filmmakers that created Frozen Planet.
Zapped: A girl finds that a dog training app that gets boys to obey her every command has unintended drawbacks; with Zendaya.
January 30:
Ever After High: Dragon Games: In season 4 of the youth skewing animated series, Raven and her friends must team up to stop the Evil Queen's nefarious plans for their school, which ends up pitting mother against daughter.
The End
Wellesley72, thanks for pointing both out. I'll make the necessary changes.
ReplyDeleteBrian, thoughts on what's coming to Netflix in January? As usual, some good documentaries--The Testimont, Cartel Land, Drone. With the exception of The Last Five Years with Anna Hendricks, newish movies are unremarkable, and older movies feel recycled. I thought Chelsea Handler wanted to delve into some serious topics but int the trailers for Chelsea Does, she seems to be spending most of her time Insulting her subjects. I hope we are not seeing a preview of an Adam Sandler-type talk show. Hopefully, some unannounced and better content will find it's way to Netflix in January. They really screwed up when they didn't renew the Epix deal.
ReplyDeleteWellesley, I was going to get into it in more depth in a few days, but I think we got some good independent movies in January (Cartel Land, Last Five Years, and Overnight all got my attention in various ways). But overall, I believe we downgraded particularly considering the films that are leaving on January 1. It's like they went to a second hand store or a flea market to replace the titles.
DeleteAs for Epix, I wish Netflix had a plan in place. Like making a deal with Starz would have been a good way to make up for that loss. Although that window may be closing with Amazon's move (Annie is a Starz movie). Either a Starz deal or renewing with Epix would have been better than door number 3 they chose. I get that content is expensive. But so is losing customers due to the dwindling content available. My feeling is that maybe Netflix will press harder with Disney and company or find a new outlet in the early summer if the subscription numbers start to spiral downward.
Netflix reports their 4th quarter earnings in mid-January so it will be interesting to see if the loss of the Epix deal has lost it viewers (or slowed down their U.S.expansion significantly. The next critical point is in May when all of us who have been grandfathered at $7.99/mo. See a price hike to 9.99/mo.
ReplyDeleteI suspect something might happen between January and May. If I had to guess, we might see a deal cut between those two months, particularly if fourth quarter earnings/number of subscribers drop more than expected. I know that international appeal is Netflix's new focus right now, but considering some strong gains from Amazon Prime, I think they will react particularly if there's a big drop in subscribers.
DeleteYou know Netflix has hit rock bottom when its newest film content on the first day of 2016 is from Bollywood. Apparently, Netflix is too busy trying for global domination to pay attention to its US subscribers, who are paying for this expansion.
ReplyDelete*cough* Dreamcatcher *cough*. But I do see your point. I think Netflix might pay greater attention to American subscribers particularly if the first quarter subscriber numbers show a decline. As much as they're a brand name and increasing their global reach, we're the ones who have the power to determine whether they gain or lose money. Netflix might realize that as soon as in the middle of this month and start correcting course.
DeleteBrian, great job in summarizing the content of each title.
ReplyDeleteThanks. I try to put my own spin on it, but I also want to be accurate in describing it without spoiling it.
DeleteYes. There are some critic reviews on IMDb.
ReplyDeleteIs Netflix atoning for Chelsea Handler by showing The Apostles of Comedy and The Scroll movies? Seriously, are they paying for this content?
ReplyDeleteIf they are, it's probably not very much. And I believe the Apostles have streamed before.
DeleteCool, been looking forward to seeing Spoils.
ReplyDeleteShadowhunters (1/13) will not be streaming in the US (at least for now). It is one of Netflix's non-US global originals.
ReplyDeleteSomewhat ironic that Season 3 of Ripper Street, which began streaming today on Netflix US is a co-production of the BBC and Amazon. The BBC cancelled Ripper Street after Season 2 but Amazon agreed to fund Season 3 and is also funding Seasons 4 and 5.
ReplyDeleteHmm, I'm surprised that Amazon hadn't claimed it for a Prime exclusive.
DeleteSpeaking of the BBC, the last two days have brought back several programs from that sea of channels and it leads to the question about what's to become of Doctor Who. The fact it's leaving Netflix and Hulu makes me wonder if a) someone is trying to get exclusive rights to Dr. Who (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon) or b) the BBC is willing to damage its relationship with Hulu/Netflix to keep Dr. Who as the crown jewel of its service. Maybe we'll find out soon on When the Streaming Turns.