Top 3 Films of 2010 (Karen's List)

Quiet but remarkable. I list these films in my Top 3 because they were the ones I recommended the most throughout the year. They are often over-looked but worthy of mention. Their storylines lingered with me long after the end credits and they are exceptional examples of character-driven dramas. I attended screenings for all three followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers where they shared several insights about the filmmaking process, which made me appreciate the films even more.

1. Never Let Me Go - It features a hauntingly beautiful musical score and cinematography to match its tone. Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield and Keira Knightley are in fine form, three actors worthy of acclaim. The scene where Garfield's character goes to the headmaster of the school and shows his artwork: heart-breaking.

2. Cyrus - The Duplass brothers are able to mix comedy with offbeat love in a poignant way. It's a great start as they transition from mumblecore to mainstream. John C. Reilly is a well chosen lead alongside Marisa Tomei and Catherine Keener in a supporting role.

3. Mother and Child - The power of this movie lies in its ensemble cast: Annette Benning, Naomi Watts, Samuel L. Jackson, Kerry Washington and Jimmy Smits come together to create a touching story sufficiently intertwined by writer/director Rodrigo Garcia.

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The Social Network

Nerd time! The Social Network features two Reel Artsy favorites (Jesse Eisenberg and Rashida Jones) and breakout talent Andrew Garfield who impressed me with Never Let Me Go. Watching The Social Network unleashes nostalgia circa 2005 (especially if you were in college during that time) and if you can handle witty comebacks from a guy in flip-flops then you'll be more than pleased with this skillfully crafted story of Facebook's genesis. Since you've already seen the trailer here's a scene with Jones and Eisenberg.

 

In theaters October 1st.

Official Site: www.thesocialnetwork-movie.com

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Never Let Me Go

Never Let Me Go is a remarkable story about love, friendship and the meaning of life. Skillfully wrapped in a world of science fiction Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightley and Andrew Garfield offer compelling performances. The movie is quiet in tone with lush landscapes, a beautiful music score and scenes full of hauntingly poignant moments. It's definitely worth a watch! 

Now in theaters.

Official Site: www.foxsearchlight.com/neverletmego

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I'm Here

Spike Jonze’s new half-hour short film titled I’m Here premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. Funded by Absolut Vodka, I’m Here is a robot love story celebrating a life enriched by creativity. The movie is set in contemporary L.A., where life moves at a seemingly regular pace with the exception of a certain amount of robot residents who love among the population. A male robot librarian lives a solitary and methodical life — devoid of creativity, joy and passion - until he meets an adventurous and free spirited female robot. The film stars British actor Andrew Garfield and Sienna Guillory.

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