Top 10 Films of 2019

No I haven't seen Uncut Gems, or Hustlers, or Judy, or The Lighthouse, or Parasite…yet…

However with the Oscars come and (long) gone, I can firmly say these are my Top 10 Films of 2019…also maybe you can check some of these films out while we're all socially distancing ourselves amidst the pandemic.

10. Klaus
Directed by Sergio Pablos
Starring Jason Schwartzman, JK Simmons, and Rashida Jones

As someone who loves the Christmas season, and grew up on hand-drawn animated films, Klaus was a real gift. The animation? Beautiful. The story? Familiar but at the same time unique. The voice cast? Spot on, from Jason Schwartzman as the spoiled protagonist who learns to love more than himself, to JK Simmons as a pitch-perfect Santa Claus, or Klaus. I truly see Klaus becoming the next great holiday classic, and I'm sorry but it should have won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, not Toy Story 4.
(Original Review)


9. Frozen 2
Directed by Chris Buck & Jennifer Lee
Starring Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, and Josh Gad

Klaus getting nominated for Best Animated Feature, but Frozen 2 not getting nominated is almost like some tragic but necessary trade-off. Frozen 2 is wonderful achievement by Disney, in that it's truly a worthy animated sequel. It's not better or worse than it's predecessor but sits as a nice companion to it. It advances the characters in the right direction, which are brought to life with amazing vocal performances and stunning computer animation. I do wish they fleshed out the mythology a little more but still, it sticks the landing. Oh and the music is still stuck in my head. Not too hate on Toy Story 4 (Because I don't hate it) but Frozen 2 was definitely the better Disney sequel of last year.
(Original Review)


8. Shazam
Directed by David Sanberg
Starring Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, and Jack Dylan Grazer

Shazam was a ton of fun. It's part 90's film, part modern superhero film, and honestly it stars my hero Chuck Bartowski aka Zachary Levi so there was no way I wasn't going to end up loving this. But regardless of my subjectiveity Shazam is easily one of the most unique, fun, and heartwarming superhero films in recent years. Levi is his usual charming, hilarious self in the titular role, which was practically made for him. Asher Angel and Jack Dylan Grazer are amazing talents for their age. The script allows Angel, as Billy Batson, to carry the heavier, more dramatic moments while Levi handles the comedic, energized moments. Grazer handles both sides of the story well and plays off both of his co-stars with ease. As much as I enjoy it, the film does start to lose its pacing in the third act, and director David Sanberg's horror-film background does show up a little too much at times. I didn't write a full-review for Shazam so I went a bit more in-depth here, but it was another mark in the win column for DC. It's a special kind of movie-magic, like lightning (heh) in a bottle.


7. How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
Directed by Dean DeBlois
Starring Jay Baruchel, America Ferrera, and Cate Blanchett

I swear this is the last time I'm going to talk about the 2019 Oscar for Best Animated Feature category…but look. As the year went on, the already slim chances of the third How To Train Your Dragon film taking home the trophy dwindled and dwindled. That much was clear. Regardless, it doesn't sting any less, seeing another Toy Story film take the Oscar away from another How To Train Your Dragon film. They could have given it as like a "win for the franchise" Oscar like The Return of The King…Not the right year I guess. Alright, End Rant. The How To Train Your Dragon film ends the fantasy/coming-of-age story on a beautiful, resonating note. As the final film it hit all the notes it needed to, while giving viewers all that we expect from the franchise: Wonderful animation, lovable characters, and a story that sucker punches you right in the heart (I ugly cried). You fall in love with the relationship of Hiccup and Toothless all over again and my God it hurts so much but it's alright. Then of course there's the absolutely epic score from John Powell, who was also robbed of an Oscar nomination. The How To Train Your Dragon trilogy is one of the best animated film trilogies-no, one of the best film trilogies to ever grace the silver screen. The third film might not be the best but it wraps everything up in a perfect package.
(Original Review)


6. Pokemon: Detective Pikachu
Directed by Rob Letterman
Starring Ryan Reynolds, Justice Smith, and Kathryn Newton

As a Pokemon fan for the majority of my adolescence and kinda still to this day, Detective Pikachu was a gift. It was such a surprise. It's so simple, but so much fun. Adapting one of the spinoff games instead of the main ones was a gamble that paid off well, and Ryan Reynolds is perfect as the titular character. The big draw of course was seeing all our favorite Pocket Monsters on the big screen, and they look amazing. Come for the Pokemon, stay for the fun (sometimes silly) storyline. Detective Pikachu is just a fun time at the movies.
(Original Review)


5. Knives Out
Directed by Rian Johnson
Starring Ana de Armas, Daniel Craig and Chris Evans

I couldn't tell you the last time I left a theater feeling as "jazzed up" as I did when I left my screening of Knives Out. Rian Johnson delivers an instant classic of a whodunnit, as only Rian Johnson can. There's so many twists and turns along the way, I was locked in until the credits rolled. Along the way of course are plenty of amazing performances from a hella great ensemble cast. Ana de Armas is wonderful, Daniel Craig is a delight to watch, and Chris Evans gives an unforgettable performance that's a stark contrast to good old Captain America. Knives Out leaves a real impression on you as a modern-day, Agatha Christie-like mystery. It's unique, compelling, and I can't wait to watch it again.

4. Joker
Directed by Todd Phillips
Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Robert DeNiro, and Zazie Beetz

I left Knives Out jazzed up. I left Joker shook up. That's right, Joker left me "shooketh". It's a chilling portrayal of a character that could very well exist in our world. Yes it's an origin story for Batman's greatest enemy, but this hardly feels like a superhero film. This is a character study with Batman elements peppered in for flavor. By taking issues of mental illness and social class and applying them to these iconic characters, it makes them almost more tangible, accessible. At the center of all of this is Joaquin Phoenix, playing a character we sympathize with, and slowly start to fear. Was there ever any doubt he was going to get the Oscar? The cinematography is great. The Academy Award-winning score is haunting. All the pieces were there to make Joker the memorable film that is, and why it resonated with audiences all the way through awards season.
(Original Review)



3. Jojo Rabbit
Directed by Taika Waititi
Starring Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johansson, and Taika Waititi

I love Jojo Rabbit and all its powerful, unique, beautiful weirdness. I think it's such an important film for our time, in that it shows us when we're being taught so much how to fear and hate, we can learn to understand and love instead. While there have been so many World War II films, this one takes it in a different direction, putting Nazi Germany through the eyes of an innocent child. While the cast is amazing, and full of old favorites, the two young leads carry the picture. Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, and Taika Waititi are all amazing. The film has such a beautiful visual style, and has got plenty of clever, offbeat humor. Jojo Rabbit makes you smile and breaks your heart at the same time. I stand by my belief that it's a must-see film.
(Original Review)


2. Rocketman
Directed by Dexter Fletcher
Starring Taron Edgerton, Jamie Bell, and Richard Madden

Rocketman is a biopic like you've never seen before, and it's a musical like you've never seen before, because it's a true, musical biopic. It's such a flashily, positive spectacle, which is perfect for the subject matter, the life of Sir Elton John. The new renditions of classic Elton John tracks are amazing, only adding to his already wonderful discography. Taron Edgerton gives a career-defining performance as Sir Elton, and he's backed by wonderful supporting performances from Jamie Bell, Richard Madden, and Bryce Dallas Howard. But what really gives Rocketman its lasting power is its story about a young man learning to love himself and be true to who he is. Again I think that's a really important message for our time. Sure Rocketman may follow the classic guidelines of a biopic, but it's heart, music, and message make it stand out above the rest.

Before we get to what I'm sure you already know is #1, some honorable mentions:

Yesterday: Quite possibly one of the most unique concepts we've gotten on film in a long time. Definitely an underrated gem that slipped under most of our radars.

Spider-Man: Far From Home: Even better than Homecoming, this film takes the MCU Spider-Man to exciting, emotional places. The film's packed with amazing visuals, and wonderful, hilarious character moments.

A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood: A heartwarming story that shows the true power Mr. Rogers had, not just on children but adults. No one but Tom Hanks could play that man.

The Irishman: Peak Scorsese. It's his usual gangsters/brotherhood faire, elevated with themes of legacy and mortality. Every scene captures your attention, and the performances from the three leads are truly some of their best work.

Marriage Story: Such a real, bittersweet look at love and how it can survive during and after a divorce. Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson are amazing.

Ford V Ferrari: A great story about partnership/friendship. The racing scenes are incredibly well-edited, and keep you on the edge of your seat.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker: I don't need to explain myself to you...

And some others I haven't seen yet but want to: Just Mercy, Richard Jewell, Us…

…So yeah.

1. Avengers Endgame:
Directed by Joe & Anthony Russo
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, and the rest!

The finale to the first saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe was an unforgettable experience to witness for the first time on the big screen. I cheered…a lot. I cried…a lot. Well, it's what you would expect when one follows a series and its characters for almost half of your life. There was plenty of surprises, iconic visuals and moments. The cast members give some of their best work of the franchise. Alan Silversti's music is legendary (He deserved a damn Oscar nomination, and a win too.). It wraps everything up while also setting the stage for what could come next. We're approaching it's one-year anniversary and honestly the film is just as good as it was the first time I saw it. I only wish I could erase my memory and see it for the first time again. Avengers: Endgame was a near-perfect finale to one of the largest stories ever told in cinema, and was truly a defining moment for film in 2019.
(Original Review)

So if there's one big takeaway from all this is I guess that I think a lot of films deserved more from the Oscars this year. Klaus deserved more. How To Train Your Dragon 3 deserved more. Jojo Rabbit, Rocketman, Endgame all deserved more. But hey watch what you like and own it. All entertainment is subjective right? And hey maybe revisit some of these films while you chill inside and away from other people while the world falls apart? That's what I'm doing. And probably catching up on some films I missed. I mean I haven't done a review for The Rise of Skywalker yet…maybe when it's safer I'll go to the store and buy copy…

Top Ten Films of 2018

We finally made it, fam!!! These are my Top 10 Films of 2018!! As you probably guessed, I've had quite a lot of time to marinate on this one, but I think I got it down. Also if you have't seen my Top 10 from 2010, 2011, or 2012, check them out. Also I did Top 10's for every other year this decade you can check out here, but let's do this...


10. Creed 2
Directed by Steven Caple Jr.
Starring Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, and Tessa Thompson

Creed 2 definitely wasn't as good as its predecessor, but at the same time it felt more entertaining? If that makes sense? The fight and training scenes were amazing, the stakes somehow felt higher, probably due to the Rocky IV of it all. The themes of legacy and forging your own path were really well done and build off the strong foundations laid in the first film. Michael B. Jordan is great, Sylvester Stallone's great, the cast is just great. One complaint is Ivan Drago and his son's arcs are sort of neglected and don't get enough development. Viktor Drago could have had a nice journey parallel to Adonis's but instead he's just sort of an obstacle for him to overcome. That aside, really enjoyed Creed 2. It's a great sequel, and in a way sort of caps the whole Rocky series off nice (If it were to be the last film in the franchise, but I doubt it.).


9. A Simple Favor
Directed by Paul Feig
Starring Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, and Henry Golding

What a weird, delightful film. It's nice to see Paul Feig do something a little different than a generic comedy. What starts out as a simple "missing person" case, spirals out in a truly bizarre way. It's like an insanely good Lifetime film, or a funny Gone Girl, which is sort of like a Lifetime film in it's own right. The two leading ladies, Kendrick and Lively, are both talented in their own right but are a match made in heaven on screen (I left this film with a much better understanding of Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds's relationship). The mystery is intriguing, the shock value/humor is impactful, and the cast is wonderful. You generally go to the movies to have a good time, and that's what A Simple Favor delivers.


8. Christopher Robin
Directed by Marc Foster
Starring Ewan McGregor, Hayley Atwell, and Jim Cummings

I expected to leave Christopher Robin emotionally wrecked over a childhood long since past. Instead, I walked away with a warm heart and a huge smile. While there are emotional moments, it's still a Winnie The Pooh story. It's not meant to go for the emotional jugular like a Pixar film. It's a simple but resonating story about the importance of growing up while staying true to yourself. It's nice to have the denizens of The Hundred Acre Wood back, without having to update them for a normal audience. These characters are just the same as they were back in the 1970s. They're charming and hilarious. Christopher Robin is a sweet, charming gem of a film.
(Original Review)


7. Black Panther
Directed by Ryan Coogler
Starring Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan and Lupita N'Yongo

Overall, last year's crop of Best Picture nominees did not wow me. There were only two that I were truly rooting for, this film, and the other one's coming up later. Don't get me wrong though, I do feel like Black Panther (among other superhero films…some other time…) was deserving of its Oscar nomination(s). It's ground-breaking, it's got a compelling narrative, and it's a beautiful film. Seriously this film is amazing at world-building. The set design, the music, the cast, all the elements are great.  But I must ask…how does a film get nominated for Best Picture, while its key components (Director, Screenplay, Actors) don't? I digress. Does it fall into typical superhero film patterns in the third act? Sure, but that doesn't derail the film in anyway. Black Panther is one of Marvel's best, and one of the year's best.
(Original Review)


6.  A Quiet Place
Directed by John Krasinski
Starring Enily Blunt, John Krasinski, and Millicent Simmonds

Now I'm not a horror film person…but for the second year in a row, we got a horror film in the Top 10. Guys horror films are getting good I think. A Quiet Place was one of the most unique, exhilarating experiences I ever had in a movie theater. You could hear every popcorn kernel crunch, every drink be sipped, and no one dare speak. It's a testament to how this film grips its viewer with its incredible premise. The cast must rely solely on physicality to have their performance connect with the audience. Young Millicent Simonds and Noah Jupe do wonderful, like really well for child actors. Emily Blunt & John Krasinski are as terrific as you'd expect. Their natural chemistry in real-life crosses over onto the screen. Also John, way to be a triple threat with acting, writing, and directing!!

A Quiet Place is much more than a horror film. It's a family film. You really feel the love between this family and the connections they've forged during this difficult time. It's what makes A Quiet Place all the more gut-wrenching. Suspenseful, emotional, and truly unique, A Quiet Place will leave you speechless.


5. Mary Poppins Returns
Directed by Rob Marshall
Starring Emily Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Ben Whishaw

Clearly Emily Blunt caught my eye last year. She is a really lovely and really talented person, and to be honest if anyone other than Julie Andrews was to play Mary Poppins, it had to be her. Her performance never feels like an imitation of her predecessor. It comes from a place of real love and passion that brings the character to life in a new but familiar way.

That's sort of Mary Poppins Returns in a nutshell. It may feel like it's following a blueprint concocted by the first film but you don't care, because it's all done so well. The choreography, the songs (Oh I love the songs), the animation, the performances, all of it. The passion and effort of the production is right there on screen. You can tell they really loved the original film and cared about what they were doing (Let's be honest, heads would roll if they got it wrong). Mary Poppins Returns is a sequel that's practically perfect in every way, and one of Walt Disney Pictures' best productions this decade.



4. Spider-Man: Into The Spiderverse
Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman

Starring Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, and Hailee Steinfeld

We need more animated superhero films like. We need more animated films like this. But maybe we don't because Into The Spiderverse is really something special. It's animation-style is literally like a comic-book come to life, and the music and sound design is spectacular. The "camera work" is unreal. Spider-Man was made for this type of animation. But the story is what really makes it a home-run.
It takes the mythology of the Spiderverse and spins a story about how it doesn't take being bitten by a radioactive spider to be a hero.

It's a story about trusting your own gifts and recognizing your own self-worth. We all have the power within to achieve greatness, or as the film puts it "wear the mask". It's a timeless message that is important for all audiences. At the center of the film we have a truly wonderful protagonist in Miles Morales, backed by an amazing supporting cast of characters. Spider-Man: Into The Spiderverse brings something fresh and powerful to the world of animated and superhero films.  


3. A Star Is Born
Directed by Bradley Cooper
Starring Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, and Sam Elliot

I'm kind of over "Shallow"...but it still hits the heartstrings, dammit. A Star Is Born is a passionate, heartfelt, and heartbreaking look at fame, love, and sacrifice. Bradley Cooper, one of my favorite actors working right now, gives some of his best work in front of and behind the camera (Really looking forward to his next directing gig). Lady Gaga controls the screen every second she's on it like the queen she is. Together the two work wonders. The ending still leaves me feeling gutted. A Star Is Born is great, and you know what I'm still salty these two didn't get Oscars for Acting (or Directing).
(Original Review)


2. Avengers: Infinity War
Directed by Anthony & Joe Russo
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Josh Brolin, Chris Hemsworth, etc.

Speaking of endings leaving me gutted…Infinity War really put us through the ringer, and then having to wait a whole year to find out…I mean now it's fine but at the time we had no idea! This was quite a ride. A two and-a-half hour juggling act on top of a roller coaster ride. The film balances (Heh) so many beloved characters and story-lines, while briskly taking us to all corners of the MCU and back. Josh Brolin brings Thanos, the MCU's Big Bad, to life in a way where we both fear him and understand him, flawlessly earning that title of Big Bad. This is his story, and the rest of this glorious assemblage of characters/performers are just pawns in it.

Infinity War is an ambitious, gut-wrenching achievement in filmmaking, and you know what I'm still salty it went home empty-handed last awards season (Fingers crossed for Endgame but, doesn't look good…)
(Original Review)


Before we get to #1, some honorable mentions…

Ant-Man & The Wasp: Definitely just as fun, and perhaps even funnier than the first Ant-Man. A nice, little (Heh) self-contained MCU adventure with an extremely lovable cast.

Green Book: Academy Award Winner for Best Picture? I mean it's good but…I don't know. The two leads are great and play off one another very well (Mahershala Ali, another one of my favorite actors working right now). It's a familiar story about civil rights and unlikely friendships, but regardless a well-made,"feel-good" film.

The Grinch: I won't lie I almost bumped Creed 2 for this. The more the film sat with me the more I became infatuated with it (Let's say it's #11). The Grinch is a heartwarming update on a Seuss classic, and for me a new Christmas movie tradition. (Original Review)

And some films I still haven't seen but want to: Sorry To Bother You, BlacKkKlansman, First Man

Ok...

1. Won't You Be My Neighbor
Directed by Morgan Neville
Featuring Fred Rogers, Francois Clemmons, Joanne Rogers, Tom Junod, etc.

I don't see many documentaries but I wasn't going to miss this one, and I'm very glad I didn't. I don't think there was a dry-eye in my theater, throughout the entire showing. It's a fantastic portrait of one of the nicest human beings to ever grace this Earth. If you ever thought Fred Rogers was ever putting on an act, this film will convince you he was the real deal, and you will cry over it.

The time we're living in, with so much anger, bitterness, and division, this film is like the ultimate cure for the soul. It came at just the right time. It makes you wish Mr. Rogers was still with us, or that we could all carry on through life as he did. But it's a nice reminder to love your neighbor, and love yourself. This is The "Infinity War" of Feel-Good Films. I was smiling and my eyes were leaking well after I left the theater. It's that experience that makes Won't You Be My Neighbor my Top Film of 2018.


It is done…I'm going to lay down before I have to do a Top 10 Films of 2019. Happy New Year!!

Top 10 Films of 2012

As 2019 comes to a close, this is the last leg of the crusade to do "Top 10 Films" lists for years in this decade I missed, so when I do my Top 10 Films of 2018 (which at this point, I guess I also missed), it won't seem as late by comparison to these lists. If you haven't checked out my lists for 2010 and 2011, check them out, maybe?

These are my Top 10 Films of 2012! This was a tough year to decide on. A lot of heavy hitters came out in 2012. Maybe because everyone thought the world was ending so they thought they better get their best work out now? Who knows…

Also while we're on the subject of films from 2012, I'd just like to say my opinions on Les Miserables and The Dark Knight Rises have significantly changed...but yeah Anne Hathaway probably did deserve that Oscar.

9 & 10. The First Time and Celeste & Jessie Forever
First Time-
Directed by Jon Kasdan
Starring Dylan O'Brien, Britt Robertson, and Victoria Justice

Celeste & Jessie-
Directed by Lee Toland Krieger
Starring Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg and Emma Roberts

So I'm kinda cheating here, and I'm about to sound like a film snob, but I saw both these films when I went to the Sundance Film Festival on a school trip in 2012, and while I've only seen them both one or two times since that trip, those first viewings resonate with me to this day. I could pretty much interchange them as 9 or 10, but I enjoy them both for different reasons, and honestly who knows if anyone reading this has seen either.

I won't go too in-depth about either, but hopefully I can get someone out there interested in checking them out. The First Time is both a conventional and non-conventional romantic teen comedy. It has the cliche story-mapping but it handles the relationship of the main characters (O'Brien & Robertson) in a real and mature way. It's not like an American Pie wannabe where the goal is for them to have sex and they live happily-ever-after. I mean, sex plays a part but it's not the end result. It's more about intimacy, openness, communication and commitment to a relationship. That's what elevates it beyond a typical teen rom-com. That and the cast is so wonderful, particularly the two leads, a young Dylan O'Brien & Britt Robertson. There's also plenty of laughs. The First Time is kind of an underrated gem.

Celeste & Jessie Forever deals with a divorced couple (Jones & Samberg) trying to stay close friends while also trying to move on with their lives (This might sound a bit similar to this year's Marriage Story but stick with me). Love just doesn't stop happening after divorce, and Celeste & Jessie doesn't sugarcoat that fact. The film deals with how we grow as a person through the people around us, with the love we give and the love we take. Rashida Jones (Man I've been talking about her A. LOT. lately) is at the center here and she's amazing as always (She also wrote the film with her regular writing partner Will McCormack). Her and Andy Samberg make a delightful pair and work together so well.

So that's two unconventional films about different types of romance that both hit differently but I enjoy about the same. Ok we can leave the "Ohhh Chris went to Sundance. What a film snob." atmosphere behind now. Especially because the next film is a typical superhero offering...


8. The Amazing Spider-Man
Directed by Marc Webb
Starring Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Rhys Ifans

Obviously we all love Tom Holland's Spider-Man and having the webslinger in the MCU is a blessing. But still, you can't help but wonder what could have been with Marc Webb's iteration of the character, before Sony screwed everything up with their corporate greed. The Amazing Spider-Man was a enjoyable, promising start to a new take on Spidey. It's a very personal, dramatic story that was void of the dated cheesiness of Sam Raimi's trilogy. Andrew Garfield made a great Peter Parker, and Emma Stone was wonderful as Gwen Stacy. Did it repeat a lot of the same story-beats of the iconic origin story? Yes? Did it do anything new? Yeah a little. Was it all botched two years later because Sony was trying to jumpstart a Spider-Man Cinematic Universe? You know it was. Anyway, saying anything else feels like I'm soapboxing for a cause that's already been squashed. I'm very happy with the Spider-Man we have now in film, but The Amazing Spider-Man was a good film, and it's just a shame it went down the way it did.


7. The Pirates! Band of Misfits
Directed by Peter Lord
Starring Hugh Grant, David Tennant, and Martin Freeman

An animated-gem you probably forgot about or never saw, The Pirates was produced by Aardman Animation, the creators of Wallace & Gromit and Chicken Run. It's a very fun adventure, with the usual amazing claymation you would expect from this studio. There's plenty of British humor abound from our friends across the Atlantic, and few laugh-out-loud moments. The voice-cast is also stacked. You have a Time Lord (Tennant), a John Watson (Freeman), and Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) all in one film!!…okay that last one's not so impressive seven years later. It's not a film I revisit often, but when I do I always enjoy myself. If you're a fan of Aardman Animation's other works, I suggest you give it a watch.


6. Brave
Directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman
Starring Kelly MacDonald, Emma Thompson, and Billy Connolly

Brave is not a groundbreaking Pixar entry like Up or Wall-E, but there's no law that said it had to be, and it certainly isn't one of their worst. It harkens back to classic Disney of the nineties with a simple fairy-tale-like premise, which subjectively I really enjoy. Tonally it does sort of switch gears halfway through, but the story still flows.
The animation is great, crafting a mystical Scottish environment. Merida is a fine protagonist and the relationship with her mother is very well-written. It's a charming story about family, with some truly suspenseful moments, and I think adults can enjoy sharing it with their kids. It's not my favorite Pixar film, but I like it, and you know if Merida's making appearances all over Disney Parks, you know the film did something right.


5. 21 Jump Street
Directed by Phil Lord & Chris Miller
Starring Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill and Dave Franco

I was far too young to watch the original series when it was on, but I don't think anyone saw it as property worth rebooting for the big-screen. But you know leave it to Lord & Miller, the guys who made The Lego Movie, Cloudy with A Chance of Meatballs, and a Han Solo origin-oh right…leave it to the guys who made a name for themselves by taking bad ideas and making them into great films. Hilarious films.
The laughs are non-stop the entire film, with a lot of memorable lines that worked their way into my daily vernacular for years (For better or worse). Channing Tatum's performance practically defined his career, and while I'm not a big Jonah Hill fan, the guy's got talent and the Jump Street films are some of his best work. The supporting cast of Dave Franco, Rob Riggle, and Ellie Kemper also have a lot of great moments too. The story itself isn't super gripping but you're here for laughs not story. 21 Jump Street was a bad idea turned into one of the best comedies in recent years.



4.  Wreck-It Ralph
Directed by Rich Moore
Starring John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer, and Jane Lynch

Wreck-It Ralph takes the normal conventions of a Disney film and throws them into a video-game world. (So long as video games still exist) I think it's become as timeless as some of the studio's hits from the nineties. The animation is superb, and the filmmakers build a creative and captivating universe within a simple arcade. Some scenes feel like actual video games.
But what really makes Wreck-It Ralph so great is its story of self-worth, that reminds audiences to love themselves for who they are. Ralph is wonderful protagonist, and John C. Reilly's performance is fantastic. In fact the whole voice cast is fantastic. Sarah Silverman as the sweet but edgy Vanellope, Jack McBrayer as the uber-wholesome Fix-It Felix Jr, and Jane Lynch as the no-nonsense Sergeant Callhoun, they are practically tailor-made for their characters.
There's also plenty of references for gamers to smile about. As far as video game films, it's a big win, and as far as Disney films it's a modern classic…but I'm not so sure about the sequel…something for another day.


3. The Avengers
Directed by Joss Whedon
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, etc.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe really started to bloom the first time Earth's Mightiest Heroes came together on the big-screen. What would prove to be the first big step in a decade-long gamble ended paying off big time, and to me, it's still one of the franchise's best films. All of the cast is as superb as they were or have ever been. This being the second film in the MCU for many of them, I think Avengers sort of reinforced the idea of how amazing the likes of Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Tom Hiddelston as Loki, or Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow were. Of course we can't forget the unmatched Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man or Chris Evans as Steve Rogers/Captain America. But this is the first time we would see them all in a film together, and the group's chemistry was off the charts. There's so many great character moments as one would expect.

You've heard me praise the MCU so much before but I'll just quickly say that Whedon's script and dialogue is remarkably unforgettable, Alan Silversti's music is iconic, and the final battle in New York is visual poetry. The Avengers was a landmark in superhero filmmaking, and filmmaking in general. I still think it's one of Marvel's best (Even though it does start kind of slow), and was easily one of the best films of 2012.


2. Ted
Directed by Seth MacFarlane
Starring Mark Whalberg, Seth MacFarlane, and Mila Kunis

I love this film. I firmly believe Ted is Seth MacFarlane's best work to date. Here he has a perfect blend of his crude and clever humor, while also showing his work can have real heart. Ted, as brash as it can get, is a story with a lot of heart. It's about the importance of a best friend, and lifelong friendships. Friendships that stand the test of time when people have to change and evolve, but the love between them doesn't. It's cleverly illustrated through the relationship of a man (Whalberg) and his old teddy bear. It's like Toy Story but with adult humor! Seth MacFarlane is pretty much playing another version of Peter Griffin as Ted, but he's hilarious regardless and easily wins the audience over. Mark Whalberg also has some great comical moments while also showing off his true acting chops, and Mila Kunis plays off them both nicely.

Ted knows when it needs to be funny and when it needs to be serious. Much like 21 Jump Street, I consider it one of the best comedies in recent years and a lot of its more memorable lines have worked into my daily vernacular. It's not just a great comedy but a great film. If you've never seen it or haven't seen it in awhile, call up your best friend and give it a watch.


And my Top Film of 2012 is…

1. Django Unchained
Directed by Quentin Tarantino
Starring Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, and Leonardo DiCaprio

I love a good western (Though I admit I need to see more). I love a good Tarantino film. Django Unchained is a GREAT western AND Tarantino film!! As a matter of fact I think it's his best film, and I'm ready to die on that hill. The cast is amazing. Christoph Waltz is genius as always. Samuel L. Jackson gives one of his best performances in my opinion. That goes double for Leonardo DiCaprio, who as the villain went completely against his typical casting (This is the role he should have got the Oscar for.) The story is something really special and unique, filled with wonderful Tarantino dialogue. It's also got some good comedic moments?…The music is top-notch, and the cinematography is beautiful. The exterior shots are just so striking. Tarantino can really paint a picture with a camera. Truthfully he was firing on all cylinders in Django Unchained. It's my favorite film of his, it's my favorite film of 2012, and it's just one of my favorite films.

There were a lot of great films that came out in 2012. Some that I saw that didn't make this list, and some that I have still yet to see. Oh well. Now it is time to FINALLY get started on my Top Films of 2018, and then I'll learn from my mistakes and do my Top 10 Films of 2019 sooner rather than later.

Also…a little film called Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker just came out...

Top 10 Films of 2011

Listen if you know me and do your research, you know very well where this is all going to land. But it's not about the journey, sometimes it's about the destination? That's how the saying goes right?

Here's my Top 10 Films of 2011!! Today we continue a look back on the years in this decade I didn't do "Top 10 Films" lists for, in hopes of making my eventual Top 10 Films of 2018 list look not so late. If you haven't checked out my Top 10 Films of 2010 yet, click here. On with the show.


10. Winnie The Pooh
Directed by Stephen J. Anderson and Don Hall
Starring Jim Cummings, Bud Luckey, and Tom Kenny

Not a lot of people saw this one. Why? Because in one of Disney's most brilliant marketing moves, released this film the same weekend as Harry Potter & The Deathy Hallows - Part 2. Then, when the film performed poorly at the box office, they decided to blame it on the notion that "No one wants to see hand-drawn animation anymore". So right after The Princess & The Frog brought it back to the studio, it was killed again just two years later...

....oh right, I need to provide an opinion on the actual film. This film is classic Winnie The Pooh. If you're still riding the "high" of Christopher Robin, I suggest you give this film a watch. It has the same charm and cleverness of the original 1977 classic. There's an unusual amount of slapstick and physical humor here for Winnie The Pooh, but it works. There's jokes I think kids and adults will laugh at. Where the 1977 film told three stories in a row, this one tells two (arguably three) and tries to tie them together into one fluid narrative. For the most part it works, but not all story lines receive equal attention. The animation is great. Jim Cummings continues to be great as Pooh and Tigger. The new additions to the voice cast are great, including Tom Kenny (SpongeBob) as Rabbit, Craig Ferguson as Owl, and John Cleese as the narrator. The songs are quite catchy, and reminiscent of the classic Sherman Brothers tunes (They're done by Robert and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, the duo behind the songs of Frozen and Coco, and many are sung by Zooey Deschanel, who's sweet and soothing voice fits well for Winnie The Pooh). If you or your family like these characters and have a free hour (It's actually a 63-minute film), I suggest you check this one out.


9. The Artist
Directed by Michael Hazanavicius
Starring Jean Dujardin, Berenice Bejo, and John Goodman

Some would say The Artist relies too much on nostalgia as a gimmick. I think that's pretty rude, man. Producing a silent film, in a time that's evolved a lot as far as visual storytelling, is kind of brave when you think about it. It's a clever homage and commentary on the silent film era, and how the transition to "talkies" affected Hollywood icons of the time. When you're limiting yourself as far as dialogue, you need to "show not tell" as best you can, and this film certainly does. I will say as much as I enjoy it, The Artist does drag at times. It's a very charming, enjoyable film that evokes real movie magic. While I'm talking about The Artist, I wish Jean Dujardin got more work stateside after this film went big.


8. Rio
Directed by Carlos Saldanha
Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, and Jermaine Clement

Rio's pretty underrated in my opinion. Objectively, it's an average film. It's a touching but cliche' love story, and the animation is gorgeous for the time, literally bringing Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to life  (This is from Blue Sky, the folks behind Ice Age). The voice cast is a fun group, and you can tell they're having too. There's some real good songs throughout the film too, one of which has become one my regular "jams". It's a very entertaining 82 minutes I think kids and adults can really enjoy, and you know what? I bet it's better than the last three Ice Age sequels.

Also my original review of Rio from 2011 still exists, and if anyone saw the sequel let me know if it's worth giving a watch.

7. Horrible Bosses
Directed by Seth Gordon
Starring Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis, and Charlie Day

This was one funny film. I can still remember and recite a lot of the best moments from the film. It's a pretty outrageous story (and a relatable one? Because I'm sure we've all experienced a horrible boss at one point in our life?) and because of that the humor arising from the script is even better. The cast is also hilarious and fires on all cylinders (OK maybe not Kevin Spacey...) from beginning to end. Charlie Day and Jaimie Foxx steal all the scenes. Horrible Bosses is one of the most creative, hilarious comedies in recent years, and I just want to let everyone to know that murder is wrong and you should never kill your boss or anyone as a solution to your problems. Communication is key.


6. Crazy, Stupid Love
Directed by Glen Ficarra & John Requa
Starring Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone

The best romantic comedies, at least to me, are the ones that switch things up a bit. Crazy, Stupid, Love does that by looking at the rougher side of love/modern romance. It doesn't wrap everything up in a "happily ever after" ending but it's an upbeat, heartwarming, and funny film. Also, the way it ties all the story-lines together before the third act is CLASSIC. This film stars three of my favorite actors (Carell, Gosling, and Stone). As we know, Ryan and Emma are amazing and have perfect chemistry. Micheal Scott himself, Steve Carell, can be hilarious and sincere, and he delivers one of my favorite monologues in film. Even if you're not a romantic comedy person, there's a lot to love, about Crazy, Stupid Love.


5. Kung Fu Panda 2
Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson
Starring Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, and Dustin Hoffman

Sequels are hard to do. Animated sequels for some reason, seem even harder to do. If you don't believe me look what Disney was up to on home-video from the early nineties 'til about 2009. Kung Fu Panda 2 is one of those rare animated sequels that works, and arguably surpasses the original. Personally it's my favorite of the trilogy. It builds so well off of the original in this touching chapter of Po's (Black) story. The animation is again superb, and the music is epic. The fight scenes are awesome (Yeah I know they're animated but they are awesome, just like in the first film) There's a lot of power in the voice cast, and Gary Oldman is the best as the villain, Lord Shen. Epic and emotional, Kung Fu Panda 2 is a superb sequel.

My original review from 2011 for this film also still exists.

4. Thor
Directed by Kenneth Branagh
Starring Chris Hemsworth, Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Tom Hiddelston

This year we really started to see the MCU take shape, with the introduction of two key Avengers. Eight years and about seventeen films later, I still consider the first Thor film to be one of their best, and one of their stronger origin films. I mean, it's really hard to rank all the films in MCU. I'll do it someday when I'm braver but this is my opinion on Thor. The Thor trilogy is a hodge-podge of sorts, when you look from here to Ragnarok, but there's a solid narrative thread throughout, and it starts here. Hemsworth does a great job in his first round with the character. Hopkins commands scenes as Odin. Hiddelston as Loki is still one of the best villains of the franchise. The script is tight, although the "fish out of water" bits on Earth are a mixed bag. The characters are memorable (Except Kat Dennings as Darcy, and you probably forgot Zachary Levi wasn't the first Fandral). I originally thought that Thor's arc felt rushed in this film, and I've sort of backed away from that criticism. Partially from now seeing it as part of a bigger picture, and partially from more viewings. There's drama, action, and humor. It's a perfect Marvel film, and a great start to Thor's life on screen.

Again, original review from 2011 is still existing.

3. The Muppets
Directed by James Bobin
Starring Jason Segel, Amy Adams, and Kermit The Frog

If you didn't love The Muppets, chances are you did and you just forgot, or you did subconsciously and never realized, and this film awakened those feelings inside you like a piercing alarm clock of emotions. The second one is what happened for me. This film, like Toy Story 3, uses nostalgia as a weapon, beautifully. The Muppets is a labor of love, from writer and star Jason Segel. There's a lot at play here. The power of nostalgia, the frailty of fame, following your dreams, and facing failure. It'll make you cry sad and happy tears. The songs and humor are spot-on in traditional Muppet-style, and you already know how wonderful these characters are. Segel and Adams are wonderful, and Walter is a welcome new addition the Muppet family. There's plenty of cameos to enjoy, as you would expect. The Muppets came back in a big way with...well, The Muppets. The world can always use more Muppets.


2. Drive
Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn
Starring Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, and Albert Brooks

This is the year I started to recognize Ryan Gosling as one of my favorite actors. Drive is a gripping crime drama with a mysterious and compelling protagonist. Gosling is subtle but masterful as The Driver, who in my opinion is one of the most iconic heroes in recent film history. The cast all around is very likable, and all the characters are well-fleshed out. Albert Brooks as the villain Bernie is a particular stand-out. Drive is cool, it's intense, but it's a story about what it means to be human and to give part of yourself to something bigger. It's almost like a western discussed as a modern action film. I could talk about how much I love Drive more but I got to wrap this up...


1. Captain America: The First Avenger
Directed by Joe Johnston
Starring Chris Evans, Hayley Atwell, and Sebastian Stan

Surprised? I knew you wouldn't be. This quickly became one of my favorite films of all time, as did Captain America become my favorite superhero of all time. Steve Rogers isn't motivated by say, revenge for a lost loved one, or some foretold prophecy. He's doing it because he knows what's right. He sees evil in the world, and as a person, feels compelled to do something about it. How can you not fall in love with a character like that, especially when he's played perfectly by my man Chris Evans? Honestly this is one of the best batch of supporting players in the MCU. Hayley Atwell is lovely and dynamic as Agent Peggy Carter. Sebastian Stan is too cool for school as Bucky. Hugo Weaving is deliciously evil as Red Skull, and by God can we please get more of Tommy Lee Jones as Colonel Phillips in the MCU?? The film is not so much a superhero film, but a WWII action-adventure in the vein of Indiana Jones, which I love. I could keep going but you already knew Captain America: The First Avenger is my favorite film from this year, one of my favorite films of all time, and starring one of my favorite characters of all time.


And those are my Top 10 Films of 2011. Up next is the year 2012, so assemble with your thunder buddies because it's about to go off the chain...

Top 10 Films of 2010

Whoa, man. It's been awhile since I've written any sort of film review or commentary. My Top 10 Films of 2018 is late…I mean normally my "Top 10 Films of the Year" lists come out around the Oscars so technically they're always late. But for me, this really, really late.

But I have an idea, gang. I've been writing/posting film reviews and commentaries since, like, 2011. The better part of this decade. But I didn't do a "Top 10 Films of the Year" list until 2013. So if I do Top 10 lists for those missing years first ('cause they're really, really, really late), and then I'll post my Top 10 Films of 2018, it won't look as late compared to those others lists!!

Cool? Cool…here's my Top 10 Films of 2010.

10. Black Swan
Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Starring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, and Vincent Cassell

I recently rewatched this, and I almost took it out of the Top 10 but...GOD, what a chilling, suspenseful mindf**k of a film. It's not the type of film I normally go for but this left a hell of an impression on me. Not only does it keep you on the edge of your seat, constantly asking "What the hell is going on??" it's actually a very intelligent film. The journey of protagonist Nina (Played amazingly by Portman) speaks a lot to the fickle nature of the arts, what one must sacrifice to achieve perfection in the arts, and the duality of man. I'm surprised this didn't win Best Picture at the Oscars this year, but the Academy have never been big horror fans, and this is very horror in nature. If you can get squeamish like me, there are a lot of uncomfortable, taboo…one might even see gross, moments. Somehow that doesn't stop me from watching though. Black Swan leaves its mark on the viewer.


9. The Fighter
Directed by David O. Russell
Starring Mark Whalberg, Christian Bale, and Melissa Leo

I might hold this film (and another one on the list) in higher regard just because they're Massachusetts set…The Fighter doesn't turn a spotlight on the best section of Massachusetts, or said section's troubled past but…anyway. The Fighter is a wonderful story, not so much about boxing, but about family and the conflicts and dynamics within family, specifically the Ward-Eklund family. What I love about David O. Russell films, is he always seems to bring out the very best in his cast. This is probably one of Mark Whalberg's best roles. Christian Bale, again, completely transforming mind and body for his character. Melissa Leo, hilarious, tough but heartwarming. Seriously it's always gold when Hollywood attempts some Boston/Massachusetts accents. The Fighter's a really enjoyable film.


8. Despicable Me
Directed by Pierre Coffin & Chris Renaud
Starring Steve Carrell, Jason Segel, and Miranda Cosgrove

So like Shrek, Despicable Me probably hasn't aged too well in the eyes of the public, due to the savage nature of pop culture, and the studio's (Illumination Entertainment's) own greed to franchise the hell out of it. I mean, the Minions are just annoying nowadays. But the original Despicable Me is still a very good film. It does have a lot of funny moments (not all of them coming from Minons) and it's a creative, heartwarming story. It's just a shame they franchise'd the hell out of it. Steve Carrell is wonderful as Gru, really all the voice cast is, from Russell Brand as Dr. Nefario, to Julie Andrews as Gru's mother. Despicable Me is a sweet, charming film that has stood the test the time, wether you want it to or not.

Also I find it weird that two animated films about super villains turning good for personal reasons came out in 2010 but only one of them got any real traction…any MegaMind fans out there? Did the right one win the hearts of Hollywood? A question for another day perhaps...


7. Kick Ass
Directed by Matthew Vaughn
Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Nicolas Cage, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse

I guess you could say I've grown to enjoy Kick-Ass more since I first publicized my opinions on it years ago. Is Kick-Ass himself still not the greatest protagonist? Yeah, kinda. Is Nic Cage still freaking amazing? Yes of course. Does Vaughn know how to do action scenes? You bet he does. There's cliche' bits but there's plenty to enjoy here. When it comes to shock value, Matthew Vaughn has more restraint here than he does in say, the sequel* or the second Kingsman, and I appreciate that. Kick-Ass takes everyone's fantasy of wanting to become a superhero, and slaps it in the face with a cold-towel of reality. I've still yet to read the graphic novel but it's an interesting concept to watch on screen. I've become a much bigger superhero fan since 2010, so that could partially be why I've come to enjoy Kick-Ass more these days.

*I was really nice to the sequel back in the day…but wasn't it crap? Do I have to rewatch Kick-Ass 2? I don't want to.

6. Inception
Directed by Christopher Nolan
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Inception is one of the most original heist/action films to come out in recent years. Its blend with science-fiction (can we consider this science fiction?) makes it so. The concept is truly inspired, which should come as no surprise when Christopher Nolan's writing and directing. The set-pieces are awesome, the world-building is top-notch, and there's a lot of heart in the heist. Cobb (DiCaprio, this is probably one of his best roles) has a lot at stake personally in making sure this job goes well, and many other characters do as well, but not as much as Cobb. This is his story. Also, this is a great cast, particularly Tom Hardy, Ken Watanabe, and Marion Cotillard. Hey, remember that this film is also where we got the typical, iconic Han Zimmer-type score (You know what I mean)? Inception is a prime example of Christopher Nolan at his very best, as far as filmmaking and storytelling.


Alright it's going to start to get hard, here…there's like two really great dramas and three awesome animated films in the top 5. Let's forge ahead...

5. The Social Network
Directed by David Fincher
Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, and Justin Timberlake

I'm not sure there's a more important drama to today's generation than The Social Network. Does that make sense? Is it even an agreeable statement? Oh well. It is super-compelling to learn the story behind literally the biggest social media platform in existence, which has become so ingrained in our day-to-day culture. What could just be a simple "rise/fall of a company" tale is elevated by themes of friendship, partnership, and betrayal. Facebook itself isn't taking center stage, it's the people who made it and their relationships, which makes for a more interesting watch. There's a lot at play here. The film turns a lens on how we value social media as a society, how people work with or hide behind it, and the inner-workings of college community or "youth culture". Jesse Eisenberg gave a career-defining performance in this film, removing himself from the "Diet Michael Cera" shackles society had placed upon him. Andrew Garfield is a real standout, and who knew Justin Timberlake could act so well?
Heh, a film about social media destroying friendships, wonder if there's more meaning to that…


4. The Town
Directed by Ben Affleck
Starring Ben Affleck, Jeremy Renner, and Rebecca Hall

Once again, Boston-set film, Hollywood attempting Boston accents, and I can't get enough of it. I'm going to say it. I miss the old days of Ben Affleck. Before being Batman in the DCEU broke him (I'll always mourn the loss of an Affleck-led Batman film). The Town is some of Affleck's best work, because he's working in his turf. A heist film set in the geography of Boston is really fun to watch, even if you're not from here. A car chase through the North End and a robbery at Fenway are some of the film's highlights. Affleck's joined by some of the most talented character actors in the business (Is it fair to call them that?) like Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, and Chris Cooper, and watching them all do a Boston accent is pure perfection. The film is also like a modern-day, Boston-set Robin Hood, which just sounds fun, right? There's real emotional stakes for Doug (Affleck), so audiences can invest beyond "Will they pull the job off?" The Town is a cornerstone of Ben Affleck's career, and it's shame it went through the awards season mostly unnoticed.

Alright…I'm going to start pissing people off now...

3. Toy Story 3
Directed by Lee Unkrich
Starring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack

Toy Story 3 is a really great film and a perfect conclusion to the trilogy (I know what's coming in June! Leave me alone, I'm focusing on what we got right now!) There's a lot of heart, and it's a great story about growing up, the changes we face as a result, and how it affects us and those around us. At the center of it are a cast of characters audiences have loved and grown up with for years, which makes it a much more emotional watch. Pixar has always known to tackle mature themes in their films, and Toy Story 3 is like, the gold standard.
Nine years later, I find myself not enjoying the sections of the film where the toys are at Sunnyside as much. The escape sequence is top-notch, and Lotso is superb, but everything else is just ok to me. I don't want to say it's filler, because it does hold narrative value, but it just doesn't land as well as the rest of the film. Overall the film still packs a punch, because it aims for the nostalgia factor. I myself had just finished my first year in college when this came out so this did hit a little close to home. Toy Story 3 caps off the original Toy Story trilogy in a masterful way that will resonate with kids and adults for years to come.


2. Tangled
Directed by Byron Howard & Nathon Greno
Starring Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, and Donna Murphy

What makes Tangled so great is it's classic Disney updated for modern times…and it did that before Frozen. Maybe we give Frozen too much credit, and forget to remember Tangled paved the way for Frozen-but I digress. All the elements of a great Disney film are here: superb animation, wonderful music and lyrics from Alan Menken, and wonderful characters. There's also plenty of action and slapstick humor. Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi have wonderful chemistry as Rapunzel and Flynn (also Zachary Levi is my hero and because he's in Tangled that makes it one of Disney's best films), Donna Murphy is another great Disney villain, and Pascal and Maximus are some of the best Disney sidekicks in years. At a time where many people thought the classic Disney formula wouldn't work anymore, Tangled dared to prove them wrong, and prove them wrong it did. If not for Tangled, films like Frozen and Moana, films that stay true to Disney but also tweak their classic formula, probably wouldn't have been made…and you know what? Tangled deserves more than a fancied up restroom area in DisneyWorld, dammit…also why was it nominated for Best Animated Feature???


1. How To Train Your Dragon
Directed by Chris Sanders & Dean DeBlois
Starring Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, and Craig Ferguson 

I've grown to love the How To Train Your Dragon films more and more as time goes on. The animation has always been breathtaking. The voice cast is low-key one of the best ever assembled. The music...do I even need to say it? But I love the story and messages this entire trilogy tells. It's a coming-of-age story that deals with growing up, sacrifice, loss, and staying true to yourself. Most importantly though the friendships, the relationships that define us. All of this is on display right in the first film, where Hiccup (Baruchel) and Toothless' journey begins. It's well-told from beginning to end, and really what's so great is much of their bonding is told without dialogue. The filmmakers just let them interact and let the animation and the music do the storytelling. Its' not just a bunch of Hiccup talking to someone who won't talk back. It's actually brilliant. And the father/son dynamic between Hiccup and Stoick (Butler) is also very touching, and both Baruchel and Butler are giving it their all. Anyway, have I convinced you enough why this is my Top Film of 2010? Because I could keep going…

Revisiting all these films from 2010 made me realize what a strong year for animated films it was, and probably one of the strongest we've had in recent years. It's why I confidently put three of them as my top 3. I enjoyed revisiting a lot of these films. It made me realize a lot of patterns in my taste of films, and how much my tastes have and haven't changed. Next up is The Top 10 Films of 2011.

Also I really need to do a review of How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World...