The best movies of 2011 are a varied bunch.

If you’re looking for a list of the best movies released in 2011, look no further.

This article will break down what we believe are the best movies of 2011.

Who doesn’t love watching a good movie?

This year, there were many great films to choose from.

It was difficult for us to pick just 30 movies out of the plethora that were released this year.

There are so many awesome and memorable moments in those ten films!

Best Movies Of 2011

Did you know that 2011 had some of the best movies in years? Let’s take a look!

The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life, directed by Terrence Malick, is an epic and experimental drama that explores the meaning of life, the existence of God, and the nature of human experience.

The film follows the journey of Jack (Sean Penn), a middle-aged man who reflects on his childhood memories of growing up in Waco, Texas in the 1950s, and his troubled relationship with his father (Brad Pitt).

The film’s narrative structure is non-linear, and it alternates between Jack’s memories of his childhood and images of the creation of the universe and the evolution of life on Earth.

These sequences are accompanied by a mesmerizing score by Alexandre Desplat and stunning cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki, which captures the beauty of nature and the grandeur of the cosmos.

Through these sequences, the film touches on themes such as the cycle of life and death, the interconnectedness of all living things, and the fragility of human existence.

The film also explores the tension between nature and grace, as Jack struggles to reconcile his father’s strict and authoritarian parenting style with his mother’s gentle and nurturing spirit.

The Tree of Life is a challenging and ambitious film that demands the viewer’s full attention and engagement.

   

Its unconventional structure and abstract imagery may not be to everyone’s taste, but for those who are willing to immerse themselves in its meditative and philosophical exploration of life and the universe, it is a deeply rewarding and thought-provoking experience.

 

The Tree of Life (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy)
  • The Tree Of Life - Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Used like New
  • Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, Jessica Chastain (Actors)
  • Terrence Malick (Director) - Terrence Malick (Writer) - Brad Pitt (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

The Artist

“The Artist” is a silent black-and-white film directed by Michel Hazanavicius and starring Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo.

The film is a tribute to the era of silent cinema and tells the story of George Valentin, a silent film star whose career is threatened by the arrival of talking pictures.

The film is a remarkable achievement in its own right, using the silent film format to tell a compelling and emotionally rich story.

Dujardin delivers a remarkable performance as Valentin, capturing the essence of a silent film star and imbuing his character with humor, pathos, and grace.

Bejo is equally impressive as Peppy Miller, a rising starlet whose career takes off with the arrival of sound in movies.

Their chemistry is palpable, and their relationship becomes the emotional heart of the film.

Hazanavicius’s direction is masterful, using the language of silent cinema to create a stunning visual and emotional landscape.

The film’s cinematography, music, and art direction all contribute to the film’s remarkable impact.

The Artist (Blu-ray + DVD)
  • Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, John Goodman (Actors)
  • Michel Hazanavicius (Director)
  • English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

Melancholia

Melancholia is a science fiction drama film written and directed by Lars von Trier.

The film stars Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and Kiefer Sutherland.

The story begins with a prologue in which the Earth is destroyed by a rogue planet called Melancholia.

The rest of the film is divided into two parts.

The first part, titled “Justine,” follows a bride (Dunst) who suffers from depression during her wedding reception.

Despite her husband’s (Alexander Skarsgård) attempts to make the day perfect, she finds it impossible to enjoy herself.

Her sister (Gainsbourg) and brother-in-law (Sutherland) become increasingly frustrated with her behavior as the evening wears on.

The second part, titled “Claire,” takes place a few days later as the planet Melancholia approaches Earth.

Claire is anxious and worried about the impending disaster, while Justine is strangely calm and accepting of the end of the world.

The two sisters have a strained relationship, but they are forced to confront their issues as they face the end of humanity.

Melancholia is a visually stunning film that explores the themes of depression, family, and the end of the world.

The film’s beautiful cinematography, haunting music, and strong performances from its cast make it a must-see for fans of science fiction and drama.

Although the film can be slow-paced at times, it is ultimately a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful work of art.

   

 

 

Melancholia [Blu-ray]
  • Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Kiefer Sutherland (Actors)
  • Lars Von Trier (Director)
  • Spanish (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

 

BEST MOVIES OF 2011

Best Movies Of 2011

Every year, movie studios release what they think will be the biggest blockbusters of the year.

At the same time, independent filmmakers hope their smaller movies make a splash in theaters or at film festivals.

2011 was another fine year for movies. From sequels to prequels, adaptations to remakes, here are what we consider the best movies of 2011.

 

 

Drive

“Drive” is a action-thriller directed by Nicolas Winding Refn and starring Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, and Bryan Cranston.

The film tells the story of a Hollywood stunt driver who moonlights as a getaway driver for criminals and becomes embroiled in a dangerous heist that threatens his life and the lives of those he cares about.

The film is a stylish and intense journey through the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, with Gosling delivering a mesmerizing performance as the brooding, enigmatic Driver.

The film’s action sequences are expertly crafted, with Refn’s direction and the film’s stunning cinematography creating a visceral and immersive experience.

Mulligan is equally compelling as Irene, a young mother who becomes entangled in Driver’s dangerous world.

Their relationship is a poignant and powerful anchor for the film’s themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The film’s supporting cast is also exceptional, with Cranston and Albert Brooks delivering standout performances as two of the film’s villains.

Overall, “Drive” is a gripping and emotionally charged film that expertly balances its stylish aesthetic with a compelling story and strong performances.

It is a must-see for anyone interested in the action-thriller genre, or in the work of Refn, Gosling, or Mulligan.

 

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Driven [Blu-ray]
  • Jason Sudeikis, Lee Pace, Judy Greer (Actors)
  • Nick Hamm (Director) - Colin Bateman (Writer) - Piers Tempest (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Best Movies of 2011

The Descendants

The Descendants is a drama film directed by Alexander Payne and based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings.

The film stars George Clooney as Matt King, a wealthy landowner and lawyer from Hawaii who is forced to reconnect with his two daughters after his wife is left in a coma following a boating accident.

As Matt grapples with his wife’s impending death, he must also confront the fact that she was having an affair, and that he must decide whether to sell his family’s ancestral land or keep it in trust.

Along the way, he learns about his family’s history and comes to terms with his own shortcomings as a husband and father.

The film is a powerful exploration of family, grief, and the complicated relationships that exist between parents and children.

Clooney gives a nuanced and emotional performance as a man struggling to keep his family together in the face of overwhelming tragedy.

The supporting cast, including Shailene Woodley as Matt’s troubled daughter, is also excellent.

The Descendants is a beautifully shot film, with stunning scenery and a haunting score that complements the emotional weight of the story.

The Descendants / | George Clooney | NON-USA Format | Region B/4 Import - Australia
  • Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, George Clooney, Judy Greer, Robert Forster (Actor)
  • Alexander Payne (Director)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Hugo

“Hugo” is a adventure drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, and Ben Kingsley.

Based on the novel “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” by Brian Selznick, the film tells the story of a young orphan boy who lives in the walls of a Paris train station and sets out on a journey to unlock a secret left to him by his late father.

The film is a visual and narrative masterpiece, with Scorsese’s direction and the film’s stunning cinematography creating a magical and immersive experience.

The film’s themes of creativity, innovation, and the power of cinema are woven throughout the story, creating a profound and moving meditation on the art of storytelling.

Butterfield delivers a remarkable performance as Hugo, capturing the spirit and wonder of a young boy driven by a deep desire to understand the world around him.

Moretz is equally impressive as Isabelle, a young girl who becomes Hugo’s partner in his quest.

Kingsley is a standout as Georges Méliès, a legendary filmmaker who plays a pivotal role in Hugo’s journey.

His performance is both poignant and powerful, capturing the essence of a man whose art has been forgotten and lost in time.

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A Separation

“A Separation” is a gripping Iranian drama that explores the complexities of modern family life and the intricacies of social class, religion, and justice in contemporary Iran.

The film follows a married couple, Nader and Simin, as they struggle with the decision to leave the country in search of a better life for their daughter or to stay and care for Nader’s elderly father, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

When Simin decides to leave without Nader, he is left to care for his father alone and hires a young woman named Razieh to help him.

However, when Razieh suffers a miscarriage while working for Nader, he is accused of causing it and the situation quickly spirals out of control, involving a series of complicated legal and ethical dilemmas.

Director Asghar Farhadi masterfully captures the tensions and contradictions of contemporary Iran through his portrayal of the complexities of family life, gender relations, and social class.

The film is beautifully acted, with powerful performances from its ensemble cast, particularly from Leila Hatami and Peyman Moaadi as the conflicted couple.

“A Separation” is a nuanced and thought-provoking film that illuminates the intricacies of contemporary Iranian society and raises important questions about justice, truth, and morality.

It is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary Iranian cinema and in exploring the human condition in all its complexity.

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Certified Copy

“Certified Copy” is a 2010 drama film written and directed by Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami, and starring Juliette Binoche and William Shimell.

The film tells the story of a French antiques dealer named Elle who meets an English writer named James while he is in Tuscany to give a lecture on his new book about authenticity and originality in art.

After spending the day together, the two begin to question the nature of their relationship and the authenticity of their feelings for each other.

The film is a powerful exploration of the nature of art, authenticity, and identity, and Kiarostami’s direction creates a thought-provoking and emotionally rich experience.

Binoche delivers a remarkable performance as Elle, capturing the complexity and depth of her character as she navigates the nuances of her relationship with James.

Shimell is equally impressive as James, and the chemistry between the two leads is palpable, creating a fascinating dynamic that drives the film forward.

The film’s cinematography and art direction are stunning, with Kiarostami using the lush landscapes of Tuscany to create a beautiful and immersive visual experience.

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Take Shelter

Take Shelter is a psychological thriller directed by Jeff Nichols and stars Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain.

The film follows Curtis (Shannon), a working-class husband and father who begins to have terrifying dreams and visions of a coming storm.

As the visions intensify, Curtis becomes increasingly obsessed with preparing for the storm, causing tension with his wife Samantha (Chastain) and leading to conflicts at work.

As Curtis becomes more and more convinced of the reality of his visions, the audience is left to wonder whether he is truly prophetic or whether he is suffering from a mental illness.

This tension is masterfully built throughout the film, as the audience is kept on edge as to whether Curtis is right or whether he is descending into madness.

The film is notable for its fantastic performances, particularly from Michael Shannon, who brings a sense of deep, unsettling intensity to his portrayal of Curtis.

Jessica Chastain is also excellent as Samantha, playing her as a loving and supportive wife who becomes increasingly worried about her husband’s behavior.

In addition to the strong performances, the film is also beautifully shot and directed, with a sense of foreboding and unease pervading every frame.

The storm that Curtis is preparing for is both literal and metaphorical, representing the breakdown of his mental state and the chaos that threatens to engulf him and his family.

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Moneyball

“Moneyball” is a 2011 sports drama film directed by Bennett Miller and starring Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Based on the book “Moneyball:

The Art of Winning an Unfair Game” by Michael Lewis, the film tells the story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane, who uses an unconventional statistical approach to build a winning team on a limited budget.

The film is a compelling and insightful exploration of the intersection between sports, business, and innovation, with Miller’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a deeply engaging and emotionally rich experience.

Pitt delivers a standout performance as Beane, capturing the character’s relentless drive and passion for the game, as well as his struggles to balance his professional and personal life.

Hill is also impressive as Peter Brand, a young economics graduate who develops the statistical model that Beane uses to build his team.

The film’s supporting cast is equally strong, with Hoffman delivering a memorable performance as Art Howe, the team’s manager who resists Beane’s unconventional approach.

The film’s cinematography and editing are also noteworthy, with Miller using a dynamic and engaging visual style to capture the excitement and intensity of the game.

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Margaret

Margaret is a complex and thought-provoking drama film directed by Kenneth Lonergan.

The film centers around Lisa Cohen (Anna Paquin), a teenage girl living in New York City who witnesses a tragic bus accident that takes the life of a pedestrian.

Struggling with her own guilt and trying to come to terms with the tragedy, Lisa becomes obsessed with finding justice for the victim and becomes embroiled in a legal battle between the victim’s family and the bus driver.

The film explores themes of grief, guilt, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of tragedy.

Lonergan deftly weaves together a narrative that delves into the perspectives and experiences of multiple characters, including Lisa’s mother Joan (J. Smith-Cameron), the victim’s best friend Emily (Jeannie Berlin), and the bus driver (Mark Ruffalo).

At its core, Margaret is a film about the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which people struggle to connect with one another.

The film is beautifully shot, with Lonergan using the sprawling cityscape of New York as a backdrop for the emotional turmoil that his characters are experiencing.

Anna Paquin delivers a powerful performance as Lisa, capturing the character’s emotional volatility and conflicted sense of morality.

The rest of the cast, including Mark Ruffalo, J. Smith-Cameron, and Jeannie Berlin, deliver strong performances as well.

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Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy” is a spy thriller film directed by Tomas Alfredson and starring Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, and John Hurt.

Based on the novel of the same name by John le Carré, the film tells the story of George Smiley, a retired MI6 agent who is brought back to investigate a Soviet mole within the agency during the height of the Cold War.

The film is a taut and gripping thriller, with Alfredson’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a tense and immersive experience.

Oldman delivers a masterful performance as Smiley, capturing the character’s quiet intensity and his relentless pursuit of the truth.

The film’s supporting cast is equally strong, with Firth, Hardy, and Hurt delivering memorable performances as key players in the investigation.

The film’s script is tightly written, building tension and suspense as Smiley navigates the complex web of lies and deceit that surrounds the investigation.

The film’s cinematography and production design are also noteworthy, with Alfredson using a subdued and atmospheric visual style to create a sense of paranoia and unease.

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Martha Marcy May Marlene

Martha Marcy May Marlene is a psychological drama film directed by Sean Durkin.

The film follows Martha, a young woman who has just escaped from a cult led by a charismatic leader named Patrick.

As she tries to reconnect with her sister and integrate back into normal society, Martha is plagued by memories of her time in the cult and struggles with paranoia and a sense of disconnection.

Elizabeth Olsen delivers a stunning performance as Martha, portraying the character’s emotional turmoil and the depth of her trauma with great nuance.

The film is expertly crafted, with a haunting score and beautiful cinematography that perfectly capture Martha’s sense of unease and dislocation.

Durkin’s direction is subtle yet powerful, allowing the story to unfold in a way that is both suspenseful and deeply emotional.

The film also raises important questions about the nature of abuse and manipulation, and the ways in which trauma can impact a person’s psyche long after the abuse has ended.

Martha Marcy May Marlene
  • Olsen, Elizabeth, Dancy, Hugh, Corbet, Brady (Actors)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Shame

“Shame” is a drama film directed by Steve McQueen and starring Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan.

The film tells the story of Brandon, a successful New Yorker who is struggling with sex addiction, and his relationship with his sister Sissy, who comes to stay with him and disrupts his carefully structured life.

The film is a raw and unflinching exploration of addiction, desire, and emotional repression, with McQueen’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a deeply affecting and emotionally resonant experience.

Fassbender delivers a powerful performance as Brandon, capturing the character’s inner turmoil and desperation with a haunting intensity.

Mulligan is also impressive as Sissy, bringing a depth and vulnerability to her character that highlights the emotional complexity of their relationship.

The film’s cinematography and editing are also noteworthy, with McQueen using a stark and uncompromising visual style to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.

Overall, “Shame” is a challenging and thought-provoking film that offers a searing portrayal of the human condition.

It is a must-see for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking that captures the complexities of the human psyche, or in the power of storytelling to confront uncomfortable truths and challenge our assumptions about the world around us.

 

 

Shame (Blu-ray/ DVD + Digital Copy)
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Michael Fassbender (Actor)
  • Steve McQueen (Director) - Steve McQueen (Writer) - Emile Sherman (Producer)
  • Spanish, English (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Beginners

Beginners is a poignant and introspective film about a man, Oliver (Ewan McGregor), who is dealing with the recent death of his father, Hal (Christopher Plummer), and the revelation that his father had come out as gay and had a fulfilling relationship in his final years.

The film, directed by Mike Mills, is a deeply personal exploration of grief, love, and the complexities of relationships.

Oliver is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his father and the fact that he never fully understood him.

Hal’s openness about his sexuality and his happiness with his new partner, Andy (Goran Visnjic), makes Oliver reflect on his own life and relationships, including his current relationship with Anna (Mélanie Laurent).

The film weaves together flashbacks of Hal’s life and love story with Andy, as well as Oliver’s memories of his childhood and his own experiences in love. Through these various threads, the film explores the ways in which love and loss shape our lives and relationships.

The performances in the film are outstanding, with Plummer delivering a deeply moving portrayal of a man coming to terms with his own identity later in life.

McGregor is also excellent as Oliver, capturing the character’s internal struggles and conflicts with great nuance.

Beginners [Blu-ray] [UK Import]
  • English, German, Spanish (Subtitles)

Bridesmaids

“Bridesmaids” is a comedy film directed by Paul Feig and starring Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, and Melissa McCarthy.

The film follows Annie, a struggling bakery owner and maid of honor for her best friend Lillian’s wedding, as she navigates the ups and downs of friendship, love, and adulthood.

The film is a hilarious and relatable exploration of the highs and lows of female friendship, with Feig’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a comedic masterpiece that has become a modern classic.

Wiig delivers a standout performance as Annie, capturing the character’s wit, vulnerability, and fierce determination with a perfect blend of humor and heart.

Rudolph is also impressive as Lillian, bringing a warmth and authenticity to her character that makes the bond between the two women feel real and relatable.

The film’s supporting cast is equally strong, with Byrne and McCarthy delivering memorable performances as rival bridesmaids who challenge Annie’s place in Lillian’s life.

The film’s script is witty and sharply observed, capturing the humor and pain of everyday life with a pitch-perfect blend of irreverence and empathy.

 

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Bridesmaids [Blu-ray]
  • Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne (Actors)
  • Paul Feig (Director) - Annie Mumolo (Writer) - Judd Apatow (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives

“Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” is a surreal and meditative Thai film directed by Apichatpong Weerasethakul.

The movie explores the themes of reincarnation and the cycle of life and death through the story of Uncle Boonmee, a man suffering from kidney failure who retreats to the countryside to spend his last days with his family.

As Uncle Boonmee reflects on his past lives and the people he has loved and lost, he is visited by the ghost of his dead wife and is guided by various spiritual beings, including a talking monkey and a glowing fish.

The film is shot in a slow and deliberate pace, with many long and lingering takes that allow the viewer to contemplate the metaphysical concepts at play.

The movie is rich with symbolism and allegory, inviting the audience to contemplate the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all things. It won the Palme d’Or at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival and has been hailed as a masterpiece of Thai cinema.

“Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” is a haunting and profound film that will linger in the viewer’s mind long after the credits have rolled.

 

The Skin I Live In

“The Skin I Live In” is a psychological thriller directed by Pedro Almodóvar and starring Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, and Marisa Paredes.

The film follows a brilliant plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Ledgard, as he develops a new kind of synthetic skin and uses it to experiment on a mysterious patient who he keeps locked in his mansion.

The film is a haunting and provocative exploration of identity, power, and desire, with Almodóvar’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Banderas delivers a standout performance as Dr. Ledgard, capturing the character’s complex motivations and inner demons with a chilling intensity.

Anaya is also impressive as Vera, the enigmatic patient at the center of Dr. Ledgard’s experiments, bringing a raw vulnerability to her character that highlights the emotional complexity of their relationship.

The film’s visual style is also noteworthy, with Almodóvar using a lush and dreamlike aesthetic to create a surreal and hypnotic atmosphere that underscores the film’s themes of identity and transformation.

 

The Skin I Live in (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo)
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, Marisa Paredes (Actors)
  • Pedro Almodóvar (Director) - Esther Garcia (Producer)
  • English, French (Subtitles)
  • Spanish (Publication Language)

Meek’s Cutoff

“Meek’s Cutoff” is a Western film directed by Kelly Reichardt and starring Michelle Williams, Bruce Greenwood, and Will Patton.

The film follows a group of pioneers as they travel through the Oregon desert in the mid-19th century, led by the unreliable guide Stephen Meek.

The film is a slow-burning and meditative exploration of the harsh realities of life on the frontier, with Reichardt’s direction and the film’s strong performances creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere that captures the harshness and beauty of the American West.

Williams delivers a standout performance as Emily, a determined and resourceful pioneer who struggles to navigate the uncertainties and dangers of the journey.

Greenwood and Patton are also impressive as Meek and Soloman Tetherow, two men with vastly different approaches to leadership and survival.

The film’s visual style is also noteworthy, with Reichardt using a naturalistic and understated aesthetic to capture the stark beauty of the desert landscape and the unforgiving conditions faced by the pioneers.

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Meek's Cutoff [Blu-ray]
  • Michelle Williams, Bruce Greenwood, Will Patton (Actors)
  • Kelly Reichardt (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

A Dangerous Method

The film A Dangerous Method, directed by David Cronenberg, is a biographical drama about the relationship between Carl Jung and his mentor Sigmund Freud.

A rift forms between Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung when the latter discovers that Freud’s psychoanalysis cannot cure the psychological problems of Jung’s patient, Sabina Spielrein.

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A Dangerous Method
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Keira Knightley, Viggo Mortensen, Michael Fassbender (Actors)
  • David Cronenberg (Director) - Christopher Hampton (Writer) - Jeremy Thomas (Producer)
  • Spanish, English (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Poetry

“Poetry” is a drama film directed by Lee Chang-dong and starring Yoon Jeong-hee, Lee David, and Kim Hira.

The film follows an elderly woman named Mija, who lives with her grandson and takes up a poetry class to distract herself from the stresses of caring for him and her early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

The film is a powerful and moving exploration of the human condition, with Lee Chang-dong’s direction and Yoon Jeong-hee’s remarkable performance as Mija creating a profound and deeply empathetic portrait of one woman’s journey towards understanding and acceptance.

Jeong-hee’s performance as Mija is a standout, capturing the character’s quiet strength and resilience in the face of adversity with a nuanced and delicate touch.

The film’s exploration of themes such as family, memory, and creativity is both poignant and thought-provoking, providing a rich and textured exploration of the human experience.

The film’s visual style is also noteworthy, with Lee Chang-dong using a naturalistic and observational approach to capture the subtle nuances of human behavior and emotion.

The film’s cinematography is understated but effective, highlighting the film’s themes of beauty and hope in the midst of life’s hardships.

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Endless Poetry (Poesia Sin Fin)
  • Jodorowsky, Adan, Jodorowsky, Brontis, Flores, Pamela (Actors)
  • Jodorowsky, Alejandro (Director)

We Need to Talk About Kevin

“We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a psychological thriller directed by Lynne Ramsay and starring Tilda Swinton, John C. Reilly, and Ezra Miller.

The film tells the story of Eva, a mother struggling to cope with the aftermath of her son Kevin’s horrific school shooting spree, and her attempts to come to terms with her role in his upbringing.

The film is a harrowing and unsettling exploration of the nature of evil, with Ramsay’s direction and Swinton’s remarkable performance as Eva creating a haunting and disturbing portrait of a woman grappling with her own guilt and grief.

Swinton’s performance as Eva is a tour de force, capturing the character’s complex emotions with raw and unflinching intensity.

The film’s exploration of themes such as motherhood, nature vs. nurture, and the banality of evil is both thought-provoking and deeply disturbing, providing a nuanced and unsettling look at the darker aspects of the human psyche.

The film’s visual style is also noteworthy, with Ramsay using a fragmented and impressionistic approach to tell the story, weaving together memories and present-day events to create a disorienting and claustrophobic atmosphere that reflects Eva’s own fractured sense of reality.

We Need To Talk About [Blu-ray]
  • Tilda Swinton, John C. Reilly, Ezra Miller (Actors)
  • Lynne Ramsay (Director) - Lionel Shriver (Writer) - Andrew Orr (Producer)
  • English (Subtitle)

Mysteries of Lisbon

“Mysteries of Lisbon” is a sprawling epic that weaves together multiple storylines and characters across several decades and countries.

Directed by Raoul Ruiz, the film is based on a classic Portuguese novel and is a tour-de-force of storytelling that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

At the center of the film is young orphan boy Joao, who is searching for his true identity and the mystery behind his parentage.

Along the way, he encounters a vast array of characters, from a wealthy countess to a criminal bandit to a priest with a dark past.

Each character has their own story to tell, and the film seamlessly weaves these disparate threads together into a tapestry of human experience.

The film is set against a backdrop of European history, with wars, revolutions, and social upheaval providing a vivid sense of time and place.

The cinematography is sumptuous, with lush colors and elaborate period costumes transporting the viewer to a bygone era.

At its heart, “Mysteries of Lisbon” is a meditation on the nature of identity, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves about our past.

It is a film that rewards careful attention and patience, but for those willing to surrender themselves to its rich tapestry, it is a deeply rewarding cinematic experience.

 

Weekend

Weekend is a British romantic drama film directed by Andrew Haigh and starring Tom Cullen and Chris New as two men who meet and begin a sexual relationship the weekend before one of their plans to leave the country.

The film won much praise and critical acclaim after premiering at the SXSW festival in the US and was a success at the box office in the UK and the US, where it received a limited release.

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Weekend (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Tom Cullen, Chris New (Actors)
  • Andrew Haigh (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)

Midnight in Paris

Midnight in Paris is a romantic comedy-fantasy film directed by Woody Allen.

The film follows Gil Pender, a successful Hollywood screenwriter and aspiring novelist who is struggling with writer’s block and a sense of disillusionment with his superficial life and unsatisfying relationship with his fiancée Inez.

On a trip to Paris with Inez and her conservative parents, Gil begins to wander the streets at night and is transported back in time to the 1920s, a time period he idolizes, where he meets various artists and writers such as Ernest Hemingway, F.

Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. As he continues to time-travel each night, Gil begins to question his present-day life and what it means to truly live a fulfilling life.

Midnight in Paris received critical acclaim for its charming performances, clever script, and whimsical concept.

The film’s nostalgic depiction of Paris, accompanied by a delightful jazz soundtrack, adds to its dream-like quality.

Owen Wilson delivers a convincing and endearing performance as Gil, while the supporting cast, including Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard, and Michael Sheen, bring their characters to life with nuance and depth.

The film’s central theme of nostalgia and the idea that the grass is always greener on the other side resonates with audiences who have experienced a sense of disillusionment with their own lives.

Midnight in Paris encourages viewers to appreciate the present and to seek out the beauty in everyday life, rather than getting lost in the past or the future.

 

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Midnight in Paris [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Adrien Brody (Actors)
  • Woody Allen (Director)
  • English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

The Interrupters

“The Interrupters” is a documentary film directed by Steve James, the filmmaker behind the critically acclaimed documentary “Hoop Dreams.”

The film tells the story of the CeaseFire organization in Chicago, which seeks to reduce violence in the city by employing former gang members and other outreach workers as “interrupters” who intervene in potentially violent situations before they escalate.

Through a series of intimate portraits of the interrupters and the people they work with, the film explores the roots of violence in urban America and the difficult but essential work of interrupting the cycle of violence.

The film is particularly effective in its portrayal of the interrupters themselves, who are both inspiring and deeply flawed, struggling to reconcile their own pasts with their mission to prevent violence in their communities.

The film also raises important questions about the role of law enforcement and the limitations of traditional approaches to combating violence, suggesting that community-based solutions may be more effective in addressing the underlying causes of violence.

The Interrupters [Blu-ray]
  • Gary Slutkin, Ameena Matthews (Actors)
  • Steve James (Director)

Margin Call

“Margin Call” is a financial thriller written and directed by J.C. Chandor, starring an ensemble cast that includes Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, and Zachary Quinto.

Set over a 24-hour period in 2008, the film follows a group of investment bankers at a fictional Wall Street firm as they navigate the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis.

The film is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the ethics of the financial industry, as well as the consequences of unchecked greed and ambition.

Chandor’s direction is tight and focused, with each member of the talented ensemble cast delivering outstanding performances that bring their complex characters to life.

At its core, “Margin Call” is a story about the human cost of the financial industry, as well as the choices we make when faced with difficult ethical dilemmas.

The tension and urgency of the film are palpable, with the characters’ desperation and fear as they face the possibility of financial ruin mirroring the anxieties of the wider society.

The film’s minimalist visual style, with its sterile office settings and muted color palette, adds to the sense of detachment and alienation experienced by the characters.

The dialogue is sharp and witty, providing both a realistic portrayal of the financial industry and a commentary on the way in which we define success and failure in our society.

 

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Margin Call [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany (Actors)
  • J.C. Chandor (Director)
  • Spanish, English (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a mystery thriller directed by David Fincher and based on the novel of the same name by Stieg Larsson.

The film follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) as he investigates the disappearance of a wealthy businessman’s niece, with the help of computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara).

The film’s cinematography, music, and performances are all outstanding, with Fincher masterfully building suspense and tension throughout.

Craig and Mara both deliver impressive performances, with Mara’s portrayal of Lisbeth Salander particularly memorable.

The film’s themes of sexual violence and abuse are handled with sensitivity and nuance, making it a thought-provoking and powerful film.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping and dark film that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

While it may not be for everyone due to its graphic content, it is a well-crafted and thought-provoking thriller that is worth watching for fans of the genre.

War Horse

“War Horse” is a war drama directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the novel of the same name by Michael Morpurgo.

The film follows the journey of Joey, a horse that is sold to the British Army and shipped to France during World War I.

Separated from his owner, a young boy named Albert, Joey experiences the horrors of war as he changes hands and witnesses the brutality of battle.

Spielberg’s direction is masterful, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that captures the beauty and tragedy of the human experience.

The film’s sweeping landscapes and epic battle scenes are awe-inspiring, while the intimate moments between Joey and the various humans he encounters are heart-wrenching.

The film is a testament to the power of storytelling, as Joey’s journey becomes a metaphor for the human experience and the ways in which we are all connected.

The performances are top-notch, with standout turns from Jeremy Irvine as Albert, Tom Hiddleston as Captain Nicholls, and Emily Watson as Albert’s mother.

At its core, “War Horse” is a story about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, as well as the bonds of loyalty and love that transcend even the darkest of times.

It is a film that both entertains and inspires, reminding us of the importance of hope and connection in the face of overwhelming odds.

War Horse
  • Jeremy Irvine, David Thewlis, Tom Hiddleston (Actors)
  • Steven Spielberg (Director)
  • English, Arabic (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a science-fiction film directed by Rupert Wyatt and starring James Franco, Andy Serkis, and Freida Pinto.

The film serves as a reboot of the classic Planet of the Apes franchise, exploring the origins of the apes’ intelligence and rise to dominance.

The film centers around Will Rodman (Franco), a scientist who develops a cure for Alzheimer’s disease using genetically-engineered chimpanzees.

When one of the apes, named Caesar (Serkis), shows exceptional intelligence and strength, Will takes him home and raises him like a human child.

However, as Caesar grows older and more aware of his true nature, he becomes increasingly rebellious and leads an ape uprising against their human oppressors.

The film is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging story that explores the themes of power, oppression, and the consequences of scientific experimentation.

The standout performance from Andy Serkis as Caesar, a character created entirely through motion capture technology, adds a layer of realism and depth to the film’s portrayal of the apes.

The film’s stunning special effects and action sequences, combined with its thought-provoking themes, make Rise of the Planet of the Apes a standout addition to the Planet of the Apes franchise.

Written by Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, it is 20th Century Fox’s reboot of the Planet of the Apes series, intended to act as an origin story for a new series of films.

Its premise is similar to the fourth film in the original series, Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972), but it is not a direct remake of that film.

In the film, a substance designed to help the brain repair itself gives advanced intelligence to a chimpanzee named Caesar, who administers the same treatment to an animal shelter full of other great apes.

This leads to an uprising against humanity after Caesar and other super-intelligent apes suffer abuse at the hands of the shelter’s staff.

A new society for free apes of all kinds (some normal apes escape from a zoo during the pandemonium) is founded in the forests northwest of San Francisco as a result.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (Blu-ray)
  • James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto (Actors)
  • Rupert Wyatt (Director)
  • Spanish (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

 

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