2011 has been a strong year for cinema – there’s been some unforgettable films, ranging from looks at the world of ballet, sex addiction, finding oneself or just generally being a badass Nicolas Cage from hell. Here’s 25 of Silver Screen Slags favourites of the year – going by their UK releases (unless previewed prior to this). Please look in awe at the horrible logo, made using all of my skills in Microsoft Paint.
25. CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE
Why? Mature, yet highly entertaining romantic comedy with standout performances from Steve Carrell and Julianne Moore. This is the romcom for those that sigh at the genre.
23. BEGINNERS
22. IMMORTALS
21. TRIAGE
20. FOOTLOOSE
19. THE KING’S SPEECH
18. RED STATE
17. MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
16. DRIVE ANGRY
15. THE DIVIDE
Why? Overshadowed by The King’s Speech and Black Swan despite being a magnificent adaptation of the Charles Portis novel. This is one of the best westerns since Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven with faultlesly crafted by the Coen Brothers and pitch-perfect appearances from Jeff Bridges and Hailee Steinfeld.
13. SCREAM 4
12. THE FIGHTER
Why? It’s a powerful family drama, totally exhilarating from start to finish and features Mark Wahlberg’s best performance since Boogie Nights.
11. COUNTRY STRONG
Why? It may be cliche ridden with a messy narrative but Country Strong is fun, highly entertaining with the best cinematic soundtrack of the year.
10. TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY
Why? TTSS is a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of cold war espionage cinema. Tomas Alfredson creates a brooding, smokey atmosphere and creates genuine mystery and intrigue. There’s also stellar performances from Gary Oldman, John Hurt and Colin Firth.
9. BLACK SWAN
Why? It’s an intense, disturbing melodrama about the ballet world (and I can tell you that there aren’t many of these). Darren Aronofsky’s direction is bold and often strangely beautiful.
8. THE BANG BANG CLUB
Why? Another overlooked film in our countdown is The Bang Bang Club, it’s an intelligent and thought-provoking look at the end of Apartheid that is not afraid to ask some controversial questions.
7. SHAME
Why? Extremely powerful glimpse into sex addiction and self destruction with faultless performances from Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan. Steve McQueen directs with a stark realism.
6. THE SKIN I LIVE IN
Why? Pedro Almodovar’s film is visually breathtaking, painstakingly crafted work of genius. One of the most interesting of the year.
5. MELANCHOLIA
Why? Lars Von Trier’s vision is intense in this terrifyingly realistic look at the end of the world. It’s also a showcase for the talents of the magnificent Charlotte Gainsbourg and some astounding visuals from it’s director.
4. THE WAY
Why? This is inspirational and well-crafted drama at it’s finest. Estevez’s film is thoughtful and emotive as is it’s pitch-perfect lead performance from the Martin Sheen.
3. THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE
Why? Dominic Cooper is unbelievable in this dual role lead in this gritty drama. May not leave you feeling enlightened about Iraq but it’s a hugely enjoyable ride.
2. MY WEEK WITH MARILYN
Why? British drama at it’s finest that showcases another side to Hollywood Icon, Marilyn Monroe. It is captivating, nostalgic entertainment with powerhouse performances from Michelle Williams and Kenneth Branagh.
1. DRIVE
Why? Drive is a pumped up blend of retro action splashed with arthouse elements. The extreme violence an highly visual direction from Nicolas Winding Refn alongside some remarkable performances make Drive a very special film.