Flickreel’s Top 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2015

With reports already suggesting that 2015 could well be the biggest year ever for film – from a box-office standpoint at least – we’re running through the top ten films we feel you most definitely will not want to miss this year.

10. The Martian

Starring Jessica Chastain, Matt Damon and Chiwetel Ejiofor amongst others, The Martian tells the tale of an astronaut stranded on Mars, struggling to survive. At the helm is Ridley Scott, and though the director has left a lot to be desired with his recent endeavours, there are few filmmakers you would trust more to capture the scope and immensity of this particular narrative.

9. San Andreas

Though sharing a name with the GTA video game, sadly this picture has absolutely nothing to do with it – but don’t let that put you off, as the trailer for Brad Peyton’s blockbuster is one of the most exciting of recent months. Starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson in the leading role, the film takes place in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that has swept across California. If you weren’t convinced enough already, it’s even got Kylie Minogue in it.

8. Ant-Man

When Edgar Wright left Marvel’s Ant-Man, many film fans were left worrying about the future of this eagerly anticipated project. However thankfully with Peyton Reed on board to take over the reigns, the picture was back on track – and is now generating just as much, if not more hype than before. Given Marvel’s current dominance of the blockbuster genre, not to mention the sheer consistency of their efforts, Ant-Man feels like something of a safe bet. Plus, Paul Rudd as a superhero is simply inspired casting.

7. Grimsby

Kazakhstan probably wouldn’t be the most welcoming of holiday destinations for British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen following his portrayal of character Borat. He may now want to add the Northern English town of Grimsby to that list, as it is the setting for his latest production, which goes by the same name. The film itself looks absolutely hilarious though, and also stars the likes of Isla Fisher, Penelope Cruz and Mark Strong. We can’t wait.

6. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2

The one paramount criticism of the most recent Hunger Games endeavour, was its distinct lack of linearity, being a film that felt like it was lacking a true conclusion. But that’s because it was – being only the first part of the final trip into this dark, disturbing world. With Mockingjay, Part 2 that can no longer be an issue, as it’s the very final picture in this franchise, meaning that all loose ends are set to be tied. So as we look forward to Jennifer Lawrence tackling the role of Katniss Everdeen for one final time, it’s also the very final production starring the wonderful Philip Seymour Hoffman. Let’s just hope it’s a fitting send-off.

5. Spectre

The latest Bond movie is always a date to bear in mind for any film fan – but following the brilliance of Sam Mendes’ Skyfall, expectations have been suitably raised. With Daniel Craig returning as the lead and Christoph Waltz taking over from Javier Bardem to play the chief antagonist, everything is set for yet another excellent addition to this remarkable, perennial franchise. Though let’s face it, it would be quite a turn up for the books if the new song were any better than Adele’s impressive effort with ‘Skyfall’.

4. Jurassic World

When it comes to treading over treasured ground, it’s easy to be a little apprehensive as a film fan, desperately scared that your favourite films may be tarnished forever. Thankfully where Jurassic Park is concerned, that’s happened already with a mediocre sequel and rather forgettable third addition. So that gives director Colin Trevorrow a little more freedom in some regards, and with man of the moment Chris Pratt in the lead, any such misgivings have been eased. Throw Judy Greer, Omar Sy and Jake Johnson into the mix, and suddenly you have a film to really look forward to.

3. Whiplash

On paper, the tale of a young music student with dreams of becoming a jazz drummer, to then be pushed to the limit by a stern tutor sounds like pretty standard territory. But what transpires is one of the most electrifying and intense cinematic experiences you’ll ever wish to have. With Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons turning in career best performances, they illuminate debut director Damien Chazelle’s remarkable screenplay. Here’s a film you will not want to miss in 2015. Or any years that follow either. An instant classic.

2. Avengers: Age of Ultron

When The Avengers hit our screens in 2012, it was easy to feel a little worried about whether this grandiose idea would work. To bring so many of our favourite superheroes together and give them all a substantial enough storyline to indulge in and let fans revel in seeing these characters come to face to face, always had an element of risk attached. But not only did it work, it was a complete triumph, so now as the second instalment nears release, any doubts have turned to exhilaration, and with Joss Whedon back in the director’s chair, anything but sheer genius would be a huge surprise. No pressure then.

1. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Well, well, well. It may be something of an inevitability, but the forthcoming Star Wars production tops our list of the most anticipated films of 2015. We’ve all conveniently decided to ignore the last three Star Wars endeavours and look solely to the future. With a promising first trailer and cast made up of hugely talented actors, spirits are high while expectations are higher: as fanboys are palpably sweating with excitement. The Force is soon to awaken, and by Yoda, we’re looking forward to it.