Trance

Film: Trance

Starring: James McAvoy (X-Men: First Class), Vincent Cassel (Black Swan) and Rosario Dawson (Unstoppable)

Director: Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire)

U.S. Release: April 5th, 2013 (Limited - Rated R)

Genre: Thriller

Runtime: 101 minutes


After having his 2010 critically praised film 127 Hours nominated for Best Picture by the Academy, director Danny Boyle took some time off from filmmaking. Instead of immediately jumping into a new and challenging project like he always does, the England native decided to take some time away from the director's chair and put together the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony in London. Accepting such a feat only adds to the versatile resume that Boyle's built in over two decades in the entertainment industry. With a filmography boasting a broad spectrum of genres (i.e. Trainspotting, 28 Days Later, Millions and Best Picture Winner Slumdog Millionaire), there's no label big enough for such a multi-talented director like Danny Boyle.

Boyle's latest endeavor comes in the form of the drama-thriller Trance. James McAvoy stars as Simon, an art auctioneer who becomes mixed up with a band of criminals by promising to help them steal a valuable painting. After the whole ordeal fails to go according to plan, a blow to the head causes Simon to forget where he left the piece of art. Therefore, the criminal leader Franck (played by Vincent Cassel) forces Simon to visit a hyno-therapist (played by Rosario Dawson) with hopes that hypnosis can help relocate the priceless painting.

Trance is a mind-bending affair that spends a majority of its running time carefully toeing the line between dream-like state and reality. Never knowing who to trust and who to root for, Danny Boyle's newest release demands that the audience think less and experience more. Under the circumstances, Trance becomes yet another insanely visual and audibly pleasing joy ride that only Boyle himself could conjure up. The director accomplishes a completely original and unique style that's worthy of recognition all on its own. Furthermore, cast members McAvoy, Cassel and especially Rosario Dawson (who fearlessly shows it all and then some with a few graphic nude scenes) offer the level of performances necessary to hoist Trance beyond other style-first films like this year's Spring Breakers. When you couple Boyle's singular sense of flair with such a brutally convincing and outstanding collection of actors and actresses, Trance clearly separates itself as one of 2013's finest achievements to date.

For all of Trance's stylistic successes, Boyle's "think less" approach does, however, induce some major plot holes and unforgivable blunders. Without spoiling too much, the film fails to close a few HUGE loops that inevitably call into question the movie's credibility. But like any true art-form, over-analysis causes you to miss the superficial beauty of the work. Boyle does an amazing job of helping the audience to trust their senses instead of their brains. Consequently, Trance begins with an uncontrollable amount of energy and finishes with an unparalleled amount of poetic beauty.

At the end of the day, Danny Boyle's Trance is a messy and complicated film that delivers in look, sound and feel. This little gem is a puzzle that's meant to be pieced together for you. If you're in the audience and trying to play "the detective", you're missing the punchline. Trance is the type of feature that you experience and savor. Let Boyle do the work for you, and you'll easily appreciate the film for the twists and unique style that pour out of the screen. With one of my favorite finales in recent memory, Trance is a fun and energetic thrill ride. One definitely worth checking out.


Stars: 3 stars out of 4

Grade: B+

Graceland

Film: Graceland

Starring: Arnold Reyes ans Menggie Cobarrubias

Director: Ron Morales

U.S. Release: April 26th, 2013 (Unrated)

Genre: Foreign/Thriller

Runtime: 84 minutes

Reaching a few select theatres this weekend is director Ron Morales’ foreign film, Graceland. Arnold Reyes stars as Marlon Villar, a loyal long-time driver to a corrupt Filipino Congressman named Manuel Changho (played by Menggie Cobarrubias). After picking up his daughter Elvie and Congressman Changho’s daughter Sophia from school one afternoon, Marlon finds himself in the most inconceivable situation after a plan to kidnap the politician’s child goes terribly awry. Desperate beyond belief, Marlon must do everything in his power to save Elvie from the men holding her hostage.

Graceland is a Filipino thriller that unfolds comfortably on the shoulders of writer and director Ron Morales. With the simplest of premises, the film crashes through the “mundane” barrier by paying close attention to detail and allowing the story to unravel fluently. This taut and suspenseful crime-drama develops with such intensity and unrelenting flavor that the credits roll before you even have a chance to let it all soak in. Graceland is a dark and devious ride that never feels easy, but never feels wrong.

Rarely does a movie begin and end without a scratch or blemish. Graceland generates some fair criticisms that ultimately address the subject matter more so than the film itself. Tackling some serious issues regarding underage prostitution, Graceland takes a moral stand but hardly delves deep into the heart of the problem. Rather than exposing the audience to the harsh reality of it all, Morales tip-toes around getting his film too caught up in the issue. Perhaps in doing so, Graceland ends up trading some credibility for a stronger, more direct, final project.

A convincing turn by Arnold Reyes, an evolving script from Ron Morales and a dark subject matter all manage to lift Graceland far past sustainable heights. A shocking and entertaining journey, Graceland is another glowing example of the exceptional world-wide films that often sneak past the typical American moviegoer. This 84 minute revenge thriller delivers the goods and never looks back. Currently available on Video On Demand and playing in select theatres, Graceland is one movie experience you won’t regret.

Stars: 3 stars out of 4

Grade: B

(New) The East and Thor: The Dark World Trailers

One advanced screening I've already had the pleasure of seeing is the Sundance Film Festival hit, The East. Reaching theatres in a limited release at the end of May, The East tells the story of a privately-hired intelligence operative who infiltrates an anarchist collective planning to target major well-paying corporations. What's being marketed as a thriller is more of a slow-burning drama, but just as effective. Check out the newest trailer for Zal Batmanglij and Brit Marling's The East.





In 2011, before we had the pleasure of watching The Avengers assemble, I thought that Thor was a pleasant surprise. As it should be expected, the superhero returns on November 8th, 2013 with Thor: The Dark World. As you will see in the trailer below, the newest installment marks the return of Chris Hemsworth (Thor) as well as Anthony Hopkins (Odin), Tom Hiddleston (Loki) and even Natalie Portman (Jane Foster). Check out the trailer for Thor: The Dark World by clicking below.

Mud

Film: Mud

Starring: Matthew McConaughey (Magic Mike), Tye Sheridan (The Tree of Life) and Reese Witherspoon (This Means War)

Director: Jeff Nichols (Take Shelter)

U.S. Release: April 26th, 2013 (Rated PG-13)

Genre: Drama

Runtime: 130 minutes


Matthew McConaughey has captured plenty of headlines lately as news of him joining Christopher Nolan's sci-fi blockbuster, Interstellar, made its way across entertainment outlets everywhere. McConaughey, who received plenty of recognition for his supporting turn in 2012's Magic Mike, has shifted his talents from rom-com star to legitimate dramatic actor. But perhaps he's never been better than he is in Jeff Nichols latest release, Mud.

Mud tells the coming-of-age story of a 14 year old boy named Ellis (played by Tye Sheridan) who ventures out with his friend Neckbone (Jacob Lofland) to restore a trapped boat. While scouting out the boat, they discover that it's being inhabited by a fugitive on the run named Mud (McConaughey). The boys decide to make a pact with the outlaw, agreeing to help Mud fix up the vessel and escape the bounty hunters and law enforcement officers who have been tracking him down.

American filmmaker Jeff Nichols follows up his 2011 critically acclaimed indie film, Take Shelter, with another well-written, character driven movie. Although Mud offers a completely different vibe than Nichols' debut work, both pictures succeed on extraordinary performances from a talented crop of actors and actresses. Although McConaughey delivers one of his finest roles to date, it's youngster Tye Sheridan who shines the brightest. With a deep-rooted subplot of love, Mud follows a young and impressionable boy who begins to discover the inner workings of life's most powerful emotion all on his own. While the boy experiences a rocky marriage between his parents on a daily basis, Ellis becomes enamored with Mud's stories of true, unbreakable love. As a main character himself, Sheridan's performance becomes a huge "make or break" aspect to the film. However, Sheridan astonishes without a hiccup and completely impresses the audience by demonstrating a level of work that far surpasses most youthful performances.

Despite all of its obvious accomplishments, Mud does manage to suffer from a slightly bloated running time. Nichols, who also writes his own screenplays, uses a smooth blend of one-liners and appealing quips to help ease the audience through the first hour and a half of the film. However, the 40-minute finale ends up feeling too drawn out and tiresome for its own good. But all in all, Mud's tiny flaw is overlooked thanks in large part to top-flight direction, well-crafted character development and a uniquely talented cast.

After premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in France last year, Mud will finally be making its way to American theatres. By evolving his work and tackling a more endearing subject matter, Nichols serves up an affable feature that will surely appeal to a much larger fan-base. Take Shelter was a brilliant piece of work, but his sophomore release is the type of movie that can be enjoyed by a grander audience. Mud is one of the finest efforts so far this year and I highly recommend checking out this great up-and-coming American filmmaker's latest feature.


Stars: 3 stars out of 4

Grade: B

Top 10 Films of the Decade, So Far

For over a week now, I've been running a segment featuring guest columnists who have made their genre-specific selections for the best movies so far this decade (2010-2019). Today, the segment will culminate with my choices for the overall Top 10 Films released since 2010. Before I offer up my list, I would like to say thank you one more time to everyone who helped with this week-long project. Thanks again to Chris Bandoian (Action), Ashley Doherty (Comedy), Greg Rouleau (Drama), Steve Fisher (Horror/Thriller) and Ryan Patrick (Animated). Finally, here are my selections for the Top 10 Films so far this decade:

*** View March's Movie List of the Month HERE

#10 - 127 Hours (2010)

I have been quoted as saying that Danny Boyle is my favorite director ever. In 2010 he brought his vibrant and unique style to the big screen in the form of the Oscar-Nominated film 127 Hours. Boyle's skilled direction and use of color and a fantastic soundtrack (courtesy of A.R. Rahman) helped bring the amazing true story of a trapped hiker to life. Facing death head on, James Franco gives a towering performance centering on personal transformation and the will to live. 127 Hours pulls you into the predicament and forced the audience to experience Aron Ralston's maddening life or death situation firsthand.

#9 - The Social Network (2010)

I can recall the Facebook phenomena ripping through my college campus in the early 2000s. David Fincher's impressive work, The Social Network, tells of the venomous story between friends and enemies during the creation and worldwide expansion of Facebook. Aaron Sorkin's Award-Winning screenplay assists the on-screen talents of Oscar-Nominee Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Armie Hammer and Justin Timberlake, making The Social Network one of the most interesting and well-rounded films of the decade.

#8 - Inception (2010)

While Christopher Nolan has spent the past five years mulling around Hollywood with the unofficial title of "Greatest Director Alive", his most thought-provoking film, Inception, generated quite the stir in the Summer of 2010. Following a futuristic outlaw named Cobb (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) who is desperate to return home to his children, Inception paints a thin line between dreams and reality. Nolan claims that if you watch the movie and pay close enough attention to everything, the controversial ending shouldn't be so controversial at all. However, after taking an intense set of notes and watching from start to finish a handful of times without blinking, I disagree with Nolan and believe that he has fooled us all. No matter the intention of the director, Inception is still an amazing cinematic feat that should be savored by all.

#7 - The Sessions (2012)

2012 was an unforgettable year for film. In fact, one of the most impressive aspects of last year was the enormous amount of under-seen gems that floated in and out of theatres without receiving the fanfare that they deserved. One of the best examples of such movies is Ben Lewin's The Sessions. Undoubtedly snubbed of a Best Actor Nomination from the Academy, John Hawkes stars as Mark O'Brien, a polio-stricken poet who has feeling, but can't really use any muscles, from his neck down. Confined to an iron lung and unsure of how many years he has left on this earth, Mark is a virgin who wants to experience sex before his clock expires. With the support of a friendly priest (played by Willian H. Macy), Mark hires a sex surrogate (played by Oscar-Nominee Helen Hunt) who can help accommodate his sensitive needs.The Sessions is an extremely heart-warming film that offers a rare sense of complete fulfillment.

#6 - Get Low (2010)

Ranked as my #1 film of 2010, Get Low is an overlooked drama starring Robert Duvall and Bill Murray. Duvall, who was unfortunately snubbed in his early-year role, stars as Felix Bush, a local hermit who shows up at Frank Quinn's (Murray) funeral parlor with an odd request. Bush wishes to have a funeral party for himself while he's living. He plans to raffle off his land and invite everyone from the surrounding counties. As the film develops we learn of Bush's internal motives and the result is nothing short of genuine sentiments that's brilliantly carried out by Duvall. Get Low is a one-of-a-kind drama that's worth checking out.

#5 - The Ides of March (2011)

George Clooney acted-in and directed The Ides of March, a remarkable political thriller that gets as down and dirty as you'd expect on the road to the presidency. Ryan Gosling headlines an all-star cast and stars as Stephen Meyers, an idealist and second in command to the campaign of the "perfect" presidential candidate (played by Clooney). But as the rival sides become pitted against one another in an extremely tight race, Stephen begins to see U.S. politics for what they really are, an ideal-less mirage. The Ides of March is an edge of your seat ride that zips by and exposes the political game for the soul-less entity that it's become.

#4 - 50/50 (2011)

Topping my list of 2011 films was Jonathan Levine's 50/50. Levine's movie is a true story about his writer's (Will Reiser) battle with cancer. Joseph Gordon-Levitt stars as Adam, carrying this heartfelt and sincere tale of survival and human connection. Seth Rogen, an actual real-life best friend to Reiser, gives a lighthearted and downright hilarious performance as Adam's best friend Kyle. Through the ups and downs of chemo and coming to grips with the harsh realities of fighting cancer, we follow a scared young man's journey. 50/50 is a four-star film that will make you feel a plethora of emotions.

#3 - Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Just how good was the 2012 cinematic year? Good enough to claim each of my top 3 spots for the best films of the decade. Coming in at #3 is Kathryn Bigelow's Zero Dark Thirty, an epic decade-long journey focusing on the manhunt to locate the terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden. Jessica Chastain delivers the goods as Maya, a CIA-Operative who makes finding Bin Laden more than just an occupation, it becomes her reason for waking up every morning. Following both good and bad leads, the audience witnesses the difficulty surrounding capturing the world's most wanted criminal. Perhaps the most rewarding moments of the feature occur in the final act when a Navy Seal Team is sent in to take care of business. Zero Dark Thirty is a gripping and unfathomable journey that makes for an excellent, well-directed piece of filmmaking.

#2 - The Impossible (2012)

Along with The Sessions, J.A. Bayona's The Impossible serves as another glowing example of unrecognized work from 2012. Oscar Nominee Naomi Watts and her on-screen husband Ewan McGregor lead a collection of great performances. However, youngster Tom Holland absolutely steals the film. The Impossible takes place in southeast Asia in 2004 when a tsunami struck and killed north of 150,000 people.  A vacationing family is separated and severely injured in the wake of this destruction. Fighting to find one another and survive the ordeal, The Impossible illustrates the depth of human kindness and compassion in the midst of chaos. It's a beautiful film that tells an amazing real-life story of a family's struggles to reconnect. Containing top-notch directing, stunning special effects and suspense like you wouldn't believe, The Impossible even surpasses the label of "great".

#1 - Argo (2012)

After a ridiculously impressive run to a Best Picture Win from the Academy and just about every major precursor, Argo has unfortunately become a casualty of the infamous "over-hyped" label. Having seen in before it hit theatres everywhere, I can honestly say that Argo felt like the perfect modern-day example of classic movie-making. The film's interesting story, effective comic relief and intense suspense combined for a trio of success. Leading star and director Ben Affleck has officially placed himself among Hollywood's elite directors. Like any great filmmaker will do with a true story, Affleck places the audience in the center of the issue and crafts a genuinely realistic final product. Argo does everything exceptionally well makes for one of the funnest movie experiences in a very long time.


Honorable Mention:
The Artist
The King's Speech
We Need to Talk About Kevin
The Music Never Stopped
Perfect Sense

Best Animated Family Films of the Decade, So Far

Sometimes the best way to gain credibility as a movie critic is to watch as many movies as possible. Therefore, my friend, and father of two children, Ryan Patrick seemed like the most logical choice as a guest columnist deciding the Best Animated Films so far this decade (released in 2010 or later). Here's what Ryan had to say about the issue:

Being a father of two girls, I’ve seen my fair share of children’s animated movies. In fact, I’ve seen almost every one released in theatres since 2010.  Most of the animated films actually turn out to be pretty good. Although the movies are geared toward a much younger audience, a majority of the stories and jokes are enjoyable for adults as well. Here are my Top 5 Animated Family Films so far this decade (2010 or later):

#1 - Toy Story 3 (2010)

*Nominated for 5 Oscars and winner of 2. (Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature Film)

Two words, Michael Keaton. His portrayal of Ken not only made the movie, but elevated Toy Story 3 to the best animated film of the 2010’s. For the third title in the series, it proved to be uniquely original. The story begins as Andy is off to college and the toys are being packed to go into the attic. After mistakenly being donated to a day care center, it is up to Woody to keep the group together and to prove to them that the ordeal was a mistake. Not all of the toys want to leave the day care center. Barbie, for example, is immediately smitten with Ken.  Whether it’s his dream house, massive wardrobe, or his “nice ascot,” Barbie doesn’t want to leave. However, not all of the toys have such a sunny motive. It’s up to Woody and the gang to get to the bottom of it to save the daycare and get reunited with Andy.

#2 - Wreck It Ralph (2012)

*Nominated for 1 Oscar. (Best Animated Feature)

Ralph is a video game villain who no longer wants to be a bad guy. The movie starts out with Ralph in a support group for bad guys and continues to impress from there. Ralph is on a quest to earn a medal and finally get the same respect and admiration as Fix it Felix, his video game’s protagonist.  Ralph’s misadventures lead him to the game “Sugar Rush,” where he gets some unexpected help from the game’s “glitch” Vanellope von Schweetz. It’s their budding relationship that helps Ralph realize that being a “bad guy,” doesn’t make him a bad guy.

#3 - Tangled (2010)

*Nominated for 1 Oscar. (Best Original Song)

Tangled is the best Disney Princess film since Beauty and the Beast (1991). It’s a retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairytale, Rapunzel, with Disney’s touch. The story follows a sheltered girl who’s locked away in a one room tower, with only her pet chameleon as a companion. When Flynn Rider, a thief on the run from the royal guard, discovers the tower and attempts to hide in it, he meets Rapunzel there and agrees to take her to see the “lights.” The “lights” are floating candles that the king and queen release every year on their missing daughter’s birthday. It’s on that journey to the castle that Rapunzel discovers who he she is and, even more importantly, Flynn Rider discovers who he wants to become.

#4 - Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted(2012)

In my opinion, it’s the best Madagascarfilm in the series. The animals, with the help of the penguins, join the circus in their attempt to return to America. Their plan was to use the circus to get them back to New York, and then ditch it. But that might prove too difficult for them, as they become attached to the performers and the circus itself. During their travels they are being chased by Chantel Dubois, the captain of animal control. An excellent movie, that’s truly enhanced by watching it in 3D.

#5 – Megamind (2010)

Superhero stories have been around for the long time. The story of good versus evil has been around for even longer. Megamind sets out to put a unique twist on the age-long story of good versus will. The movie centers around an inept super-villain who loses all purpose when the town’s superhero decides to retire.  Megamind spends all of his days battling Metro Man, only to be beaten and sent home to create a new evil plan for tomorrow. When the redundancy of their relationship begins to take its toll, Metro Man retires. With nothing left to do, Megamind sets out to create a new superhero, Titan, who proves to be too much to handle. With Titan taking the reins as the new town in villain, it is up to Megamind and his sidekick Minion to save the town.

Honorable mentions:

Hotel Transylvania: Horrors greatest monsters made enjoyable and fun for the whole family. It’s the story of a father, Dracula ( Adam Sandler), who wants to protect and keep his only daughter, Mavis  (Selena Gomez),  safe from humans.  A human, Jonathan  (Andy Samberg), does his best to inadvertently make the hotel more enjoyable during Mavis’ 118^th birthday party.

Gnomeo and Juliet: The retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, using British lawn ornaments and garden gnomes.

Despicable Me:  An evil super- villain sets out to use three orphan sisters in his plans to steal the moon. 

Best Horror/Thriller Films of the Decade, So Far

Throughout this week of guest columnists, I've had friends schooled in film and members of the Philadelphia Film Society. Today, I have asked Stephen Fisher to offer some input on the finest horror and thriller movies so far this decade (released after 2010). While anyone who knows Stephen is well aware of his deep-rooted affinity for the horror genre, I felt comfortable placing this task in his hands. Although I disagree with some of his selections (his picks were heavy on the horror side while the honorable mention list was filled with recognized cinematic thrillers), Stephen offers a reputable insight into the genre that sparked my love of film. Here's his take on the best horror and thriller movies released since 2010:

5. Sinister (2012)

           

            Sinister is a supernatural horror film that recently came out not too long ago.  The film follows a true crime novelist Ellison Oswalt (played by Ethan Hawke) who’s trying to publish his first bestseller since his previous book “Kentucky Blood” more than ten years ago.  He and his family move into a new house where a gruesome crime once took place.  Upon moving into the home, Ellison stumbles across a box in the attic filled with home movies shot on 8mm film.  Ellison watches one of the films and comes across the family who recently lived there; only to watch the final shot of how the family was brutally murdered by an unknown killer.   

            This modern horror film differs from others because director Scott Derrickson really focuses on plot development.  Also, he tries a different method by combing a “found footage” approach with traditional cinematography.  He does this by filming from the main character’s POV while watching these family films on the projector.  Overall this is a very well made horror film with some insane scares. 

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgYxydrVlDk    

4. Scream 4 (2011)

            It had been 11 years since a previous installment from the Scream franchise arrived in movie theaters, but the wait was well worth it.  Kevin Williamson, the writer of the first trilogy, really put a lot of thought into this one and pays homage to his original.  The opening scene for this entry is by far the best he’s ever written for the entire franchise.  I don’t want to spool it because it’s that good and you need to see it for yourself to appreciate the experience. 

            The film starts off 10 years after the 3^rd entry and takes place in the same town as the original, Woodsboro, where local teenagers are celebrating the 10^thanniversary of the murders.  The original cast of Sidney, Dewey, and Gale (Neve Campbell, David Arquette, and Courtney Cox) return for this 4^th go-around, but we’re also introduced to the “new” generation of kids as well such as Sidney’s cousin Jill (Emma Roberts) and her friends Kirby (Hayden Panettiere) and Olivia (Marielle Jaffe).  There are others young characters who enter the mix such as Charlie (Rory Culkin), who is the “film buff” and knows everything about horror, and his buddy Robbie (Erik Knudsen).  The collection of young actors and actresses do a fine job of making Scream 4stand out as a horror film. The movie builds on a strong foundation of plot and character development and concludes with an unforgettable final act.  Although the film pushes a two hour running time, which rarely bodes well in the horror genre, it all manages to pay off in the end. 

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5TsZ6iyaH4

3. Frozen(2010)

           

Probably the most underrated thriller of 2010 goes to Frozen.  Adam Scott, who is best known for his old-school slasher-style Hatchetfranchise, gives us quite a nail biter here.  The plot of the film is very simple, three college friends go up the mountains to take a break from school and enjoy the slopes.  Just before closing time, the friends go on the lift for one last run. However, a series of unfortunate circumstances and misunderstandings leave the three of them stranded there dangling stories above the frozen ground.  The plot may sound dumb, but the way Adam Green sets everything up forces the audience to form a connection with the characters. 

            The film is shot extremely well with intense close-ups of characters and their reactions to the bitter cold temperatures and the frost bite they’re experiencing.  The three main characters Joe, (Shawn Ashmore) Dan, (Kevin Zegers) and Parker (Emma Bell) give very convincing performances.  Compliments are also in order for the make-up team, as this is a film you don’t want to miss. 

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiUNsDVjCbo

2. Take Shelter (2011)

            Talk about a film that is great from its opening shot until its closing credits.  This is Jeff Nichols’ second film and it illustrates his potential in becoming a household name in the movie industry.  He knows how to create genuine characters through an excellent screenplay.

            The film is about a middle-aged man named Curtis (Michael Shannon) who’s been having strange apocalyptic dreams.  He believes they’re going to come true, so he starts to build a storm shelter underneath the ground to protect his family.  Jessica Chastain plays Curtis’ wife and both her and Shannon have great chemistry onscreen which helps solidify their outstanding performances.  This should give Hollywood a wake up call and give Michael Shannon more leading roles, because the man is one damn good actor.  

Trailer   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5U4TtYpKIc

1. The Cabin in the Woods (2012)

            Talk about the best horror film of the last decade, first time director Drew Goddard hits it out of the park with The Cabin in the Woods.  The movie was written by both Drew and Joss Whedon, the director of the smash-hit The Avengers.  This film shows just how much these two men appreciate the horror genre by paying homage to various classics from the past few decades.   There are many hints in the film as to how they’re appreciating their predecessors’ work, but any true horror fan can surely figure it out.  Not only does the movie generate some good scares, but smart writing and a perfect blend of horror and comedy really help The Cabin in the Woods to stand out.  The last time this was executed so well was in the original Scream film, which is a completely iconic horror masterpiece.  There are also a few recognizable stars in the movie such as Chris Hemsworth and Richard Jenkins.

            The film follows 5 stereotypical college friends who set out for a fun weekend at a deserted cabin in the middle of nowhere.  When I say “stereotypical teenagers”, I mean there’s a jock, nerd, burnout, slut and, of course, the sacred virgin.  Once they reach the cabin, you’re introduced to mysterious people who are monitoring their activities for unknown reasons.  But one thing is for sure, they want these kids killed. That’s all I can say about the plot.  You’re in for a special treat if you take the time to watch this amazing film.  The last 15 minutes are an absolute blast!

Trailer :   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsIilFNNmkY

Honorable Mention:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Black Swan

The Woman in Black

Insidious