The year 2008 is quickly coming to a close, so I've decided to go back and pick my 10 favorite movie trailers of the year (yes, "The Dark Knight" is one of them). Before I get started, here are some notes about my selection:
I've only looked at trailers for films that were actually released in 2008. Trailers for films that won't be released until 2009 were excluded from my selection, but I will take those into consideration at the end of next year.
Also, the following list is solely based on the quality of the trailers, and they have nothing to do with my opinion about the actual movies.
Lastly, feel free to post your own selections using the comment section below.
10. "The Reader"
This wonderful trailer completely won me over the first time I saw it, primarily because of Ludovico Einaudi's fantastic "Primavera," which adds an incredibly powerful and emotional tone to the footage. Besides the music, this previews also promises an intriguing story and strong performances without revealing all too much. It's definitely one I enjoy watching more than once.
9. "Vantage Point"
I admit I didn't love the movie as much as I thought I would, but the trailer certainly sparked my interest. With great editing, stylish music and plenty of fast-paced action, this is another preview that proves just how cool trailers can be.
8. "Iron Man"
With a great opening, a bunch of funny quotes and a solid first look at the visual style of "Iron Man," this trailer deserves a secured spot on this list. Need I say more?
7. "Australia"
Say about the movie what you want, but you have to admit this domestic feature trailer just looks gorgeous. The beautiful music flows perfectly with the images, and I really like how the peaceful first part suddenly merges into a loud, spectacular finish.
6. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
Doesn't this teaser trailer for David Fincher's latest look stunning? Equipped with gripping music and cinematic beauty, this one pulls you right in and won't let go of you until the very end. Pay particular attention to the wonderful last shot...
5. "RocknRolla"
Guy Ritchie's "RocknRolla" is not necessarily a film I would add to my top 10 best films of the year list, but the trailer rocks big time. Visually pleasing and with "Rock & Roll Queen" by The Subways and "I'm a Man" by Black Strobe accompanying the scenes, this one's both funny and entertaining with repeated viewing potential.
4. "Wanted"
An explosive trailer with Angelina Jolie teaching James McAvoy how to kick butt? A bunch of cool car stunts and shoot-outs? You got it!
3. "Pineapple Express"
The trailer for "Pineapple Express" first introduced me to M.I.A.'s excellent song "Paper Planes," and I've been listening to the tune ever since. And isn't James Franco's Saul Silver just plain hilarious in this thing?
2. "The Visitor"
"The Visitor" will certainly place high up in my upcoming list of the 10 best films of the year, and so is its beautiful trailer in this selection. Richard Jenkins' role in this film is still one of my favorite this year, and this trailer gives you a pretty good idea of how emotional and honest his performance is. Yep, this footage alone is quite a touching experience.
1. "The Dark Knight"
I'm still speechless...
These almost made it into the top 10: Be Kind Rewind, Religulous, Quantum of Solace, Gran Torino, In Bruges