so i love lists - revised

First of all ... I'm a terrible blogger. The two people who read this blog must be sick of that picture of Angelina Jolie. Ha.

So, for my return, I'll give you my top ten films of the year. Hopefully blogging more will make it onto my list of resolutions this year. We'll see.

#1 - The Dark Knight

No surprise here. Visually, there's nothing like it. But the Nolan brothers manage to also serve up a moral dilemma that's as engaging and intelligent as anything in any film this year. And Heath Ledger deserves all the praise he's getting.

#2 - Wall-E

I just saw this over Christmas with the family. I was floored. The Hello, Dolly! references are bizarre and endearing. The whole thing is surprisingly subtle. And totally lovable.

#3 - Paranoid Park

I'm officially a Gus van Sant junkie. Nobody does reckless, lost youth culture quite like him. This one harkens back to Drugstore Cowboy and My Own Private Idaho. 

#4 - I've Loved You So Long

Potent, smart, reserved. Kristin Scott Thomas is a devastating force of nature.

#5 - Milk

Surprisingly conventional, but totally engrossing nonetheless. Sean Penn continues to amaze, and the supporting guys (Brolin, Franco, Hirsch) deserve praise. Oh, and people tell me I remind them of the Hirsch character. A favorable comparison, I think.

#6 - Happy Go Lucky

I'm surprised I liked it so much. A totally refreshing crowd-pleaser. Sally Hawkins deserves credit for not turning Poppy into a shrill annoyance.

#7 - Rachel Getting Married

A dynamic family drama. Their dysfunction feels real, and relatable. Rosemarie DeWitt (as the titular Rachel) and Bill Irwin (as the father) are amazing.

#8 - The Wrestler

I just saw this now. It's an intimate, brutal character study that pulls no punches (I kid, but not really). Mickey Rourke, he of the immortal cheekbones in Body Heat and Diner, has aged crudely, which makes him perfect for his role as the titular character. It's career-best work (not just his career, anyone's). Darren Aronofsky more than redeems himself for that awful spectacle The Fountain. Evan Rachel Wood makes a striking impression as his wayward daughter, and Marisa Tomei does stripper better than most.

#9 - Pineapple Express

I loved this movie. Who knew anybody could make a stoner so lovable (and attractive). Enter James Franco. Hot.

#10 - Tell No One

A totally fun French thriller. So enjoyable.

(Keep in mind I haven't seen The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, which could be good.)