Most Anticipated Films: The 2014 Edition

50) The Monuments Men

Director: George Clooney Cast: Matt Damon, George Clooney, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, and Cate Blanchett.

Why it made the list: Originally slated for last year in December (right at the peak of awards season), I must say I was little disappointed and worried when the film's release was bumped to February, thus eliminating its Oscar chances. Its for these reasons that its not very high on this list, however, I'm still very intrigued. The early release doesn't stray from the fact that the film has an excellent production team and cast behind it, and although Clooney made a comment that he doesn't think his film is a huge awards contender, that doesn't necessarily mean the movie is a complete misfire either. It could be that its just a solid film (nothing amazing, but still competent and well done) or maybe Clooney is just being humble and modest. The movie hits theaters this Friday so we'll see soon enough.

Release: February 7

49) Get On Up

Director: Tate Taylor Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Nelsan Ellis, and Dan Aykroyd. 

Why it made the list: Three years after directing the much loved movie The Help, Tate Taylor is back with with a musical biopic that chronicles the life of legendary musician, James Brown. With Get On Up, Taylor is reunited with two of his Help stars, Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, and has cast Chadwick Boseman (the breakout star of last years 42) in the lead role of Brown. Musical biopics are done quite a bit, but most of the time they strike just the right chord and this looks like it could be really good. 

Release: August 1

48) Love & Mercy

Director: Bill Pohlad Cast: Paul Dano, John Cusack, Elizabeth Banks, and Paul Giamatti.

Why it made the list: Speaking of musical biopics, here's one about musician/songwriter Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys. Filmed from a script penned by Oren Moverman (The Messenger, I'm Not There) the movie will focus on the artist's success and his struggle with mental illness. As for Bill Pohlad, you've definitely never seen any of his previous directing credits (because he doesn't really have any), however, you have more then likely seen a few of the movies he's produced (the likes of which include Brokeback Mountain, Into the Wild, and the very recent 12 Years a Slave.) Love & Mercy marks Pohlad's first major directorial debut.

Release: Probably fall

47) Child 44

Director: Daniel Espinosa Cast: Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, Noomi Rapace, Jason Clarke, Dev Patel, Vincent  Cassel, and Paddy Considine. 

Why it made the list: Based on a novel by Tom Rob Smith, the film is set in Stalin-era Soviet Union and follows a disgraced MGB agent who is dispatched to investigate a series of child murders. The cast is probably what attracts me here the most (I love Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, and Noomi Rapace.) At one point, Ridley Scott was set to direct and then backed out due to prior commitments, but was committed to the project enough to stay on as producer (and that has me excited too.) As for the story itself, I have not read the novel on which its based, but from everything I've gathered the book is densely plotted and very gripping! Child 44 marks Daniel Espinosa's follow-up to his 2012 feature, Safe House.
Release: Probably fall 

46) The Rover

Director: David Michod Cast: Robert Pattinson, Guy Pearce, Scoot McNairy. 

Why it made the list: Michod made quite a splash in 2010 with his feature film debut, Animal Kingdom, which put him on the list of new and exciting directors to anticipate (including mine.) The Rover marks his follow-up to that film, and its being described as an existential western that takes place in a war-torn future. Set against the Australian outback, a loner sets out to reclaim his stolen car and the secret cargo hidden inside. He enforces the help of one of the thieves left wounded in the wake of the crime to assist him on his trek. Sounds very gritty and exciting, and I can't wait! 

Release: Probably fall

45) Macbeth

Director: Justin Kurzel Cast: Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard. 

Why it made the list: Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard are tackling Shakespeare, and that's enough for me! I'm so excited to see these incredibly gifted actors sink their teeth into the roles of two of the most iconic characters ever written (the casting of Cotillard in the role of Lady Macbeth is brilliant!) Director Justin Kurzel (The Snowtown Murders) says his goal is to create a film with massive battle sequences yet retain the original dialogue and time period. Iain Canning and Emile Sherman (The King's Speech) will serve as the film's producers.  

Release: Awards season (so fall/winter) 

44) The Two Faces of January 

Director: Hossein Amini Cast: Oscar Isaac, Viggo Mortensen, and Kirsten Dunst. 

Why it made the list: Directorial debuts are always an exciting and fascinating thing to watch (even if the person's first go isn't perfect), which is why I'm excited to see screenwriter Hossein Amini (The Wings of the Dove, Drive) make his debut with The Two Faces of January. Based on a screenplay that he wrote, this thriller centers on a con artist, his wife, and a stranger who try to flee the country after one of them is caught up in the murder of a police officer. Good trio of actors in the lead roles, and Tim Bevan and and Eric Fellner (Les Miserables, Atonement) produce along with Robyn Slovo (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) and Tom Sternberg (Apocalypse Now.) 

Release: Not sure, but it looks like the type of film to hit the festival circuit before it hits theaters

43) Nightcrawler 

Director: Dan Gilroy Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Bill Paxton, Riz Ahmed, and Rene Russo.

Why it made the list: Like I said, directorial debuts can be an exciting and fascinating thing to watch. When Tony Gilroy made his debut with Michael Clayton back in 2007, it was certainly both of those things. Now his younger brother Dan, whose previous work as a writer includes Tarsem Singh's The Fall (which is one of my most favorite films of all time), is set to make his debut later this year. The plot focuses on Gyllenhaal, who plays a young man that begins work as a freelance crime journalist in L.A. Aside from that, plot details are scarce, and while "freelance crime journalist in L.A." doesn't necessarily grab me by the lapels screaming "SEE ME!", Gyllenhaal is one of my favorite actors and I'll watch him in ANYTHING (especially after his fantastic work in last year's Prisoners.)

Release: Probably fall

42) God Help the Girl

Director: Stuart Murdoch Cast: Emily Browning, Hannah Murray, and Olly Alexander.

Why it made the list: Set in Glasgow, Scotland, the film follows a highly imaginative but emotionally insecure girl named, Eve, who uses songwriting as a form of release. In the city she meets two like-minded souls, Cassie and James, who share a love of music to match her own. They form a band, and what follows after is a long, dream-like summer filled with musical collaboration and renaissance. The film was written and directed by Stuart Murdoch, the lead singer and songwriter of the indie pop band Belle and Sebastian, and the movie will mark his debut as a director (as well as his first foray into film making in general.) A very talented musician (if you haven't heard his work definitely check it out), the music from the film is based on one of his concept albums from a couple years back. I know that Murdoch's previous credits don't exactly hail a major director on the rise, but the plot and musical aspect of the film has me very intrigued, and this could turn out to be the type of indie hit that I live to see (in the same way I fell in love with Once back in 2007.) Plus, its a musical, and anyone who has the chops to tackle a musical as their directing debut has me very excited! God Help the Girl will premiere at Sundance, and I can't wait to hear what the first word on the film is.

Release: With a Sundance debut, I'm guessing the film will make its release sometime this summer

41) Big Hero 6

Directors: Don Hall and Chris Williams

Why it made the list: Disney is sure capitalizing on their purchase of Marvel from a few years back. Their newest animated venture Big Hero Six, is based on one of the studios more obscure comics, and follows a boy genius and his robot bodyguard that are enlisted into a team of superheroes to protect the city of San Fransokyo (isn't that just precious.) Some people will probably shake their heads when they hear that superheroes are to be the focus in Disney's latest animation vessel (since they're already the focus in almost every studio blockbuster), but I think the story contains the right level of imagination that's perfectly suited for Disney, and just the concept of a new animated film that stems from a Disney/Marvel collaboration sounds absolutely inspired. Still in the process of filming, the voice cast has yet to be announced, but it will be interesting to see what colorful voice talents the studio signs on. Producer Roy Conli (Tangled) and executive producer John Lasseter (Pixar VP) are all also involved in the creative process of Disney's 54th full-length animated feature.

Release: November 7

40)  Winter's Tale

Director: Akiva Goldsman Cast: Colin Farrell, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, William Hurt, and Jessica Brown Findlay.

Why it made the list: Love the book this is based on by Mark Helprin, and if you haven't read it I highly recommend it! Part modern day fantasy and part romance, the story is set in a sort of mythic New York City near the turn of the 20th century. Colin Farrell plays Peter Lake, a common burglar that falls in love with a wealthy heiress named Beverly. Their romance is cut short though when Beverly's life is taken away by a fatal disease. Through a series of bizarre circumstances, Peter is whisked away to a modern New York with no memory or recollection of his previous life. When he eventually does begin to gain it back, he discovers there may be a way to save Beverly and set everything right. I don't want to give too much away, but all I can say is how much I immensely enjoyed the story and characters in Helprin's novel. Akiva Goldsman, best known for his writing credits in A Beautiful Mind and Cinderella Man, has never directed a feature film before, but I'm very anxious to see how he translates this novel to the big screen. He's definitely assembled quite a wonderful cast, and that has me hopeful too. 

Release: Originally slated for the holiday season last year, the film was bumped to Valentine's Day, which is wise move in my opinion given the nature of the story. 

39) Transcendence 

Director: Wally Pfister Cast: Johnny Depp, Kate Mara, Rebecca Hall, Morgan Freeman, Cillian Murphy, and Paul Bettany.

Why it made the list: Wally Pfister is known for his acclaimed work as a cinematographer, especially the principle photography he did in all of Christopher Nolan's films (including Inception, for which he won an Oscar.) Now he's making his directorial debut with Transcendence, and it will be interesting to see just how much he's learned from working with a great director like Nolan. In fact, Nolan himself is credited as the film's executive producer, so I have a strong feeling this project has been well taken care of in its production. Johnny Depp stars as a terminally ill scientist that downloads his mind into one of the computer systems of his creation. His actions provide him with immense knowledge and power at his disposal, but like any good sci-fi story, this knowledge is sure to come with a price that comes hand in hand with its own heavy consequences. LOVE Johnny Depp and I always enjoy a good sci-fi yarn, so this one definitely has my vote!

Release: April 18

38) Nymphomaniac

Director: Lars von Trier Cast: Charlotte Gainsbourg, Stacy Martin, Stellan Skarsgard, Shia LaBeouf, Uma Thurman, Jamie Bell, Willem Dafoe, Mia Goth, Christian Slater, and Connie Nielsen.

Why it made the list: I know what you all must be thinking, and I must say I'm surprised with myself that I placed von Trier's new film on this list to begin with. But dark and twisted as von Trier may be, I still can't help but be drawn to his artistic style (despite the sometimes extreme liberties he takes to convey his themes.) Most people that have heard of the film are aware that the actors were asked to perform in sex scenes that were NOT simulated, but to actually engage in the real thing. I will admit that these kinds risks will (and rightfully should) raise some red flags from people that object to this sort of extreme style of film making, but I can't help but be curious by what von Trier is trying to accomplish here. As for the plot, the title is pretty self-explanatory: the story follows a self-diagnosed nymphomaniac named Joe, and recounts the various erotic experiences that have influenced and shaped her life. Early reviews have called the movie a poetic, almost lyrical film that delves into themes of sex, addiction, and self-destruction. A two-part film, I can't see myself falling in love in with this movie and giving it multiple viewing, however, it does sound like something I'd watch once and applaud, then never watch again due to the depressing and graphic nature of the content (sort of like with Steve McQueen's Shame.) 

Release: March 21 (Part 1) April 18 (Part 2) 

37) Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Directors: Anthony and John Russo Cast: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, and Robert Redford.

Why it made the list: The Marvel installments have become the equivalent for theaters what hot TV shows are for television, except instead of having to wait every week for a new episode to air we wait 4-5 months for a new one to hit the movie screens (and we always come.) After all, one of the reasons we go to the movies is to be entertained, and these movies are certainly entertaining. And while there are some people who are annoyed that superhero flicks dominate the field of movie blockbusters and cry "cash rake" at all their sequels (and I'll admit that they are quite overdone), 90% of the time they are something I look forward to and more then a few will usually always make this list. I found the last Captain America to be quite enjoyable, and based on what I've seen in the trailers this looks to be a much more serious and action-packed sequel.

Release: April 4

36) Laggies

Director: Lynn Shelton Cast: Keira Knightley, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Sam Rockwell.

Why it made the list: I did not see Shelton's last movie Touchy Feely (although I did hear really good things), but I did see Your Sister's Sister which I thought was terrific and showcased Shelton's talents as a promising director with a good feel for deeply humane drama. Laggies centers on Megan (Knightley), a woman stuck in permanent adolescence who lies to her fiance about going on a retreat to instead hang out with her (much younger) friends. Based on the plot, it sounds like a story that touches on the theme of clinging to youth and the fear of entering adulthood, which is something I could definitely get into. Its also a story that I feel is very relevant to today's generation, and I think its something that has the potential to connect with a lot of audiences. Love the casting of Knightley (since its a role that sounds very different from anything she's tried before) and Moretz as her 16-year-old friend should be a real hoot! Plus Sam Rockwell, who is sure to contribute a lively performance to the mix.

Release: Premieres at Sundance, so I'm predicting a Summer release 

35) The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet

Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet Cast: Kyle Catlett, Helena Bonham Carter, Callum Keith Rennie, Judy Davis, and Niamh Wilson.

Why it made the list: Originally scheduled for last year, the film never made its release in the U.S., however, it did premiere in France where a couple U.S. critics were able to catch it. The reviews so far seem to be very positive, although I didn't read too much into them in fear of catching any spoilers. The film follows the journey of 12-year old cartographer T.S. Spivet, who lives on a ranch in Montana with his cowboy father and scientist mother. After he learns that he has won an award from the Smithsonian Institute, he secretly leaves home and begins a journey across the country to claim his prize. The story feels tailor-made for Amelie director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and I can't wait for it to finally makes its debut in the U.S. Kyle Catlett (who plays the young prodigy Spivet) must have made quite an impression in the lead role of the film. He was recently cast in the upcoming Poltergeist remake.

Release: I'm thinking it could make a splash at the Cannes Film Festival for more critics to see, then find its way to U.S. theaters in the fall.

34) While We're Young

Director: Noah Baumbach Cast: Ben Stiller, Naomi Watts, Amanda Seyfried, and Adam Driver.

Why it made the list: Ever since The Squid and the Whale I have always been fascinated with Noah Baumbach's films, even though they're quite often painfully (and somehow hilariously) blunt. In a lot of ways he reminds me of a much younger Woody Allen, and after the absolutely wonderful Frances Ha last year I can't wait to see his next project. In While We're Young, Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts star as an uptight husband and wife who learn to loosen up when they befriend a younger, more hip couple in their twenties (played by Amanda Seyfried and Adam Driver.) The concept sounds perfectly fit for Baumbach, and I'm hoping for something that contains the sharpness of Squid and the Whale but still retains the buoyancy and spirit of Frances Ha. 

Release: I'm predicting a fall release after a possible debut at the Toronto Film Festival.

33) The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1

Director: Francis Lawrence Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, and Julianne Moore. 

Why it made the list: The games are over, and now comes the first half of Suzanne Collins epic finale! I must say that after the first installment in the franchise, I wasn't entirely sure how the future installments would fare. Not to say that I didn't enjoy the first Hunger Games, only that having been such a huge fan of the books and not being blown away by the first movie definitely had me wondering whether they would get better or (god forbid) worse. But after the fireworks of excitement in Catching Fire and that one helluva cliff hanger, I am so pumped for the next chapter in this ripping story. The decision to shoot the film in two parts definitely keeps me speculative, but does not take away the excitement I have for what will hopefully be an explosive finale!

Release: November 21

32) How to Catch a Monster

Director: Ryan Gosling Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Christina Hendricks, Matt Smith, Eva Mendes, Ben Mendelsohn, and Barbara Steele. 

Why it made the list: Not only is it Gosling making his directorial debut, but the story sounds right up my alley as well! Based on a script Gosling wrote himself, the film follows a single mother as she struggles to locate her missing child. As her search begins to deepen, her finds eventually lead her to a dark and mysterious underworld. Warner Bros. has billed the film as a "dark fantasy noir fairy tale," and that alone has me intrigued. Plus, Gosling is known for having a good relationship with his directors, especially Nicolas Winding Refn (Drive) and Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines) whom he worked with on two films each. So it will be interesting to see whether some of their influence can be seen in Gosling's first work behind the camera.

Release: Looks like a fall release. It could possibly debut at TIFF.

31) The BoxTrolls 

Directors: Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi Cast: Elle Fanning, Toni Collette, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Ben Kingsley, Jared Harris, Tracy Morgan, Richard Ayoade, and Isaac Hempstead Wright. 

Why it made the list: I've been a devoted follower of Laika since Coraline. I love the fact that the studio uses stop-motion to tell their stories; it gives the animation so much texture. I will admit that their last feature, ParaNorman, didn't measure up to Coraline, but it was still enjoyable and definitely gorgeous to look at nonetheless. Based on the children's novel "Here Be Monsters," BoxTrolls tells the story of an orphan boy who is raised underground by trash-collecting creatures. Definitely keep your eye on this one in the Best Animated Film race come awards season.

Release: September 26

30) Guardians of the Galaxy 

Director: James Gunn Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, David Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace, Karen Gillan, Benicio Del Toro, John C. Reilly, Djimon Hounsou, and Glenn Close.

Why it made the list: Marvel will be introducing a new host of superheroes in this sci-fi action/adventure that's set to hit theaters this summer. For those that saw The Avengers (which should be just about everyone) and stayed till after the credits, you probably recall a certain cameo made by the character, Thanos (a big honcho villain in the Marvel universe.) Marvel's Phase 2 is gearing up for an Avengers/Thanos smackdown that will apparently go down in the third Avengers installment, but of course there has to be all this set-up before these events can take place. Guardians of the Galaxy takes us deeper into the Marvel universe, and introduces us to a band of intergalactic crusaders that team up to prevent a powerful object from falling into the wrong hands. Supposedly, this band of heroes will have a part to play in the third (and final) Avengers film, and since Thanos is an intergalactic villain, its rumored that he will make a brief appearance in Guardians this year (this is where all that set-up comes in.) Aside from all this though, what has me the most excited about this film is that it has the potential to be something unique and all its own. Sure, Marvel is once again throwing more superheroes at us, but Guardians is also an entirely space-set adventure complete with some incredibly wild-looking characters, and I'm predicting/hoping that this will result in a deliriously entertaining mash-up that combines the action and antics of previous Marvel films with the sci-fi adventure aspect of Star Wars. The cast is certainly confident about the film's prospects, and had nothing but praise for director James Gunn and what he accomplished. With an August release, I hope this is the film to end the summer movie season on a high note!

Release: August 1 

29) Carol

Director: Todd Haynes Cast: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Sarah Paulson, Kyle Chandler, and Corey Michael Smith.

Why it made the list: Set in 1950s New York, the story follows a department store clerk (Mara) who falls for a much older married woman (Blanchett.) Director Todd Haynes (HBO's Mildred Pierce) brings us his first feature film since 2007's I'm Not There, and has cast two of today's best actresses in the lead roles. LOVE Blanchett and Mara, and can't wait to see these two dynamic actors perform opposite one another! Haynes does great things for the women he casts (Kate Winslet, Julianne Moore, and Blanchett, who he also worked with on I'm Not There), so I'm sure we'll be hearing Blanchett and Mara's names come awards season.

Release: I'm guessing the film will make its debut at the Venice Film Festival or Toronto, and then probably a December release. 

28) A Most Wanted Man

Director: Anton Corbijn Cast: Daniel Bruhl, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Rachel McAdams, Robin Wright, and Willem Dafoe.

Why it made the list: Wanted to catch this one last year but it wasn't quite finished in time to start making its rounds at the festival circuit. Based on a novel by John Le Carre, the film is a political thriller that takes place in the Islamic community of Hamburg, where an ex-prisoner of Chechen and Russian descent mysteriously shows up after being tortured nearly to death. Seeking to recover his late father's fortune, he is arrested on site for illegally immigrating into the country. Once in custody, government officials begin to investigate his case to prove his legitimacy. But as the clock ticks, they must decide if he is a merely a victim or actually a terrorist that poses a threat to national security. Corbijn is great at crafting thrillers of this sort, and even though his last film The American wasn't received so well, it was still a good film that would've succeeded better had it been marketed differently. Plus, it will be bittersweet watching Phillip Seymour Hoffman star in his last baity role. R.I.P. 

Release: I expect it to hit Cannes then make a summer release.

27) Magic in the Moonlight

Director: Woody Allen Cast: Emma Stone, Colin Firth, Marcia Gay Harden, Eileen Atkins, Simon McBurney, and Jacki Weaver.

Why it made the list: Woody Allen can be pretty hit or miss sometimes, but when he hits it he knocks out of the park! Lately, he's been hitting hit (Midnight in Paris, Blue Jasmine) so it goes without saying that I'm very excited for his next film! One of the most original writer/directors working today, he always assembles a very colorful cast and this looks to be no different. Set in the south of France, Moonlight is a period romantic comedy that takes place sometime in the 1920s or 30s. Like with most Woody Allen films, plot details are scarce other then those few vague descriptions, but that's half the fun of going into his films: not knowing what to expect! 

Release: Cannes debut with a summer release

26) Only Lovers Left Alive

Director: Jim Jarmusch Cast: Tom Hiddleston, Tilda Swinton, Mia Wasikowska, John Hurt, Anton Yelchin, and Jeffrey Wright.

Why it made the list: Didn't make its release in theaters last year, however, word of mouth was VERY good during its run of the festival circuit. The film follows two vampire lovers, Adam and Eve, who share a romance that's lasted centuries. Adam (Hiddleston) is an underground musician, going through a deep depression as he watches a modern world that's been slowly collapsing under the new ideals and norms of human society. He is reunited with is old lover (Swinton) and they reconnect as they relate with each other their mutual contempt of today's culture and its values. Wasikowska plays Swinton's wild and uncontrollable younger sister, who's arrival threatens to disrupt the lovers' newly rekindled romance. The story sounds so original, fresh, and timely, and its so exciting to know that some new life has been injected into a genre that's been dead for quite some time (thanks to films like Twilight.)

Release: April 11

25) Boyhood

Director: Richard Linklater Cast: Ethan Hawke, Patricia Arquette, and Ellar Coltrane.

Why it made the list: Richard Linklater is probably best known for his Before Sunrise trilogy (which he concluded with Before Midnight just last year.) This year, Linklater will deliver an experience unlike anything ever tried before in film. Boyhood has been 12 years in the making, and follows the life of a boy from age six to eighteen, focusing on the relationship he has with his parents before and after their divorce. Shooting first began back in 2002, when Linklater cast a very young Ellar Coltrane to play the role of the film's central character, Mason. Since then, he has continued shooting portions of the film over a 12 year span, so that as the audience is watching these characters and their story unfold we are also watching them naturally age right before our eyes! I'm not 100% sure if this has ever been tried before, but there's no denying the level of ambition committed to such a project (12 years could be the longest shoot ever recorded in film history!) I love Linklater's work, and I can't wait to see the fruits of his labor in what I'm sure was a long and tedious process.

Release: I know it debuts at Sundance, but it might continue to run the festival circuit before it finally makes a theatrical release. I'm guessing summer or early fall.

24) Dark Places

Director: Gilles Paquet-Brenner Cast: Charlize Theron, Corey Stoll, Tye Sheridan, Chloe Grace Moretz, Nicolas Hoult, Christina Hendricks, and Sterling Jerins.

Why it made the list: One of the two films to be based on a Gillian Flynn novel this year (the other is further down this list), Dark Places centers on a woman (Theron) who survived the brutal killing of her family as a child. She is forced to confront the events of that day by a secret society that is obsessed with solving notorious crimes. Gilles Paquet-Brenner first came onto my radar after I saw his 2011 feature, Sarah's Key. He's assembled quite a fantastic cast here, and I love me a good crime drama with psychological undertones. Could be this year's Prisoners.

Release: September 1

23) Big Eyes

Director: Tim Burton Cast: Amy Adams, Christoph Waltz, Krysten Ritter, Danny Huston, Jason Schwartzman, and Terrence Stamp.

Why it made the last: Tim Burton takes a break from the lushly photographed fantasy he's known for to do something he hasn't tried in a while: a dramatic portrait of an artist. In this case, he has chosen to focus on the life of notorious painter, Margaret Keane. The film will focus on her awakening as a painter, her phenomenal success in the 1950s, and the legal battles she faced with her husband, who claimed credit for her works during the 1960s. Burton hasn't done anything quite like this since 1994's Ed Wood (which I still consider to be one of his best films yet), so it came as no surprise when I discovered that he was working from a screenplay penned by his Ed Wood scribes, Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski. Will their second collaboration result in another Burton classic? My guess is yes, and with Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz in the lead roles, how can you go wrong?!

Release: No official date yet, but it looks like its headed for a fall release.

22) Exodus

Director: Ridley Scott Cast: Christian Bale, Aaron Paul, Joel Edgerton, Sigourney Weaver, John Turturro, Indira Varma, Maria Valverde, Hiam Abbass, and Ben Kingsley.

Why it made the list: Ridley Scott film with Christian Bale in the lead (no further explanation required.) But there are so many other reasons to be excited for Scott's new film, which offers up a fresh retelling of the Biblical account of Moses. For starters, Ridley Scott has proven he is master at directing sword and sandal epics (Gladiator), and even though last year's The Counselor proved to be a huge letdown, I'm always excited for whatever Ridley Scott will offer up next. Plus, he's assembled a fantastic cast (Sigourney Weaver reunited with her Alien director just gives me goosebumps) and Bale will be hot off his Oscar nomination from last year's American Hustle. A holiday release is a good sign too, since it says something about the film's chances as a major player during the next awards season.

Release: December 12

21) Jupiter Ascending

Directors: Andy and Lana Wachowski Cast: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Sean Bean, Douglas Booth, Eddie Redmayne, Vanessa Kirby, and James D'Arcy.  

Why it made the list: The Wachowskis are no stranger to sci-fi. Most people know the directing duo for the geek following they created with The Matrix trilogy, and in 2012 they showed even more range when they teamed with director Tom Tykwer to deliver their sprawling epic, Cloud Atlas (which I immensely enjoyed.) Based on the trailer, Jupiter Ascending looks more Matrix then Cloud Atlas given the heavy doses of action and sci-fi, yet still seems to contain the epic sweep that made Cloud Atlas an exciting and ambitious film. Kunis stars as Jupiter Jones, a young destitute woman who is targeted for assassination by an intergalactic queen. With a summer release, this could end up being a loud, razzle-dazzle sci-fi yarn that doesn't engage on an emotional or intellectual level, but I'm really hoping it turns out to be the opposite. If it does, this should be quite a relief to all the typical studio blockbusters we're often graced with during this time of the movie season.

Release: July 18

20) The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Director: Marc Webb Cast: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Dane DeHaan, Paul Giamatti, Sally Field, Colm Feore, and Marton Csokas.

Why it made the list: 2012's Spider-Man reboot seemed to be a love it or hate it kind of movie; you either really dug the fresh approach or saw the film as an attempt from the studio to cash in on the popularity of superhero blockbusters. As for me, I personally enjoyed the hell out of it, and its for this reason I am so excited for the upcoming sequel. I love Marc Webb's very humane approach to the story and these characters, and everything I've seen and read suggests that this sequel will be much more densely plotted, far darker in tone, and way more action packed then the first installment. Some people remain very speculative, especially those that are worried by the film's trio of villains (the last time Spidey faced more then one baddie the result was the disastrous Spider-Man 3, where most people blamed the movie's overload of villains as being one of the main problems with the film.)  But I'm more confident this time around. The cast had nothing but praise for the script that was penned by Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, and Jeff Pinkner, and said it was one of the main resaons they were so excited to shoot the sequel. So I have a strong feeling the villains will be deftly integrated into the plot, and that their presence will be in sole service to the story. And speaking of  the new movie's villains, have you seen the pictures of Jamie Foxx as the film's main baddie, Electro! Foxx is another reason I'm so pumped for this sequel. The look of his character is unlike anything I could've ever imagined, and I'm sure Foxx will deliver a performance that matches his character's original and exciting presentation. 

Release: May 2

19) Untitled Cameron Crowe Project aka Deep Tiki

Director: Cameron Crowe Cast: Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, John Krasinski, Danny McBride, Alec Baldwin, Jay Baruchel, and Bill Murray.

Why it made the list: With no official title yet (although the script was once titled, Deep Tiki), Cameron Crowe's latest has actually been in the works for quite a while. Readings of the original script draft described the story as a sort of "spiritual cousin" to Crowe's hit film Jerry Maguire, and film was initially intended to be a follow-up to his 2005 feature Elizabethtown. Cooper plays a celebrated military contractor who returns to a former site in Hawaii where he once generated a great deal of success. While there, he reconnects with a former flame from long ago, but soon finds himself falling hard for the Air Force watchdog assigned to him. I know this all seems overly familiar like we've seen it before, but I really enjoy Crowe as a filmmaker for the most part and the amount of talent that's attached to star in very impressive too.

Release: I'm guessing it will premiere at TIFF or NYFF before making a December release just like Crowe's last film, We Bought A Zoo.

18) The Grand Budapest Hotel

Director: Wes Anderson Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Saoirse Ronan, Tilda Swinton, Edward Norton, Lea Seydoux, Jude Law, Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Willem Dafoe, Adrien Brody, Jeff Goldblum, Jason Schwartzman, Harvey Keitel, Tom Wilkinson, and F. Murray Abraham.

Why it made the list: First off, take a look at that cast! Not only has Wes Anderson assembled a multitude of his regulars, he's even added some other great talent to the mix as well! I've always been a huge fan of Wes Anderson's films, but seeing as how his last two movies were Fantastic Mr. Fox and Moonrise Kingdom (which I both absolutely loved), I'm even more excited for his next feature. He's definitely been on a role (Fox and Kingdom were both met with critical acclaim and scored Oscar noms), and its for this reason that The Grand Budapest Hotel made my top 20 on this list. The film follows the adventures of Gustave (Fiennes), a legendary concierge at a famous European hotel, where various characters and their plot lines intersect and mingle. In my mind, I'm imagining it will be a lighter and funnier version of Gosford Park. 

Release: March 7

17) Midnight Special 

Director: Jeff Nichols Cast: Joel Edgerton, Jaeden Lieberher, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver, and Michael Shannon.

Why it made the list: Jeff Nichols has been on my radar for quite some time. His last two films, Take Shelter and Mud, were very good (especially Take Shelter, which was one of my favorite films of 2011 when it came out) and I have a feeling the best from him is still yet to come. His new film is a sci-fi drama that revolves around a father and son, who go on the run from the FBI when the father discovers his kid possesses superpowers. Nichols has described Midnight Special as being like a John Carpenter film, which could mean one of two things: its either dramatic like Mud, in which case it would be like Carpenter's Starman; or it could be suspenseful like Take Shelter, and share similarities to Carpenter's The Thing. Either way, both alternatives sound intriguing and it will be very interesting to watch Nichols tackle sci-fi.  

Release: I'm guessing early fall.

16) Into the Woods

Director: Rob Marshall Cast: Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine, Emily Blunt, Lucy Punch, James Corden, Frances de la Tour, Tammy Blanchard, Daniel Huttlestone, Mackenzie Mauzy, Billy Magnussen, Annette Crosbie, Lilla Crawford, and Christine Baranski. 

Why it made the list: Big Broadway musicals are always huge candidates for my list, especially if said musical has music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. With Into the Woods, Rob Marshall teams with Disney to direct his third big-budget musical after Chicago and Nine; and even though I found Nine to be mediocre, I ADORE Chicago enough to be excited by the prospect of Marshall tackling Broadway again. For those that are not familiar with Sondheim's musical, the story takes place in the world of fairy tales, where a witch conspires to teach important lessons to various characters from beloved children's stories (such as Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood.) A baker and his wife travel through this magical land to find the witch, in hopes of convincing her to lift the curse that has prevented them from having children. Into the Woods is one of Sondheim's best works, and with an adaptation that's backed by Disney and a fabulous cast led by Marshall, this is sure to be a movie event for the holiday season!

Release: December 25

   

15) X-Men: Days of Future Past

Director: Bryan Singer Cast: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Ellen Page, Halle Berry, Anna Paquin, and Peter Dinklage. 

Why it made the list: After nearly ten years, Bryan Singer has finally returned to the world of X-Men (he served as a producer for both X-Men Origins: Wolverine and X-Men: First Class, but not since X2 has he directed film in the franchise.) Since most would agree that Singer is responsible for jump-starting the film saga and giving it the life that made it such a success, its very exciting to see him return to something he's so good at. With a plot that will involve time travel, Days of Future Past will merge the story lines and characters of both the initial trilogy and Matthew Vaughn's prequel, X-Men: First Class. Its for this reason the film boasts such a stupendous cast, and although that is obviously reason enough to be excited, I must say that its the time travel aspect itself that probably has me the most thrilled for this project! None of the previous installments have delved into territory this ambitious, and the results could easily be disastrous or downright fantastic! But if anyone were to pull it off, my money would be on Singer! 

Release: May 23

14) Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Director: Matt Reeves Cast: Gary Oldman, Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Keri Russell, Judy Greer, and Kodi Smit-McPhee.

Why it made the list: Rise of the Planet of the Apes was one of the biggest surprises of 2011! After watching the first trailers my hopes were not very high, but boy was I proven wrong! Rise was possibly the second most enjoyable summer blockbuster (after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2) that I watched that year. So it goes without saying that I'm very excited for this sequel. Dawn takes place nearly ten years after the events of Rise, where humanity is almost all but extinguished from the virus that broke out at the end of the last movie. A band of survivors unite to wage one last battle against Caesar and his growing forces that will decide who will remain the dominant species on the planet. Matt Reeves (Cloverfield, Let Me In) has proven himself a capable director, and he's assembled a strong cast here. The teaser I watched also promises something much darker then the previous film, so I'm hoping Dawn goes down as one of the best sci-fi films of 2014.

Release: July 11

13) Men, Women & Children

Director: Jason Reitman Cast: Rosemarie DeWitt, Adam Sandler, Jennifer Garner, Emma Thompson, Judy Greer, Dennis Haysbert, J.K. Simmons, Dean Norris, and Ansel Elgort.

Why it made the list: Jason Reitman is one of my favorite directors working today, and I love his ability to capture the current time we are living in with such humanity and vitality while still making it feel so easy to relate to. I feel like his last two films (Young Adult and Labor Day) were fascinating diversions into kitchen sink drama (with Young Adult containing a darkly comedic edge to it) and while I enjoyed them for the most part, I'm still waiting for Reitman to return to the type of movies he made with Thank-You For Smoking and Juno. His newest film is a comedy that spans multiple storylines with characters (both young and old) who are dealing with different types of sexual frustrations. Sounds perfectly suited for Reitman, and he's cast an ensemble that should fit well with the material as well.

Release: Besides Thank-You For Smoking, all of his films have had a December release (so I'm guessing then.)

12) Birdman

Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Cast: Michael Keaton, Naomi Watts, Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton, Amy Ryan, Merritt Wever, and Andrea Riseborough.

Why it made the list: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, who is known for directing exciting and incredibly raw dramas (Babel, 21 Grams, and Biutiful), is directing his first ever comedy! As if that didn't already have my vote, the concept of the movie just seals the deal: Michael Keaton plays a washed-up actor, once notorious for playing an iconic superhero, who tries to secure a role in a Broadway play to reclaim his former fame and glory. In a field that is overwhelmingly competitive and full of rejection, this sounds like the kind of premise that is going to literally sting with relevance. Inarritu has always been a favorite filmmaker of mine, but I'm excited to see him trying something different. He's assembled a top notch cast, and I wouldn't be surprised to see the film go on to grab the Golden Globe for Best Picture (Comedy or Musical) with the amount of talent behind the screen.

Release: There's a possibility it could premiere at Cannes. If not then Toronto definitely, most likely followed by an October or November release.

11) The Hobbit: There and Back Again

Director: Peter Jackson Cast: Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ian McKellen, Luke Evans, Evangeline Lilly, Orlando Bloom, Lee Pace, Hugo Weaving, and Cate Blanchett.

Why it made the list: Not going to lie, but I wouldn't be writing in honesty if I said I haven't been enjoying Jackson's Hobbit trilogy. True, this movie didn't necessarily need a trilogy to begin with to tell its story, but its been a lushly imaginative and exciting journey nonetheless. SMAUG HAS BEEN AWOKEN! There and Back Again picks up directly after the events that concluded Desolation of Smaug, and basically: war is on the brink, Smaug is pissed and has decided to return to his days as a fire-breathing terrorist, the Necromancer is NOT just an urban legend, and Tauriel can't decide if she wants to settle down with a strapping dwarf OR a strapping elf! And so it goes. But as I said before, this has still been one helluva ripping fantasy yarn and despite some flaws, it still has its merits. With Jackson's third and final chapter, we'll finally get to see the Battle of Five Armies, and knowing Jackson its probably going to be nothing short of epic! Plus, I'm sure Smaug's scourge of Lake Town will be drawn out to exciting proportions, and that should give the movie some weight too. But I think what has me the most pumped about There and Back Again is that Jackson knows how to deliver a scorching finale! He's proven that with the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and while the The Hobbit is definitely no where near the same caliber, its still the skill of Peter Jackson we're talking about. I mean, even the finale of King Kong could arguably be considered the best part of that movie, and that was only one film!

Release: December 17

10) Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

Directors: Frank Miller and Robert Rodriguez Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Eva Green, Juno Temple, Josh Brolin, Jessica Alba, Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke, Rosario Dawson, Jamie King, Christopher Meloni, Jamie Chung, Ray Liotta, Jeremy Piven, Dennis Haysbert, Stacy Keach, Marton Csokas, and Lady Gaga.

Why it made the list: I feel like I've been waiting years for this sequel to come out! But it looks like its finally here at last, and I sure hope that it will be worth the wait. When Sin City was first released back in 2005, it was unlike anything that had ever been experienced on the big screen! Rodriguez and Miller delivered a pulpy neo-noir drenched in style with a visually arresting palette and look. I'm very eager to return to this world they created, and the plot on which this sequel is based is apparently one of the better stories in the graphic novel series. Plus, Eva Green as the film's chief villain should be diabolically delicious, and not just because Green is a fantastic actress, but because the role is said to contain a lot of meat to it as well. If Guardians of the Galaxy doesn't manage to end the summer movie season on a high note, then you can bet this sure will!

Release: August 22

9) Jersey Boys

Director: Clint Eastwood Cast: John Lloyd Young, Vincent Piazza, Erich Bergen, Michael Lomenda, Kathrine Narducci, Mike Doyle, Christopher Walken, Joey Russo, Donnie Kehr, Erica Piccinni, and Freya Tingley. 

Why it made the list: Another one of my favorite Broadway musicals that will be making its theatrical debut this year, and this one is directed by Eastwood! I'll admit that I wasn't all that impressed with J. Edgar, but I think that was mainly due to the fact that Eastwood wasn't really challenging himself with that film. All of his more recent works (save for Hereafter and Gran Torino) are all based on real-life accounts, while Jersey Boys (in spite of being a biopic about the Four Seasons) is a full-out jukebox musical. This is a genre Eastwood has been wanting to tackle for years, if you can believe it or not. In fact, he was originally slated to direct a remake of the Judy Garland classic, A Star is Born, but the project was scratched. In a lot of ways I'm glad that ended up being what happened, since I think Jersey Boys is much better suited to Eastwood's style. The cast is obviously relatively unknown, but I'm perfectly all right with that. New talent is always a welcome thing and after all, every new year in cinema needs its breakthrough performances.

Release: June 20

  

8) Foxcatcher

Director: Bennett Miller Cast: Channing Tatum, Steve Carell, Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller, Anthony Michael Hall, and Vanessa Redgrave.

Why it made the list: Originally slated for last year, the film was pushed to 2014 when a "leaked" trailer hit the internet in the midst of  fall and was met with VERY positive reactions. The studio (Annapurna Pictures) already believed in the film's prospects as an awards contender, but that faith was only validated when the trailer received such strong feedback. A later release gives the studio more time to put together a solid marketing campaign, and allows the film to start circulating this year's festival circuit to begin building buzz among critics and audiences. Directed by Bennett Miller (Capote, Moneyball), Foxcatcher is a true account of Olympic wrestling champions, Mark and Dave Schultz (both brothers), and their relationship with schizophrenic coach, John du Pont, which ended in tragedy. If you haven't seen the trailer, then Carell's haunting performance as the deeply disturbed du Pont is reason enough to check it out. With a running time of less then a minute, the trailer hints at a darker side of Carell we have not yet seen before: domineering, paranoid, and delusional. I could easily see him getting nominated (if not not winning) an Oscar for his performance, and that was just what I got from the trailer! Also, Bennett Miller is possibly the most underrated director working today, and I'd love for him to give audiences/critics another reason to take him seriously.  

Release: A fall release after hitting the festival circuit seems inevitable.

    

7) The Search

Director: Michel Hazanavicius Cast: Annette Bening and Berenice Bejo.

Why it made the list: I fell in love with Michel Hazanavicius after his last film, The Artist, and I can't wait to see the project he's chosen as a follow-up to the success of that film! In his new film, The Search, a woman who works for a non-governmental organization forms a special relationship with a young boy in war-town Chechnya and tried to help him reunite with his family. I know that's not much to go on, but it still sounds like a solid premise and like I said: Michel Hazanavicius is the REAL reason I'm most excited for this. The full cast is yet to be revealed, but having previous Oscar-nominees, Annette Bening and Berenice Bejo (reuniting with her Artist director/husband Hazanavicius), is certainly a good sign.

Release: If finished in time, and something tells me it will be (the film is in post production right now), then I'm guessing it will premiere at Cannes. After which it will continue to hit the festival circuit until making a probable holiday release.

6) Godzilla 

Director: Gareth Edwards Cast: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins, David Strathairn, and Ken Watanabe.

Why it made the list: I was literally jumping up and down in my seat when the trailer debuted in front of The Hobbit last year on opening weekend! I'm so excited for this movie I don't even know where to begin! But for starters, lets begin with director Gareth Edwards, whose feature film debut, Monsters, was one of my favorite movies of 2010 and immediately made him an up-and-coming director to anticipate. If you haven't already seen it, its available to upload for free on Netflix right now and it definitely shows that Edwards will be perfectly adept at directing a movie like Godzilla. In fact, its because of Monsters that Edwards was basically handed the reins to direct the project; so impressive was his debut! Secondly, the movie boasts a top-notch cast, and I think what I like most about the ensemble is that its not your typical group of A-listers. Elizabeth Olsen and Sally Hawkins are known for delivering rich performances in indie hits like Martha Marcy May Marlene and Blue Jasmine, while Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Bryan Cranston have enjoyed more international success for mainstream hits like Kick-Ass and Breaking Bad. What's also very exciting about the project is that it has the potential to bring Godzilla back in a huge way! The Godzilla storyline hasn't delivered anything fresh or exciting in years, and I won't even begin to voice my frustration about that box office disaster with Matthew Broderick and Jean Reno. But if anyone has the potential to erase the memory of that god-awful stinker, then my money is on Gareth Edwards!

Release: May 16

5) Snowpiercer 

Director: Joon-ho Bong Cast: Chris Evans, Kang-ho Song, Ah-sung Go, Jamie Bell, John Hurt, Tilda Swinton, Octavia Spencer, Ed Harris, Ewen Bremner, Luke Pasqualino, and Alison Pill.

Why it made the list: The buzz that has been surrounding this film is phenomenal! From Joon-ho Bong (The Host), Snowpiercer is a futuristic sci-fi odyssey that takes place aboard a massive train. When a runaway experiment is designed to stop global warming, the results turn out to be disastrous when the operation reduces the planet to a frozen, uninhabitable wasteland, killing nearly all life on Earth. The remaining survivors find refuge aboard the Snowpiercer, a gigantic train powered by a perpetual-motion engine that continually travels around the globe. But as a class system starts to evolve throughout this confined dystopia, and luxuries such as living quarters and food are designated based on wealth, relationships become tense and revolts begin to surge causing a constant sate of panic and disorientation aboard the craft. Before you start making comparisons to last year's Elysium, understand that this project was in the works for a much longer period of time (Bong bought the rights to the graphic novel on which its based back in 2005) and the film had already hit theaters in Korea before the Matt Damon actioner had even made its release. Not to say that I didn't  enjoy Elysium, but this still sounds far better then that film and from everything I've heard so far, Bong seems to have delivered a sprawling sci-fi masterpiece that not only engages on an intellectual level, but manages to deliver high doses of action and violence as well. In other words: this train is quite a ride! But what probably has me the most intrigued about this project is the tumultuous journey it has taken to its release in U.S. As I previously stated, the film has already been released in Korea (including other territories throughout Asia) where it has enjoyed fantastic success (both financially and receptively.) But it was after the film made a big splash in France that Harvey Weinstein  was quick to snatch up the rights for the film's U.S. distribution. However, Harvey Weinstein may not have the film's best interests at heart. The director, cast members, and fans of the film expressed great displeasure when Weinstein decided he wanted to cut 20 minutes worth of story from the film, believing the new cut would be more accessible to American audiences. I'm certainly not saying that Weinstein doesn't know what he's doing, but his actions certainly raise the question of whether he doesn't trust the director or doesn't trust the audience (or both.) The latest verdict is that Bong's original (and intended) cut with be given a limited theatrical release in the U.S., while Weinstein's cut will be previewed everywhere else. I couldn't help but be reminded of Blade Runner when I read about all this, and how that film endured several cuts and re-releases as well. Here's hoping that Snowpiercer is similar to that film in more ways then just that one (in terms of great sci-fi and cinematic achievement.)
Release: Late summer or early fall are what I'm guessing so far.

4) Inherent Vice
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio Del Toro, Jena Malone, Owen Wilson, Maya Rudolph, Martin Short, and Katherine Waterston.
Why it made the list: Not only is Paul Thomas Anderson one of my most favorite directors, he is one of best best filmmakers working today period! This guy still has yet to misstep while directing a film, and I don't think he's about to break that pattern any time soon. I love how each new film he's directed so far has been vastly different from the last: the effect that organized religion and one man's idea can have on a group of people in The Master, one man's overwhelming greed and selfishness in There Will Be Blood, and an exhilarating and vital examination of sexuality and excess through the porn industry in Boogie Nights. Inherent Vice finds Anderson delving into new territory, where a drug-fueled detective in 1970s L.A. investigates the disappearance of a former girlfriend. Based on a novel by Thomas Pynchon, the book was described as "part noir, part psychedelic romp," and that spikes my interest too! With a golden cast that's led by the brilliant Joaquin Phoenix (reuniting with PTA after their successful collaboration in The Master), I have no doubt that Inherent Vice will be unlike anything else we see this year!
Release: I'm guessing it will have an early fall release, after making its debut at Toronto Film Fest.

3) Noah
Director: Darren Aronofsky Cast: Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, Anthony Hopkins, Nick Nolte, Douglas Booth, Ray Winstone, and Frank Langella.
Why it made the list: Like Paul Thomas Anderson, Darren Aronofsky is another one of my most favorite filmmakers whose directorial track record has still yet to produce a flat-out misfire. Plus, with Ridley Scott's Exodus coming out at the latter end of this year, 2014 could end up being remembered for Bible epics making a big splash in the world of cinema. However, knowing Aronofsky, he is sure to apply his own artistic liberties in the telling of this story, and however controversial they'll (undoubtedly) be, I can't wait to see the final product of his work. In case you haven't already heard of the film (impossible since Paramount is marketing the shit out of it) or figured out the story based on everything I've written so far, Noah offers up a unique and visionary interpretation of the Biblical account of Noah that only Darren Aronofsky could realize. Based on everything I've seen in the trailers, this is sure to be an intense, visually-striking epic that will be met with both praise and criticism, as well as spark much controversy and debate. Sounds like meaty and ambitious cinema the way it was meant to be made!  
Release: March 28

2) Gone Girl
Director: David Fincher Cast: Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris, Tyler Perry, Kim Dickens, Patrick Fugit, Casey Wilson, and Missi Pyle.
Why it made the list: The other Gillian Flynn adaptation on this list (the first was Dark Places at #24), Gone Girl is a dramatic thriller that centers on Nick and Amy Dunne, a seemingly happy married couple. But when Amy suddenly goes missing, Nick becomes the number one prime suspect in the case (obviously, cause isn't that how it always goes.) The novel this is based on was met with mixed reactions, the chief problem being that of the ending (I have no idea, since I have not read the book.) So why did it make this list at number two?! Because first of all, this is DAVID FINCHER we're talking about! Do I even need to go down the list of this man's directing credits?! Fincher has ALWAYS been very careful about the projects he chooses and ALWAYS delivers them with outstanding aplomb! Although, Gone Girl has Fincher re-trudging through familiar territory in the tradition of Zodiac and Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, I don't really mind much since he's just THAT good when it comes to this particular genre of filmmaking. Also, it was reported that Fincher actually rewrote the ending that so many people had criticized upon reading the novel. This comes as no surprise to me, since Fincher is too smart a director to not realize what makes for a good ending. In fact, he probably took on the project with an alternate ending already in mind. Obviously, I love to see Fincher experiment with other, more unfamiliar genres and not always gravitate towards the same thing. But as long as he's making films like this, I will always see them!
Release: October 3

      1) Interstellar
Director: Christopher Nolan Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Wes Bentley, Topher Grace, Casey Affleck, Michael Caine, John Lithgow, Ellen Burstyn, and Matt Damon.
Why it made the list: We've reached the end at last and here it is! My most anticipated film of the year is hands down Interstellar! First off, is this not the most STELLAR cast of the year! I mean, any cast this great paired with a brilliant director like Nolan is going to at least make the top ten portion of this list. The Dark Knight trilogy provided Nolan with a VIP access pass to the blockbuster scene, as well establish him as a household name among movie audiences. But it gave him so much more then just that: it allowed him to continue making the indie mind-benders he's so incredibly good at, but with a blockbuster scope and budget (and there's not many other filmmakers that can successfully do the same.) This was first displayed in 2010 when Nolan gave us the smash-hit, Inception. With Inception, Nolan delivered a thrilling and visceral sci-fi epic unlike anything we had ever experienced before, and we were reminded just how much you can accomplish when you have a great script combined with the perfect budget. Interstellar seems to be in the same vein as Inception, as it has Nolan delving once again into sci-fi territory to deliver another ambitious mind-bender, this time set in deep space. The story follows group of scientists, who embark on an intergalactic voyage to explore the properties of a newly discovered wormhole in space that could lead to other dimensions. McConaughey recently stated in an interview that Interstellar was "probably the most ambitious film Nolan has ever made," and after reading the plot I can definitely see why. If this turns out to be everything I hope it is, it could go down as the best film of its kind since 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Release: November 7