'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes'
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Crooked Table’s 10 Favorite Films of 2014

Now that the Academy Awards have come and gone (and we’ve had the chance to catch up with most of this year’s Best Picture nominated films), the time has finally come to unveil the list of our 10 favorite films released in 2014.

Bear in mind that this list encompasses our personal favorites and doesn’t necessarily reflect the best films, as such a label is strictly subjective anyway. Here’s the full list (in alphabetical order) of the films that most piqued our interest last year:

The Babadook (Director: Jennifer Kent):

'The Babadook'

An imaginative, horrific tale of a mother and son that tows the line between supernatural dread and all-too-real emotional turmoil. Featuring a standout performance by Essie Davis.

 

Begin Again (Director: John Carney)

'Begin Again'

Gregg Alexander’s music helps tell the story of two “lost stars” who find their way again, thanks to a chance meeting. The most hopeful film on this list and a real charmer by any measure.

 

Birdman Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Iñárritu)

'Birdman'

This brand-new Best Picture winner employs a sweeping camera to chronicle a former superhero star’s final bid for relevance. Both poignant and pointedly satirical in equal measure.

 

Captain America: The Winter Soldier (Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo)

'Captain America: The Winter Soldier'

The year’s best superhero film breathes new life into the Marvel Studios lineup, bringing a morally shaky edge and astonishing fight scenes that justify the title hero’s role as leader.

 

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (Director: Matt Reeves)

'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes'

Sci-fi social commentary at its very best, this release outshines its solid predecessor with a more philosophical, contemplative tone and a far more visceral visual style. Andy Serkis rules.

 

The Fault in Our Stars (Director: Josh Boone)

'The Fault in Our Stars'

What could have been a shallow weepfest is instead a tragic modern love story with an honest message and perfect tone. Impressive, award-worthy performances from its two leads. Okay?

 

Gone Girl (Director: David Fincher)

'Gone Girl'

Gillian Flynn’s novel leaps into moody life, as the film captures the darker side of marriage and wraps it up in a bold, gripping whodunit sure to keep viewers guessing. Amazing Amy indeed.

The Grand Budapest Hotel (Director: Wes Anderson)

'The Grand Budapest Hotel'

A wacky caper starring Ralph Fiennes as a charming cad on the run for murder? Yes, please. Add in the director’s distinct sensibility and a stunning, immersive world, and you get greatness.

Whiplash (Director: Damien Chazelle)

'Whiplash'

J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller command the screen in the finest tale about obsession in years. You’ll never hear the phrase “Not my tempo” again without wetting yourself a little bit.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (Director: Bryan Singer)

'X-Men: Days of Future Past'This time-bending mutant fest succeeded in connecting both halves of the franchise and opened the door for infinite storytelling possibilities. The brilliant ensemble doesn’t hurt either.

Honorable Mentions:

Any of your favorites make the above list? Was I crazy for missing last year’s masterpiece? Send us a tweet @crookedtable and declare allegiance to your favorite 2014 release!