January and February typically aren’t the best months for entertainment, particularly for movies. Without summer blockbusters or Oscar nominees to release, it’s a known fact that studios put out the worst of the worst at this time every year.
Nevertheless, while there will no doubt be some disappointments coming out this month, there are still a handful to look forward to. Here’s my list of movies to look out for in February, as well as a few TV shows that everyone will be talking about.
“Jupiter Ascending”: Aside from the fact that it stars Channing Tatum, “Jupiter Ascending” looks like a promising movie-going experience for any science fiction fan. From Andy and Lana Wachowski, the sibling filmmakers who brought us the “Matrix” trilogy, this space opera features Tatum as a genetically engineered warrior who aids a young human targeted by a tyrannical civilization. Based on the trailer, the film looks visually appealing and has definite story potential. I’m not certain it will be good, but it appears interesting enough to make me want to see it.
“Better Call Saul”: This is one I didn’t see coming. Although “Breaking Bad” is long gone, a spinoff of the Emmy award-winning series airs this month. “Better Call Saul” will chronicle the origins and affairs of Walter White’s criminal lawyer Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk). Creators Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, who are also the minds behind “Breaking Bad,” have indicated that this show will have a more comedic tone than its predecessor. This is appropriate given that Saul’s character has always provided comedic relief. Although I’m not completely sold on this series, I’ll give it a shot when it airs next week.
“House of Cards” season three: While Netflix is only adding a handful of noteworthy selections to its roster this month, the new season of “House of Cards” is easily the most anticipated. This smart, addictive and brutal political drama stars Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright as Frank and Claire Underwood, the most sinister couple in Washington. Since its premiere in 2013, the show already has a massive following and is sure to gain an even larger fan base when season three arrives. The last season left viewers with a massive cliffhanger, as Frank is now president. With Spacey having just won a Golden Globe for his role in the series, countless viewers will be binge-watching in a few weeks.
“Parks and Recreation” season seven:Although it’s sad to see this beloved series coming to a close, “Parks and Recreation” is looking like it will go out on a high note. The seventh and final season has already delivered some great episodes, and I look forward to seeing how the story of Leslie and company will conclude.
“Kingsman: The Secret Service”: Having seen an advanced screening of this film, I can say that “Kingsman” is a delight for any action movie lover. It’s basically “Men in Black” with British secret agents. The movie follows veteran secret agent Harry Hart (Colin Firth) as he takes a rookie and the son of a former Kingsman named Eggsy (Taron Egerton) under his wing. Together, they must foil the plot of a corporate madman named Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson). Director Matthew Vaughn, whose previous credits include “Kick-Ass” and “X-Men: First Class,” is sure to garner more fans with his latest work. So if you’re looking for a pulpy action comedy with stylized fight scenes, “Kingsman” is well worth your time and money.
