Rather than succumbing to the typical top 10 lists that most other movies sites are doing I decided to do something a little different.
Now, we typically review movies differently. Our reviews are based on the experience I have when watching them. Did I have a good time? Was I entertained? Do I want to see it again in theatres, or wait later on Blu-ray / DVD? Would I buy it?
There are enough sites and professional reviewers out there to cover all the stuff such as story, cinematography, acting and more. While, I do mention those I do not hinge my review on those elements.
With that said here’s a look at the list of movies I enjoyed the most this year, the ones that surprised me, and the ones that disappointed me in no particular order.
Surprises:
Race to Witch Mountain
Viewed: Blu-ray
When I first sat down to watch this I expected another so-so remake. I was entertained and enjoyed some of the goofier moments aimed at kids. I’ve watched it a few more times since its home media release with my oldest daughter and enjoyed it just as much with subsequent viewings.
Adventureland
Viewed: Blu-ray
I didn’t know what to expect with this one. I’d only caught one trailer and it looked like another teen inspired comedy. However, it turned out to be more dramatic with enjoyable characters, a great soundtrack, and a solid story.
Outlander
Viewed: Blu-ray
I don’t even remember seeing an ad or trailer for Outlander, but this August prior to hitting Fan Expo in Toronto I gave it a watch as I had lined up an interview with James Preston Rogers (Bjorn). What I found was a film that surpassed the normal humdrum of placid science fiction films of the past few years. While not fully original it was more than an enjoyable watch.
Fanboys
Viewed: Blu-ray
Man o’ man did this movie take a long to make it to my viewing plate. I’m not going to go through all the trouble this film had, but I will tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed it. As a huge Star Wars fan I was overjoyed at how well this movie paid tribute to the classic sci-fi, but also had several great laughs.
I Love You, Man
Viewed: Blu-ray
Paul Rudd gets a gold star. His awkward portrayal of someone who’s never really had any male friends was genius. I laughed so often through this movie and the bumbling circumstances in which Rudd ends up.
Star Trek
Viewed: Theatre
JJ Abrams wasted no time in taking Star Trek dogma and completely changing it to create his own story within the realm of Trek. Strong performances, great humour, and a great thrill ride. I can’t wait to see it where he takes this crew next.
The Hangover
Viewed: Theatre
Perhaps the greatest comedy to hit the big screen in the past decade. There were so many WTF moments and perfect comedic timing from many of the main stars, but Zach Galifrinakis steals the show. If you still haven’t seen this flick do it.
District 9
Viewed: Theatre
2009 was a great year for sci-fi and District 9 was the best of the year when it came to story and delivery. It’s brilliance becomes clearer with each subsequent viewing. It also introduced to the world Neil Blomkamp who should have been allowed to proceed with the Halo movie. I bet the studio and Microsoft are kicking themselves in the asses now.
Ninja Assassin
Viewed: Theatre
This movie got trashed by reviewers, but it was something I had to see for myself. While there were many problems with the movie it was a great ride. One could say it’s ninja-tastic. It gave me the same feeling I had when I had sat down to watch 300 for the first time. I honestly can’t wait to see it again when it hits Blu-ray. Watch here for the BD release date later this month.
Avatar
Viewed: Theatre
Avatar is without a doubt the best theatrical experience I’ve had in my life. Yes, I can say that with absolute honesty. It was also my first digital 3D ride. I’m not going to give a full recap of my review, but I will slightly alter one of my quotes from it… “Avatar is EPIC marinated in awesome sauce.”
Sherlock Holmes
Viewed: Theatre
The trailers pitch this Holmes as an action flick, but it’s a little more than that. It actually does show Sherlock’s intelligence in a unique and often humorous way. While I wouldn’t say it’s the best movie of the year it was definitely more fun then I expected.
