Ryan Popham’s Top 10 Films – A Look Back at 2011

DRIVE- Ryan Popham's "Film of the Year"

Another year of great movies has passed, with another promising year ahead. The following list includes films with 2011 release dates, excluding certain Oscar contenders such as “The Iron Lady” and “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.” Compared to the top 10 lists from Jake Hamilton and Dave Morales, I have not seen “Take Shelter” or “Warrior.” It is possible that they could have made the list had I seen them. Having seen many of the noteworthy and even not so noteworthy films of this past year, here’s my list.

At number 10 is “We Bought A Zoo,” I saw this at an advance screening with my family and low expectations – but leaving pleasantly surprised. It left me with a great sense of confidence and inspiration, especially being a true story. The acting, music, casting, all were great. You really can’t go wrong with Cameron Crowe.

Number 9 is “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2.” Having grown up with the Harry Potter books and movies, it was incredible seeing the franchise come to a close on the big, IMAX screen in 3D. This last film was by far the best out of the series, with awesome cinematography and special effects. It goes to show you what exactly was going to end up happening in the magical world of Harry Potter and when it is all said and done, it was worth the wait.

“The Descendants” comes in at number 8, which is almost guaranteed to be a Best Picture Oscar nominee. Having not known much about the film was the way to go see it, leaving with a sense of fulfillment to see all the characters develop. George Clooney had a great year, and will be recognized for it.

Number 7 is from master filmmaker Martin Scorsese, “Hugo,” which was a breathe of fresh air to me. It reminds us all of the magic of moviemaking and story telling, taking us back to the roots of cinema through a child’s perspective. This film will not disappoint, it is an all around solid film.

At number 6 is “The Adventures of Tintin.” Being a huge fan of Steven Spielberg and his Indiana Jones films, it was nice to see another exciting film like those with game changing animation with a classic character. Andy Serkis made it for me as Captain Haddock, showing terrific skill along with his role in “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” this year. It’s good to see Spielberg credited as a director again, having been more on the production side lately.

Number 5 is “Moneyball” with great performances by Brad Pitt and every one else starring in it. Jonah Hill has shown he can act with this one. I really liked this film being a fan of baseball and actually getting inspired by it in a different way. While being about baseball, the themes can really be applied to life itself and learning to be yourself.

At number 4 is David Fincher’s “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” which was a roller coaster ride that was scary, but I knew I would be safe. Being a gargantuan fan of David Fincher, it was incredible to see another masterpiece coming from him. I can’t wait for the other two and i really hope they are directed by him.

Number 3 is Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris.” This was his best film in years. It was amazing to see Owen Wilson in the Woody Allen character and enchanting to see him lead us through life in the 1920’s with the people known from that period. By the time it is over, it’ll leave a smile on your face.

Number 2 is the film i think ought to win the Oscar for Best Picture, “The Artist.” I respect the return to the old school way of filmmaking for the subject of silent films in a new era and it is just perfect. I didn’t know any of the main players behind this movie, but now I’ll never forget. This is the kind of film that’ll live forever.

My favorite film of 2011 was “Drive.” Being a love it or hate it movie, I love the neo-noire genre about the fantastical character of the loner who sacrifices everything for the good natured people, of innocence. This film made me a die hard fan of Ryan Gosling and Nicolas Winding Refn. There need to be more movies like this nowadays, bringing back the way they did things in the 1970’s. There are scenes that’ll stay with you forever from this movie, which is more than can be said about most.