Resident Evil release date
“Resident Evil: The Final Chapter,” starring Milla Jovovich (center), is just one of the films being released in January 2017. Sony Pictures

January may be known as a “dump month” — a time when commercial and critical expectations are lowered — but that doesn’t mean there will be a lack of good films to see at the start of 2017. The upcoming weeks are filled with horror and action film releases.

Films such as “Underworld: Blood Wars” and “The Crash” will kick off the new year on Jan. 6 and Jan. 13, while “A Dog’s Purpose” and “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter” will close out the month. Check out these six films you should see this January:

“Underworld: Blood Wars” - Jan. 6

The fifth film in the “Underworld” franchise will see Kate Beckinsale reprise her role as Selene in this sequel to 2012’s “Underworld: Awakening.” Selene, along with David (Theo James) and his father Thomas (Charles Dance), will attempt to end the war between the Lycans and Vampires, as Selene takes a risk that may cost her life.

“The Crash” - Jan. 13

Starring an ensemble cast which includes Minnie Driver, Frank Grillo, John Leguizamo and Dianna Agron, a team of white collar criminals are recruited by the U.S. federal government to stop a cyber-attack that threatens to bankrupt the entire country. The film will also be available on Video On Demand Jan. 13.

“Split” - Jan. 20

A thematic sequel to 2000’s “Unbreakable,” “Split” follows three girls, Claire (Haley Lu Richardson), Marcia (Jessica Sula) and Casey (Anya Taylor-Joy), as they’re captured by Kevin (James McAvoy), a man with dissociative identity disorder. Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, the film already saw a release in September but will be premiere nationwide in January.

“xXx: Return of Xander Cage” - Jan. 20

It’s been more than 10 years since Vin Diesel has portrayed Xander Cage, but the character is back for a third film. Thought to be dead, Cage comes out of hiding to race Xiang (Donnie Yen) to find the weapon known as “Pandora’s Box.”

“A Dog’s Purpose” - Jan. 27

Have you ever wondered what goes through your dog’s mind, or what happens to your dog after it passes away? “A Dog’s Purpose” hopes to answer that question. Voiced by Josh Gad, this devoted dog hopes to find the meaning of his life.

“Resident Evil: The Final Chapter” - Jan. 27

As the title suggests, the sixth “Resident Evil” film will be the final movie in the long-running series. Taking place after the events of “Resident Evil: Retribution,” the world is on its last legs. As the only survivor, Alice (Milla Jovovich) must return to Raccoon City to fight against the Umbrella Corporation.