Top films of 2011

To kick things off, I thought I'd list my top 10 films of 2011.

1.Warrior - Few films have pulled at my heartstrings the way Warrior did.  It is an incredible, emotion-driven film that I did not expect to enjoy; I didn't even see the movie until December of 2011.  I initially wanted to see it because Gavin O'Connor directed it (O'Connor previously directed my favorite sports movie of all time - Miracle), however, I hate UFC so it lost something for me.  I had no idea it would be as powerful as it was; it completely blindsided me.  Amazing acting (especially Nick Nolte and Tom Hardy), incredible story & screenplay, and talented directing.










2. Drive - Ryan Gosling is slightly eerie and yet charming at the same time. Drive said so much with hardly saying anything at all, Gosling's character hardly speaks throughout the entire film yet he gives an incredible performance.  Drive is graphic, gritty, and gorgeous.














3. 50/50 - The perfect combination of funny and heartfelt, 50/50 is much more than a comedy.  Seth Rogen brings his usual crude humor to the table but shows his diversity as a close friend who really does have a heart.  Joseph Gordon-Levitt is outstanding and Anna Kendrick gives a wonderful breakout performance as an awkward therapist who attempts to help Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt).  You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll love it.












4. Moneyball - If you love sports, you'll love Moneyball!  Its climax bears similar resemblance of classic sports films such as Rudy and Miracle, and it will leave you cheering for the Oakland Athletics, a team that only those from Oakland root for.  Jonah Hill shows that he can be a dramatic actor along with Chris Pratt (Parks and Recreation), and Brad Pitt certainly doesn't disappoint as A's General Manager Billy Beane.












5. The Fighter - Anyone who loves Boston based films most likely loved this one.  Christian Bale looks and speaks exactly like his true character and his best supporting actor Oscar was well-deserved.  It shows the rough and tough character of the north Boston suburb of Lowell.  It's a beautifully shot film with beautiful acting.













6. The Kings Speech - Best Picture. Check.  Best Actor. Check.  Best Director. Check.  Best Original Screenplay. Check.  The awards, accolades, and lauds still continue to be sent in the direction of The King's Speech.  Colin Firth was powerful, and so were those supporting him: Geoffery Rush, Helena Bohnam Carter, and Guy Pearce.  The movie was well deserved of its many awards and will go down as a classic.












7. Buck - You don't have to like horses to love Buck.  It is the best documentary of 2011 and it's not just about ranching and horse training; it's about people and their relationships.  It's full of heart, pain, and beauty.













8. 127 Hours - You know a film is great when it can captivate an audience with just one character.  James Franco is at his best as Aron Ralston, and gives a riveting performance as a man trapped between a rock and a hard place for five days.  A feeling of great relief will wash over you as the film comes to a close, and you will have a difficult time holding back your tears.












9. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy - An Oscar worthy, all-star cast comprised of some of the film industry's best: Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, Mark Strong, and John Hurt, just to name a few.  This spy thriller is worthy of only one statement - pay very close attention.













10. Crazy, Stupid, Love - The romantic comedy of the year, Crazy, Stupid, Love brings together an outstanding cast and tells a story that bears a truly great message.  Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone make an incredible couple that you wish would just be together outside of the movie.  It's touching, it's funny, and it's heartfelt.