5) Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
Released: 17th July 2014
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was easily the best film of the summer. It’s smart, intelligent and you couldn’t ask for a better film. It surpasses the reboot, Rise of the Planet of the Apes and stands equal measure with the Charlton Heston original.
It’s a real pity that Serkis and Kebbell were not recognised for their acting at the recent Oscar nominations because their contribution gave this film heart and purpose. Nevertheless, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes deserves all the recognition it gets.
4) The Wolf of Wall Street
Released: 17th January 2014
Scorsese + DiCaprio = match made in heaven.
I’ve seen a few comedy films in 2014 but nothing has made me laugh hysterically like The Wolf of Wall Street. Unashamedly in your face, you’ll laugh at their antics but most importantly, it shines a light on the exploitation of the financial system for personal gain.
3) Interstellar
Released: 7th November 2014
It may not be Nolan’s best film yet somehow Nolan manages to deliver a film full of wonder, hope, excitement and the infinite possibilities of human exploration into space.
Whilst the science may go over people’s heads (especially the last third of the film) but for it’s grand ambition, a continued McConaissance, amazing visual work and brilliant music from Hans Zimmer, Interstellar is a thoughtful, intelligent movie that will keep people debating about it for years to come.
2) Gone Girl
Released: 2nd October 2014
Any other year, this would be my number one film!
Readers of the book may have felt it lacked impact, considering they knew what was going to happen. But to a non-reader of the book like myself I couldn’t help but take everything in. Fincher’s directing and Gillian Flynn’s adaptation of her best-selling book delivers a tight script that’s full of twists and mystery that will grip you from start to finish.
1) 12 Years a Slave
Released: 10th January 2014
This was a no-brainer. It’s been on the top of my list for a long time. There’s been some great films in 2014 but Steve McQueen’s film about Solomon Northup, a free man sold into slavery still remains powerful and raw. It ignores the usual stereotypes and depicts slavery for what it was…and still is.
Important lessons can be learnt from this film and you hope mankind has the courage to make that change.
And that’s your lot! What do you think of my choices? Do you agree? What would you have instead? Don’t be shy and comment below!
Confessions From A Geek Mind 