By Francisco Salazar (staff@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Jan 07, 2013 09:47 PM EST

The winter film season will feature Latino superstars in a number of blockbusters and smaller Indie films.

"Gangster Squad" opens Jan. 11th and chronicles the LAPD's fight to keep East Coast Mafia types out of Los Angeles in the 1940s and 50s. The film features an all star cast including Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Sean Penn and Josh Brolin. It also features Latin American actor Michael Peña who just came off an acclaimed role in the film "End of Watch."

Why Should Latinos See It? The film was one of the most anticipated films of last year but was delayed due to the Aurora shooting in July. "Squad" promises to feature lots of action and entertainment from its stellar cast, which includes Mexican-American Peña.

"The Last Stand" opens on Jan. 18th under the Lionsgate. The film marks the return of Arnold Schwarzenegger on the big screen. The film tells the story of a leader of a drug cartel that busts out of a courthouse and speeds to the Mexican border, where the only thing in his path is a sheriff and his inexperienced staff. The movie also showcases rising  Latin American star Genesis Rodriguez and Brazilian actor Rodrigo Santoro.

Why Should Latinos See it? Rodrigo Santoro and Genesis Rodriguez are some of the most popular actors in Latin America and with Scharzenegger back in a starring role this should be a thrilling adventure.

"Mama" hit theaters Jan. 18th and tells the story of Annabel and Lucas who are faced with the challenge of raising his young nieces. Mexican filmmaker Guillermo Del Toro produced the film and Academy Award Nominee Jessica Chastain stars.

Why Should Latinos See It? Del Toro and Chastain have yet to disappoint and even though it is being released in January, the film may be a surprise.

"Identity Thief" hits theaters Feb. 8th and tells the story of a mild-mannered businessman who learns his identity has been stolen. He hits the road in an attempt to foil the thief -- a trip that puts him in the path of a deceptively harmless-looking woman. Directed by Seth Gordon, "Thief" stars Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman.

Why Should Latinos See it? The film also features Genesis Rodriguez who will also be seen in "The Last Stand." The film is directed by Seth Gordon whose last film "Horrible Bosses" was a major success.

"No" opens Feb. 15 in limited release under Sony Pictures Classics. The film tells the story of an ad executive who comes up with a campaign to defeat Augusto Pinochet in Chile's 1988 referendum. The film stars Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal and has been critically acclaimed.

Why Should Latinos See It? The films is based on historical event in Chile and it will be one of the mot honored Latin American films come this year. It is also shortlisted for the Academy Award this year.

"The Place Beyond the Pines" opens March 29th under Focus Features. The film tells the story of a motorcycle stunt rider who considers committing a crime in order to provide for his wife and child. "Pines" stars Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, and Eva Mendes.

Why Should Latinos See it? After making a splash at the festival circuit this past fall, the film garnered incredible reviews. Cuban-American Eva Mendes also garnered the best reviews of her career.

"The Heat" opens April 5 under Fox. The film follows an Uptight FBI special agent Sarah Ashburn who is paired with a testy Boston cop Shannon Mullins in order to take down a ruthless drug lord. The hitch: neither woman has ever had a partner -- or a friend for that matter. Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy star with recent Oscar nominee Demian Bichir. 

Why Should Latinos See It? Director Paul Feig last made Bridesmaids which garnered Oscar nominations. Latin audiences will also enjoy Mexican actor Demian Bichir's comic timing.

"Evil Dead" hits theaters on April 12 under FilmDistrict. The movie is a remake of the beloved Sam Raimi classic and tells the story of Mia, a young woman struggling with sobriety and heads to a remote cabin with her brother and some friends. At the cabin, the group discovers a Book of the Dead leads to danger and horror. Uruguyan filmmaker Fede Alvarez directs his debut feature.

Why Should Latinos See It? It is based on one of the greatest Horror films of all time and is directed by a an exciting new Latino director.

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