20 Most Anticipated Films of 2017 (Part 1)
2017 promises to be another mammoth year in the world of films. Big-scale blockbusters, new projects from considerable directors and an array of indie flicks set to rock our world. Below is a list of the 20 Most Anticipated Films that has been locked for a 2017 release. A blend of big-budgeted films and a few more obscure picks is on display here as normally the better indie films garner a lot more fanfare after their festival runs. Nonetheless, kick back and have a look at what many would consider some of the films in 2017 you should be most excited for!
#20 — Spider-Man: Homecoming
It has been too long a period of time in which the generation of buzz for an upcoming Spider-Man film has been positive. With the disaster that was The Amazing Spider-Man 2, the concept of another film starring the web-slinger felt sadly vapid. However, step in Marvel Studios to implement a new Spidey in the uber successful Captain America: Civil War and Tom Holland’s delightful cameo teases what could be the most faithful incarnation of the character yet. Thus, after re-establishing Marvel’s golden son to filmic proportions, anticipation is high for the solo film “Spider-Man: Homecoming”.
The notion that is constantly being enunciated when “Homecoming” comes into the conversation is the ideal of a John Hughes film set in the Marvel universe. Furthermore, the encouragement continues with the somewhat independent direction being taken, handing the directing reigns to Jon Watts, known for the splendidly pulpy “Cop Car”. The cast is stocked to the brim with talent including Marisa Tomei, Tony Revolori, Donald Glover and Logan Marshall-Green. Robert Downey Jr only enhances the star power as Iron Man and the casting of Michael Keaton as the Vulture could not be more perfect.
As the story will be based on Peter Parker’s struggle to navigate his way through high school while contending with his duties as Spider-Man through the menacing arrival of Keaton’s Vulture. Moreover, while there is some trepidation to be had, this is being written by the Vacation duo after all. The course being taken by Marvel appears fresh and true to the nature of the iconic character. As expectations of a coming of age tale infused with both dynamic action and comedic stylings sounds more than a likely success given Marvel’s track record.
As with a character that has garnered as much reverence as Spider-Man, Homecoming looks to be what the Amazing series was never able to master, something as genuine and heartfelt as the Spider-Man universe tonally inherits.
Release Date: July 7th
#19 — Murder On The Orient Express
Kenneth Branagh continues to be one of the most underrated artists applying his trade in the film industry today. His last few projects have been largely set in the mainstream fare and have done considerably well, crafting both Thor and Cinderella to financial and critical success. However, with his latest project, an adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express, it feels much more inclined to Branagh’s strengths as a director. With the seminal text a near perfect fit for the director plus a smorgasbord of talent in front of the camera, anticipation should be insurmountable.
The notion that is most appealing is just how impeccable the correlation between art and artist is in this scenario. Branagh is a thespian, his splendid Shakespearian career has solidified his elegance as a creator both behind and in front of the camera. So in adapting Agatha Christie’s timeless novel, one imbued in mystery and a lavish atmosphere is a tone Branagh can craft with ease. The likelihood of crafting this mystery with the aura of big period style infused with murder and the romanticism of the surroundings is more than likely. The appointment of Branagh is what will drive how powerfully the thematic concerns will resonate with the audience.
He has also bolstered his casting ranks with a plethora of incredible actors. Branagh adopts the mantle of the iconic detective Hercule Poirot and he is joined by the likes of Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley, Penelope Cruz and Derek Jacobi. The level of talent infused into this project is immense and with such a steady hand at the wheel, this remake, unlike many, seems to be treated with fantastic stature. As we the audience, appear set to reap the rewards.
Release Date: November 22nd
#18 — Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
The best way to summate what is so intoxicating about the idea of Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is that it looks to be wildly imaginative. Based on the ground breaking graphic novel “Valerian and Laureline”, a text that inspired George Lucas no less; this has been a long in development project for director Luc Besson (The Fifth Element, Léon: The Professional). This grand science fiction adaptation looks like the breathtakingly original film that could easily take the summer season by surprise.
Many aspects of the production look truly dazzling. The visceral aesthetic looks superb, with a hefty budget expected at $180 million, money appears to be well spent in crafting a rich and beautified backdrop. The lore and mythology being adapted as aforementioned is venerated and is a good match for the sensibilities of its director in Luc Besson. While from the teaser released it has exhibited shades of recent successes in the science fiction vein such as Guardians of the Galaxy most notably.
Throw in a strong line up of up and coming actors (Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne) blended with veteran character actors (Ethan Hawke, John Goodman) and Valerian and the ambition behind it could be invigorating to the genre. The project could be cited as risky, however, with the stature and elegance that seem evident in its nucleus, anticipation should be high for this sci-fi blockbuster.
Release Date: July 21st
#17 — Thor: Ragnarok
In the various Marvel cinematic universe sub-franchises, the Thor series has always been the most underwhelming. By no means are they unsatisfactory, but they have clearly been unable to obtain the filmic zest seen comparatively with Marvel’s other prolific heroes such as Captain America and Iron Man. However, with a startling new direction being taken on the threequel entitled Thor: Ragnarok, our conceptions on the Thor franchise could be set for a radical change of thought.
Touted as an intergalactic buddy cop picture headlined by Thor and the Hulk, the somewhat serious nature of previous installments one can cite will likely dissipate. This is arguably, large in part via the choice of director in Taika Waititi. Waititi, known for the excellent New Zealand comedies Hunt For The Wilderpeople and What We Do In The Shadows is a testament to the comedic attributes that will likely drive Thor: Ragnarok. Although this is his first time in the big budget realm, he is fantastic when it comes to levity and character which is very encouraging. As both aspects would not be astray in Thor: Ragnarok.
The scope promised is still an epic one. With whispers of influence from the immensely successful “Planet Hulk” comic storyline, the idea of Gladiator meets Hulk could be incredible. We have the introduction of new villains in Grandmaster to be portrayed by Jeff Goldblum. As well as Cate Blanchett as the big bad Hela. Throw in the returns of Loki, Odin and Hemidall and Thor: Ragnarok is bringing a lot to the table.
It is going to be bold, inventive and something completely new to the uncharted universe that the characters of the Thor world occupy. With the blend of a unique voice and classic comic mythology, Thor: Ragnarok is a certainty to bring success.
Release Date: November 3rd
#16 — A Cure For Wellness
A film that appears destined to catch a lot of people by surprise is Gore Verbinski’s return foray into horror with the Dane DeHaan led A Cure For Wellness. With the array of marketing material released, this film looks nothing short of haunting. Imbued with lingering tension and horrifying imagery, visually this film appears a perfect blend between arthouse and horror. With a style reminiscent of both Cronenberg and Lynch, one has to be reminded that this is from the mind behind both The Lone Ranger and Mouse Hunt.
Yet, A Cure For Wellness appears to be quite potentially the most artistically beautiful horror film we could be receiving this year. Through clever and intricate marketing, never have so many questions demanded answers immediately. The film sparks a near poetic tone and through an aesthetic of muted colour palettes and sombre unsettling symbolism, it promises to be something more than unique and thus far looks incredible.
The plot centres on an ambitious young executive given the task of retrieving the company CEO from a mysterious wellness centre located in the Swiss Alps. As what first appears idyllic becomes much more sinister as he finds himself diagnosed with the same “condition” that keeps all patients in stay indefinitely. A Cure For Wellness looks to be one truly distinctive horror film. It appears nothing short of demented in the best possible manner.
Release Date: February 17th
#15 — Dunkirk
The thought of Christopher Nolan directing a war film feels like a match made in pure cinematic heaven. Stepping away from the genres of superheroes and science fiction, Nolan’s latest in Dunkirk feels indicative of garnering a greater sense of gravitas from the esteemed director. Evoking the factual battle with the brutality and plaintive nature evident in the most poignant modernistic war films, Christopher Nolan’s take of Dunkirk looks to be of clear Oscar calibre.
The story centres on the evacuation of Allied soldiers who have been surrounded by the German army. As the tenacious nature of World War II plagues what would become known as the Battle of Dunkirk. It is this kind of source material that seems tailor made to the directing style of Christopher Nolan. A film that he would be able to insert both his subtlety and his intrinsic ability to craft a lingering and harrowing tale.
A cast of thespians have been assembled to build the stature of this war epic with the likes of Tom Hardy, Kenneth Brangah, Mark Rylance and Cillian Murphy among others. The tone and atmosphere thus far captured looks nothing short of riveting. While with a somewhat controversial and undoubtedly world changing story, the project looks in more than capable hands with the talent behind it. Dunkirk all but guarantees a new spectrum to be explored from one of modern cinema’s finest auteurs.
Release Date: July 21st
#14 — Justice League
After years of delays and apprehensions, 2017 will unveil the first cinematic portrayal of the superhero team bearing the biggest members of DC’s pantheon. Justice League signals the fifth entry in the DC cinematic universe and the prospect of seeing such an iconic group together in the world of film has been long in the making. As the idea of seeing Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Aquaman and Superman among others fighting together against intergalactic threats is a mouth-watering concept.
While it is hard to not hold some degree of consternation as this is the same creative team behind the much marginalised Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice at the helm. The direction being taken in Justice League is reported to be of a very different calibre. A promised lighter tone, increased levity and less distinctive Zack Snyder trademarks have been promised with aims of crafting a much more accessible film. While although we’ll never know if that’s an actuality until we can view the film, it is promising to cite that the filmmakers have acknowledged and aimed to rectify the issues that have plagued them in the past.
Nonetheless, the scope teased appears nothing short of epic. Snyder, amidst all his criticisms cannot be faulted for an exuberant style of action that should translate a visceral heft to the blockbuster. We’ll see the first formal portrayals of several seminal DC heroes in Ezra Miller’s Flash, Ray Fisher’s Cyborg and Jason Momoa’s Aquaman. While reverting back to the distinctive basis for the anticipation; we are finally getting a Justice League movie, allow that to sink in.
Rationally, expectations should be low, but on pure optimism it’s an all time high. With such admired staples of American literature finally receiving a film treatment it is hard not to be enthusiastic. So we’ll cross our fingers, tap on wood, pray five times a day and hope Zack Snyder can proves us all wrong in his cinematic take on DC’s Justice League.
Release Date: November 17th
#13 — Suburbicon
Suburbicon has everything in the making for a fantastic dark comedy. The story is about a horrendous act of violence that occurs during a home invasion in a quiet 1950s suburban town. The family affected decides to take matters into their own hands in the form of betrayal, blackmail and revenge. That in itself sounds like a lot of pulpy fun, but it’s the talent attached that really elevates the reasons to be enthused.
The project has been long in development with a script penned by the Coen brothers as far back as 1986 while George Clooney was slated to direct the tale since 2005. Fast forward to the present, Clooney has finally put the Coen’s script into production enlisting his colleagues Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Josh Brolin and Oscar Isaac to fill out the cast.
George Clooney has had a very prominent eminence in the industry for decades, but it has been his directorial efforts that have been quite hit or miss. As for every Good Night and Good Luck we also have The Monuments Men. However, with fascinating material, this could be the project where Clooney can showcase his directorial prowess after a few rough years of subpar projects. The synopsis sounds riveting with a blend of several genres and an overarching style of a Coen’s noir.
Furthermore, with talent oozing from almost all spectrums of this production, Suburbicon could be a classy addition to a plethora of already well-revered CV’s.
Release Date: N/A; expect a festival bow before a release date is cemented.
#12 — Beauty and the Beast
2016 was the year Disney articulated the perfect formula for translating their animated archives to new heights in the live action spectrum. The critical misfires of re-envisioning their fables as dark and gritty seen in Alice In Wonderland and Maleficent were quickly scrapped as they reverted to the beauty of their source material with a friendly, whimsical and family based nature. It brought much success for both The Jungle Book and Pete’s Dragon. Now with a methodical manner of doing things, Disney has gone one step beyond, in adapting their most critically adored work in Beauty and the Beast.
Beauty and the Beast offers to go further in the ideology of the live-action adaptation appearing as if it is a near replicant of the cherished animation. From what has been released, the imagery appears almost shot for shot crafting an immense sense of authenticity. This production looks lavish and atmospheric, capitalizing on the use of technology to almost create an entirely different world unlike anything Disney has crafted before. From what has been released thus far, it looks nothing short of chilling.
An impressive cast has been assembled, with Emma Watson appearing a near perfect casting as Belle. The incredible Dan Stevens as the Beast and Luke Evans who seems destined to steal the show as the self-absorbed Gaston. Original composer Alan Menken returns to score the film. While Bill Condon of Dreamgirls fame is behind the camera.
Beauty and the Beast looks and feels like pure magic. Everything from set design to cinematography is dashing and huge in the classic Disney aura. It will be a true remake in the live action form; this could be truly special.
Release Date: March 17th
#11 — Alien: Covenant
Alien: Covenant is a fascinating proposition. Is this going to be the Alien prequel that we were promised in the divisive Prometheus which garnered mixed results? Nonetheless, with Covenant there are reasons to be eager. Ridley Scott is coming off his best film in a long time with The Martian. Visually, Covenant has taken many cues from the Alien mythology, noticeably in both set design and costuming, but the most encouraging aspect has to be the tone as this film looks spine-chilling beyond compare.
While Prometheus had its moments, it wasn’t a horror film in the traditional sense of the 79’ film. It felt more like an allegorical piece of original science fiction, which while not bad, just didn’t amass to pre-conceived expectations. Covenant appears to rectify this. In regards to tone it looks tense, frightening and to a degree, gory. The blood is nearly palpable and with the body horror and creature designs that embodied fear in previous installments, Alien: Covenant is touted as the prequel we’ve been expecting. And boy, does it look like it will deliver.
A fine ensemble cast of largely understated actors including Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, James Franco as well as the returning Michael Fassbender will be on display. With an R rating for further measure, promising something thematically dark, Alien: Covenant is thus far ticking all the right boxes to be the definitive return of the “Alien” franchise.
Release Date: May 19th
