Ladies and gentlemen,

As 2014 draws to a close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the year in the way only an amateur film critic can – by handing out some unofficial awards! I’ve chosen winners in ten categories representing the best and worst of this year’s movies. The criteria for selection were as follows:

1. The film must have premiered in 2014.
2. I must have watched the film in its entirety at some point.

Winners are listed after the break. Enjoy, and thanks for reading!

Best Actor
Given to the actor with the best performance in a lead role.
Winner: Jake Gyllenhaal, Nightcrawler
– His compelling creepiness was key to the film’s subtle horror.

Best Actress
Given to the actress with the best performance in a lead role.
Winner: Eva Green, Sin City: A Dame to Kill For
– Her sexy, confident screen presence redeemed low-brow material.

Best Music
Given to the film with the most memorable soundtrack or score.
Winner: Gundam Unicorn: Niji no Kanata ni
– Soaring, epic melodies perfectly set the tone for a hugely ambitious story.

Best Cinematography
Given to the film with the most interesting or innovative camerawork.
Winner: Birdman
– One-take editing was innovative and fun to watch.

Sleeper Hit of the Year
Given to the film that most exceeded my expectations upon viewing.
Winner: John Wick
– Very quietly one of the best-written, most exciting films of the year.

Best Picture
Given to the best overall film of the year.
Runners-Up: The Lego Movie, Guardians of the Galaxy, Interstellar, 22 Jump Street
Winner: Captain America: The Winter Soldier
– No other film this year felt as bold, fresh, and risky to me as this one.

Congrats, Cap!

Worst Actor
Given to the actor with the worst performance in a lead role.
Winner? Nicolas Cage, Left Behind (2014)
– He played it straight in scenes that badly needed his brand of hysteria.

Worst Actress
Given to the actress with the worst performance in a lead role.
Winner? Scarlett Johansson, Lucy
– Normally a great actress, but she played this role like she regretted it.

Disappointment of the Year
Given to the movie that fell shortest of my expectations upon viewing.
Winner? Godzilla (2014)
– How the hell can a film about giant monsters be so boring?

Worst Picture
Given to the worst overall film of the year.
Winner? Left Behind (2014)
– There’s nothing to enjoy here in either a genuine or an ironic sense.

That’s a wrap! Feel free to discuss the awards – or any snubs – with me in the comments, and look forward to more Quick & Dirty Reviews next year!