Warning: Some of my blurbs contain minor spoilers.
10. Life Of Pi (Directed by Ang Lee)
Ang Lee's wonderous adaption of Yann Martel's seemingly un-adaptable novel was truly a marvel of filmmaking. The thing I loved most about this film was its two messages. The first was that there are many stories in this world (such as what Pi Patel has been through) that are worth telling. The inclusion of Pi telling his story while it occurs is a familiar tactic in films, but it works brilliantly here. Secondly, Pi was able to find faith and hope even in the most adverse of situations. I feel like it was less about pure religion and more about hope, somewhat like The Shawshank Redemption. My one minor quibble was that while the film was certainly pretty, it was a little bit excessive at times. That was somewhat distracting. Having said that, this is still a wonderful film, one deserving of its nomination for Best Picture.
9. The Master (Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson)
Paul Thomas Anderson is quite the director. His attention to detail and his eye for the time period is strongly evident in his Scientology allegory. This story of Freddie Quirrel (who is given a brilliant performance by Joaquin Phoenix, earning himself a deserved Oscar nomination) and his experiences with a charismatic leader of a rising movement (played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, who gives another fantastic performance) and his wife (played by Amy Adams, and do I even need to say it?) This film builds to an ending that may leave some audience members leaving the theater feeling dissatisfied, but conveys a significant message about how Freddie's experience did little to change him. It's definitely a film that you appreciate more over time.
8. Les Miserables (Directed by Tom Hooper)
Quite possibly the biggest explosion of feels in 2012, Les Miserables is a pulpy, bombastic, marvelous experience. This is helped by the fantastic ensemble, most notably Hugh Jackman as ex-convict Jean Vaijean, Anne Hathway as poor factory worker Fantine, and Samantha Banks (a newcomer to film) as Eponine, a young girl who finds redemption in the midst of a revolution. The songs aren't quite as strong as you would get with broadway voices, but all of the actors nail the emotional intensity. Tom Hooper's direction works most of the time, although the cinematography was disappointing, with excessive close-ups. WE GET IT, TOM HOOPER. THESE ARE SAD PEOPLE. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SHOW US ALL OF THEIR TEARS! Having said that, I love this movie.
7. Looper (Directed by Rian Johnson)
One of the most inventive, smart, and entertaining sci-fi films of the 21st century, Looper is one of those films that must be experienced. The film asks the question, "What would happen if you met your future self, but you actually had to kill him or her?" Joseph Gordon Levitt is as charming as ever, and the supporting cast is also strong. The key to the film's success is Rian Johnson's brilliant script, which was unfortunately snubbed at the Oscars. Johnson tells an exciting sci-fi story with slick action, humor, drama, and some definite surprises. We don't get films like this all of the time, so I recommend that all of you see this movie (and it's on DVD, so I'll rephrase my original statement: See this movie NOW.)
6. Lincoln (Directed by Steven Spielberg)
It seemed too good to be True: Steven Spielberg directing to story of our 16th president, with an all star cast. I was convinced that it was going to dissapoint. Lo and behold, it did nothing of the sort. Lincoln combines fantastic filmmaking, brilliant performances, and a sharp script to create a fine political drama. Daniel Day Lewis is truly a chameleon. He dissolves into his role as Abraham Lincoln, and he completely nails it. I don't think this guy could give a bad performance if his life depended on it. On top of that, you've got people like Tommy Lee Jones, Sally Field, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Hal Holbrook, and so much more. Lincoln is a truly marvelous experience, and I've got no problem with this film winning Best Picture.
Top 5 coming tomorrow!
