movies of 2017 december

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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01-03-2025

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December 2017 brought a flurry of films vying for awards consideration and holiday box office success. From critically acclaimed dramas to blockbuster sequels, the month offered a diverse range of cinematic experiences. Let's revisit some of the notable releases that defined the final month of the year.

Blockbusters and Big Budget Fare:

• Star Wars: The Last Jedi (December 15th): This highly anticipated sequel to The Force Awakens divided audiences but undeniably dominated the box office. Rian Johnson's direction brought fresh perspectives to the Star Wars universe, sparking passionate debate among fans. The film featured stunning visuals and compelling performances. Its impact on the overall Star Wars saga continues to be discussed.

• Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (December 20th): This reboot of the 1995 classic offered a fun, family-friendly adventure. The film cleverly updated the premise, injecting humor and a stellar cast (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black) into a familiar story. It proved a massive commercial success during the holiday season.

• Pitch Perfect 3 (December 22nd): The final installment in the Pitch Perfect trilogy delivered more a capella antics and laughs for its loyal fanbase. Though perhaps not as critically acclaimed as its predecessors, it still offered a satisfying conclusion to the series for many.

Awards Contenders and Critically Acclaimed Films:

• The Disaster Artist (December 1st): This comedic drama, based on the true story of the making of The Room, became a surprise hit. Featuring exceptional performances, particularly from James Franco, the film charmed audiences with its quirky humor and behind-the-scenes look at a cult classic.

• Darkest Hour (December 22nd): Gary Oldman delivered an Oscar-winning performance as Winston Churchill in this historical drama. The film depicted Churchill's early days as Prime Minister during World War II, focusing on his leadership and decision-making during a critical juncture in history.

• Phantom Thread (December 25th): Paul Thomas Anderson's latest offering, a period drama starring Daniel Day-Lewis, was lauded for its stunning visuals, intricate costumes, and captivating performances. While less commercially successful than others on this list, it garnered significant critical praise.

Other Notable Releases:

December 2017 also saw the release of several other films, including the animated Ferdinand, the thriller Downsizing, and the comedy Father Figures. These films, while perhaps not as widely discussed today, still contributed to the diverse cinematic landscape of the month.

What Made December 2017's Movie Releases Unique?

The December 2017 slate showcased a balance between crowd-pleasing blockbusters and more critically-acclaimed, awards-focused films. This variety is typical of the holiday season, as studios try to attract a broad range of moviegoers. The presence of several sequels and reboots also highlighted the ongoing trend of revisiting popular franchises.

The Lasting Impact:

Looking back, December 2017's movie releases offered a diverse and memorable mix of films. From the divisive but undeniably influential Star Wars: The Last Jedi to the charming and unexpected success of The Disaster Artist, the month cemented its place in cinematic history. These films continued conversations about storytelling, visual effects, and the ongoing evolution of the movie-going experience. Many of these films went on to receive awards recognition, further solidifying their impact on the film industry.