Top Ten Films of 2012

by: Javan Rivera on December 7, 2012

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1. “Moonrise Kingdom”
Wes Anderson’s films have always had an element of romance in them, but “Moonrise Kingdom” is his first attempt at crafting a full-on love story. The tale of two young lovebirds, Sam and Suzy, as they runaway together in the New England wilderness is the most heartwarming story of the year.
B.Y.

2. “Skyfall”
James Bond. He’s been around since 1953, when writer Ian Fleming created the first Bond novel. Now, nearly 60 years later, Bond is still going strong. In the latest Bond film, “Skyfall,” director Sam Mendes has created a highly probable reality for Bond that showcases his inevitable aging. However, Daniel Craig does not disappoint and Bond returns better than ever, arguably making this the best Bond film yet.
L.R.

3. “Jiro Dreams of Sushi”
Director David Gelb’s directorial debut provides some of the most beautiful cinematography to grace theaters this year. The film, which documents the story of 85-year-old master sushi chef Jiro Ono, looks back on Jiro’s childhood, his lifelong journey to become the most renowned sushi chef in the world, and his relationship with his son, who faces the daunting task of following in his father’s footsteps. Inspirational, and beautifully crafted, “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” is a masterpiece.
J.R.

4. “The Avengers”
What could be better than a group of superheroes uniting to fight evil? The promise that the same group will return again, better than ever for a much anticipated sequel. “The Avengers” incorporates endless story lines and character tie-ins. The action-packed film stays true to the classic superhero tale. And as fantastic as the movie was the first time around, director Joss Whedon, has created a film franchise that will continue on through the ages.
L.R.

5. “Seven Psychopaths”
A film that feels like a homage to the ridiculously violent, darkly humorous works of directors such as Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie, “Seven Psychopaths” presents some of the best humor to be found in cinema this year. In an absurd story that follows the experiences of a screenwriter with writer’s block (Colin Farrell), whose criminal friend (Sam Rockwell) convinces him to meet with seven psychopaths for inspiration. Director Martin McDonagh delivers one of the most deeply satisfying, black comedies in years.
J.R.

6. “The Dark Knight Rises”
The final chapter of director Christopher Nolan’s highly acclaimed Batman franchise provided a fitting end to the series. In a story that was more about Bruce Wayne than his brooding alter-ego, Nolan placed a capstone on what can certainly be considered one of the best superhero franchises in cinematic history, and one of the best films of the year.
J.R.

7. “Safety Not Guaranteed”
A film that straddles the genre line between comedy and dramatic science fiction, “Safety Not Guaranteed” tells a story that resonates at a deeper level than the narrative arc first implies. Director Colin Trevorrow sends viewers on a cinematic journey that focuses on the importance of the past. Few films can encapsulate the same feelings of humor and loneliness that “Safety Not Guaranteed” presents.
J.R.

8. “The Hunger Games”
Suzanne Collins’ books, which portray an alternate reality through the eyes of Katniss Everdeen, swept the nation, topping national best seller lists for weeks on end. Needless to say, when the film debuted, even more hype was present. Director Gary Ross stayed true to the book’s story line, all while allowing leads Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth to shine and take us much further into the drama of the Capitol and District 12.
L.R.

9. “The Imposter”
“The Imposter” is one of those films that is best enjoyed when you go into it knowing nothing about it. Bart Layton’s documentary focuses on the 1994 disappearance of 13-year-old Nicholas Barclay, and his sudden reappearance in Spain three years later. Tense and deeply engrossing, the film never lets up and is among the most intriguing films to be released this year.
J.R.

10. “Wreck-It Ralph”
What happens when the villain wants to be the hero? Directed by Rich Moore and produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Wreck-It Ralph” adds a new feel of familiarity and comedy to kids’ animation. Ralph finds himself unsatisfied with his current standing in his life and sets about to change. This film has fantastic animation and ultimately teaches kids to follow their dreams. That is a class act in my book.
L.R.

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Posted by Javan Rivera on Dec 7 2012. Filed under A&E, Film. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.