Here we go again! And- for the first time in recent memory, I have more “runner-ups” than ever before.
Two reasons.
One- while writing out my top 10 of 2013, I kept moving several films up and down. Two- I kept scratching some from the list only to add them again later. I just couldn’t make up my mind.
The best part as we head in to the awards season? There is no major front-runner like we saw this past year with “Les Miserables.”
And so now, I present my top 10 of 2013.
10) “American Hustle”
This is one of those I kept moving up and down the list. I liked it, I really did. The acting was superb, the story line kept me on edge and seeing Robert De Niro as a gangster was AWESOME. This almost made my top 5, but when held against everything else this year, I settled on the 10 spot.
9) “Inside Llewyn Davis”
Ok…this one almost didn’t even make the top 10. I totally “got” this movie, but I have a feeling it is because I personally know several musicians who live the portrayed lifestyle. I’m sure there are those that will wonder what the point of the film is. I can’t blame them. Another bonus- the music within the film. If you haven’t seen it in theaters yet, you might want to wait until it is released for your home enjoyment.
8) “The Book Thief”
Tearjerker number one in my top 10. I dare you to sit through this movie without shedding at least one tear. Powerful story, Great acting. I really liked this one. See it.
7) “Philomena”
Tearjerker number two. Unbelievably true story about a mom and her 50-year-long search for her son. MAJOR points for Judi Dench’s performance. I really hope she gets a Best Actress nomination at the upcoming Oscars. It’s a drama. It’s a comedy. It’s powerful. See this one.
6) “Gravity”
Most critics have this higher on their lists. This was my front-runner before the “power” titles came out- the ones the studios rush at year’s end to get in to awards consideration. Sandra Bullock is stellar in this film. I even liked Clooney. Bonus points in the technical achievement department. You’ve probably already seen this one.
Top 5 and the runner-ups tomorrow!
Dave Morales is a member of the Houston Film Critics Society
