David Chen’s Most Anticipated Films Of 2017 [Podcast]
Sometimes humans can be terrible at predicting things, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun when we try. My previous attempts to predict my favorite films of the year are often wildly inaccurate — inevitably,myactualfavorite films of the yearwill contain lots of entries that I couldn’t have possibly foreseen.
That being said, for 2017, the job is slightly easier. There are sequels on the docket that lots of people are actually psyched to see, rather than follow-ups people didn’t need (Alice Through the Looking Glass) or ask for (The Hunstman: Winter’s War). Still, I have no doubt that my favorite films of the year will be those that I couldn’t have possibly predicted at this stage.
After the jump, check out my picks in chronological order based on release date. Also, I recorded an episode of my new podcast with Joanna Robinson,Gen Pop, in which we both discuss the films that have us most excited. Listen below (and also seeJacobandEthan’slists).
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John Wick: Chapter 2 (February 10)
Part of the reason why the firstJohn Wickwas so refreshing was it filmed its action in relatively wide shots and lengthy takes, allowing viewers to luxuriate in the choreography and gunplay. Moreover, it was unafraid to embrace its status as a b-movie, leaning into the outlandishness of Wick’s mythology and crafting a subculture of assassins that felt alluring and dangerous. This new film looks like it’ll continue both those trends and deliver some reliable, fun ultraviolence.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (May 5)
I couldn’t be more excited to see a film with these beloved characters again, unencumbered by the need to provide each of them with origin stories. I wasn’t certain that directorJames Gunncould pull off a mass-market four-quadrant film the first time around, but my doubts have been eliminated and I really appreciated the edginess he brought to that film. Bring on Baby Groot, I say.
A Cure for Wellness (February 17)
BetweenTheRingand thePiratesfilms (and even arguablyLone Ranger),Gore Verbinskihas demonstrated that he can produce some of the most distinctive visuals of our time. The incredibly creepy teaser trailer forThe Cure for Wellnesshints at how his powers might be used might be used in service of something that’s not a reboot or a remake (see also:Rango).
Logan (March 3)
The resilience of theWolverinefranchise, as separate fromThe X-Men, has really impressed me. It takes a lot of guts to continue soldiering on in the wake of a movie as resoundingly awful asX-Men Origins: Wolverine, butJames MangoldtookThe Wolverineand made it into a solid extension of the invincible clawed superhero’s story. WithLogan, it seems like Mangold andHugh Jackmanunderstand that all bets are off. This will likely be the last featuring Jackman in the role and based on the trailers, he is going to leave it all on the field. I love what looks like a smaller stakes story with a darker tone.
T2: Trainspotting (March 3)
I’m not sure whyDanny Boylehas chosen to return to theTrainspottingfranchise after all this time, but I’m hoping it’s because he sees an opportunity to deliver something we don’t expect. When I’ve interviewed Boyle in the past, he’s always spoken compellingly about using each new film as an opportunity to test himself and try new things. The diversity of his filmography attests to the fact that Boyle moves between different genres with aplomb, and he’s never done a sequel until now. I’m cautiously optimistic that this isn’t just a cash grab, but we’ll find out soon enough.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (July 7)
No joke: One of the most moving parts ofCaptain America: Civil Warwas the re-introduction of Spider-Man into the Marvel cinematic universe. Not just becauseTom Hollandplayed the part perfectly (he did), but because of the knowledge that after Sony cranked out two terribleSpider-Manmovies, essentially ruining the very concept of Spider-Man in the popular imagination, Spider-Man was finally coming home to Marvel Studios. This new trailer indicates that they’re doing a lot of things right: Holland actually looks the part, and they’re skipping the by-now-tired origin story to get straight to the action. Here’s hoping this homecoming continues to be a joyful one.
War for the Planet of the Apes (July 14)
Dawn of the Planet of the Apeswas one of my favorite films of 2014, introducing us to the entire subculture and language of the Ceasar’s community and successfully making us root for these non-human characters. But it was ultimately tragic, with its message that some differences can be irreconcilable. WithWarcoming out this year, we are promised the next phase of the escalating violence between apes and humans.Matt Reevesreturns from the second film to shepherd the third to its conclusion.
Dunkirk (July 21)
I haven’t loved anyChristopher Nolanfilm as much as I lovedMemento, but here’s one thing you may consistently say about his most recent ones: They are visually spectacular. Whether it’s cities folding in on themselves inInception, or spaceships trying to bend the laws of space/time inInterstellar, Nolan not only comes up with novel concepts, he comes up with innovative ways ofexecutingthose concepts. While I feel less and less connected with his characters in each subsequent film, I am increasingly impressed by his technique. I’m hoping thatDunkirkcan deliver on both fronts.
Blade Runner 2049 (October 6)
As with Danny Boyle above, here we have another filmmaker (Denis Villeneuve)whose work I’ve adored, but is now taking his first steps into sequel-making. The visuals and design ofBlade Runnerhave inspired dozens of sci-fi films since, and this movie already looks like it’ll be a worthy successor on those fronts. But will the story justify the return to this world? I’ll take the return ofHarrison Fordas an encouraging sign.
Star Wars: Episode VIII (December 15)
What to say about one of the most anticipated sequels of all time?Rian Johnsonis one of my favorite filmmakers on the planet and withThe Force Awakens, I feel likeJJ Abramsreintroduced the universe ofStar Warsto fans in a way that allows Johnson to take it in bold and interesting new directions. I hope Disney lets him.
