Five upcoming movies eyeing box-office success this fall
Which movie will take the top spot in the 2016 global box-office rankings? Can the current leader, "Captain America: Civil War," hang on to its lead after grossing $1.15M, or will it be beaten by one of these five eagerly awaited movies, due in theaters before the end of the year?
"Doctor Strange"
When Disney teams with Marvel, sparks are usually set to fly at the box office. Could this be the case for this latest adaptation, which brings a new superhero to the Marvel Cinematic Universe? After losing the use of his hands in a car accident, a talented but cynical and egotistical neurosurgeon, Stephen Strange, discovers special powers and mystic arts. Benedict Cumberbatch leads the cast, joined by Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tilda Swinton, Mads Mikkelsen and Rachel McAdams.
North American release: November 4
"Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them"
More than five years after "Harry Potter" bowed out of the movies, David Yates -- who directed the last four films -- is back working with J.K Rowling to adapt her spin-off novel about magical beasts in the Harry Potter universe. There's no sign of Daniel Radcliffe or Emma Watson here, however. Oscar-winning Eddie Redmayne (for his portrayal of scientist Stephen Hawking) is set to lead the new trilogy as Newt Scamander, the author of a textbook about magical creatures.
North American release: November 18
"Moana"
Three years after the huge success of "Frozen," Disney is releasing a new fairytale movie for holiday 2016. Far from the snowy scenes of Elsa's world, the studio is this time treating viewers to a Pacific Island adventure. This sun-soaked corner of the world is home to Moana, the star of the new film. The latest Disney princess is a born navigator in search of adventure and a mysterious fabled island. During her journey, she joins forces with the legendary demi-god Maui.
North American release: November 23
"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"
Can the intergalactic saga pull off another hit one year on from the immense success of "The Force Awakens"? The first spin-off movie from the Star Wars universe, "Rogue One," is set before "Episode IV - A New Hope," and follows a group of Rebel Alliance spies on a mission to steal secret plans for the Death Star to identify its weaknesses. The movie will introduce new characters, played by Felicity Jones, Forest Whitaker, Mads Mikkelsen and Ben Mendelsohn, and sees the return of legendary baddie, Darth Vader.
North American release: December 16
"Assassin's Creed"
Since first appearing on consoles in 2007, the Ubisoft video game -- now in its ninth edition -- has sold more than 100 million copies worldwide. Despite falls in sales over the last two years, the franchise is still a promising source of inspiration for the big screen. It also boasts a star cast, including Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard, once again directed by Justin Kurzel after last year's "Macbeth."
North American release: December 21
