Trailerblazing -- Avengers: Age of Ultron/The Babadook

Avengers: Age of Ultron -- May 1, 2015 -- directed by Joss Whedon -- starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, James Spader

And now for the trailer that officially broke the Internet. There should be no doubt in anyone's mind that this is the first blockbuster of summer 2015. Marvel Comics' combination of excellent characterization, stark humor -- see what I did there? -- and end-of-the-world warfare did wonders for the 2012 film. All of the principal favorites are back, with the addition of mutant siblings Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), who seem to have quite a prominent role in the story. Whedon also expands the mythology geographically, possibly delving into some characters' pasts and locating new enemies for the Avengers to battle. I really like Spader in villain roles and here he creates motivation and intent using merely his voice, which is brilliance on a whole other level. All in all, the film looks like another fun entry in the Marvel canon and another megahit for the superhero trend.

The Babadook -- November 28, 2014 -- directed by Jennifer Kent -- starring Essie Davis, Daniel Henshall, Tim Purcell

I like horror films with little to no gore. I am big on atmosphere and subtle scares, just like Jennifer Kent's The Babadook -- we are a a perfect match! The story seems to rely on the general theme of creature urban legends, following a single mother who discovers a sinister presence in her house. The human element is the tale's main one, automatically making The Babadook an intriguing idea and reminding me of works like Rosemary's Baby and The Exorcist, those fright classics that place characterization and relationships above all else. I am also happy to see the use of sparse locations, since the most simple ones are often the most effective for this genre. There is nothing like a dark corner if presented in the right way. Finally, I would like to point out that we need more female voices in horror, so I am happy to see Kent's first feature receiving the kind of attention and praise that it has been getting. I look forward to seeing it.