hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Top 10 films of 2013
hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Top 10 films of 2013
The latter half of December was characteristically heavy with new releases that were destined to impress, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t some winners earlier in the year.
10. Rush While Days of Thunder mostly romanticized NASCAR before transforming the movie into an actual love story, this film repeatedly underlines the dangers of racing and remains focused on one of the '70s most famous rivalries. (Though it does give a nod to its predecessor with the inclusion of “Gimme Some Lovin’” on the soundtrack.) British playboy James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and straight shooter Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) held a deep distaste for one another both on and off the track, but it was that merciless competition that pushed them both to be better. Director Ron Howard finds a suitable balance between the thrilling races and the spiky drama. Hemsworth is very convincing as the tomcat who also knows his way around a race track and Brühl is exceptional as the over-achieving German who makes up for personality with brains.
9. The Attack Terrorism is a complicated subject matter, especially when the filmmaker attempts to show an unbiased view of the act from the perspective of someone linked to the extremist. Amin Jaafari (Ali Suliman) had no idea his wife intended to murder a café full of people. But when he discovers she was the bomber, he will not rest until he finds answers. The emotions conveyed in this film range from elation and admiration to outrage and disgust. Telling the story from the point of view of a Palestinian who built a successful life in Israel allows it to unfold without judgment while providing a comprehensive look at the varying attitudes in play.
8. Inside Llewyn Davis Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) may not be the most likeable character, but his journey in search of musical success is compelling. The Coen brothers’ films continuously feature exceptional music selections, but this may be their most noteworthy collection since they introduced audiences to the Soggy Bottom Boys. Their presentation of Davis’ performances brings audiences into the smoky, dark rooms that housed the best and undiscovered folk singers of the ‘60s. Isaac plays the compositions himself, which are enthralling. In addition, the band of characters he encounters on his tour provide a variety of colour.
7. Much Ado About Nothing William Shakespeare’s work has endured for centuries, but in its original text it can seem inaccessible to many. Enter the unstoppable Joss Whedon. Assembling a cast of familiar faces from the Whedonverse, he produces an engaging and enjoyable rendition of one of the bard’s most perplexing comedies without modifying the dialogue. Instead he directs the talented actors to effectively deliver the script so it’s both vibrant and comprehensible. The on-screen reunion of Alexis Denisof and Amy Acker benefits from their unyielding chemistry. Maintaining simplicity in the sets and costumes, the black-and-white picture simply adds character to an already charming film.
6. Her Innovation is a peculiar thing in tales of romance. Though the circumstances may change, the general boy-meets-girl narrative remains the same. This is one of the few stories to significantly alter the familiar plotline. Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) falls in love with Samantha (Scarlett Johansson) – a sophisticated operating system. This is as modern as a love story can get. Phoenix is delightful as a man rediscovering the world that he had so effectively shunned. Johansson arguably turns in the best performance of her career, winning over Theodore and audiences with just her sultry voice.
5. The Wolf of Wall Street The rise and fall of Wall Street executives is longer as popular a subject as it was in recent years, but who doesn't want to see director Martin Scorsese take on the greed and corruption that plagues the financial district. Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio) wanted it all and he was willing to sell his soul to get it. Ultimately pulling in nearly $1 million per week, his story is built on a foundation of lies and confidence – and hookers and blow. DiCaprio portrays Belfort's unyielding ambition with effortless panache and his thirst for self-destruction with a total lack of ego. Scorsese dives deep into Belfort's dark history and splashes the most depraved across the screen with his signature style and precision.
4. Dallas Buyer's Club This film can be described in one word: commitment. Matthew McConaughey finally decided to return to acting with his shirt on and he's once again become a cinematic force. Dropping nearly 50 pounds, he portrays Ron Woodruff, a homophobic rodeo cowboy infected with HIV who challenges the health care system and accessibility to alternative medical treatments. He still exudes his signature Southern charm, but there are many more layers to his personality. Jared Leto plays Rayon, a sassy transsexual who becomes Ron’s partner in crime. Both men excel, but Leto often stands above McConaughey. Ron isn’t always likeable, but Rayon has a constant hold on the audience.
3. Gravity One had to wonder what could be compelling about watching an astronaut float around in space for 90 minutes, but it's undoubtedly one of the most intense movies of the year. Viewed on the IMAX's massive screen, the audience is swallowed by the vast emptiness of space, allowing them to inevitably empathize with Sandra Bullock's character's plight. Director Alfonso Cuarón has had a varied career, but his understanding of humanity shines through all of his films. This movie is not only a technical accomplishment, but also a new level of achievement for Bullock. And George Clooney puts his typical happy-go-lucky persona to excellent use.
2. 12 Years a Slave This is probably one of the best narratives about U.S. slavery since Roots. Solomon Northup's (Chiwetel Ejiofor) kidnapping and sale in the South weaves a tremendous tale of brutality, oppression and survival. Like many of this year's best, it runs more than two hours but every minute is profound. The cast of A-list actors bring everything to the picture with several fearlessly taking on the notorious roles of slave owners and proprietors; Michael Fassbender receives particular recognition in this capacity. But the film could not have made nearly as strong an impression without the outstanding talent of Ejiofor. Director Steve McQueen is skilled at telling intricate, emotional stories by drawing audiences into the events rather than manipulating their feelings with editing and music.
1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty This film was the perfect holiday release offering something for everyone. It's funny, adventurous, a little romantic, and offers some dramatic self-discovery. Ben Stiller is captivating as a man who only lived in his dreams until a work mishap presents an opportunity for him to realize his fantasies of world travel and excitement. Doubling as director, Stiller doesn't miss a beat whether it be action, comedy or sentiment. The narrative is somewhat more complex than is typical, but it all interconnects well. In addition, the amazing locales and fantastic journey – both real and imaginary – hooks the viewer through to the end. Honourable mention to The Way, Way Back and A Royal Affair , two of the year’s most underrated films.
D Films
image:164931:0::0
9. The Attack Terrorism is a complicated subject matter, especially when the filmmaker attempts to show an unbiased view of the act from the perspective of someone linked to the extremist. Amin Jaafari (Ali Suliman) had no idea his wife intended to murder a café full of people. But when he discovers she was the bomber, he will not rest until he finds answers. The emotions conveyed in this film range from elation and admiration to outrage and disgust. Telling the story from the point of view of a Palestinian who built a successful life in Israel allows it to unfold without judgment while providing a comprehensive look at the varying attitudes in play.
Mongrel Media
A scene from 'Inside Llewyn Davis'
image:163972:0::0
8. Inside Llewyn Davis Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) may not be the most likeable character, but his journey in search of musical success is compelling. The Coen brothers’ films continuously feature exceptional music selections, but this may be their most noteworthy collection since they introduced audiences to the Soggy Bottom Boys. Their presentation of Davis’ performances brings audiences into the smoky, dark rooms that housed the best and undiscovered folk singers of the ‘60s. Isaac plays the compositions himself, which are enthralling. In addition, the band of characters he encounters on his tour provide a variety of colour.
Entertainment One
A scene from 'Much Ado About Nothing'
image:151098:0::0
7. Much Ado About Nothing William Shakespeare’s work has endured for centuries, but in its original text it can seem inaccessible to many. Enter the unstoppable Joss Whedon. Assembling a cast of familiar faces from the Whedonverse, he produces an engaging and enjoyable rendition of one of the bard’s most perplexing comedies without modifying the dialogue. Instead he directs the talented actors to effectively deliver the script so it’s both vibrant and comprehensible. The on-screen reunion of Alexis Denisof and Amy Acker benefits from their unyielding chemistry. Maintaining simplicity in the sets and costumes, the black-and-white picture simply adds character to an already charming film.
Warner Brothers Pictures
Joaquin Phoenix in 'Her'
image:163838:0::0
6. Her Innovation is a peculiar thing in tales of romance. Though the circumstances may change, the general boy-meets-girl narrative remains the same. This is one of the few stories to significantly alter the familiar plotline. Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) falls in love with Samantha (Scarlett Johansson) – a sophisticated operating system. This is as modern as a love story can get. Phoenix is delightful as a man rediscovering the world that he had so effectively shunned. Johansson arguably turns in the best performance of her career, winning over Theodore and audiences with just her sultry voice.
Paramount Pictures
Leonardo DiCaprio in 'The Wolf of Wall Street'
image:164929:0::0
5. The Wolf of Wall Street The rise and fall of Wall Street executives is longer as popular a subject as it was in recent years, but who doesn't want to see director Martin Scorsese take on the greed and corruption that plagues the financial district. Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio) wanted it all and he was willing to sell his soul to get it. Ultimately pulling in nearly $1 million per week, his story is built on a foundation of lies and confidence – and hookers and blow. DiCaprio portrays Belfort's unyielding ambition with effortless panache and his thirst for self-destruction with a total lack of ego. Scorsese dives deep into Belfort's dark history and splashes the most depraved across the screen with his signature style and precision.
Remstar Films
Jared Leto and Matthew McConaughey in 'Dallas Buyer's Club'
image:160466:0::0
4. Dallas Buyer's Club This film can be described in one word: commitment. Matthew McConaughey finally decided to return to acting with his shirt on and he's once again become a cinematic force. Dropping nearly 50 pounds, he portrays Ron Woodruff, a homophobic rodeo cowboy infected with HIV who challenges the health care system and accessibility to alternative medical treatments. He still exudes his signature Southern charm, but there are many more layers to his personality. Jared Leto plays Rayon, a sassy transsexual who becomes Ron’s partner in crime. Both men excel, but Leto often stands above McConaughey. Ron isn’t always likeable, but Rayon has a constant hold on the audience.
Warner Bros. Entertainment
A scene from 'Gravity'
image:164928:0::0
3. Gravity One had to wonder what could be compelling about watching an astronaut float around in space for 90 minutes, but it's undoubtedly one of the most intense movies of the year. Viewed on the IMAX's massive screen, the audience is swallowed by the vast emptiness of space, allowing them to inevitably empathize with Sandra Bullock's character's plight. Director Alfonso Cuarón has had a varied career, but his understanding of humanity shines through all of his films. This movie is not only a technical accomplishment, but also a new level of achievement for Bullock. And George Clooney puts his typical happy-go-lucky persona to excellent use.
20th Century Fox
Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender in '12 Years a Slave'
image:164927:0::0
2. 12 Years a Slave This is probably one of the best narratives about U.S. slavery since Roots. Solomon Northup's (Chiwetel Ejiofor) kidnapping and sale in the South weaves a tremendous tale of brutality, oppression and survival. Like many of this year's best, it runs more than two hours but every minute is profound. The cast of A-list actors bring everything to the picture with several fearlessly taking on the notorious roles of slave owners and proprietors; Michael Fassbender receives particular recognition in this capacity. But the film could not have made nearly as strong an impression without the outstanding talent of Ejiofor. Director Steve McQueen is skilled at telling intricate, emotional stories by drawing audiences into the events rather than manipulating their feelings with editing and music.
Twentieth Century Fox Film
Ben Stiller in 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty'
image:164328:0::0
1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty This film was the perfect holiday release offering something for everyone. It's funny, adventurous, a little romantic, and offers some dramatic self-discovery. Ben Stiller is captivating as a man who only lived in his dreams until a work mishap presents an opportunity for him to realize his fantasies of world travel and excitement. Doubling as director, Stiller doesn't miss a beat whether it be action, comedy or sentiment. The narrative is somewhat more complex than is typical, but it all interconnects well. In addition, the amazing locales and fantastic journey – both real and imaginary – hooks the viewer through to the end. Honourable mention to The Way, Way Back and A Royal Affair , two of the year’s most underrated films.
hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Top 10 films of 2013