Not a fan of "Lord of the Rings"? Other movies opening this holiday season may satisfy everyone's movie-going needs.
"Big Fish" Tim Burton's new film is a heartwarming story of the reconciling between a father and his son, but done in the traditional fantastic style of Burton. The film tells the story of Edward Bloom (played by an ever-charming Ewan McGregor), a man whose life is the equivalent of a book of tall tales. As Bloom lies on his death bed (the older version is played by Albert Finney), the story of his life unfolds and his son Will (Billy Crudup) realizes they are not as different as he thought. True to form, Burton fills the film with imagination and spectacular imagery. This surprisingly funny movie is perfect for the holiday season and will send audiences straight home to call their parents. Opens Dec. 25.
"Peter Pan" This new, live-action version of J.M. Barrie's beloved classic marks the first time Peter Pan is being played by a boy (Jeremy Sumpter), except for in "Hook." The cast of fairly unknown actors is led by director P.J. Hogan ("My Best Friend's Wedding") into the magical world of Neverland. The film looks to be visually stunning, with much constructed digitally unlike the previous versions of "Peter Pan." It will be interesting to see how well the film is received since this story is one of the most treasured of all time. Opens Dec. 25.
"Cold Mountain" Anthony Minghella's new film, based on the novel by Charles Frazier, tells the story of a wounded confederate soldier (Jude Law) trying to get home to his mountain town during the Civil War. His true love, Ada, played by Nicole Kidman, waits for him at home and struggles to survive with the help of a drifter named Ruby (played by Renee Zellweger). The film, which features a strong ensemble cast, has gotten a lot of hype and looks to be an intriguing look at the Civil War, a subject not frequently explored in contemporary film. Perhaps not filled with holiday cheer, "Cold Mountain" is for film fans looking for a well-directed story. Opens Dec. 25.
"Paycheck" "Paycheck" is a new action movie from John Woo, based on a short story by Philip Dick, the man responsible for the stories of "Blade Runner" and "Minority Report." Ben Affleck plays a man whose memory has been erased after his work on a top-secret project. Armed with only a collection of random objects he left for himself, Affleck's character struggles to remember what happened. Action movies are always good, and sometimes clean, holiday fun and Woo is certain to provide no-stop stunts. The film also stars Uma Thurman, who is still high on her "Kill Bill" hype, and Paul Giamatti, one of the most versatile actors in today's movie industry. "Paycheck" looks to action-packed fun with a futuristic twist. Opens Dec. 25.
"Girl with a Pearl Earring" This adaptation of Tracy Chevalier's much-loved novel of the same name tells the story of one of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer's greatest works. Indie-darling Scarlett Johansson plays Vermeer's maid, Greet, who influences Vermeer's painting and his affections. The film is brilliantly done, with every shot evoking the imagery of Vermeer's work. Those searching for an unconventional love story or a meditative character study will find this film fulfilling, although those who loved the book may be disappointed by the ending. Opens Jan. 9.
