From animated movies, political thrillers, experimental films and superhero flicks, this March promises to deliver on many fronts. Whether you prefer talking animals, personal dramas or science fiction scenarios, this March probably has something for you. Schedule some time to make it out to the theater and see a movie with some friends.
“Zootopia”
Release Date: March 4
PG
Set in the animal city of Zootopia, this Disney animated film follows rookie rabbit cop Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and fox con-artist Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) as they work to uncover a conspiracy. Byron Howard and Rich Moore direct Disney’s newest release.
“London Has Fallen”
Release Date: March 4
R
After the suspicious death of the British prime minister, the leaders of the world gather in London to mourn. When terrorists attack the funeral, it is up to Secret Service Agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler), President of the United States Benjamin Asher (Aaron Eckhart) and Vice President Allan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman) to stop a brutal plan to assassinate the world’s most important political figures. Babak Najafi directs this film.
“Knight of Cups”
Release Date: March 4
R
This experimental film stars Christian Bale as Rick, a Hollywood screenwriter who drowns his sorrows in booze and women. When a death in the family throws him into a personal crisis, Rick tries to find his place in the world while he explores his personal relationships. Terrence Malick directs the movie, which also features guest stars Cate Blanchett, Natalie Portman and Antonio Banderas.
“The Young Messiah”
Release Date: March 11
PG-13
Just in time for Easter season, this Biblical drama follows a young Jesus (Adam Greaves-Neal) through the unknown period of his childhood as he journeys to Nazareth from hiding in Egypt. The film is based on Anne Rice’s 2005 novel “Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt.” The film also stars Sean Bean as the Roman soldier Severus, Jonathan Bailey as Herod and Sara Lazzaro as Mary. Cyrus Nowrasteh directs this religious film.
“The Brothers Grimsby”
Release Date: March 11
R
This British action comedy stars Mark Strong as MI6 Agent Sebastian Butcher and Sacha Baron Cohen as his unintelligent brother, separated as children but forced to team up to save the world. Follow these kooky brothers as they attempt to stop the world from destruction one bad joke at a time. Louis Leterrier, also known for his work on “Bruno” and “The Dictator,” is the director of this raunchy comedy.
“Eye in the Sky”
Release Date: March 11
R
Colonel Katherine Powell (Helen Mirren) is leading a secret drone mission against Kenyan terrorists when she is plunged into political crisis. When a 9-year-old girl enters the crossfire of pilot Steve Watts (Aaron Paul), Powell and Watts are thrown into the middle of an international dispute. Gavin Hood directs this political action thriller.
“The Divergent Series: Allegiant”
Release Date: March 18
PG-13
Set after the events of “Insurgent,” this sci-fi adventure follows Tris (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James) as they journey beyond the walls of Chicago. Faced with shocking revelations and forced to survive a deadly battle, they must make vital decisions about where their loyalties lie. Robert Schwentke directs the movie, which is based on the “Divergent” series of novels written by Veronica Roth.
“Midnight Special”
Release Date: March 18
PG-13
Alton (Jaeden Lieberher) is an 8-year-old boy with special powers, which attracts the attention of the United States government as well as a fanatical religious sect. His father Roy (Michael Shannon) must protect him as he and Alton are pursued by cult leader Calvin Meyer (Sam Shepherd) and government task force leader, Paul Sevier (Adam Driver). Jeff Nichols directs this movie.
“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”
Release Date: March 25
PG-13
Fearing that the Man of Steel’s power is going uncontrolled, Batman (Ben Affleck) confronts Superman (Henry Cavill). But when supervillain Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) threatens Metropolis, Batman and Superman must team up with other heroes to counter the threat. Zach Snyder directs this newest superhero film.
“My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2”
Release Date: March 25
PG-13
Years after the events of the first movie, the Portokalos family is reunited for another wedding as Toula (Nia Vardalos) and Ian (John Corbett) are struggling to balance marital problems and raise their teenage daughter. Come see the revived comedic antics of the Portokalos family in theaters at the end of March.
Luke Heuskin is the assistant arts editor and can be reached at luke.heuskin@ubspectrum.com.
Photo: Ryan Hagen | UB Athletics
