One of the most exciting parts about going to the movie theater is seeing the previews for upcoming movies. The anticipation of a great new movie can be almost as fulfilling as actually seeing the movie itself. The year 2012 will see the release of many fantastic films ranging from superhero flicks to dramas to gut-busting comedies. Here are some picks for the most anticipated upcoming movies of 2012:

The Avengers

Over the past few years, the build up to this movie has been immense, with the release of a slew of superhero movies from the Marvel universe increasing the anticipation. Though die-hard Marvel fans might be skeptical, the star-studded cast and effects will easily draw huge crowds to the theaters to see just how the team fairs.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

A prequel to those three little films, known as the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “The Hobbit” is already guaranteed to draw in any and all fans of the Tolkien saga. With Peter Jackson returning as director, and both new and old faces rounding out the cast, “The Hobbit” is sure to be as satisfying as the previous three films, but fresh enough to keep audiences thoroughly entertained.

Neighborhood Watch

With the overwhelming number of superhero and action films being released this year, moviegoers will need some comedy to lighten things up. With funny guys Vince Vaughn, Ben Stiller and Jonah Hill leading the cast, anyone wanting a laugh will flock to the theaters when this movie releases in July.

The Dark Knight Rises

One of the most highly anticipated films of the year is this follow-up to 2008’s blockbuster “The Dark Knight.” With some talented additions to the cast and an action-packed trailer, the movie looks to be fresh and exciting, but only time will tell if the Dark Knight will indeed rise or rather flop like many movie series do after the first two films.

The Amazing Spider-Man

Though many have questioned the rapid reboot of this character, new actors (Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone) and a new plot mix things up. Regardless of the doubts people have, 2012 is the year of superheroes and Spider-Man will most likely share in the success of “The Dark Knight Rises” and “The Avengers.”

Brave

Pixar’s newest film centers on the courageous Merida and her adventures as she defies the expectations set for her. Set in Scotland, this fairy tale feature will entertain and amuse not only kids, but adults as well.

Titanic (…again)

Following the recent trend of re-released movies, James Cameron has decided to share Titanic with audiences once more, this time in 3D. Titanic, once the highest grossing movies of all time, until Cameron’s own “Avatar” came along, has a massive fan following that will take to the theaters to watch this heartbreaker once more.

Snow White and the Huntsman

With Charlize Theron, Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth starring this take on the famous fairytale is sure to be interesting. The trailers released so far are visually stunning, ensuring that both action lovers and romantics alike will go see the film.

Molly Keegan can be reached for comment at [email protected].