The Best Films of 2010

Happy 2011 everyone! I guess now would be a good time to do a quick recap of what I consider to be the best films released in 2010. Keep in mind, I’m not a film critic, just someone who likes good films. Also, since I haven’t even come close to watching all the films released in the previous year, consider this list restricted to those I did see (obviously). I’m sure there are a few goodies I’m leaving out, but that’s not what this is about. It’s just my humble opinion on what was the best of the best of 2010. So, let’s begin.

1. The Town

My top favorite of the year, The Town has got to be one of the greatest heist movies of the last few years. Think Heat and Inside Man but even better. It certainly has a great plot that doesn’t let up for a minute. At the core, I think it is about the choices we make and the consequences of our actions. The have a way of catching up with us. Click here for my full review.

2. 127 Hours

Based on a true story, this hidden gem tells the story of a man trapped between two canyon walls for 127 hours. Just how he managed to escape is what makes this work so well on the screen along with the subtle undertones referencing regret, redemption and what matters most in life. Click here for my full review.

3. Inception

This is one of those films that really makes you think. I’ve seen it three times and still can’t figure it all out, but hey, I’m not the brightest bulb in the bunch either. Regardless, there is so much going on here and the quality of Nolan’s masterwork shines through every scene.

4. The Social Network

Since I’m fascinated by the business side of social media, this was one of the most anticipated films of the year for me. Having already read a bunch of stuff on Facebook’s founding, it wasn’t that I wanted to know what happened, but I just wanted to see how it would look on the screen. While for those not interested in Facebook, this may have been a little boring, for me it was a nice way to bring to light a different side of the company so many of us interact with on a daily (or hourly) basis, regardless of how accurate it may be. Click here for my full review.

5. A Nightmare on Elm Street

To sum it up in one word: Creepy. Yes, I think this was much better than the original. Effects have come so far since 1984, and this is one of those horror film remakes that takes advantage of this in the best way possible. The fear is still there and the story is still intriguing, but when you add a new level of realism it brings the concept of Freddy Krueger to a whole new level.

6. The Book of Eli

After seeing this for the first time, the only possible reaction you can have at the end is WOW! Great story with one of the best film endings ever. It may be a little odd at times, but that’s the idea. Don’t miss this one! I’m not saying anything else about it.

7. True Grit

I haven’t seen the original yet, so I’m not about to compare the two, nor have I read the book. All I can say is that there is much more going on here in terms of the underlying message than what meets the eye. You can watch it like a TV show and get nothing from it, or study each event and come away with a message that resonates about the true price of justice, or shall we call it revenge?

8. Shutter Island

One of the darkest films I’ve seen in a while, Shutter Island is in a class of its own. The story is well planned and well executed and it’ll leave you wanting to watch it again in order to find out what you missed.

9. The Fighter

It seems like there are dozens of these types of films about boxers, but none are as polished as The Fighter. While it may start off a little slow, this film (based on a true story) just might knock out some big awards.

10. Toy Story 3

While still playful, this was the most serious Toy Story plot to date. As so many of us have grown up with this franchise, so have the toys. The adventure is still here, but it is about more serious business these days. The visuals are stunning, as you would expect from Pixar and all-in-all this is an instant classic for any age.

Well, I’d love to hear what your favorites of 2010 were, so leave a comment below! Now it’s onto another year of movies with many more reviews to follow.