1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (Dec 25 US, Dec 26 UK)
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is the second adaptation of James Thurber's 1939 short story, after the acclaimed 1947 version, and if nothing else, it appears to be a wondrous, visually splendid adventure that is sure to shift perceptions about Ben Stiller as an actor, and as a filmmaker. He plays the dumbstruck protagonist, an office worker who yearns for something more, and disappears into a fantasy world. Starring opposite Stiller are Kristen Wiig, Adam Scott, Patton Oswalt, Sean Penn and Shirley MacLaine.
The Buzz: Mitty premieres at the New York Film Festival on October 5th, and from what we've seen so far, this is set to be a hilarious, heart-warming adventure, and most impressively, appears to be a technically stunning film from Stiller, who also serves as director. There's much excitement about Stiller's performance, which just could land the actor an unlikely Best Actor nod, or he could even go the Ben Affleck route and wind up nominated for his direction. Stranger things have happened, and I just can't wait to see it. Which films are you most looking forward to this year? Let us know in the comments below.