Best Movies of 2012: Top 30 Films From 2012

The year 2012 was a great one for films. In this article, we’re going to take a detailed look at the best movies of 2012.

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The year 2012 had some of the most anticipated and highest-grossing movies in recent years, including The Avengers, Skyfall, and The Dark Knight Rises.

With so many great films to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one favorite film of the year.

Best Films Of 2012

Let’s start with one of the absolute strongest films of a fantastic year for cinema!

Zero Dark Thirty

Zero Dark Thirty is a gripping and intense film that takes the viewer on a heart-pounding journey through the hunt for Osama bin Laden.

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, the film is a masterful blend of documentary-style realism and cinematic storytelling.

Jessica Chastain delivers an incredible performance as Maya, a CIA agent who is determined to track down the world’s most wanted terrorist.

She brings a fierce intensity to the role, portraying Maya as both driven and vulnerable.

The film’s pacing is expertly crafted, keeping the tension high throughout its 157-minute runtime.

The raid on bin Laden’s compound is a masterclass in suspenseful filmmaking, with Bigelow expertly ratcheting up the tension as the SEAL team closes in on their target.

The film has been criticized for its depiction of torture, but it is ultimately a nuanced and complex exploration of the moral ambiguity of the War on Terror.

Zero Dark Thirty is a must-see for anyone interested in politics, history, or just great filmmaking.

 

The Master

“The Master” is a captivating and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of human nature and the need for belonging.

Director Paul Thomas Anderson delivers a visually stunning masterpiece that is both beautiful and haunting.

The performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman are nothing short of extraordinary, with their chemistry and dynamic bringing a level of intensity and vulnerability to the screen that is unmatched.

The film’s themes of power, control, and manipulation are expertly woven into the narrative, leaving the viewer questioning their own beliefs and understanding of the world.

“The Master” is a cinematic gem that will leave a lasting impression and is a must-see for anyone who appreciates great filmmaking.

Moonrise Kingdom

Moonrise Kingdom is a whimsical and charming film that captures the innocence of youth and the beauty of first love.

Set on a small New England island in the 1960s, the film follows the story of two young lovers, Sam and Suzy, who run away together into the wilderness.

Their journey is filled with quirky characters, stunning scenery, and a sense of wonder that is truly infectious.

Director Wes Anderson’s signature style is on full display in Moonrise Kingdom, with his meticulous attention to detail and stunning visuals creating a world that is both fantastical and grounded in reality.

The performances from the cast are top-notch, with newcomers Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward delivering standout performances as Sam and Suzy, respectively.

The film’s soundtrack, featuring classic tracks from the likes of Françoise Hardy and Benjamin Britten, perfectly complements the film’s whimsical tone and adds to the overall sense of nostalgia that permeates the film.

 

Lincoln

Lincoln is a masterpiece that captures the essence of one of the most iconic figures in American history. 

The film centers around the final months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, as he works tirelessly to pass the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which would abolish slavery in America.

Day-Lewis completely transforms into Lincoln, capturing not just his physical appearance but also his mannerisms, speech patterns, and inner turmoil.

It’s a performance that is both captivating and haunting, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens, and David Strathairn as Secretary of State William Seward.

The script, written Tony Kushner, is a masterclass in dialogue, perfectly capturing the cadence and wit of the time period.

But what truly sets Lincoln apart is its attention to detail and historical accuracy.

From the costumes to the set design, every aspect of the film feels authentic and true to the time period.

Spielberg’s direction is masterful, seamlessly blending the political drama with intimate moments that reveal the humanity of these larger-than-life figures.

Holy Motors

Holy Motors is a cinematic masterpiece that defies categorization.

Leos Carax’s surrealist film takes the viewer on a wild ride through the streets of Paris, exploring the many facets of human existence through a series of enigmatic and often bizarre vignettes.

Denis Lavant’s performance as Monsieur Oscar, a mysterious man who inhabits various roles throughout the film, is nothing short of astounding.

Lavant has a chameleon-like ability to transform himself into each character he portrays, from a motion-capture actor to a dying man to a crazed assassin.

The film’s visuals are stunning, with each scene expertly crafted to create a dreamlike atmosphere.

The use of color, light, and shadow is particularly impressive, evoking a sense of otherworldliness that permeates the entire film.

Holy Motors is not a film for everyone. Its non-linear structure and surreal imagery may be off-putting to some viewers.

However, for those willing to take the journey, Holy Motors is a film that will leave a lasting impression.

 

Amour

Amour is a devastatingly beautiful film that explores the complexities of love and aging.

Directed by Michael Haneke, it tells the story of an elderly couple, Anne and Georges, played magnificently by Emmanuelle Riva and Jean-Louis Trintignant, as they face the challenges of Anne’s declining health.

Haneke’s direction is masterful, capturing the pain and anguish of the couple’s situation with a restrained yet powerful approach.

The film is almost entirely set within their Parisian apartment, which becomes a symbol of their love and their confinement.

Riva and Trintignant give unforgettable performances, conveying a lifetime of love and intimacy through subtle gestures and glances.

The film is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the value of love in the face of mortality.

Amour is a difficult watch, but it is also one of the most profound and affecting films about love and loss ever made.

It is a testament to the power of cinema to move us and make us reflect on the human condition. A true masterpiece.

Argo

Argo is a gripping political thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film is based on the true story of a CIA operation to rescue six American hostages during the 1979 Iran hostage crisis. 

The ensemble cast, including Affleck himself, deliver strong performances that bring the characters to life.

Standouts include Alan Arkin and John Goodman as Hollywood insiders who help create a fake movie as cover for the hostage rescue mission.

The attention to detail in the production design and costume department also deserves praise, as it transports the audience back to the 70s with authenticity.

Argo is a masterclass in storytelling, with just the right amount of action, suspense, and heart.

The film not only highlights the bravery of those involved in the rescue mission but also shines a light on the power of intelligence and diplomacy in times of crisis. 

 

Beasts of the Southern Wild

Beasts of the Southern Wild is a mesmerizing work of cinematic art that transports the audience into a fantastical world of wonder and danger.

The film tells the story of a young girl named Hushpuppy who lives in a remote area of Louisiana known as “The Bathtub” with her father.

As a storm approaches, Hushpuppy must confront the harsh realities of life and death in a world where humans and beasts coexist.

The direction by Benh Zeitlin is masterful, capturing the beauty and brutality of the Louisiana landscape with stunning visuals and a visceral, immersive approach to storytelling.

The performances by Quvenzhané Wallis and Dwight Henry are nothing short of extraordinary, with Wallis delivering a breakout performance as the fierce and resilient Hushpuppy.

What makes Beasts of the Southern Wild truly special, however, is its poetic exploration of themes such as resilience, community, and the human connection to nature.

The film is a celebration of the human spirit, and the power of storytelling to sustain and inspire us in the face of adversity.

Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook is a cinematic masterpiece that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

Bradley Cooper delivers a stunning performance as Pat Solitano, a man struggling with bipolar disorder who is trying to put his life back together.

Jennifer Lawrence is equally brilliant as Tiffany, a young widow who becomes his love interest.

The chemistry between the two actors is palpable and their on-screen romance is both heartwarming and authentic.

Director David O. Russell does a fantastic job of balancing the drama and comedy in the film, creating a perfect blend of emotions that will leave you laughing one moment and crying the next.

The supporting cast, including Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver, bring their A-game and add depth and complexity to the story.

What sets Silver Linings Playbook apart is its honest portrayal of mental illness.

The film doesn’t shy away from the struggles that come with bipolar disorder and instead, it embraces them.

It shows that with the right support and love, anyone can find their silver lining.

 

Django Unchained

Django Unchained is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the dark history of slavery in America through the lens of a thrilling revenge story.

With Quentin Tarantino’s signature style, the film is a visual feast of vivid colors, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances from its cast.

Jamie Foxx delivers a powerful performance as Django, a former slave turned bounty hunter who sets out on a mission to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner.

His chemistry with Christoph Waltz, who plays a German bounty hunter, is electric, and their dynamic duo is the highlight of the film.

But it’s the villainous Calvin Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, who steals the show with his chilling portrayal of a sadistic slave owner.

He oozes charisma and evil, making him a captivating yet repulsive antagonist.

The film’s soundtrack is also exceptional, with Tarantino’s signature use of eclectic music choices that perfectly capture the mood of each scene.

Django Unchained is not for the faint of heart, as it confronts the brutality and horrors of slavery head-on.

But it’s a necessary and important film that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, while still managing to entertain and captivate its audience.

 

 

Life Of Pi

Life of Pi is a visually stunning masterpiece that takes the audience on a breathtaking journey of survival and self-discovery.

Directed by Ang Lee, this film is based on the best-selling novel by Yann Martel and tells the story of Pi Patel, a young Indian boy who finds himself stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with only a Bengal tiger for company.

As Pi battles to survive against all odds, he must also confront his own beliefs and identity in a way that is both moving and profound.

What sets Life of Pi apart from other survival stories is its use of stunning visual effects and cinematography.

From the vibrant colors of the Indian landscape to the vast expanse of the ocean, every shot is a work of art that immerses the viewer in Pi’s world.

The CGI work used to create the tiger, Richard Parker, is particularly impressive, making him a believable and captivating character in his own right.

Looper

Looper is a sci-fi thriller that takes place in a dystopian future, where time travel has been invented and subsequently outlawed.

The film explores the moral quandaries that arise when hitmen known as loopers are tasked with killing people sent back in time by a criminal organization.

Written and directed by Rian Johnson, Looper is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout.

The performances by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis, who play the younger and older versions of the same character, are both impressive and add depth to the story.

One of the standout elements of the film is its unique take on time travel, which is presented in a way that is both believable and intriguing.

The action sequences are also well-done and add to the overall tension of the film.

 

Once Upon a Time in Anatolia

Once Upon a Time in Anatolia is a hauntingly beautiful film that captures the essence of the Turkish landscape and the human condition.

Director Nuri Bilge Ceylan masterfully weaves together the stories of a group of men searching for a buried body in the Anatolian countryside, revealing the complexities of their relationships and their own inner struggles.

The cinematography in this film is breathtaking, with wide shots of the barren landscape and intimate close-ups of the characters’ faces.

The use of natural light and shadow adds an eerie and almost dreamlike quality to the film, perfectly capturing the feeling of being lost in the vastness of the landscape.

The performances are equally impressive, with each actor bringing a depth and authenticity to their roles.

The conversations between the characters are often mundane and seemingly unimportant, yet they reveal so much about their personalities and their pasts.

At its core, Once Upon a Time in Anatolia is a meditation on life, death, and the search for meaning in an unpredictable world.

It’s a slow burn of a film that rewards patience and attention, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

Tabu

Tabu is a mesmerizing piece of cinema that transports the viewer to a world of love, loss, and longing.

Director Miguel Gomes masterfully weaves together two distinct tales, one set in modern-day Lisbon and the other in colonial Africa, to create a haunting and unforgettable experience.

The film’s stunning black and white cinematography perfectly captures the dreamlike quality of the story, while the use of silence and ambient sound creates an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the credits have rolled.

At its heart, Tabu is a story about the power of human connection, and the lengths we will go to in order to hold onto the people we love.

It’s a film that will stay with you for a long time, and one that deserves to be seen by anyone who loves cinema that is both beautiful and thought-provoking.

 

The Deep Blue Sea

“The Deep Blue Sea” is a haunting and heartbreaking portrayal of a woman’s struggle to find fulfillment within a loveless marriage.

Set in post-World War II London, the film follows the life of Hester Collyer, a woman who falls deeply in love with a younger man, Freddie Page, despite her husband’s disapproval.

Director Terence Davies masterfully captures the era’s societal constraints and the emotional turmoil of the characters, immersing the audience in both the beauty and the claustrophobia of the time.

Rachel Weisz delivers a stunning performance as Hester, capturing the character’s vulnerability and strength with ease.

Tom Hiddleston also shines as the charismatic yet flawed Freddie, whose actions have devastating consequences.

“The Deep Blue Sea” is a slow-burning drama that demands the audience’s attention and rewards it with a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the human condition.

While not for everyone, those willing to immerse themselves in the film’s emotional journey will be richly rewarded. A must-watch for fans of classical filmmaking and powerful storytelling.

Rust and Bone

Rust and Bone is a gripping and emotionally-charged film that explores the complexities of human relationships in the face of adversity.

The movie follows the unlikely bond between a struggling single father, Ali, and a beautiful but fragile whale trainer, Stephanie, who loses her legs in a devastating accident.

What makes Rust and Bone so compelling is the raw and honest portrayal of its characters.

Marion Cotillard delivers an outstanding performance as Stephanie, capturing the character’s pain, vulnerability, and resilience with great sensitivity.

Matthias Schoenaerts also shines as Ali, a rough and tumble street fighter who learns to care for someone other than himself.

The film’s cinematography is equally impressive, capturing the beauty and brutality of nature with breathtaking visuals.

 

Skyfall

Skyfall is a stunning masterpiece that takes James Bond to new heights. The film’s cinematography is breathtaking, with each shot carefully crafted to create a sense of danger, excitement, and intrigue.

Daniel Craig delivers one of his best performances as Bond, portraying the character with a sense of vulnerability and depth that we haven’t seen before.

Alongside him, Judi Dench shines as M, the head of MI6, who faces her own challenges and demons.

The action sequences are some of the best in the entire Bond franchise, with a standout opening scene that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The film also features a memorable villain in Raoul Silva, played brilliantly by Javier Bardem, who is both menacing and charming at the same time.

The Dark Knight Rises

The Dark Knight Rises is Christopher Nolan’s epic conclusion to his Batman trilogy.

The film is a masterpiece of tension, action, and storytelling, with stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and an iconic score by Hans Zimmer.

The film takes place eight years after the events of The Dark Knight, with Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) retired from his superhero alter-ego and living in seclusion.

But when the villainous Bane (Tom Hardy) threatens Gotham City, Wayne must don the cape and cowl once again to save his beloved city.

The Dark Knight Rises is a fitting end to Nolan’s dark and gritty Batman story.

The film is full of twists and turns, with a complex plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The action sequences are thrilling and well-choreographed, with the standout being the epic showdown between Batman and Bane.

 

Magic Mike

Magic Mike is a seductive and captivating film that takes you on a wild ride through the world of male stripping.

Channing Tatum’s performance as the titular character is nothing short of mesmerizing, showcasing his impressive dance moves and undeniable charisma.

But what makes Magic Mike truly stand out is its exploration of the complexities and realities of the stripping industry.

The film doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the business, including drug use and the objectification of women.

At its core, Magic Mike is a coming-of-age story about a young man trying to find his place in the world.

The relationships he forms with his fellow strippers, particularly with the troubled but alluring Dallas (Matthew McConaughey), add depth and nuance to the film.

The Avengers

“The Avengers” is a cinematic experience that truly lives up to its name.

This superhero ensemble film brings together some of the biggest names in the Marvel universe, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and the Hulk, to save the world from an otherworldly threat.

The action sequences are thrilling and expertly choreographed, with each hero getting their moment to shine.

The witty banter and chemistry between the characters is a highlight, especially between Tony Stark and Bruce Banner.

The film’s villain, Loki, is a formidable foe and Tom Hiddleston’s performance is deliciously wicked.

“The Avengers” is a must-watch for any fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a fun ride for anyone looking for a blockbuster action film.

 

The Loneliest Planet

“The Loneliest Planet” is an introspective and haunting film that explores the complexities of human relationships and the unpredictable nature of life.

The story follows a young couple, Alex and Nica, as they embark on a backpacking trip across the stunning Caucasus Mountains in Georgia.

The breathtaking scenery serves as a backdrop to the couple’s journey, which takes an unexpected turn when an encounter with a local guide forces them to confront their own fears and insecurities.

Director Julia Loktev masterfully creates a sense of unease and tension throughout the film, using long takes and minimal dialogue to convey the emotional turmoil of the characters.

The performances by Gael García Bernal and Hani Furstenberg are outstanding, capturing the nuances of their characters’ inner struggles with subtlety and grace.

“The Loneliest Planet” is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

How to Survive a Plague

“How to Survive a Plague” is a heart-wrenching documentary that chronicles the early years of the AIDS epidemic and the formation of the activist group ACT UP.

Through a combination footage and interviews with key players in the movement, the film tells the story of how a group of ordinary citizens came together to fight for their right to live.

Director David France does an incredible job of capturing the raw emotion and urgency of the time, as well as the complexity of the issues at hand.

The film is at once a tribute to the bravery and tenacity of the activists, and a stark reminder of the devastating toll that the epidemic took on the LGBTQ+ community.

 

The Grey

“The Grey” is a gripping survival drama that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Liam Neeson delivers a powerful performance as John Ottway, a skilled marksman tasked with protecting a group of roughnecks stranded in the Alaskan wilderness after their plane crashes.

What follows is a harrowing battle against the elements and a pack of vicious wolves that are stalking them.

Director Joe Carnahan does an excellent job of creating a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere, using stunning cinematography to showcase the beauty and brutality of the icy landscape.

The film also features a haunting score that perfectly captures the sense of isolation and desperation felt by the characters.

While some may criticize the film for its somewhat ambiguous ending, I found it to be a fitting conclusion to a story about the fragility of life and the indomitable spirit of survival.

Cloud Atlas

Cloud Atlas is a sprawling, ambitious film that weaves together six seemingly disparate storylines into a single epic narrative.

From the lush beauty of 19th century colonialism to the grim dystopia of a future Seoul, the film spans centuries and continents in a bold attempt to explore the interconnectedness of all things.

At times, the film can feel overwhelming in its scope, with characters and themes rushing by in a dizzying blur.

But the sheer scale of the story is matched by the film’s breathtaking visuals, which are nothing short of stunning.

The Wachowski siblings and Tom Tykwer have created a world that is both familiar and otherworldly, with each setting and time period brought vividly to life.

The cast, too, is truly impressive.

Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Doona Bae, and others all deliver strong performances in multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning between characters and accents with ease.

It’s a testament to their talent that they’re able to keep the audience invested in each story, no matter how little time they spend with each character.

 

Les Miserables

Les Miserables is a stunning and powerful film that takes the audience on an emotional journey through the streets of 19th century France.

The cinematography and score are both breathtaking, immersing the audience in the gritty and turbulent world of poverty, oppression, and revolution.

The performances are exceptional, particularly from breakout actor Damien Bonnard as the conflicted police officer Stéphane.

The film’s exploration of police brutality and systemic injustices is both timely and necessary, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice issues.

While the film can be difficult to watch at times due to its intense subject matter, it is ultimately a deeply moving and thought-provoking piece of cinema.

Les Miserables is a modern masterpiece that deserves to be seen and discussed by audiences around the world.

Anna Karenina

Anna Karenina is a visually stunning adaptation of the classic novel by Leo Tolstoy. Director Joe Wright takes a bold and innovative approach to the story, setting most of the film within the confines of a grand theater stage.

This theatrical device allows for seamless transitions between scenes and adds a layer of artistry to the already beautiful cinematography.

Keira Knightley delivers a powerful performance as the titular character, Anna, a woman trapped in a loveless marriage who risks everything for a passionate affair with the dashing Count Vronsky, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson. 

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Jude Law as Anna’s cold and calculating husband, Karenin, and Domhnall Gleeson as Levin, a landowner struggling to find meaning in his life.

 

Bernie

Bernie is a darkly comedic masterpiece that explores the life of a small-town mortician who befriends a wealthy widow and eventually murders her.

The film is based on a true story and stars Jack Black in one of his most captivating performances to date.

Director Richard Linklater weaves together interviews with locals and actors, giving the film a unique documentary-like feel.

The adoration and sympathy Black’s character receives from the townspeople is both hilarious and disturbing, making for a thought-provoking commentary on the power of charisma.

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Oslo, August 31st

Oslo, August 31st is a hauntingly beautiful film that explores the themes of addiction, redemption, and the search for meaning in life.

The story follows Anders, a recovering drug addict who is released from rehab and returns to his hometown of Oslo, Norway for a job interview.

As he wanders the streets of the city, he is forced to confront the demons of his past and the harsh realities of his present.

The cinematography in this film is stunning, with the city of Oslo serving as a character in its own right.

Director Joachim Trier expertly captures the mood and atmosphere of the city, from the bustling streets to the quiet moments of introspection.

The film is also anchored by a powerful performance from Anders Danielsen Lie, who brings a raw vulnerability to the role of Anders.

 

The Sessions

The Sessions is a heartwarming and authentic representation of love, intimacy, and human connection.

The film tells the story of Mark, a man paralyzed from the neck down due to polio, who hires a sex surrogate to help him lose his virginity.

What could have easily been a crass or exploitative concept is handled with sensitivity and grace, thanks to the incredible performances of John Hawkes and Helen Hunt.

Hawkes brings a vulnerability and humor to the role of O’Brien, capturing both his physical limitations and his sharp wit.

Hunt, too, shines as the no-nonsense surrogate who approaches the sessions with professionalism and compassion.

Director Ben Lewin deftly balances the film’s lighter moments with the weight of O’Brien’s physical challenges and emotional journey.

 

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