Most anticipated movies and concerts of the semester

“Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” – Jan. 17

Chris Pine will reprise the roll that has been played previously by Harrison Ford, Alec Baldwin and Ben Affleck as he stars in “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit.” It will be nice to get a look into the beloved CIA agent’s life with a fresh face and a potential for consistency in future Jack Ryan films to come. True to Tom Clancy form, this film is sure to be action-packed from start to finish.

“The Lego Movie” – Feb. 7

With the Lego world being so large and the variety of characters being so vast, “The Lego Movie” should lend to a storyline filled with possibilities. The animated movie stars an eclectic group of well established actors lending their voices, including Morgan Freeman, Liam Neeson, Channing Tatum, Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks and Jonah Hill.

 

“The Grand Budapest Hotel” – March 7

Wes Anderson and Bill Murray return to the big screen with their kooky charm and exciting tales. Ralph Fiennes will star as M. Gustave, a beloved concierge who is framed for the murder of a guest who bequeaths him a painting before she dies. Anderson is known by fans for his quick wit and an eye for beautiful scenes.  

“Noah” – March 28

“Noah” is sure to be a top contender in next year’s Academy Awards as Darren Aronofsky brings the Bible’s epic tale of destruction to the big screen. It is a tale that has been told before, but with Russell Crowe starring as Noah and Aronofsky directing, the film will be the greatest look into the Bible told, as of now.

“Captain America: Winter Soldier” – April 4

With a few exceptions- “Hulk” and the first “Spider-Man” trilogy, Marvel has consistently created the best live adaptations of comic heroes. The sequel to “Captain America” looks to be no different. Chris Evans is the epitome of what the character Captain America was built upon and he has nailed the role every time he has portrayed it. Battling “X-Men: Days of Future’s past” (May 23) and “The Amazing Spider-Man 2″(April 18), “Captain America: Winter Soldier” is sure to win as top superhero flick of the semester.

“Neighbors” – May 9

If the trailer is any indication of what to expect, “Neighbors” should be the funniest movie to be released this semester. 

Zac Efron and Dave Franco star as members of a fraternity that move their frat house next to a young couple with a new baby played by the hilarious Seth Rogan and Rose Byrne (“Bridesmaids”). 

CONCERTS

Arctic Monkeys – Feb. 1 Jannus Live 

(sold out)

The Artic Monkeys show is sure to be the best concert offered at Jannus Live this semester- ticket sales show this is true, as the show is already sold out. Those who were lucky enough to get tickets to catch the English indie rock band perform will be in for a great show.

 

Flogging Molly – Feb. 16  The Ritz Ybor 

($34)

The leaders in the Celtic punk genre will perform their unique sounds in Ybor this semester. Though they are not played on Top 40 radio, they have a cult following that has kept them performing since 2000. It is sure to be a great show to catch with friends.

Demi Lovato – Feb. 26  Tampa Bay Times Forum (starting at $43.45)

 

For the past two years, Demi Lovato has been a great example of what a comeback should look like. Following her roles on “The X Factor” and “Glee” and the release of her self-titled album, Lovato will bring her “Neon Lights” tour to Tampa this semester.

Miley Cyrus – March 20 Tampa Bay Times Forum (starting at $56.25)

 

For those willing to endure about two hours of a sound resembling the screeching of a bag of cats being beaten, Miley Cyrus will bring her “Bangerz World Tour” to Tampa. Personal antics aside, Cyrus’ performances last year have shown that some people should stick to auto-tune and lip-syncing, though she still manages to have a following that enjoys her shows.

The Avett Brothers – March 29 USF Sun Dome (starting at $42.50)

 

The Sun Dome’s fall concert series was filled with great shows from many anticipated performers. As of right now, the most anticipated show this semester will be bluegrass heavy indie folk group, The Avett Brothers.