RUNNER UP: "THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES"
Directed By: Derek Cianfrance
Written By: Derek Cianfrance, Ben Coccio, & Darius Marder
Epic and ambitious in the most intimate way possible. This sprawling tale of fathers and their sons is Cianofrance’s second collaboration with Ryan Gosling (After the critically acclaimed “Blue Valentine) and they strike gold again. Also featuring a stellar cast including Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes, Bruce Greenwood, Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn and Ray Liotta, it’s incredible that the film’s best performances come from its two youthful leads Emory Cohen and Dane DeHaan. Separated into 3 distinctive acts all connected by fate and lineage, “The Place Beyond The Pines” may take its time, but it’s lasting impact is one which will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Written By: Derek Cianfrance, Ben Coccio, & Darius Marder
Epic and ambitious in the most intimate way possible. This sprawling tale of fathers and their sons is Cianofrance’s second collaboration with Ryan Gosling (After the critically acclaimed “Blue Valentine) and they strike gold again. Also featuring a stellar cast including Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes, Bruce Greenwood, Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn and Ray Liotta, it’s incredible that the film’s best performances come from its two youthful leads Emory Cohen and Dane DeHaan. Separated into 3 distinctive acts all connected by fate and lineage, “The Place Beyond The Pines” may take its time, but it’s lasting impact is one which will not be forgotten anytime soon.
10. "MUD"
Directed By: Jeff Nichols
Written By: Jeff Nichols
A powerful coming of age tale rooted in the deep American South filled with noir elements and centered all around the theme of love, “Mud” is only Jeff Nichol’s third film and further cements his voice as one of the strongest in film today. Featuring a fascinating lead turn from a lately versatile Matthew McConaughey, it’s easy to see the film as a dark continuation piece to anyone of the Hollywood film star’s former romantic comedies. While McConaughey is excellent, Tye Sheridan shows a depth and range that not many child actors are able to achieve in their performances. All credit goes to Nichols who's subtle script and confident direction allows for the relationships between the characters to play out organically allowing for the deeper themes of the film to settle in.
Written By: Jeff Nichols
A powerful coming of age tale rooted in the deep American South filled with noir elements and centered all around the theme of love, “Mud” is only Jeff Nichol’s third film and further cements his voice as one of the strongest in film today. Featuring a fascinating lead turn from a lately versatile Matthew McConaughey, it’s easy to see the film as a dark continuation piece to anyone of the Hollywood film star’s former romantic comedies. While McConaughey is excellent, Tye Sheridan shows a depth and range that not many child actors are able to achieve in their performances. All credit goes to Nichols who's subtle script and confident direction allows for the relationships between the characters to play out organically allowing for the deeper themes of the film to settle in.
9. "RUSH"
Directed By: Ron Howard
Written By: Peter Morgan
Tense, thrilling and consistently engaging, “Rush” is a perfect representation of the quality cinema a flexible talent such as Ron Howard can turn out when given the right project. Fresh off his breakout role in “Inglorious Basterds” Daniel Bruhl commands the screen as Formula 1 racer Niki Lauda. And though his co-star Chris Hemsworth may have the less showy role of the two, he turns in his finest performance to date as Lauda’s rival James Hunt. Highlighting the danger and competitive nature of Formula 1 Racing with tight editing, highly contrasted cinematography and adrenaline pumping sound, Ron Howard turns in one of his most entertaining films to date. Oh, and the score by Hans Zimmer? Chills.
Written By: Peter Morgan
Tense, thrilling and consistently engaging, “Rush” is a perfect representation of the quality cinema a flexible talent such as Ron Howard can turn out when given the right project. Fresh off his breakout role in “Inglorious Basterds” Daniel Bruhl commands the screen as Formula 1 racer Niki Lauda. And though his co-star Chris Hemsworth may have the less showy role of the two, he turns in his finest performance to date as Lauda’s rival James Hunt. Highlighting the danger and competitive nature of Formula 1 Racing with tight editing, highly contrasted cinematography and adrenaline pumping sound, Ron Howard turns in one of his most entertaining films to date. Oh, and the score by Hans Zimmer? Chills.
8. "PRISONERS"
Directed By: Denis Villeneuve
Written By: Aaron Guzikowski
Dark, complex and striking “Prisoners” is the most disturbing film I’ve seen all year and it is because it dives deep into very real human emotions of fear, panic and desperation leading to unimaginable circumstances for all of the characters involved. Featuring the best ensemble of the year Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard and Melissa Leo all get moments to shine but its the craft that is on display in this film from Villeneuve and Roger Deakins that shines brightest. The harsh dark colors in the Pennsylvanian world inhabited by our characters never looked as menacing as they do when shot by Deakins and Villeneuve keeps the atmosphere of the film at its bleakest, never letting up for the 153 minute runtime, until the film’s unforgettable final moments.
Written By: Aaron Guzikowski
Dark, complex and striking “Prisoners” is the most disturbing film I’ve seen all year and it is because it dives deep into very real human emotions of fear, panic and desperation leading to unimaginable circumstances for all of the characters involved. Featuring the best ensemble of the year Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard and Melissa Leo all get moments to shine but its the craft that is on display in this film from Villeneuve and Roger Deakins that shines brightest. The harsh dark colors in the Pennsylvanian world inhabited by our characters never looked as menacing as they do when shot by Deakins and Villeneuve keeps the atmosphere of the film at its bleakest, never letting up for the 153 minute runtime, until the film’s unforgettable final moments.
7. "DALLAS BUYERS CLUB"
Directed By: Jean- Marc Vallee
Written By: Craig Borten & Melisa Wallack
Matthew McConaughey’s transformation from romantic comedy actor to dramatic actor is finally complete with the release of this well directed little gem of a movie called “Dallas Buyers Club.” Shining a bright light under the hot button topic of AIDs during the 1980’s, the film is at times funny, dramatic, and equal parts humane in no small part due to the transformative performances of McConaughey and Jared Leto. Leto in particular disappears into the role of the transgender Rayon and succeeds in stealing and breaking our hearts simultaneously with his nuanced portrayal. Timely, poignant and truthful in its harshest depiction of the AIDs virus, this film never loses its focus nor its ability to allow us to connect to it’s characters and feel their struggle.
Written By: Craig Borten & Melisa Wallack
Matthew McConaughey’s transformation from romantic comedy actor to dramatic actor is finally complete with the release of this well directed little gem of a movie called “Dallas Buyers Club.” Shining a bright light under the hot button topic of AIDs during the 1980’s, the film is at times funny, dramatic, and equal parts humane in no small part due to the transformative performances of McConaughey and Jared Leto. Leto in particular disappears into the role of the transgender Rayon and succeeds in stealing and breaking our hearts simultaneously with his nuanced portrayal. Timely, poignant and truthful in its harshest depiction of the AIDs virus, this film never loses its focus nor its ability to allow us to connect to it’s characters and feel their struggle.
6. "INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS"
Directed By: Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
Written By: Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
Taking place in New York City’s Greenwich Village during the 1960’s, this beautiful, soulful and at times hysterical film from the brilliant Coen Brothers continues their knack for finding the remarkable in the unremarkable. The Coen Brother’s greatest gift is to show us the truest moments in life, hold a magnifying glass over it and make us realize just how whack the world around us really is. And that is what is happening to Llewyn Davis in this film. He views himself as the next great star of his time and his viewpoint of the world is whack for not realizing it themselves. Harsh in its depiction of an artist struggling for recognition, the film is impeccably lit by Bruno Delbonnel and equipped with memorable songs from the era and some new ones from T-Bone Burnett. And what is their to say of Oscar Isaac in his breakout role as Llewyn Davis? I have two words for him: pitch perfect.
Written By: Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
Taking place in New York City’s Greenwich Village during the 1960’s, this beautiful, soulful and at times hysterical film from the brilliant Coen Brothers continues their knack for finding the remarkable in the unremarkable. The Coen Brother’s greatest gift is to show us the truest moments in life, hold a magnifying glass over it and make us realize just how whack the world around us really is. And that is what is happening to Llewyn Davis in this film. He views himself as the next great star of his time and his viewpoint of the world is whack for not realizing it themselves. Harsh in its depiction of an artist struggling for recognition, the film is impeccably lit by Bruno Delbonnel and equipped with memorable songs from the era and some new ones from T-Bone Burnett. And what is their to say of Oscar Isaac in his breakout role as Llewyn Davis? I have two words for him: pitch perfect.
5. "CAPTAIN PHILLIPS"
Directed By: Paul Greengrass
Written By: Billy Ray
“Captain Phillips” is the gripping true life retelling of the 2009 Maersk Alabama hijacking by Somali Pirates anchored by a compelling performance from Tom Hanks and frightening newcomer Barkhad Abdi. Paul Greengrass keeps the pace consistently moving and tightens the screws in this thriller until the films third act where it reaches it’s breaking point in its dramatic tension making way for one of the most extraordinary final scenes of the year. It’s a showcase for Hanks, who reminds us once again just what an American acting treasure he is. Abdi not only holds his own against Hanks but also gives us an antagonist who is layered and riveting in his plight for the American cargo ship. Featuring the best editing of the year and a smart script that always keeps its character’s life or death decisions engaging, “Captain Phillips” excels.
Written By: Billy Ray
“Captain Phillips” is the gripping true life retelling of the 2009 Maersk Alabama hijacking by Somali Pirates anchored by a compelling performance from Tom Hanks and frightening newcomer Barkhad Abdi. Paul Greengrass keeps the pace consistently moving and tightens the screws in this thriller until the films third act where it reaches it’s breaking point in its dramatic tension making way for one of the most extraordinary final scenes of the year. It’s a showcase for Hanks, who reminds us once again just what an American acting treasure he is. Abdi not only holds his own against Hanks but also gives us an antagonist who is layered and riveting in his plight for the American cargo ship. Featuring the best editing of the year and a smart script that always keeps its character’s life or death decisions engaging, “Captain Phillips” excels.
4. "GRAVITY"
Directed By: Alfonso Cuaron
Written By: Alfonso Cuaron & Jonas Cuaron
The technical filmmaking achievement of the year. No other film had me glued to my seat more than “Gravity” did. I clenched my seat harder than ever. Held my breath longer than ever. And probably sweat more in the theatre than ever. This film in all of its 3D glory blew me away. Featuring the strongest performance of Sandra Bullock’s career in the lead role of an astronaut fighting for survival in space, the film is a technical marvel from the brilliant mind of Alfonso Cuaron. It had me on more than one occasion wondering how he and genius cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki could have possibly shot this film. It deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible, with the highest quality of sound and with 3D (if possible).
Written By: Alfonso Cuaron & Jonas Cuaron
The technical filmmaking achievement of the year. No other film had me glued to my seat more than “Gravity” did. I clenched my seat harder than ever. Held my breath longer than ever. And probably sweat more in the theatre than ever. This film in all of its 3D glory blew me away. Featuring the strongest performance of Sandra Bullock’s career in the lead role of an astronaut fighting for survival in space, the film is a technical marvel from the brilliant mind of Alfonso Cuaron. It had me on more than one occasion wondering how he and genius cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki could have possibly shot this film. It deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible, with the highest quality of sound and with 3D (if possible).
3. "THE WOLF OF WALL STREET"
Directed By: Martin Scorsese
Written By: Terrence Winter
Excessive in its depiction of it’s character’s lifestyle and it’s runtime (3 full hours!!), “The Wolf Of Wall Street” is a film all about excessiveness. It is also a return to form for Scorsese who shows that even in his 70’s, still has a knack for creating the kinetic energy that drives his films forward, which he has showed us in classics such as “Goodfellas” and “The Departed.” This is also the funniest film in Scorsese’s filmography, but don’t mistake that for glorification of the film’s characters and their actions. Scorsese still knows how to depict one hell of a fall for his lead character. The rise and fall this time is given to Jordan Belfort played with manic intensity by a never been better Leonardo DiCaprio. With scene after scene of sheer outrageousness and razor sharp editing by the legendary Thelma Schoonmaker, “The Wolf Of Wall Street” never lets up during its 3 hour runtime.
Written By: Terrence Winter
Excessive in its depiction of it’s character’s lifestyle and it’s runtime (3 full hours!!), “The Wolf Of Wall Street” is a film all about excessiveness. It is also a return to form for Scorsese who shows that even in his 70’s, still has a knack for creating the kinetic energy that drives his films forward, which he has showed us in classics such as “Goodfellas” and “The Departed.” This is also the funniest film in Scorsese’s filmography, but don’t mistake that for glorification of the film’s characters and their actions. Scorsese still knows how to depict one hell of a fall for his lead character. The rise and fall this time is given to Jordan Belfort played with manic intensity by a never been better Leonardo DiCaprio. With scene after scene of sheer outrageousness and razor sharp editing by the legendary Thelma Schoonmaker, “The Wolf Of Wall Street” never lets up during its 3 hour runtime.
2. "HER"
Directed By: Spike Jonze
Written By: Spike Jonze
No other film in 2013 had as perfect of a clear communication of a director’s vision from page to screen as Spike Jonze’s romantic relationship drama “Her.” The cinematography, art direction, and costume design all come together in this sci-fi world to give the film a unique look which compliments the film’s many thematic takes on love, and modern day relationships. Joaquin Phoenix has never been as soulful nor heartbreaking as he is in this film, which also features one of the best voice over performances from an actor of all time by Scarlett Johansson. Everything about this film feels unique, yet familiar. From the electronic score by Arcade Fire to the off beat comedic dialogue between its characters, “Her” twists its genre conventions to give us something different and enduring.
Written By: Spike Jonze
No other film in 2013 had as perfect of a clear communication of a director’s vision from page to screen as Spike Jonze’s romantic relationship drama “Her.” The cinematography, art direction, and costume design all come together in this sci-fi world to give the film a unique look which compliments the film’s many thematic takes on love, and modern day relationships. Joaquin Phoenix has never been as soulful nor heartbreaking as he is in this film, which also features one of the best voice over performances from an actor of all time by Scarlett Johansson. Everything about this film feels unique, yet familiar. From the electronic score by Arcade Fire to the off beat comedic dialogue between its characters, “Her” twists its genre conventions to give us something different and enduring.
1. "12 YEARS A SLAVE"
Directed By: Steve McQueen
Written By: John Ridley
There are certain films that come along that present a serious subject matter in such a comprehensive, true and vital way that it becomes essential viewing to best showcase it’s depiction of a time in history. “Schindler’s List”, “Saving Private Ryan”, and “Glory” to name a few. Along comes a new american classic which features one of the darkest times in american history. “12 Years A Slave” may not be for everyone. There are scenes of such deplorable brutality and inhumane horror that it may shy viewers away. But that doesn’t make it anything less than mandatory viewing so that we are reminded of how low we can sink as a society towards our own countrymen. The film is flawlessly crafted in all departments and features stunning performances from Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender and Lupita Nyongo which will leave you shaken. A powerful experience and depiction of a time unlike any other, “12 Years A Slave” deserves to be shown in classrooms for years to come.
Written By: John Ridley
There are certain films that come along that present a serious subject matter in such a comprehensive, true and vital way that it becomes essential viewing to best showcase it’s depiction of a time in history. “Schindler’s List”, “Saving Private Ryan”, and “Glory” to name a few. Along comes a new american classic which features one of the darkest times in american history. “12 Years A Slave” may not be for everyone. There are scenes of such deplorable brutality and inhumane horror that it may shy viewers away. But that doesn’t make it anything less than mandatory viewing so that we are reminded of how low we can sink as a society towards our own countrymen. The film is flawlessly crafted in all departments and features stunning performances from Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender and Lupita Nyongo which will leave you shaken. A powerful experience and depiction of a time unlike any other, “12 Years A Slave” deserves to be shown in classrooms for years to come.
MY TOP 5 WORST FILMS OF THE YEAR (In no particular order...they all sucked)
1. Movie 43
2. Jackass: Bad Grandpa
3. The Lone Ranger
4. A Good Day to Die Hard
5. After Earth
MY TOP 5 BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENTS OF THE YEAR
1. The Counselor
2. Under The Skin
3. The Hangover: Part II
4. Oldboy
5. Kick Ass 2
MY TOP 5 MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS IN FILM
1. The whipping scene in 12 Years A Slave
2. The final sequence in Captain Phillips
3. The Quaaludes scene in The Wolf of Wall Street
4. The final shot in Gravity
5. The hanging scene in 12 Years A Slave
Best Performances By An Actor/Actress
TIE - Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street/Chiwetel Ejiofor in 12 Years A Slave
Sandra Bullock in Gravity
Best Performance By A Supporting Actor/Actress
Jared Leto in Dallas Buyers Club
Lupita Nyongo in 12 Years A Slave
Best Use of Music in a Film
Inside Llewyn Davis
Best Script
Her by Spike Jonze
Guilty Pleasure of the Year
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Top 5 Best Technical Achievements in Film
1. All technical aspects of Gravity
2. The production design on Her
3. The editing in the Wolf of Wall Street
4. The cinematography in Inside Llewyn Davis
5. The original score in 12 Years A Slave
The Top 5 Movies I Missed in 2013
1. Nebraska
2. The Great Beauty
3. Pacific Rim
4. Philomena
5. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Films I'm Most Looking Forward To In 2014
1. Interstellar
2. The Hobbit: The Battle Of the Five Armies
3. X-Men: Days Of Future Past
4. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
5. Gone Girl
1. Movie 43
2. Jackass: Bad Grandpa
3. The Lone Ranger
4. A Good Day to Die Hard
5. After Earth
MY TOP 5 BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENTS OF THE YEAR
1. The Counselor
2. Under The Skin
3. The Hangover: Part II
4. Oldboy
5. Kick Ass 2
MY TOP 5 MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS IN FILM
1. The whipping scene in 12 Years A Slave
2. The final sequence in Captain Phillips
3. The Quaaludes scene in The Wolf of Wall Street
4. The final shot in Gravity
5. The hanging scene in 12 Years A Slave
Best Performances By An Actor/Actress
TIE - Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street/Chiwetel Ejiofor in 12 Years A Slave
Sandra Bullock in Gravity
Best Performance By A Supporting Actor/Actress
Jared Leto in Dallas Buyers Club
Lupita Nyongo in 12 Years A Slave
Best Use of Music in a Film
Inside Llewyn Davis
Best Script
Her by Spike Jonze
Guilty Pleasure of the Year
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Top 5 Best Technical Achievements in Film
1. All technical aspects of Gravity
2. The production design on Her
3. The editing in the Wolf of Wall Street
4. The cinematography in Inside Llewyn Davis
5. The original score in 12 Years A Slave
The Top 5 Movies I Missed in 2013
1. Nebraska
2. The Great Beauty
3. Pacific Rim
4. Philomena
5. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Films I'm Most Looking Forward To In 2014
1. Interstellar
2. The Hobbit: The Battle Of the Five Armies
3. X-Men: Days Of Future Past
4. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
5. Gone Girl
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