As the curtains draw to a close on 2011, it’s time to reflect back on the year that was. In film. So here’s my list of the top 10 movies I saw this year. My list includes box office as well as video releases.
10. Due Date
Funny stuff. Downey plays a perfect straight man and Galifianakis is great as the odd goofball (although by now I don’t see how he’ll ever get a different role).
9. No Strings Attached
I liked it despite knowing where it was headed from the beginning. Cute but predictable amid the usual bevy of wacky supporting characters. After looking all black swanish last time, Natalie is gorgeous in this one.
8. My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend
Wow. Yes. Finally a romantic comedy/drama worth watching. Two great twists make this buck the formula. Nice soundtrack. And Alyssa Milano!
7. The Switch
Pleasantly surprised, enjoyed it. Big Bateman fan.
6. Puss in Boots
My 10-year old gives this a 4.5 star rating, and I concur! Fun movie!
5. Crazy Stupid Love
Ryan Gosling impresses again, and spoiler alert: surprising reveal intertwines everything. American Beauty meets The Kids Are Alright.
4. Easy A
Very solid movie, not the typical high school angst movie. Great acting and some hilarity. Enjoyable.
3. Blue Valentine
Supreme performances but devastating plot. Not uplifting but truthful. Watch if you like studying acting or filmmaking. Skip if you’re in a fragile state of mind. Ouch.
2. 127 Hours
Amazing brilliant tour de force performance from James Franco. Gruesome, but triumphant. Look away if you are the least bit squeamish.
1. Horrible Bosses
Best. Movie. Ever.
Honorable Mentions
All of these are worth seeing, but they just didn’t have enough to make it to the best list.
- Bridesmaids
Expected a female Hangover but ended up being a sweet, touching chick flick. Definitely some very funny parts but woulda preferred a full on comedy. Melissa McCarthy steals the show and keeps this from being only a 2.5 star rating.
- Tower Heist
What a pleasant surprise. Didn’t expect to enjoy this but it was very entertaining. Oceans 11 meets bad news bears.
- The Social Network
Intense. Uncomfortable. Really makes Sean Parker look evil and Zuckerberg unlikable.
- Black Swan
That is one crazy messed up chick/swan. Can’t really argue that it’s an epic movie, but not really my cup of tea.
- The Adjustment Bureau
Sorta hokey premise about fate but suspend your disbelief and it’s moderately entertaining.
Agree or not? Which flicks should have made my list?
Journeys with Jeff 