Who's Directing It: Werner Herzog
Who's In It: Nicholas Cage, Eva Mendes, Val Kilmer
What's the Plot: TA loose remake of the 1992 film about an out of control lieutenant who constantly abuses his position of power as his struggles with his own inner demons.
What's the Deal: The original is a minor classic from the early 90's and is known for its NC-17 rating and its brutal portrayal of a short-tempered lieutenant. Werner Herzog (Rescue Dawn, Grizzly Man), a constantly adventurous filmmaker, is a good choice for the remake and Nick Cage could tear this role up if he lets his darker side out that we don't see often enough. I am interested to see how this shapes up.
When to Expect It: TBA 2009
Who's Directing It: Peter Jackson
Who's In It: Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, Saoirse Ronan, Stanley Tucci
What's the Plot: Centers on a young girl who has been murdered and watches over her family - and her killer - from heaven. She must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal.
What's the Deal: This was my #2 most anticipated film for 2008 and never got released. It has been constantly pushed back, which is never a good sign and the reason it is only at #16 on this years list. But it is also being released late in the year which typically means that the studio is looking for awards consideration. Peter Jackson is the man so I am expecting the best.
When to Expect It: December 11th
Who's Directing It: Rob Marshall
Who's In It: Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Kate Hudson
What's the Plot: Famous film director Guido Contini struggles to find harmony in his professional and personal lives, as he engages in dramatic relationships with his wife, his mistress, his muse, his agent, and his mother.
What's the Deal: Those who know me (I don�t know why I wrote that, that�s pretty much anyone who reads this) will be surprised that I included a musical on my list. Director Rob Marshall knows how to make a musical, he proved so with the Oscar winning Chicago. But this looks even better with a rare appearance from Daniel Day-Lewis and a fantastic all-around cast.
When to Expect It: December 11th
Who's Directing It: Zack Snyder
Who's In It: Patrick Wilson, Billy Crudup, Jackie Earle-Haley
What's the Plot: When an ex-superhero is murdered, a vigilante named Rorshach begins an investigation into the murder, which begins to lead to a much more terrifying conclusion.
What's the Deal: Although I am very excited for this movie and the hype is huge, I have a sinking feeling that there's no way it will live up to it. I am one of the few that thought Zack Snyder's 300 sucked. It was all style and no substance. If Watchmen sidesteps this error then this could be great. Either way it will be one of the biggest grossing movies of the year. Let's just hope that it is worth audience's hard earned money.
When to Expect It: March 6th (likely to be pushed back because of copyright issues)