Top Ten Films of 2011

Though 2011 was two years ago, it was a memorable time in the History of Cinema, A modern silent B/W French film known as The Artist won Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Film historians and snooty French types went wild with joy. I have seen about 50 films from that year and reviewed over 20. 2011 was truly remarkable, full of films that paid tribute to the great Art. My #1 pick for greatest film of 2011 already has an incredible Criterion Collection release, so go pick it up while you still can. Reasons will be made in point form.

 10. Redemption of General Butt Naked

 -Deep exploration into themes regarding forgiveness, mercy, redemption, death and justice.

-Will have you questioning your morals long after the film is over

 9. Pina

-Directed by Wim Wenders

- Fantastic tribute to Pina Bausch

- Fascinating dive into the art of dance

- Unusually made documentary

 8. Shame

- Directed by black Director Steve McQueen

- Disturbing yet powerful

- Themes regarding sexual guilt, shame and addiction

-Marvelous acting by Fassbinder

7. An African Election

- Interesting documentary about the political process of an African Elecion.

-Unlike a North American election, this is anything but boring.

6. Tree of Life

- Polarizing. After seeing it three times I still can't figure out whether I love it or hate it.

-Truly a unique vision that needs to be watched and re-watched.

5. A Separation

-Another political film, but this is about a marriage in Iran

-When this won the "Best Foreign Language" Oscar, the state declared a "victory over Israel". However the Director completely disagrees.

  4. This Is Not A Film

 -A political documentary about the deprivations in Iranian cinema

-Incredibly thought provoking

 3. Martha Marcy May Marlene

- Accurate depictions of cult and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

-Brilliant acting by Elizabeth Olsen, sister of the famous Olsen Twins.

2. Midnight In Paris

-Directed by Woody Allen. Even as a senoir he knows how to make a great film.

-Time travel!

- A great use of Owen Wilson's skills

1. Le Havre

-A trip back to the magical French Cinema of the 30's and 40's 

- Hilarious dead pan humour

-Heartwarming tale that incites the audience to become better people, without being preachy