Trailerblazing -- Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens/Jurassic World

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens -- December 18, 2015 -- directed by J.J. Abrams -- starring Andy Serkis, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Domhnall Gleeson, Lupita Nyong'o 

This sign of what to expect from a galaxy far, far away in 2015 is a teaser if ever there was one. There is a collection of sequences from the reimagining of George Lucas's original, hinting only at visuals and not the story details. Among other elements, there are Stormtroopers and what looks like C-3PO's wacky little cousin. We also see who we think is Princess Leia's daughter (Daisy Ridley) speeding off in a panic, John Boyega's stormtrooper looking nervous and a hooded character wielding a new and rather cool lightsaber model. The trailer's narrator was just revealed to be Serkis, making me wonder if he could possibly be playing a mentor or someone related to a character in the previous six films. The secrecy is not surprising and, personally, I appreciate it -- what is the point of knowing all the surprises before seeing the actual film? I am happy that Abrams was chosen to be helming the franchise in Lucas's absence, considering the creativity and fun that he has brought to Star Trek. Based on this footage, fans are in for truly imaginative space conflict and intrigue.

Jurassic World -- June 12, 2015 -- directed by Colin Trevorrow -- starring Chris Pratt, Judy Greer, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D'Onofrio 

Wow and... wow. When I first heard about this reboot, I did not think that Spielberg's unique brand of magic could ever be replicated, but the trailer has proved me wrong. The film promises surprise after surprise as far as effects go -- that shark scene! -- and a great story that once again involves humans tinkering with nature. The trailer makes me wonder if there are any character cameos being kept under wraps -- Dr. Alan Grant, anyone? I believe that Pratt will make for a good reluctant hero and I can never wait to see D'Onofrio in anything he does. I also look forward to seeing what IMAX 3D brings to the table. All in all, Jurassic World seems like a fine continuation of the legacy of Spielberg's film, as well as the legacy of Michael Crichton's novels.