Hollywood studios often save their best films for the end of the year in hopes of catching the eyes of award season voters. In December 2014, for example, many future Oscar nominees made their debut on or around Christmas Day including “American Sniper,” “Into The Woods” and “Selma.” This year is no different, with something for everyone at the box office between now and New Year’s Eve. So drop the kids or grandkids off at “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (which opens Dec. 18) and check out one of the five following movies, all perfect for older audiences.
Which ones will you see? Let us know in comments.
“Love the Coopers” (Nov. 13)
Big family holiday gatherings just seem to auger disaster — especially when they’re created in Hollywood. In “Love the Coopers,” four generations of extended family come together under one roof, warts and all, for their annual Christmas Eve celebration. Their obstacle-laden journey toward the rediscovery of family bonds may be cliche. But the post-50 cast — Alan Arkin, John Goodman, Diane Keaton, Marisa Tomei and June Squibb — is stellar. We can’t wait to watch 86-year-old Squibb, last seen in the 2013 acclaimed film “Nebraska,” back in action as a beloved family member named Aunt Fishy. We’re hoping this is one holiday movie that lives up to the hype.
“Secret in Their Eyes” (Nov. 20)
Described as a smart crime thriller, “Secret in Their Eyes” follows FBI investigator Ray, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, and his partner Jess, played by Julia Roberts, as they work with their district attorney supervisor, played by Nicole Kidman, to find the person who killed Jess’ teenage daughter. After 13 years of fanatically searching, they finally uncover a real clue that ultimately leads to the discovery of a terrible secret. According to some critics, the film could score Roberts, a 48-year-old mother of three, another Oscar.
“The Danish Girl” (Nov. 27)
Fresh off his “Theory of Everything” Oscar win, Eddie Redmayne is back, this time as transgender pioneer Lili Erbe. “The Danish Girl” follows Redmayne’s character from married Danish gentleman to gender-reassignment trailblazer. Another plus: Swedish star Alicia Vikander, who critics describe as “emotionally compelling,” playing Redmayne’s wife.
“Youth” (Dec. 4)
This film from Italian director Paolo Sorrentino received a massive standing ovation when it was unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. It may not be on the typical moviegoer’s radar, but it should be. Michael Caine, 82, and Harvey Keitel, 76, play longtime friends who go on vacation together in the Swiss Alps, accompanied by Caine’s daughter, played by Rachel Weisz. Not only is this film characterized as a tender reflection on the passage of time, but it also features a scene-stealing performance by Jane Fonda, 77, playing a makeup-covered, cantankerous older actress. We can’t wait.
“Joy” (Dec. 25)
Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro are back together again — the three starred together in “Silver Linings Playbook” — in this new film from director David O. Russell. “Joy” follows the journey of a family over four generations with the focus on Lawrence, who plays Joy Mangano, the millionaire creator of the Miracle Mop. Even if the trailer is a bit confusing — showing Lawrence doing everything from carrying a gun to cutting off her hair — we’re hoping the cast, which also includes Isabella Rossellini, Virginia Madsen and Diane Ladd — will make this film worth seeing.
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