Midway Point: Top 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2009: #9. The Lovely Bones

#9. The Lovely Bones

Director: Peter Jackson 
Writer(s): Jackson, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens
Producers: Carolynne Cunningham (Crossing the Line), Jackson, Aimée Peyronnet (The Life Before Her Eyes), Walsh
Distributor: Paramount Pictures.

The Gist: Alice Sebold’s best-selling novel is a heartbreaking tale narrated by a 14-year old girl — after she has been raped and murdered. From heaven, she observes her shattered family’s attempt to heal, as a detective tries to solve the case and as her killer moves along his demented path.

Fact: Lynne Ramsay was originally attached to direct the film. Later on, Ryan Gosling was replaced by Wahlberg.

Why is it on the list?: I’m extremely curious to see how a touchy concept might play out on the big screen. We are curious and optimistic that the film narration will make us teary eyed and are betting that this is Jackson’s best since Heavenly Creatures. 

Release Date/Status?: The studio won’t find the need to preem the film at any festival, but not out of the question either. Release is set for December 11th. With ten noms for Best Picture – this should be a shoe-in.