Top 5 Movies of 2014

One of my many New Years Resolutions this year will be to watch more movies, as I really struggle to set the time aside to sit and watch a movie or go to the cinema. I'm pretty picky with the films which I do enjoy watching so this year I could only think of 5 which I really and truly loved. I have the most beautiful cinema, The Hayden Orpheum, just a stones throw away from where I live so next year I will definitely make an effort to go to see more movies.

1. The Grand Budapest Hotel.

Wes Anderson's most recent offering was inevitably going to top my list of favourite movies of 2014 as he's one of my favourite directors. Set in a fictional hotel (pink, naturally) in a fictionally location, this depicts's a murder-mystery adventure love story with a collection of hilarious loveable characters. The attention to detail in every aspect of this film is incredible, with ornate sets a perfect backdrop for the unfolding of the kitsch, charming tale. 

2. Boyhood.

The premise of Boyhood had me at the get go, filming a boy from the age of 8 for 11 years. It really does make for a truly unique movie shot from the point of view of the boy growing up and reaching adolescence. I was really captured by the cinematography of this film and also the soundtrack, the realism was refreshing and I highly recommend watching it if you haven't already.

3. Gone Girl.

This was also one of my favourite reads of the year, and I was concerned the movie wouldn't match up but it really caught the mood and suspense of the novel perfectly. Exploring the dark side of humanity, and how far people will go to cover up their lies, full of twists and turns in plot it really is as gripping as the book and the casting is on point. 

4. 12 Years a Slave.

This film was a lot more graphic and shocking than I expected, it's a historical drama movie based on a memoir by a state-born free-African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Cinematically is is the most impressive of my five favourites and it really was an honest insight into the brutality of slavery. The story was incredible, you really do go on a journey and feel his ecstasy when he's finally released after 12  years of slavery. 

5. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.

This adventure comedy drama really surprised me, I wasn't expecting much from a movie directed and lead by Ben Stiller but it really did take the viewer on a fun adventure. Based on a short story by James Thurber, the photographic theme of the tale will interest photographers. This one is technically a 2013 release but I watched it this year and I feel like it's underrated so I wanted to include it.

I love reading everyone's movie recommendations so I hope you like mine!