« Previous | Main Page | Next »

Anybody who has seen High Fidelity knows the value of a great top 5 list. They can be sliced, diced and debated endlessly. So after seeing more films than any one person should be allowed to see in 2004, I've doubled the fun and listed the 10 that had the most original voices and left their imprint on me.

1) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind - this one ranks among my top 5 of all time. Yes it's that brilliant. Kaufman's quirky screen writing genius is at his best asking simply, "if you could erase someone from your memory to kill the pain of loss, would you? Should you?" This is the most honest portrayal of relationships that I've seen captured on film

2) Closer - This one is in your face, boldly brash and refusing to apologize for anything. It can be hard to watch at times though like a mangled train wreck, you simply can't tear your eyes away from it. These four deeply disturbed individuals weave an intricate web of deceit using sex as their tool as it eats through love. Clive Owen and Natalie Portman steal the show from their marquee counterparts through unconventional roles that prove the highlight of their distinguished careers.

3) Before Sunset - Before Sunrise left us on the train platform nine years ago wondering what would happen to Ethan Hawke and Julie Delphy's characters. Would they keep their promise to meet again in six months or would that one night these strangers shared be just that? Sunset takes us on a stroll through the gorgeous streets of Paris as we watch their conversation evolve from tentative and guarded to emotionally revealing. The dialog is fresh and believable, the chemistry between Hawke and Delphy is undeniable and the careful subtlies expressed between the characters make this film one of the best romances on film.

4) Garden State - Brilliant film by first time writer/director Zach Braff (Scrubs). Simple storyline of hidden complexities focused on a man finding himself in the most unlikely of places – home. Thoroughly funny, honest, sincere and smart each step of the way that really hits you on a level few films can touch. The soundtrack is easily one of the best I've heard in years. Each song seems custom made for the scene in question.

5) Hotel Rwanda - Harrowing portrait of a nation caught in the grips of genocide and one man's struggle to save his family and to provide a haven for his people. Extremely eye opening piece that highlights problems in the news media to adequately cover such events and bring them to light (similar events are being echoed in Darfur as we speak). It's shocking that the world community basically turned a blind eye to the carnage that befell the country. Don Cheadle is phenomenal in this Schindler-esque role and gives one of the best performances of the year.

6) Million Dollar Baby - This one starts with the heart of Rocky as we struggle with Swank who shows bravery, fight and determination to accomplish her dream. It takes a violent turn mid-way through that stirs up a lot of questions and forces you to take a side in a decision you don't want to make. Swank gives the best performance of an actress this year and Clint cements himself as one of Hollywood's greatest directors.

7) Fahrenheit 9/11 - This movie is mandatory watching for any American. I will be the first to admit that Michael Moore can be heavy handed in his approach at times and he is often his own worst enemy regardless he is a stellar filmmaker. He has packed a powerful array of facts in here that simply can't be ignored. Don't just accept what you are fed. Go do your own research to strain out the validity but be prepared for the sizable pit that forms in your stomach as realizations take hold.

8) Hero - Stunningly beautiful film where each frame looks like a painting. It features the best fight scenes on films that, at times, only take place in the character's minds. The story is a deeply philosophical piece about a man's inner struggle to settle his own needs when they conflict with the greater good of his country.

9) Napolean Dynamite - Painfully funny film that is destined to be a cult classic. When you couple the natural embarrassment of the 80s (or 2004 Idaho) with the completely clueless Napolean, you've got this riotous indie hit. I dare you not to enjoy every minute of this.

10) The Motorcycle Diaries - The cinematography of the South American countryside was awe inspiring and what an interesting take on the evolution of Che's ideals. Gael Garcia Bernal gives a brilliant performance and provides a great dynamic with the talented Rodrigo de la Sema. Make sure you don't miss the sensuous Mia Maestro (as if that was even remotely possible).

Honorable Mention Candidates: Sideways, Ray, Friday Night Lights, The Aviator, Super Size Me

Comments