Yes, we're well into 2014 already but as we all know from the Oscars, nothing of note gets released before May right? Jokes aside, I like to post this list around this time since we have a bit more info (images, casting news, trailers etc.) about the upcoming film year than we do in January (and partially for the Oscar reason too, I can't help it). Looking ahead, there are a number of acting performances that seem like they could be very exciting. So here they are, my Top 20 Most Anticipated Acting Performances of 2014:
20. Gael Garcia Bernal in The ArdorFreshly announced at Cannes, this role sounds enticing.
19. Tommy Lee Jones in The HomesmanThe character looks promising from the trailer, almost Coens-esque.
18. Cate Blanchett in CarolTodd Haynes films tend to have great female roles and Blanchett has top billing.
17. Chadwick Boseman in Get On UpJames Brown was so eccentric, this character is bound to be interesting.
16. Guy Pearce in The RoverHe looks so intense in the trailers and he flourishes in that zone.15. Hilary Swank in The HomesmanSorry haters, I love me some Hilary Swank and she looked impressive in the trailer.
14. Mia Wasikowska in TracksCan't wait to see her in this strong role, acting in her natural accent!
13. Jack O'Connell in UnbrokenWatch out for this rising star.
12. Bryan Cranston in GodzillaI love his fierce commitment to the emotions of the role.
11. Bradley Cooper in SerenaHe continues to impress me and I'm hoping for more of the same here.
10. Johnny Depp in Into The WoodsSure, the casting is obvious but it's also kinda perfect.
9. Meryl Streep in Into The WoodsGreat role, great actress.
8. Jessica Chastain in Eleanor RigbyA fascinating concept that should allow her to really stretch herself.
7. Michael Fassbender in MacbethFassbender as Macbeth seems like such a colossal prospect.
6. Marion Cotillard in MacbethCotillard always makes a great femme fatale (see "Inception", "A Very Long Engagement").
5. Gael Garcia Bernal in RosewaterGreat role, great actor.
4. Angelina Jolie in MaleficentAngelina playing an iconic badass villain? #werk
3. Jennifer Lawrence in SerenaA juicy role that should show off her considerable dramatic chops.
2. Rosamund Pike in Gone GirlFINALLY she gets a starring role befitting her talent.
1. Steve Carell in FoxcatcherHe's proven his skill in drama before and this role sounds amazing.