Several of this year’s biggest box office draws are coming to TDS TV on Demand. Highlights include the return of Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, DC Comics’ edgy “Suicide Squad” and the animated smash “The Secret Life of Pets.”
New on TDS TV on Demand
Jason Bourne
Matt Damon is back as Jason Bourne, rogue super spy. The elements are all there – amazing stunts, slick action, plenty of plot twists, and a great cast (including Damon, Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander and Julia Stiles). It all adds up to a solid – but not great – thriller as the formula has grown a little stale. But fans of the Bourne franchise will enjoy having Damon back in the saddle. Available December 6.
The Secret Life of Pets
Immensely cute and funny animated film that adults and kids can both enjoy. The film is pretty much the title – the secret life that our pets lead while we are away. The excellent voice cast includes Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet, Kevin Hart, Jenny Slate, Ellie Kemper, Albert Brooks, Dana Carvey, Lake Bell and Hannibal Buress. Available December 6.
Don’t Think Twice
Comedian Mike Birbiglia stars, writes and directs this funny (and harsh) tale about a New York improv group that gets a big break – only to realize that not everything is going to be great for everyone. The film takes a razor sharp look at how friendship, ego, and success (and failure) can collide. The film will especially resonate with anyone involved in a creative field. The outstanding cast includes Birbiglia, Keegan-Michael Key, Gillian Jacobs, Kate Micucci, Chris Gethard and Tami Sagher. Available December 6.
Bridget Jones’s Baby
It’s been over a decade since the last “Bridget Jones” movie, but Renee Zellweger slides right back into the role she created. This time, Bridget finds herself pregnant – only she’s not sure who’s the baby’s father. The film isn’t particularly original, but if you enjoyed the previous “Bridget Jones” films, this additional chapter is worth your time. Available December 13.
Equity
Anna Gunn stars in this smart and fast-paced Wall Street thriller. “Equity” constructs an uneasy look at the male-dominated banking industry amid a tale of greed and betrayal. It is a rare film created by women (director Meera Menon and writer Amy Fox) and starring a woman (Gunn, who is very good). Available December 13.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
Tim Burton’s latest film is about a young boy who discovers a magical place filled with unusual children. It is an adventure/fantasy film filled with monsters, evil villains, brilliant visuals and an eccentric and quirky attitude. Available December 13.
Suicide Squad
One of this year’s biggest hits, the comic book adaptation of “Suicide Squad” has also been one of the most polarizing movies of the year. The story about a group of super villains recruited for a secret mission is mostly routine, but the characters – such as Jared Leto’s Joker and Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn – are often riveting to watch. Unfortunately, like so many super hero ensemble films, there’s too much going on at times. Still, for all of its faults “Suicide Squad” is fun to watch. Available December 13.
TV Highlights
National Christmas Tree Lighting
Get in the holiday spirit with the lighting of the National Christmas tree in Washington, D.C. This year’s event will feature performances from James Taylor, Yolanda Adams, Kelly Clarkson, Chance the Rapper, Marc Anthony, The Lumineers, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Monday, December 5, Hallmark Channel.
Showtime at the Apollo
Steve Harvey hosts this special edition of the long-running talent showcase. Kick back for performances from Tracy Morgan, Mike Epps, Bell Biv DeVoe, En Vogue and Gabriel Iglesias. Monday, December 5, Fox.
Hairspray Live
NBC’s latest live musical event has an all-star lineup, including Jennifer Hudson, Harvey Fierstein, Kristin Chenoweth, Ariana Grande, Martin Short, Andrea Martin, Sean Hayes and Rosie O’Donnell, as well as newcomer Maddie Baillio in the lead role. Wednesday, December 7, NBC.
Madonna: Rebel Heart Tour
The Material Girl is a back with a new concert documentary of her world wide Rebel Heart Tour. Friday, December 9, Showtime.
Heisman Trophy Presentation
College footballs’ highest honor is handed out in New York City. Some of this year’s top candidates are Lamar Jackson (Louisville), Deshawn Watson (Clemson), Jake Browning (Washington), Gabriel Peppers (Michigan) and J.T. Barrett (Ohio St.). Saturday, December 10, on ESPN.
Mary Poppins
Join Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke (and the worst Cockney accent in film history) for a presentation of this 1964 family classic. The fun is Saturday, December 10, on ABC.
America’s Next Top Model
The long-running reality series moves to VH1 for its 23rd season. Other changes include a new host (Rita Ora), new experts and a new panel. Monday, December 12, VH1.
Star
Empire creator Lee Daniels’ new music industry-related series focuses on artists rather than executives. “Star” follows the struggle of three young women who form a pop trio in Atlanta and attempt to make it big. Benjamin Bratt and Queen Latifah star. Wednesday, December 14, Fox.
A Pentatonix Christmas Special
The Grammy-winning a cappella group gets to kick out some of your holiday favorites in their first-ever network special. Guest stars include Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson. Wednesday, December 14, NBC.
Barry
This original biopic chronicles the life of Barack Obama during his years as a college student at Columbia University. Devon Terrell stars as the young Obama, who came to New York in the 1980s amid a racially charged environment. Friday, December 16, Netflix.
News
Nickelodeon has ordered a third season of “School of Rock,” the adaptation of the 2003 Jack Black film.
“Mayans MC” – a spin off of the hit show “Sons of Anarchy” – is being developed by FX. “SoA” creator Kurt Sutter will direct the pilot.
Showtime has canceled “Masters of Sex” after four seasons.
The zombie apocalypse show “Z Nation” has been renewed by SyFy for a fourth year.
BBC American has renewed “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency” for a second, 10-episode, season.
Image Credits
Jason Bourne – Universal Pictures
School of Rock – Nickelodeon
