Top Five :: Essential Films of 2009
This Is Worldtown contributor Abdullah Malik takes on the must-see films of 2009, with a mix of mainstream releases and some quieter gems, to check out in to the new year.
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Compared to the juggernaut films that ruled the cinema in 2008, one couldn’t expect 2009 to top the cinema experience that last year did. But somehow, the last three hundred and sixty odd days brought with it a gamut of unmissable films. Here are the five most essential films of ‘09:
5. The Hurt Locker
Quite possibly the most gripping war movie ever made(and probably one of the most realistic too). Removes the heavy handed politics most Iraq war movies are lambasted for, and instead, wisely focuses on the humanity and depth of the soldiers themselves. Expertly directed by Kathryn Bigelow and featuring an Oscar worthy performance from Jeremy Renner.
4. District 9
In a year sparse with newcomers, director Neil Blomlkamp and actor Sharlto Copley paired up for what came up to be the most stunning debut of the decade. With great special effects and explosive energy, this immediately took its place among the greatest of Sci-Fi films
3. Mary and Max
1. Me and Orson WellesThe most straightforward movie on this list, but easily the best. The story of a week behind the scenes of an Orson Welles play, this film provides a Welles worthy performance for Christian Mackay, who outshines even Sharlto Copley as having the most impressive acting debut. With an excellent story held up by fantastic performances all around, this film captures the theatre like no other film this year has: Perfectly.
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what about avatar, invictus, where the wild things are, capitalism: a love story, star trek, fantastic mr. fox, drag me to hell, precious, up in the air, moon, and so many others?