Being a glass “3/4” full person, I usually find something redeeming in the majority of films I see; although many of you will find this unbelievable, there are movies I intentionally, deliberately avoid; anything to do with vampires, hangovers, anchormen, grudge matches, “this is the end”, or Las Vegas.
When questioned about the BEST and the WORST films of the year; delved into the archives; here is a synopsis, not necessarily ranked according to status or worthiness, but those that registered at the celestial or doomed level of my filmic barometer.
MUD
BLUE JASMINE
SHORT TERM 12
THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES
THE GATEKEEPERS
DISCONNECT
NO
KON-TIKI
IN THE HOUSE
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
FRUITVALE STATION
WADJDA
PRISONERS
RUSH
THE ATTACK
ENOUGH SAID
GRAVITY
CAPTAIN PHILLIPS
LE –WEEK-END
12 YEARS A SLAVE
BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR
NEBRASKA
AMERICAN HUSTLE
BROKEN CITY
OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN
ONLY GOD FORGIVES
MAN OF STEEL
STOKER
ADMISSION
PAIN & GAIN
IRON MAN 3
STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS
VIOLET & DAISY
DON JON
AUSTENLAND
RUNNER RUNNER
OLD BOY
THE LONE RANGER
THOR: THE DARK WORLD
THE IMMIGRANT
EVERYBODY HAS A PLAN
THE INTERNSHIP
THE EAST
GHANCHAKKAR
THE COMPANY YOU KEEP
I’M SO EXCITED
There are films that have yet to be seen, so the list is in flux.
Through the years your “comments” have stimulated, enlightened and widened my perspective; the absence of elitism is key in criticism; no one can change another’s opinion, but by refuting, arguing on behalf of one’s own beliefs, one can pry open intransigent jaws of immutable, intractable obstinacy; irrefutable logic and conviction can be as refreshing and convincing as the unveiling of a heralded monument; the power to inform (possibly convert) is the prime reason, commandment that criticism exists in all fields.
You give me pause, relishing the debate; you are a constant reminder that the crux of success, in any endeavor, is the art of listening; after heeding, synthesizing disparate, opposite views: then, and only then can you attain strength and legitimate validity. Because of you I am halfway there. Thank you.
Again, the greatest wishes in life and film for 2014.
For Now………..Peneflix
Peneflix alert: 5th annual Academy Award contest coming soon!
Found it interesting, Penelope, that you left off “Philomena” ; I, too, would have left it out; thought the one about similar subject a few years back was much better! Do you remember the name of that one? Surprised about leaving out “Dallas Buyer’s Club” and “The Great Beauty”. Nevertheless, to the movies: I toast them and I love most of them and I love your site. Happy, healthy, safe and busy New Year to you and yours.
Marlene, the choice was difficult: really rooting for Matthew McConaughey to win Academy Award for his role in “Dallas Buyers Club”; also “The Great Beauty” is wonderful, just a touch too Felliniesque! There are some I have yet to see, list is still expanding or shrinking.
My sentiments to you for a beautiful, healthy 2014.
I so appreciate and relish your insightful comments. P.