On behalf of everyone at Bryan's Blog (me), I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and hope that the 2020s will give you something positive to experience and remember.
Although 2019-2020 awards season is more or less in full swing, I would just like to share some films that I'm looking forward to, and I've got my fingers crossed that they'll all deliver...in my book anyways.
1. Tenet
What is it: Your guess is as good as mine, and maybe that's what I'm very psyched about it.
Why I'm excited: One of my favorite directors, a great cast (breakout star John David Washington, the ever-intriguing Robert Pattinson, the lovely Elizabeth Debicki, Nolans lucky charm Michael Caine, his possible heir apparent in Kenneth Branagh), an intriguing look based on the trailer itself, the high scope that Nolans' attempting, a bombastic score based on what we've heard, I can keep going. Also, I think it's quite amusing that many of Nolans trademarks (guys in suits, time wizardry, Michael Caine) are to be found in the trailer, yet we could still be seeing something special come July.
"BBWWWAAAAAAAA" Round Two?
2. Dune
What is it: Denis Villeneuves' take on the classic sci-fi novel, which may or may not ultimately divided into two films.
Why I'm excited: Although I don't love all his films, I'll gladly take any film that Villenueve does next, as he's proven himself to be one of the best in the game in sci-fi based on his last two outings alone. He's assembled a great cast as well, with Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson and Dave Bautista filling out the ensemble. I still have some reservations with Chalamet as the lead, but I'm confident that Villeneuve will get the best from him.
Maybe he'll have more to work with in a different part of space?
3. Last Night in SoHo
What is it: A horror film from Edgar Wright that takes place in the fashion district of London.
Why I'm excited: Edgar Wright is one of the best directors in comedy, however, I'm fascinated to see what he does with horror. One reason for that is that editing is a very important aspect of Edgar Wrights' style, particularly in his comedies. Editing is a crucial part in horror films, so I'm eager to see what he has up his sleeve. Past that, he's assembled two of the best young actresses working right now, Thomasin Mackenzie & Anya Taylor-Joy. The look of the film could be something special, with Chung Chung-hoon (Oldboy) behind the lens.
There's just something about neon, isn't there?
4. Mank
What is it: A black-and-white biopic about Citizen Kane screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz.
Why I'm excited: Gary Oldman in a leading role with an ace director is just enough to get me interest, however, I'm also just glad to see that Fincher is going to direct another film. His latest biopic went very well in my opinion, and I'll be content if this comes even close. As always, I'm curious for what Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross will cook up with using 40s-era instruments instead of their usual electronic-minded scores. Plus, Gary Oldman in a leading role with an ace director (I know I said that at the beginning, but come on, it's The Oldman!)
And the eventual makeup as well.
5. Next Goal Wins
What is it: A biopic about the American Samoa national socc-uhh...football team as they attempt to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Why I'm excited: Waititi is one of the most unique and inventive people working in Hollywood right now, as he's very talented behind the camera and in front of it. I have high hopes for this film since I think Waititi could bring something fresh & exciting to the sports genre. Plus, it's been awhile since Michael Fassbender has been in a good film (seriously Aflredson?), so him in a leading role in a Waititi film could be something special. Not to mention that Fassbender himself has mentioned that he has wanted to try comedy in the past.
"Taikas' going to make everyone forget I was in The Snowman! *Yells excitedly*"
6. Blonde
What is it: A biopic about Marilyn Monroe
Why I'm excited: Andrew Dominik made one of the best biopics about an American figure of yesteryear with The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, and him returning to the genre could be a return to form for him, since he's proven he can bring something new to someting that's usually given rote handling. Ana de Armas will play the iconic Marilyn Monroe, and although her casting doesn't seem like an immediate fit, I'll give her the benefit of the doubt, as she's proven that she's one of the best in her age range after her performances in Blade Runner: 2049 and Knives Out.
I guess it's going to be Marilyn v Mank for Makeup at the Oscars.
7. The Personal History of David Copperfield
What is it: A new take on the classic Dickens novel; written for the screen and directed by Armando Ianucci.
Why I'm excited: As a huge fan of The Death of Stalin, and a lesser (but still one) of In the Loop, I'm always eager to see what Ianucci has in store for the public, as he's one of the greatest satirical minds working in showbiz today. This time, he will take a crack at adapting the Dickens novel to the modern audience, with Dev Patel in the title role. Ben Whishaw, Tilda Swinton, Hugh Laurie, Peter Capaldi, Benedict Wong, Gwendoline Christie, along with others, also round the cast.
"I can do more than Malcolm Tucker. I'll show them!"
8. The French Dispatch
What is it: A comedy-drama from Wes Anderson, just like always.
Why I'm excited: Ok, ok, seriously. Wes Anderson can be described as a director who plays in his own sandbox, even thought if it's one that's occupied by A-listers, up-and-comers, his usual gang, and acting veterans. I don't love all of Andersons' films, although I do think all of them have at least some level of merit. Anyways, the cast here might just be one of the most loaded in recent film history, and that's saying something considering the last two Avengers films (seriously, look up who Wes has enlisted this time). Plot-wise, the film has been described as a love letter of sorts to journalists, and it seems as though it will center on three story lines (his Pulp Fiction?).
"If one of you asks one more time about why my movies are symmetrical..."
9. Top Gun: Maverick
What is it: The sequel to the 80s action flick, Top Gun
Why I'm excited: I'm intrigued by the fact that Tom Cruise is reprising one of his star-making roles, as the man has the power to get anything he wants green-lit, and he does have a good eye for material, as well as a clear passion for cinema. Maybe he sees something fresh that can be done with the general idea of the first film. A couple of trailers have been released online as of this writing, and the action scenes look like they could be quite the thrill.
No "Irishman" effects needed.
10. Bill & Ted Face the Music
What is it: The third film following your two favorite slackers, now all grown-up.
Why I'm excited: I mean...it's Bill & Ted. Seriously though, although the plot of this film will apparently show what the two boys are now like in middle age, I have hopes that the film could work both as a nostalgic (but not too much) romp, while also keeping the same spirit as the first two. Keanu and Winter will both be reprising their roles of course, William Sadler will return as The Grim Reaper (more board games PLEASE?) and the actor behind one of my personal favorite characters in showbiz as a villain (Anthony Carrigan aka NoHo Hank from Barry).
Being the most excellent never gets old
What are some films that you are anticipating? Sound off in the comments below!
