The Top 10 Films of 2009
(Presented in alphabetical order, selected from all movies that received a theatrical release in the UK between January and December 2009)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (David Fincher)
“An enchanting, magical tale - with a beautiful, but tragic love story at its core.”
Gran Torino (Clint Eastwood)
“A cleverly written and beautifully directed drama. Arguably, Clint Eastwood’s finest performance.”
The Hurt Locker (Kathryn Bigelow)
“One of the most important war films of the last 25 years. A gripping exploration into the psyche of a man obsessed with cheating death.”
Inglourious Basterds (Quentin Tarantino)
“Tarantino’s best film since Jackie Brown. Hugely enjoyable with some incredibly tense scenes.”
Let the Right One In (Tomas Alfredson)
“A gritty social drama with a vampire love story bolted on. A well-constructed thriller which lingers in the memory.”
A Serious Man (Ethan & Joel Coen)
“The Coens’ funniest film since Fargo. Sits alongside No Country For Old Men in the ‘masterpiece’ category.”
Slumdog Millionaire (Danny Boyle)
“A clever, original concept – superbly executed. Top marks to all the actors. Plus, Danny Boyle so deserved that Oscar!”
Star Trek (J.J. Abrams)
“A terrific re-boot. Fun, exciting and superbly cast. Everything a summer blockbuster should be.”
Up (Pete Docter & Bob Peterson)
“Pixar reworks Fitzcarraldo! Enjoyable, funny and, at times, heartbreaking adventure. Gorgeous 3D animation.”
The White Ribbon (Michael Haneke)
“Another masterpiece from Michael Haneke. An intelligent and brave study of the dark side of the human condition.”
Honourable mentions (the five that almost made it): Broken Embraces, District 9, The Hangover, Mesrine (both parts) and Zombieland
Worst film of the year (by far): Lesbian Vampire Killers