2009 was a year filled to the brim with solid films. Unlike last year, when I had trouble finding 20 films to call my favorites, this year it was hard letting a number of them go. In a year defined by the mainstream resurgence of great sci-fi and new technologies ranging from an onslaught of 3D to mass digital projection, here are a list of films that personally resonated with me. Note: Out of the main contenders, I haven’t had the chance to view The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, Crazy Heart or A Single Man yet. Let the list begin.
Honorable mentions: Adventureland, Fantastic Mr. Fox, In The Loop, The Messenger, Moon, Observe and Repot, Precious, Sin Nombre, Thirst and World’s Greatest Dad.
15. Black Dynamite
The funniest film of the year was unfortunately plagued by a poor theatrical release, but for those lucky enough to catch it in theaters, this spoof takes entertainment to a whole new level. From the ridiculous lines to the 70’s soundtrack, everything in the film is pure fun. You’ll be yelling “DYNO-MITE!” long after the credits roll.
14. The Hurt Locker
With character interactions as visceral as the action scenes, Kathryn Bigelow has delivered the best war film of the decade just in time. One will feel so tense after viewing that every DVD should come with a bubble bath.
13. Anvil!: The Story of Anvil
The level of friendship and passion conveyed in this documentary is something most narrative films dream to accomplish. The story of two friends that want nothing more than to follow their dreams is portrayed with such a personal touch it begs for us to examine our own goals and relationships.
12. Away We Go
One of the few films on my list that I initially enjoyed, but fell in love with upon second (and third) viewing. The “amateur night” scene with Chris Messina brings me to tears with every viewing and who knew Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski could carry a film? It could be the idea that I need to start thinking about my future, but this film came at exactly the right time.
11. Up
A few months ago I would have put this right near the top of the list, but on repeat viewings it’s a tad too childish for it to appear higher. This latest Pixar adventure is still brilliant due to the much-talked about opening 20 minutes and the sheer scope of a story about a old man figuring out what’s important in life.
10. District 9
One of the biggest surprises of the year, the directorial debut from Neill Blomkamp is a relentless suffocating portrayal of man’s struggle. Sharlto Copley also delivers one of the year’s best performances as we experience a character transformation like no other. With special effects that rival Avatar, this is one hell of a ride.
9. (500) Days of Summer
This Sundance hit struck a major personal chord, as many of the lines seemed to be ripped straight out of my life. With it’s quirky style it’s an easy film to fall in love with. Most importantly, it’s so refreshing to see a movie about love succeed that doesn’t feature Hugh Grant or Matthew McConaughey.
8. Where The Wild Things Are
Spike Jonze has created the most honest display of childhood on film with this adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s classic book. From the minuscule details to the beautifully expansive landscapes that these creatures inhabit, this film produces an atmosphere like no other.
7. The Informant!
Steven Soderbergh had quite the year. After the excellent Girlfriend Experience, he delivered one of the must overlooked films of the year with The Informant!. Based on the real life “adventures” of Mark Whitacre, this hilarious tale is meticulously constructed as it builds and builds until the inevitable explosion.
6. Star Trek
I had a good time with J.J. Abram‘s latest at the theater, but it was only after watching it many, many times on Blu-ray that I connected with the brilliance of this blockbuster. The illustrious direction, sound mixing, editing, cinematography and score all make up for the somewhat shaky script. Coming from someone that had zero connection with the previous TV shows and films, this is one of the most enjoyable two hours of the year.
5. The Brothers Bloom
Rian Johnson‘s sophomore outing was one of the most criminally overlooked films of the year. Bursting with energy, as we jump from locations exotic as Johnson’s dialogue, there isn’t a dull moment in this well-crafted caper story.
4. Up In The Air
With his most mature work to date, writer/director Jason Reitman delivers a timely film anchored by one of George Clooney’s best performances. Up In The Air caps off a decade of economic uncertainty with a wonderful style reminiscent of old Hollywood. The seamless blend of comedy, drama and despair will keep one thinking about their own lives long after this plane ride is over.
3. Avatar
No other film this year delivers pure enjoyment the way Cameron‘s fantasy epic does. Creating an addicting world that begs to be revisited, as seen in the insane box office performance, Cameron has created a visceral and memorable experience that is unmatched and unlike any adventure we’ve previously encountered. It’s a massive technological step forward and one that guarantees epic results in this upcoming decade.
2. Inglourious Basterds
What else is there to say about Tarantino‘s best film since Pulp Fiction? Crafting dialogue with more spectacle and punch than any of Bay‘s transformers could hope for, this is a thrilling saga that never lets up.
1. A Serious Man
Like many other films by the Coens, it is challenging, obscure, complex, and perfect. A Serious Man tackles all the everyday issues that lurk in our minds, but we never stop to think about. Larry Gopnik, played with fervor by Michael Stuhlbarg, stops to question these issues and what a mess it untangles.
Do you agree with the list? What were your favorites this year?