Movie watch list: winter break 2017

Modified with permission from PxHere

Coco: Animated musical
Rating: PG

Coco, directed by Lee Unkrich, follows a young boy named Miguel from a small Mexican village with a long-time dream to become a musician, despite his family’s aversion to music. In a bewildering chain of events, Miguel finds himself in the Land of the Dead and attempts to find the man he believes to be his great-great grandfather.
This film is perfect for the whole family. Coco is not only heartwarming and exciting, but also full of incredibly vibrant animations and a score by Michael Giacchino that blends traditional Mexican tunes and Giacchino’s own original music.

For Ahkeem: documentary
Rating: Not Rated

This thought-provoking and intense documentary centers on 17-year-old Daje Shelton, who is transferred to an alternate high school after a fight in her previous school. Shelton is determined to carve out a life and future for herself, but struggles to keep her head above the waters as she is faced with the harsh realities of her St. Louis neighborhood. Shelton confronts countless issues, including gun violence, biased criminal justice policies, and economic challenges. She falls in love with a boy, Ahkeem, and becomes pregnant, and her relationship and love for her unborn son provide the resilience that it takes for Shelton to survive. If you’re looking for a film that will give you a new perspective and something to think about for the new year, For Ahkeem is the film for you.

Loving Vincent: Crime film/drama
Loving Vincent is the world’s first fully painted animated feature film. Armand, the son of Postman Roulin, is asked by his father to personally deliver Van Gogh’s last letter to his brother. Armand finds himself unwillingly on a journey to not only deliver this letter, but uncover the truth about the circumstances behind the artist’s death. Robert Gulaczyk plays title character Vincent Van Gogh, and Douglas Booth stars as Armand Roulin.
This film is perfect for art and animation lovers, and those who enjoy a good mystery in a beautiful setting.

The Greatest Showman: Biographical musical
Rating: PG

With a cast that includes Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Zendaya, and Michelle Williams, The Greatest Showman is sure to be a movie that impresses and astounds.The film follows the story of P. T. Barman, a visionary who created a sensational entertainment spectacle. Though centered on Barman, The Greatest Showman also includes a beautiful story of love between an acrobat and a stage actor, played by Zendaya and Zac Efron respectively. A heartwarming film with tons of character, The Greatest Showman is perfect for bonding with the family during winter break.