There are a lot of options if you’re going to the movies on Dec. 25 (with Chinese food in tow) or if you plan on heading to the theater later on this weekend. So, consider this guide our gift to you.
Justine Zwiebel / BuzzFeed
American Hustle
When did it come out? Limited release on Dec. 20; wide release on Dec. 25
What's it about? Loosely based on the Abscam scandal that put several congressmen and a U.S. senator in jail in the early '80s, Hustle sees director David O. Russell pull out on-point and often hilarious performances from his stars — Christian Bale as a con man, Amy Adams as his mistress, Bradley Cooper as a striving federal agent, and Jennifer Lawrence as his wife — in this loose morality tale.
Who's in it? Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Jeremy Renner, Louis C.K.
Who should see it? This one's rated R and deservedly so. Still, anyone in high school could handle the film's loose-cannon action.
Verdict: This is an Oscar favorite; go see it.
The Wolf of Wall Street
When does it come out? Dec. 25
What's it about? An absolutely insane film adaptation of the memoir of Jordan Belfort, who built up a fortune peddling bullshit and penny stocks in the late '80s and early '90s before his scam fell apart and he ended up in the slammer. With Leonardo DiCaprio playing the brash and ballsy Belfort, Martin Scorsese's film plays like a smarter, more relevant Great Gatsby.
Who's in it? Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, Matthew McConaughey, Cristin Milioti
Who should see it? If you like cocaine and breasts, this is the film for you! It's a great movie, but it was nearly NC-17, so maybe don't see it with your parents (or with your kids).
Verdict: Definitely see it, just perhaps not with the family.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
When does it come out? Dec. 25
What's it about? This adaptation of James Thurber's classic short story is placed in modern times with Ben Stiller playing the titular character who works at Life magazine. He imagines himself on the sort of adventures that the fabled periodical depicts in photos, while an amazingly bearded Adam Scott plays his work adversary and Kristen Wiig co-stars as his love interest.
Who's in it? Ben Stiller, Adam Scott, Kristen Wiig, Kathryn Hahn
Who should see it? It hasn't gotten very good reviews, but anyone who likes Arcade Fire and is looking for some adventurous family fare might enjoy it.
Verdict: Sure, see it — it's Christmas!
