by Sean Narborough 

One of the fastest rising talents in Hollywood right now is Rooney Mara. After landing a few small times roles in films here and there, Rooney met with the right people for her career, got the roles she deserved and is now a more recognisable name in Hollywood and the public domain. In the past five years alone, she has worked with some of the top directors around including David Fincher, Steven Soderbergh and Spike Jonze. But we aren’t here to talk about those guys specifically, we here to talk about the essential films to watch before the release of Rooney’s new film, Trash.

by Sean Narborough

Jessica Chastain is fast becoming one of the best actors of our generation. In the small amount of time in the film industry she has been able to show a broad range of acting styles in a number of different genres, from intense thrillers to horrors and from experimental films to sci-fi epics. But with the release of her next film, A Most Violent Year, let's have a look at her best work

Honourable mentions: Jolene, Wilde Salome, Lawless, Mama

by Jennifer Drewett 

Some actors are very flash in the pan in their career: their hits are gone just as quickly as they came. Whilst they may still appear in films, nothing will recreate their one shining moment of greatness. Other actors have a career full of hit films and whilst they may end up in some terrible films, their hits and their talent ensure a healthy and glittering career. One of these such actors is Ewan McGregor, a veteran Scottish actor with a career spanning over three decades. The nephew of actor Denis Lawson who appeared in the original Star Wars trilogy and Enid, McGregor has forged a stellar career on the merit of his own talent and determination. A man who does not appear desperate for the limelight at every move, he's received a lot of critical acclaim even when appearing in less than appealing films.

As we prepare for two films starring McGregor released within a week of each other with Mortdecai then Son of a Gun, here are some of his finest performances:

by Laura W

Reese Witherspoon is unstoppable. With her second Oscar nomination (and one win) under her belt, as well as having a hit film out, she’s well on her way. After a period of time away from the limelight, Reese has returned and she’s stronger than ever. Reese was also a producer on the hit Oscar nominated film, Gone Girl. With the Oscars approaching, let’s take a look at some of Reese’s best films. 

by Robbie Jones 

Steve Carell is one of the funniest actors working today. A hero of modern comedy, he has delighted audiences for years with his generally likeable persona and naturally funny expressions. However, ‘terrifying’ might be the best word to describe him in his new film Foxcatcher, in which he plays a role unlike any he’s played before alongside Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo in the psychological thriller that’s getting rave reviews. Not only that, but it looks like an Oscar nomination is on the cards for Carell. It’s all very exciting, so we’re gonna take a look back at the man’s career and highlight his best performances to date.

Honourable mentions:

Despicable Me 1 and 2, Bruce Almighty, Get Smart, Over the Hedge, Date Night, Seeking a Friend for the End of the World and The Office US

by Gemma Williams 

The lovely and talented Anna Kendrick has been gracing our screens for quite some time now, but it wasn’t until the past few years that she started getting bigger roles and she became a must watch actress. In her new film, Into the Woods, she plays Cinderella and gets to show off her singing prowess in a completely different genre to that for which she has become known. If you don’t know who she is yet, here is a list of films that you really should consider watching.