I started this post off as a "The Five," with intentions of predicting what the five most anticipated films of 2011 were. But then I thought, um, no. It's not about that. It's more about which films I'm personally looking forward to -- and which ones you're personally looking forward to -- then some imaginary list based off very early buzz. So that's what we're doing today. Let's all share our five most anticipated films of the year.
I'll go first. (And if you need a reminder of a lot of the films coming out in 2011, you can scout around for preview pieces like our 2011 fan polls.)
This is my only big blockbuster choice, and it's on there because it's really the only one I'm itching to see. Captain America's story is one of the coolest of the major Marvel characters – what with the WWII origins and freaky Red Skull arch-nemesis – and the cast seems like a solid fit for the material (both Chris Evans and Hugo Weaving are perfect for their respective parts). Joe Johnston is a good enough director, and based on the Comic-Con footage I saw, this will probably be the better of the two Marvel movies due out this summer. (Release Date: July 22, 2011)4. War Horse
It doesn't sound all too exhilarating on paper, but it's Steven Spielberg back behind the camera. I mean, how can you not have this on your most anticipated list? It's also Spielberg back with a film that takes place during a great war (this time World War I), and we all know the man knows his war pictures. And then you have this lovely story about a boy and his horse, which, knowing Spielberg, will have us bawling our eyes out by the time the end credits roll. (Release Date: December 28, 2011)
This one might not be on your radar yet, but it's on mine because I happen to be a big sucker for Cameron Crowe (Jerry Maguire, Almost Famous, Singles) movies. Plus, you can never go wrong with Matt Damon in the lead, especially when he's playing a single father who buys a zoo and moves his family in. The soundtrack alone is worth putting aside $20 in anticipation of this. (Release Date: December 23rd)
2. Bridesmaids
It may seem crazy to have this film in my number two spot, but you have no idea how badly we need a female-centric comedy to just knock it out of the ballpark. Hollywood is in desperate need of some quality female-heavy comedies, and early buzz indicates that this will be one of the funniest of the year. Then you have the star (and writer) Kristen Wiig, whose comedy I've always enjoyed. And to top it off, Paul Feig (of Freaks and Geeks fame) is directing, and Judd Apatow is producing!). I'm already laughing. Trust me, this will be one of the most talked-about comedies of the year. (Release Date: May 13th, 2011)
1. The Muppets
Okay, by now you may think I'm absolutely nuts, but, yes, Jason Segel's Muppet movie is my most anticipated film of 2011. Maybe it's because I grew up with the Muppets and appreciate their sense of humor more than anyone, but also because I trust Segel, and I trust his sense of humor. I'm hoping to see a Muppet movie that harkens back to the old original Muppet movies, but also one that updates their story with some contemporary humor suitable for both adults and children. And, c'mon, the number of cameos in this will be mind boggling. (Release Date: November 23rd)Okay, folks – now it's your turn. Tell us your five most anticipated movies of 2011.
