9. Rian Johnson (39)
Filmography Brick (2005), The Brothers Bloom (2008), Looper (2012). If it wasnt for a particular sci-fi film from last year, Rian Johnson would perhaps be a more likely inclusion for the Honorary Mentions section elsewhere in this article. Looper was, however, one of the finest science fiction films of the last decade and should ensure that Johnsons future output attracts the audience levels that it will most likely deserve. His career began with Brick, a noir with a high school setting, in 2005. Featuring the now globally renowned Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the lead role, the film was an excellent blending of genres and was well-received enough to see Johnson given a $20 million budget for his next feature. This was The Brothers Bloom, a caper film that ultimately failed to recoup this money in cinemas, but is still watchable. Somehow he was then entrusted with $30 million for Looper, but given its quality, we as film aficionados should be thankful towards the executive who decided to give the director another chance. Johnsons next project is currently unknown, but it will be eagerly anticipated when announced.