Sam Mendes defied all expectations with Skyfall, a refreshing return to the form of Casino Royale following the decent-but-not-great Quantum of Solace. With a classically old school villain played to perfect by Javier Bardem, Roger Deakins' gorgeous cinematography, Mendes' self-confessed Christopher Nolan-esque direction and a thoughtful, hugely entertaining plot, Skyfall wasn't just a great Bond film, it was one 007's best ever outings. Daniel Craig returns for his fourth film as Bond in the as-yet-untitled film, though it's already easy to get excited considering that Mendes has been lured back (and will reportedly also return for Bond 25), while Skyfall writer John Logan is also coming back for the next two films. It's probably sensible not to expect something as robust and jaw-dropping as Skyfall, but as long as it runs along the same axis, we'll surely be satisfied. With plenty of fallout following M's (Judi Dench) demise, there will certainly be a wealth of drama to mine. Predicted Rotten Tomatoes Score: 81%
6. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 (Nov 20)
As is a frustrating trend in any popular teen fantasy novel adaptation these days, The Hunger Games' final chapter, Mockingjay, has been split into two parts, with the first half hitting cinemas this November, and Part 2 landing next November. Though it would be unfair to discuss spoilers about what's to happen in Part 1, Part 2 will continue Katniss' struggle following some devastating events in her life, hinging hugely on the presence of President Alma Coin (Julianne Moore). One of the major points of discussion will also be the appearance of Philip Seymour Hoffman, who had a week's worth of scenes to shoot for his character, Plutarch Heavensbee, prior to his death, and will reportedly have his major dramatic scene in the movie recreated with the help of CGI. Mockingjay is seen by many fans of the franchise as a huge anti-climax, so we won't be expecting it to be as beloved as the first two movies, though Part 2 will surely still be a colossal hit on all fronts. Predicted Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
