#OnTheBigScreen: Agatha Christie, J. D. Salinger and David Hockney

Murder on The Orient Express

The most timeless of whodunits follows renowned detective Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) as he attempts to solve what would become one of the most infamous crimes in history.

After a shocking murder of a wealthy businessman on the lavish European train barrelling its way west in the dead of winter; private detective Poirot must use every tool of his trade to uncover which of the train’s eclectic passengers is the killer, before he or she strikes again.

Published in 1934, Agatha Christie’s novel, Murder on the Orient Express is considered one of the most ingenious stories ever devised. What starts out as a lavish train ride through Europe quickly unfolds into one of the most stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mysteries ever told. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast including; Penelope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley and Josh Gad

Rebel in The Rye

The world of legendary writer J. D. Salinger is brought vividly to life in this revealing look at the experiences that shaped one of the most renowned, controversial, and enigmatic authors of our time. Set amidst the colourful backdrop of mid-20th century New York City, Rebel in the Rye follows a young Salinger (Nicholas Hoult) as he struggles to find his voice, pursues a love affair with famed socialite Oona O'Neill (Zoey Deutch), and fights on the frontlines of World War II. It’s these experiences that will inform the creation of his masterpiece, The Catcher in the Rye, bringing him overnight fame (and notoriety) and leading him to withdraw from the public eye for the rest of his life.

Co-starring Kevin Spacey and Sarah Paulson, Rebel in the Rye offers a tantalising window into the life and times of a little-understood genius who broke the rules and redefined American literature. Directed and written by Danny Strong, Rebel in The Rye is based on the book J. D. Salinger: A Life by Kenneth Slawenski.

Coco

Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colourful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Héctor (Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel's family history.

Coco showcases the importance of family, honouring your ancestors and following your dreams. Directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University), from a screenplay by Adrian Molina, and the story by Lee Unkrich.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure

Olaf (voiced by Josh Gad) teams up with Sven on a merry mission in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 21-minute featurette, which screens before Coco for a limited time in South African theatres.

It’s the first holiday season since the gates reopened and Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell) and Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel) host a celebration for all of Arendelle. When the townspeople unexpectedly leave early to enjoy their individual holiday customs, the sisters realise they have no family traditions of their own. So, Olaf sets out to comb the kingdom to bring home the best traditions and save this first Christmas for his friends.

Directed by Emmy-winning filmmakers Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton (Prep & Landing), from a screenplay by Jac Schaeffer and four original songs by Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson.

Daddy’s Home 2

In the sequel to the 2015 global smash, father and stepfather, Dusty (Mark Wahlberg) and Brad (Will Ferrell), have joined forces to provide their kids with the perfect Christmas. Their newfound partnership is put to the test when Dusty’s old-school, macho dad (Mel Gibson) and Brad’s ultra-affectionate and emotional dad (John Lithgow) arrive just in time to throw the holiday into complete chaos.

Written by Sean Anders and John Morris, based on characters created by Brian Burns. The film is directed by Sean Anders.

Potato Potahto

A story of a divorced couple who decides to share equal space in their ex-matrimonial home soon realise that the ingenious idea is easier said than done.

Bent on flexing their egos and scoring points, Tony (OC Ukeje) and Lulu (Joselyn Dumas) implore various hilarious tactics that soon inflames emotions and turns an already complicated situation into a roller coaster ride. The film is a collaborative project between Ghanaian, Nigerian, British, French and Swedish film producers, who have co-produced with the aim to make African-made cinema more accessible to global markets.

David Hockney at The Royal Academy of Arts

Art lovers will appreciate this season’s exhibition on screen as Ster-Kinekor Cinema Nouveau brings the best artistic and contemporary through a whole new artistic experience on the big screen.

Widely considered Britain’s most popular artist, David Hockney is a global sensation with exhibitions in London, New York, Paris and beyond, attracting millions of visitors worldwide. Now entering his ninth decade, Hockney shows absolutely no evidence of slowing down or losing his trademark boldness.

The film features expert insights from art critics Martin Gayford and Jonathan Jones, and Edith Devaney (Senior Contemporary Curator at the Royal Academy of Arts) who twice sat for Hockney to paint. Director Phil Grabsky secured privileged access to craft this cinematic celebration of a 21st-century master of creativity. This is also a Tim Marlow presentation.

This intriguing documentary releases exclusively at Nouveau cinemas in Rosebank Nouveau in Johannesburg, Brooklyn Nouveau in Pretoria, Ster-Kinekor Gateway Nouveau in Durban and at V&A Waterfront Nouveau in Cape Town.

Read more about the latest film releases: www.writingstudio.co.za.