HOLLYWOOD—While Christmas Day is the one holiday that virtually every business in the world is closed, there is one industry that happens to be open, the multiplex. Yes, Christmas Day is one of the busiest days at the multiplex and this year there is plenty for moviegoers to choose from.  In addition to releases like “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “August: Osage County,” there are other films to choose from also. For audiences looking for something of a lighter tone and more family friendly, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” should be on the list. The movie is a remake of the 1947 film that starred Danny Kaye and Virginia Mayo.

This installment stars Ben Stiller, as Walter, a man who spends an abundance of his time day-dreaming some vivid events, while allowing life to pass him by. It has a bit of charm and comedy, but its tone is sure to melt the hearts of many moviegoers this Christmas weekend.  Stiller also plays the role of director and producer for the picture. The film also stars Kristen Wiig, Shirley MacClaine, Adam Scott and Sean Penn.

For those looking for action, check out Keanu Reeves in the flick “47 Ronin.” It tells the story of the 47 members of a samurai group who avenge the murder of their master. The movie is a martial arts extravaganza that will please the most avid fans. I must say there has not been much martial arts pics at the multiplex in 2013, so it’s a welcome change.

Sylvester Stallone steps back into the ring, but not as Rocky Balboa in “Grudge Match.” Stallone portrays Henry ‘Razor’ Sharp, an aging boxer who heads back into the ring to do battle against Billy ‘The Kid’ McDonnen (Robert De Niro).  I must say the irony of seeing both actors step back into the boxing ring, after portraying characters that are icons on the screen: De Niro as Jake LaMotta in 1980s “Raging Bull” and Stallone as Rocky, is funny to say the least. Those looking to see two esteemed actors go toe-to-toe will be in for a treat.

A film that is generating a bit of Oscar buzz is “Lone Survivor.” It’s the real-life story of a failed United States Navy Seals mission Operation Red Wings during the war inAfghanistan, where four SEAL members were expected to capture or kill Taliban leader Ahmad Shah. The film stars Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch and Eric Bana. The movie is directed by Peter Berg who also helmed 2007’s “The Kingdom.”

By LaDale Anderson