Starting from #10:
10. 'Cave of Forgotten Dreams'
I know this might be considered cheating, since this is a documentary. But then again, it is a film, is it not? Full of stunning visuals and a haunting musical score that is equally haunting, 'Cave of Forgotten Dreams' is something that will spark your imagination. It is an intriguing film.
9. 'Moneyball'
When it comes to sports, I am usually the last person you would ask about what my favorite sports team is. But with this film, it is not so much about what happens on the field. Instead, it is about what goes on behind the scenes, so to speak. I thought that was a unique approach to the sports genre. There were times when I was confused about what these guys were trying to do in between games, which can be a downside to this movie. But at the same time, it is full of sharp dialogue, a good sense of humor, and deep characterization and development.
8. 'Midnight in Paris'
When it comes to Woody Allen, for me, he is either a hit or miss. With his latest fantasy, 'Midnight in Paris', it's a hit. This film is a tribute art, of all sorts. And it is done in a very magical way which also needs no explanation. That's the beauty of it.
7. 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows; Part 2'
If I did not put this film on my list, I don't think I would have been able to forgive myself. I grew up with Harry Potter, from basically the year after the first book was published, to now with the last in the film series released. This is an exciting, emotional and, all in all, worthy film adaptation. Being very familiar with the books, there were some moments that I think could have been done better with this film. But that complaint is minor compared to all the other satisfaction I got from this final entry in one of the greatest sagas of all time.
6. 'Another Earth'
This is one of the more subtle, independent touches that film has offered this past year. Hardly any special effects at all, and still hits you on a rather high note of awe. You will be pondering like crazy after you watch this. A thought provoking character study of morals, mystery, wonder and redemption.
5. 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes'
This film is the epitome of a summer movie: Thrilling, sad, exciting and, most important, engaging. What I loved about this film was its steadiness. Most action/adventure films these days feel the need to bombard audiences with explosions and mayhem every other second they get. With this film, it has a certain steady pace which allows us to spend time with the characters and understand the films plot. This helps in making the film's final half hour all the more exciting. With incredible visual effects (the best of the year, in fact), good characters and a well constructed script, this is a very good movie.
4. 'Source Code'
From the best action/adventure of the year, now comes the best science-fiction/thriller of the year. 'Source Code' puts you on the edge of your seat the minute after it begins. The films two main characters are very endearing, the scenario is deeply mind-boggling, in a good way, and it has one of the best plot twists of the year. I came into this film with little expectations, and what I got was a wildly entertaining ride.
3. 'The Artist'
Your first instinct, after hearing this is a black-and-white, silent film made in the 21st century, may be a turn off to you. But, trust me, you will not miss the spoken dialogue one bit. This is a beautiful, funny and entertaining tribute to the golden age of cinema. With the actors body language, facial expressions and gestures, it's incredible how you are still able to understand what they are saying. This is one of those rare treats that truly demonstrates the real genuine magic that movies can create. Magic that many films rarely have anymore.
2. 'Hugo'
With a film paying great tribute to early cinema, 'Hugo' brings that golden age of cinema back to life, literally. Martin Scorsese, one of the greatest filmmakers living today, has created some of the most stunning images ever put on the screen, and 'Hugo' is no exception. This magical adventure is a near masterpiece. Everything that happens in this film is so majestic and imaginary, it's almost like a fantasy or fairy-tale. In many ways, it is. This is one the most inspiring, heart-tugging films in years. Film lovers, or ordinary movie goers, this is a must see for everyone!
1. 'The Tree of Life'
When it comes to filmmaking, you can entertain your audience and persuade your audience. When you have the opportunity, and the wits, to make your audience just observe, think and ponder during a movie, and still have them walk out at the end, feeling completely refreshed, renewed and awestruck. That is triumphant. Terrence Malick's 'The Tree of Life' is nothing short but a masterpiece. This is not just a movie, it is an experience. Even a spiritual experience. Like '2001: A Space Odyssey', this is an extremely rare type of film. This is under-appreciated art. A film that you absolutely must see before you die. This is the best film of the year 2011!
