Movie Box Review

This was the hardest year of movie memories to cull down by far. Not only is the year still so close in mind, but there are so many films I can't consider as they don't meet my own criteria of films seen theatrically (many 2009 releases I saw at festivals, often in previous years) and no series included. Oddly, because series aren't included that means I can't put going to the midnight and opening night screenings of The Twilight Saga: New Moon nor seeing Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince all the way out in Nova Scotia while visiting my sister Suzie! I've also excluded many (but not all) films that I know will be on my Favourites of 2009 as this is about movie memories not favourites... although some of those paths do cross!

Curious as to what years past have brought in movie memories? Take a stroll down memory lane with me in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Also have a look at what others have to say in the past 10 years in film with the Films of the Decade Link List.

Films listed in the chronological order in which I saw them at the theatre. As always this is a movies memories list not a favourites list - but don't worry those will be up soon enough.

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li
I'm still a little mystified about Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li, because overall I found it to be a fun adventure-ish film but I was stumped on who the target audience was supposed to be. Considering it had a young female lead who does martial arts I thought it would be young women but there were a few things would make it think it wasn't that - one of which was that there was no romantic interest but for some reason I don't think it was done for the same reasons I appreciated.

Watchmen
I'm no fan of this film but seeing it with a theatre full of guys that were over the moon was quite the experience. Right before the previews started a really excited teen came in with his granddad, which I'm sure that had nothing to do with the 18A rating ;). Although I certainly was not the target audience it was nice to see a film that was really made for and appreciated by the fans.

Star Trek
I'm a huge Star Trek fan, and watched all the films in my Countdown to Star Trek Marathon in anticipation of the new Trek film. That kept me busy as I had avoided all the previews, trailers and images from the film as I had hoped I could so I was seeing it with completely fresh eyes. I went to a late night screening the day before opening (during Hot Docs no less), listened to my iPod on full in line and while waiting for the film. I wouldn't let anyone tell me anything about the film at all... even if it took physically walking away. Oh the lengths I will go to for Trek. Thank goodness the movie was good after all that!

Little Ashes
I really enjoyed this film, and I even saw it twice in the theatre and both had memorable experiences. The first time I actually had a conversation with an audience member after the film about art (the film is about the artist Salvador Dalí, the writer Federico García Lorca and filmmaker Luis Buñuel) and it was very pleasant - and I normally don't do that. The second time I saw it with my Mom at the Carlton. We were 2 of 4 people there. The other 2 guys sat 2 rows directly ahead of us (?) and one guy often randomly raised his hand / arm in the air. It was so weird.

District 9
This film is one that definitely had the most interesting advertising for it with posters everywhere with a phone number to inform on illegals and such. It was pretty amazing to see a foreign film kick butt at the box office and get people in seats but I didn't love it, in fact I was rather disturbed by not just the violent but literally the crowds reaction to it which included cheering. It's one of those cases where I don't understand how people can't see the flip side of the story, especially in this example, but feel free to cheer along with the action and play oblivious to any commentary at all.

Whip It
Previously I've sited films like The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters on my 2007 list for being experiences where I felt I was in the audience of my peoples. Whip It is a film where I felt I was with my tribe. It really speaks to a current culture of women, and it's refreshing to see a femme film that isn't a romance, features active women, has a cast with a fair age range with characters in different situations. And it has a lot of heart. I'm still miffed it opened the same weekend as Zombieland and almost everyone I know went to see that instead. Also has the best line of the year: Be Your Own Hero.

Fame (2009)
This one is way more about the experience than the film itself which didn't really hold a candle to the original. But, I got to see it with all the ladies in my family while Suzie was visiting, so her, Jamie, my Mom and I all treked out to the theatre together. It was also the first time I saw The Twilight Saga: New Moon trailer on the big screen and I think, I might have yelped. Sigh.

The Fourth Kind
I saw this film before I'd heard any big brouhaha about it being not authentic with the 'found footage' and I'll tell ya - it scared the crap out of me in a way no film has in years, like wake up in the middle of the night scared. To be honest, I was happy to find out it wasn't true because that would have been just way to much. This also makes it a particularly unique experience as I can't go back and see it that way again because the moment is gone. I wonder what I'd make of it on a second viewing.

Ninja Assassin
I still giggle when I think of how much I loved this film and the reason is - it's exactly what you would expect it to be ... but more. The trailer gives a great sense of what it's about but doesn't tell you everything which is in my eyes, perfect. I also am completely inspired and in awe of the work Rain did to get into the physical condition he's in during the film. It's amazing.

Invictus
It's always a joy to see rugby on screen, but to see a film that shows the 1995 World Cup - which I remember watching as I was playing rugby at the time was a very special and unique experience. Add that it's about Nelson Mandela bringing a country together? I couldn't really ask for more than that. Was inspirational and nostalgic all at the same time.


Late night screening of Star Trek at the AMC was one of the highlights of the year

This was the hardest year of movie memories to cull down by far. Not only is the year still so close in mind, but there are so many films I can't consider as they don't meet my own criteria of films seen theatrically (many 2009 releases I saw at festivals, often in previous years) and no series included. Oddly, because series aren't included that means I can't put going to the midnight and opening night screenings of The Twilight Saga: New Moon nor seeing Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince all the way out in Nova Scotia while visiting my sister Suzie! I've also excluded many (but not all) films that I know will be on my Favourites of 2009 as this is about movie memories not favourites... although some of those paths do cross!

Curious as to what years past have brought in movie memories? Take a stroll down memory lane with me in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Also have a look at what others have to say in the past 10 years in film with the Films of the Decade Link List.

Films listed in the chronological order in which I saw them at the theatre. As always this is a movies memories list not a favourites list - but don't worry those will be up soon enough.

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li
I'm still a little mystified about Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li, because overall I found it to be a fun adventure-ish film but I was stumped on who the target audience was supposed to be. Considering it had a young female lead who does martial arts I thought it would be young women but there were a few things would make it think it wasn't that - one of which was that there was no romantic interest but for some reason I don't think it was done for the same reasons I appreciated.

Watchmen
I'm no fan of this film but seeing it with a theatre full of guys that were over the moon was quite the experience. Right before the previews started a really excited teen came in with his granddad, which I'm sure that had nothing to do with the 18A rating ;). Although I certainly was not the target audience it was nice to see a film that was really made for and appreciated by the fans.

Star Trek
I'm a huge Star Trek fan, and watched all the films in my Countdown to Star Trek Marathon in anticipation of the new Trek film. That kept me busy as I had avoided all the previews, trailers and images from the film as I had hoped I could so I was seeing it with completely fresh eyes. I went to a late night screening the day before opening (during Hot Docs no less), listened to my iPod on full in line and while waiting for the film. I wouldn't let anyone tell me anything about the film at all... even if it took physically walking away. Oh the lengths I will go to for Trek. Thank goodness the movie was good after all that!

Little Ashes
I really enjoyed this film, and I even saw it twice in the theatre and both had memorable experiences. The first time I actually had a conversation with an audience member after the film about art (the film is about the artist Salvador Dalí, the writer Federico García Lorca and filmmaker Luis Buñuel) and it was very pleasant - and I normally don't do that. The second time I saw it with my Mom at the Carlton. We were 2 of 4 people there. The other 2 guys sat 2 rows directly ahead of us (?) and one guy often randomly raised his hand / arm in the air. It was so weird.

District 9
This film is one that definitely had the most interesting advertising for it with posters everywhere with a phone number to inform on illegals and such. It was pretty amazing to see a foreign film kick butt at the box office and get people in seats but I didn't love it, in fact I was rather disturbed by not just the violent but literally the crowds reaction to it which included cheering. It's one of those cases where I don't understand how people can't see the flip side of the story, especially in this example, but feel free to cheer along with the action and play oblivious to any commentary at all.

Whip It
Previously I've sited films like The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters on my 2007 list for being experiences where I felt I was in the audience of my peoples. Whip It is a film where I felt I was with my tribe. It really speaks to a current culture of women, and it's refreshing to see a femme film that isn't a romance, features active women, has a cast with a fair age range with characters in different situations. And it has a lot of heart. I'm still miffed it opened the same weekend as Zombieland and almost everyone I know went to see that instead. Also has the best line of the year: Be Your Own Hero.

Fame (2009)
This one is way more about the experience than the film itself which didn't really hold a candle to the original. But, I got to see it with all the ladies in my family while Suzie was visiting, so her, Jamie, my Mom and I all treked out to the theatre together. It was also the first time I saw The Twilight Saga: New Moon trailer on the big screen and I think, I might have yelped. Sigh.

The Fourth Kind
I saw this film before I'd heard any big brouhaha about it being not authentic with the 'found footage' and I'll tell ya - it scared the crap out of me in a way no film has in years, like wake up in the middle of the night scared. To be honest, I was happy to find out it wasn't true because that would have been just way to much. This also makes it a particularly unique experience as I can't go back and see it that way again because the moment is gone. I wonder what I'd make of it on a second viewing.

Ninja Assassin
I still giggle when I think of how much I loved this film and the reason is - it's exactly what you would expect it to be ... but more. The trailer gives a great sense of what it's about but doesn't tell you everything which is in my eyes, perfect. I also am completely inspired and in awe of the work Rain did to get into the physical condition he's in during the film. It's amazing.

Invictus
It's always a joy to see rugby on screen, but to see a film that shows the 1995 World Cup - which I remember watching as I was playing rugby at the time was a very special and unique experience. Add that it's about Nelson Mandela bringing a country together? I couldn't really ask for more than that. Was inspirational and nostalgic all at the same time.


Late night screening of Star Trek at the AMC was one of the highlights of the year

More Top lists of the not just decade here, but the new Millenium although technically for the time being that encompasses the same period of time. It's an interesting list - the IMDb Power of Film: Top Rated Films of the New Millennium, the url rotates between different lists overtime so I've added the criteria and responses below.

Criteria: "What hath this new century wrought? In our latest Power of Film feature, we chronicle the The Top Rated Films of the New Millennium, looking at the 15 films made since 2000 that our users have rated as the best of the new millennium. Despite the prevalence of a certain trilogy and a particular comic book hero, there are surprises to be had, from independent films to non-English language films to even two animated favorites, one from just this year."

15. Requiem for a Dream (2000)
14. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
13. Spirited Away (2001)
12. The Pianist (2002)
11. The Lives of Others (2006)
10. The Departed (2006)
9. Amélie (2001)
8. WALL·E (2008)
7. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
6. Memento (2000)
5. Up (2009)
4. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
3. City of God (2002)
2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
1. The Dark Knight (2008)

More Top lists of the not just decade here, but the new Millenium although technically for the time being that encompasses the same period of time. It's an interesting list - the IMDb Power of Film: Top Rated Films of the New Millennium, the url rotates between different lists overtime so I've added the criteria and responses below.

Criteria: "What hath this new century wrought? In our latest Power of Film feature, we chronicle the The Top Rated Films of the New Millennium, looking at the 15 films made since 2000 that our users have rated as the best of the new millennium. Despite the prevalence of a certain trilogy and a particular comic book hero, there are surprises to be had, from independent films to non-English language films to even two animated favorites, one from just this year."

15. Requiem for a Dream (2000)
14. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
13. Spirited Away (2001)
12. The Pianist (2002)
11. The Lives of Others (2006)
10. The Departed (2006)
9. Amélie (2001)
8. WALL·E (2008)
7. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
6. Memento (2000)
5. Up (2009)
4. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
3. City of God (2002)
2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
1. The Dark Knight (2008)

2008 really doesn't seem that long ago to me. Although there are clear movie markers like the overall love for festival sweetheart film Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in, and being coined the year of 'the comeback' with several actors popping up back on the screens to much love (Robert Downey Jr. in Iron Man, Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler and Jean-Claude Van Damme in JCVD) I still feel it's too close behind us to get a sense of what kind of year it was. There were many great films, and there certainly is crossover on this movie memory list with my favourite films of 2008, but as a year it's hard to pin it down what it was about. But, the memories still hold strong.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Up the Yangtze/ 沿江⽽上
Haunting documentary about the relocation of people for the huge dam built. The stories of the families hold still in my mind and heart as is the vivid imagery I can literally still feel in my body almost two years after seeing the film. If you haven't seen it yet, you really should.

Then She Found Me
Kudo's to my buddy Danette for suggesting we go see this fantastic film. It also shook me up to realize I hadn't considered going to see it myself which made me feel like a total jerk. Since then, I've been way more conscientious about seeing films from women directors and / or with female protagonists.

My Blueberry Nights
First time I got to see a Wong Kar-Wai film in the regular theatre and I was in heaven. I wanted to lick the screen. Was that an overshare? Anyhow, I loved this film as I've loved all of his films for their emotional expression and personal journeys. It was a slightly bizarre, but fitting, double bill night where I also saw Son of Rambow.

Postal
One of my few treks out to The Rainbow theatre because the film was in such limited release. I really thought I would be the only one there and brought my knitting with me. But - I wasn't, there was at least 4 other people but it was the weirdest floorplan on seating .... about 60 seats total but none of the rows had the same number of seats. Very strange screening. Very strange.

Mamma Mia!
Another Danette recommendation and oh wow, I had no idea how much I would love this movie! And I believe it was the first film I saw at one of the big theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas (likely #6 which now is close to if not my favourite theatre in Toronto). I almost wanted to singalong with the film (ABBA's just like that), but resisted singing, but did end up seeing it three times in the theatre with all the lovely ladies in my family (because the movie is like that). One of the funnest films that I'd seen in a long time.

Rachel Getting Married
Like the Squid and the Whale back on my 2005 list, Rachel Getting Married makes the list not only for being an excellent film with fantastic performance, but for also having that oh so familiar dysfunctional family feeling. And I cried and cried and cried. Pools of tears settled in my clavicles. I had no idea I would have such a reaction to it but oh nelly I did.

JCVD
Okay, this is a bit of a cheat because I saw it at TIFF'08, but I went again to see it at the theatre - the big one at AMC Yonge & Dundas as it happens. There are many festival films that hit regular theatres, but you usually know which ones those are and this one I hadn't anticipating to do so which is what made seeing it at the regular theatre so special, especially as it had a pretty good freaking audience during the screening. That made me so happy that people were getting to see this great film.

Twilight
There is no doubt that seeing Twilight was one of the highlights of the year. Being in the packed house on opening night with my sister Jamie was surreal, from people wearing Team Edward shirts (which I didn't know what that meant at the time), got getting free bookmarks, to seeing all the nervous laughter and cheering throughout the film. It's been wild to watch the effect of the phenomenon as it continues to stretch out wider than I ever would have ever imagined. The film also got me into podcasting by cohosting a Twilight Podcast - Before the Dawn. And I love the film.

Quarantine
This is by no means a good film, but on that particular day I just needed to see something and this was the choice so I took it. In that sense, it made for a good laugh as there is no reason to remake the film it's based on [REC] as it is fantastic in it's own right. But, from the posters and publicity I was curious about if they were showing what I thought they were showing - and they are, which totally should put them in the publicity hall of shame.

Ghajini
Another in the list of 'got out of work early - lets see what's playing at the theatre' and so I headed out for this Bollywood adventure which I didn't realize was actually pretty much a version of Memento. That aside, the performances were pretty strong and Aamir Khan went through amazing physical transformation for the role which I found very inspiring. The soundtrack was the first one I've bought of iTunes and has severals song by AR Rahman - whom also did several songs on Slumdog Millionaire including "Jai Ho".

2008 really doesn't seem that long ago to me. Although there are clear movie markers like the overall love for festival sweetheart film Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in, and being coined the year of 'the comeback' with several actors popping up back on the screens to much love (Robert Downey Jr. in Iron Man, Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler and Jean-Claude Van Damme in JCVD) I still feel it's too close behind us to get a sense of what kind of year it was. There were many great films, and there certainly is crossover on this movie memory list with my favourite films of 2008, but as a year it's hard to pin it down what it was about. But, the memories still hold strong.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Up the Yangtze/ 沿江⽽上
Haunting documentary about the relocation of people for the huge dam built. The stories of the families hold still in my mind and heart as is the vivid imagery I can literally still feel in my body almost two years after seeing the film. If you haven't seen it yet, you really should.

Then She Found Me
Kudo's to my buddy Danette for suggesting we go see this fantastic film. It also shook me up to realize I hadn't considered going to see it myself which made me feel like a total jerk. Since then, I've been way more conscientious about seeing films from women directors and / or with female protagonists.

My Blueberry Nights
First time I got to see a Wong Kar-Wai film in the regular theatre and I was in heaven. I wanted to lick the screen. Was that an overshare? Anyhow, I loved this film as I've loved all of his films for their emotional expression and personal journeys. It was a slightly bizarre, but fitting, double bill night where I also saw Son of Rambow.

Postal
One of my few treks out to The Rainbow theatre because the film was in such limited release. I really thought I would be the only one there and brought my knitting with me. But - I wasn't, there was at least 4 other people but it was the weirdest floorplan on seating .... about 60 seats total but none of the rows had the same number of seats. Very strange screening. Very strange.

Mamma Mia!
Another Danette recommendation and oh wow, I had no idea how much I would love this movie! And I believe it was the first film I saw at one of the big theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas (likely #6 which now is close to if not my favourite theatre in Toronto). I almost wanted to singalong with the film (ABBA's just like that), but resisted singing, but did end up seeing it three times in the theatre with all the lovely ladies in my family (because the movie is like that). One of the funnest films that I'd seen in a long time.

Rachel Getting Married
Like the Squid and the Whale back on my 2005 list, Rachel Getting Married makes the list not only for being an excellent film with fantastic performance, but for also having that oh so familiar dysfunctional family feeling. And I cried and cried and cried. Pools of tears settled in my clavicles. I had no idea I would have such a reaction to it but oh nelly I did.

JCVD
Okay, this is a bit of a cheat because I saw it at TIFF'08, but I went again to see it at the theatre - the big one at AMC Yonge & Dundas as it happens. There are many festival films that hit regular theatres, but you usually know which ones those are and this one I hadn't anticipating to do so which is what made seeing it at the regular theatre so special, especially as it had a pretty good freaking audience during the screening. That made me so happy that people were getting to see this great film.

Twilight
There is no doubt that seeing Twilight was one of the highlights of the year. Being in the packed house on opening night with my sister Jamie was surreal, from people wearing Team Edward shirts (which I didn't know what that meant at the time), got getting free bookmarks, to seeing all the nervous laughter and cheering throughout the film. It's been wild to watch the effect of the phenomenon as it continues to stretch out wider than I ever would have ever imagined. The film also got me into podcasting by cohosting a Twilight Podcast - Before the Dawn. And I love the film.

Quarantine
This is by no means a good film, but on that particular day I just needed to see something and this was the choice so I took it. In that sense, it made for a good laugh as there is no reason to remake the film it's based on [REC] as it is fantastic in it's own right. But, from the posters and publicity I was curious about if they were showing what I thought they were showing - and they are, which totally should put them in the publicity hall of shame.

Ghajini
Another in the list of 'got out of work early - lets see what's playing at the theatre' and so I headed out for this Bollywood adventure which I didn't realize was actually pretty much a version of Memento. That aside, the performances were pretty strong and Aamir Khan went through amazing physical transformation for the role which I found very inspiring. The soundtrack was the first one I've bought of iTunes and has severals song by AR Rahman - whom also did several songs on Slumdog Millionaire including "Jai Ho".

2007 was an awesome year for me with regards to film. I launched Movie Moxie, covered several film festivals (TIFF, Toronto After Dark and Reel Asian in 2007), started hanging out with other film folks and on top of all that it was an excellent year for film. Unlike my 2006 list, several of these films haven't been reviewed, probably because the number I saw increased dramatically as well as festivalling. I normally wouldn't even post on Dec 24 because that's we my family celebrates Christmas but looking at the fantastic films of 2007 it feels like sharing & remember them is gift like in it of itself.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Control
Beautiful black & white biopic on Ian Curtis, lead singer of Joy Division in a powerful performance from Sam Riley - someone from this film alone I will see anything he's involved it. Fantastic. Was also a reminder to not listen/read reviews of biopics when I don't know what happened - because not everyone does, and it's rather inevitable people will talk about what happens in the film like fact, because in essence, it is. That's likely the reason I never reviewed it!

Enchanted
I asked my Mom to so see this with me at the Bloor one afternoon as I know she enjoys animation (this is only partly animated) and I had the day off. But - *lots* of people had the day off as it was the new "Family Day" holiday in Ontario and the theatre was packed with families who brought the little girls in their lives. The film started mucho late as they usually clear the popcorn line so long, which was almost to the outside doors, but I didn't care at all. To be in a theatre full of kids that were that excited and attentive was quite the site. I had my issues with the film itself, but the experience was lovely.

Fido
Canadian zombie-drama-comedy-commentary. Really, do you need to know any more? It's freaking awesome.

300
I remember debating with my sister Jamie about whether or not we wanted to see 300 or not, we sent emails back and forth throughout the day and only decided on the last minute. On the one hand it looked like a lot of fun, epic and rah! But, it also felt like it had the potential for lots of gender crap. We decided to gamble it and thankfully it was a lot of fun without gender crap. So oddly, the experience was more a relief than anything else.

After the Wedding / Efter brylluppet
Here's the teary one of the year. My goodness this film is absolutely fantastic, I went to see it purely because it was nominated for best foreign film at the Oscars but I had no idea what I was in for. It's a straight up drama but the story is compelling, the characters real and the acting is spectacular. Secured that I will see anything by Susanne Bier, and anything that stars Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale, King Arthur, Valhalla Rising). It's also one film that I feel strongly about recommending it to anyone, anywhere - it's completely universal.

Let's All Hate Toronto
It was a unique experience to see this film at the NFB with a full house. It's a documentary where a guy literally travels Canada to try and discover why everyone ... hates Toronto. It has lots of Canadian and regional references but also a larger message. I also do love seeing cultural reflection as well being a proud Torontonian.

Sunshine
This was my birthday pick for the movies, going with my Mom, sister Jamie and her husband. We saw it at the Cumberland but weren't at the screening with the Q&A with Danny Boyle (how did I miss that?). We sat pretty close and I can still remember seeing all the images so big and the connection of the sound to the image and how it really felt like you were in space. This one is a big re-watcher for me, I watch it all the time.

Hairspray
Since Moulin Rouge! in 2001 we seemed to get about 1 really big musical per year and for 2007 it was Hairspray. I didn't know the story at all before going in and ended up loving every minute of it. I loved the earnestness yet politeness of the main character, the fact that it actually had a message, and the over the top enthusiasm over all.

The Golden Compass
What a beautiful experience seeing this film was, earlier in the year it was awesome to surrounded by all the enthusiastic girls at Enchanted but for me if I was a kid I would have loved to see The Golden Compass. Not only is it a fantasy film, but one with an adventurous female protagonist. Not a sister, or a friend but she is actually the protagonist. We don't see this enough. But even more than that I loved the character of Serafina Pekkala who made my Favourite Characters list because I would have loved being a kid getting to see a character like hers on screen - powerful, mysterious and brave. Wow. This one was actually Jamie's birthday pick and after the film we went and had dinner over on Baldwin. Good times.

The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters
I was in such a rush to get to the theatre to see this that I actually missed the beginning of it, it was at The Bloor and they don't show previews. I really really wanted to see it so braved being late, which I hate doing. I ended up sitting near the back and it was quite the experience. A matinee with a pretty good house but the funniest thing was that I knew I was with my peoples as this felt like the sweetheart film for genre folk of the year. A documentary on the epic battle for high score of Donkey Kong between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe, which also looks at the history of the game and score keeping. The dialogue is unforgettable, it's absolute documentary gold - you couldn't get better if you tried. One of the few times I've actively bought a DVD on the day of it's release and I've rewatched it more times than I care to admit. Brilliant film.

2007 was an awesome year for me with regards to film. I launched Movie Moxie, covered several film festivals (TIFF, Toronto After Dark and Reel Asian in 2007), started hanging out with other film folks and on top of all that it was an excellent year for film. Unlike my 2006 list, several of these films haven't been reviewed, probably because the number I saw increased dramatically as well as festivalling. I normally wouldn't even post on Dec 24 because that's we my family celebrates Christmas but looking at the fantastic films of 2007 it feels like sharing & remember them is gift like in it of itself.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Control
Beautiful black & white biopic on Ian Curtis, lead singer of Joy Division in a powerful performance from Sam Riley - someone from this film alone I will see anything he's involved it. Fantastic. Was also a reminder to not listen/read reviews of biopics when I don't know what happened - because not everyone does, and it's rather inevitable people will talk about what happens in the film like fact, because in essence, it is. That's likely the reason I never reviewed it!

Enchanted
I asked my Mom to so see this with me at the Bloor one afternoon as I know she enjoys animation (this is only partly animated) and I had the day off. But - *lots* of people had the day off as it was the new "Family Day" holiday in Ontario and the theatre was packed with families who brought the little girls in their lives. The film started mucho late as they usually clear the popcorn line so long, which was almost to the outside doors, but I didn't care at all. To be in a theatre full of kids that were that excited and attentive was quite the site. I had my issues with the film itself, but the experience was lovely.

Fido
Canadian zombie-drama-comedy-commentary. Really, do you need to know any more? It's freaking awesome.

300
I remember debating with my sister Jamie about whether or not we wanted to see 300 or not, we sent emails back and forth throughout the day and only decided on the last minute. On the one hand it looked like a lot of fun, epic and rah! But, it also felt like it had the potential for lots of gender crap. We decided to gamble it and thankfully it was a lot of fun without gender crap. So oddly, the experience was more a relief than anything else.

After the Wedding / Efter brylluppet
Here's the teary one of the year. My goodness this film is absolutely fantastic, I went to see it purely because it was nominated for best foreign film at the Oscars but I had no idea what I was in for. It's a straight up drama but the story is compelling, the characters real and the acting is spectacular. Secured that I will see anything by Susanne Bier, and anything that stars Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale, King Arthur, Valhalla Rising). It's also one film that I feel strongly about recommending it to anyone, anywhere - it's completely universal.

Let's All Hate Toronto
It was a unique experience to see this film at the NFB with a full house. It's a documentary where a guy literally travels Canada to try and discover why everyone ... hates Toronto. It has lots of Canadian and regional references but also a larger message. I also do love seeing cultural reflection as well being a proud Torontonian.

Sunshine
This was my birthday pick for the movies, going with my Mom, sister Jamie and her husband. We saw it at the Cumberland but weren't at the screening with the Q&A with Danny Boyle (how did I miss that?). We sat pretty close and I can still remember seeing all the images so big and the connection of the sound to the image and how it really felt like you were in space. This one is a big re-watcher for me, I watch it all the time.

Hairspray
Since Moulin Rouge! in 2001 we seemed to get about 1 really big musical per year and for 2007 it was Hairspray. I didn't know the story at all before going in and ended up loving every minute of it. I loved the earnestness yet politeness of the main character, the fact that it actually had a message, and the over the top enthusiasm over all.

The Golden Compass
What a beautiful experience seeing this film was, earlier in the year it was awesome to surrounded by all the enthusiastic girls at Enchanted but for me if I was a kid I would have loved to see The Golden Compass. Not only is it a fantasy film, but one with an adventurous female protagonist. Not a sister, or a friend but she is actually the protagonist. We don't see this enough. But even more than that I loved the character of Serafina Pekkala who made my Favourite Characters list because I would have loved being a kid getting to see a character like hers on screen - powerful, mysterious and brave. Wow. This one was actually Jamie's birthday pick and after the film we went and had dinner over on Baldwin. Good times.

The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters
I was in such a rush to get to the theatre to see this that I actually missed the beginning of it, it was at The Bloor and they don't show previews. I really really wanted to see it so braved being late, which I hate doing. I ended up sitting near the back and it was quite the experience. A matinee with a pretty good house but the funniest thing was that I knew I was with my peoples as this felt like the sweetheart film for genre folk of the year. A documentary on the epic battle for high score of Donkey Kong between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe, which also looks at the history of the game and score keeping. The dialogue is unforgettable, it's absolute documentary gold - you couldn't get better if you tried. One of the few times I've actively bought a DVD on the day of it's release and I've rewatched it more times than I care to admit. Brilliant film.

2006 is the year when my movie memories become very solidified. I started writing about film online at the first blog I ever tired and it was there the newsletter Film Fan Fridays found an online home there 2006. I also started reviewing film, my first was In the Heat of the Night for my first 101 in 1001 list and man, it was a short review! I also reviewed current films and made the conscience effort to see Canadian films in the theatre. As it happens, it was a freaking awesome year for Canadian film and I was thrilled to get out to so many of them. I was about to revel in the fact of how much more film I see or write about now, then I realized I did review all of the 2006 films on this list and I'll be surprized to see if that will happen with my 2009 picks. But now my reviews tend to be a tad longer. I own very few of the films from 2006 because at that time I was focusing on paying off debt and didn't start buying DVDs until later on. Ah, it's interesting to see how things change over time.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

The Rocket / Maurice Richard
I said I went hyper Canadian this year and you can't really get more Canadian than a biopic on the hockey player Maurice Richard. It's an absolutely spectacular film and sweeped the Genies that year including picking up 9 awards including 3 for acting: Stephen McHattie (Pontypool) for supporting actor, Julie LeBreton for actress, and Roy Dupuis for actor in the role of Maurice Richard. There is a calm beauty and strength to this film that makes it so special.

Babel
I'm breaking my rules a little bit here as I know I saw Babel in 2007 - on Superbowl Sunday to be exact. You see, the pipes froze in my house and I woke up and it was 10C in my apartment. So I got the flock outta there to give my landlord time to get it fixed. So, in doing so I went to see Babel at the Carlton which was warmer than my place. The film wasn't what I expected, but made me wonder if the 2000's would become known for the format of having lots of different stories told concurrently and then manage to come together. Regardless, it was warm there and I got one more film knocked off the 'to see for awards season' list.

Metal: A Headbanger's Journey
A documentary that looks at the history of Metal music from an anthropological point of view. Un-freaking-believable and again another fantastic Canadian film of 2006. The music is awesome, the interviews are not only entertaining but also informative. It's a beautiful combination of love for the music but also the drive to see who loves it and why. Brilliant.

Night Watch / Nochnoi Dozor
Fantastic fusion of current day with the fantastical/paranormal to bring a vision that is epic and accessible. There are a few things that bring this film to new heights for me - there is a familiarity to the European aesthetic with the characters from sensibility to physicality and the art direction drives me over the top. I love everything about it, and how you can tell that care was everything in every decision made, even the subtitles go the extra mile. It also accomplishes the amazing feat of having the created world make sense in it of itself so it doesn't have to be 'explained' directly to the audience. Having the opportunity to see this one the big screen over at Scotiabank (then Paramount) was amazing, I mean a Russian fantastical sci-fi esque film... in the theatre? Unforgettable.

District B13 / Banlieue B13
How often do you see a futuristic sci fi action crime movie? Not often enough I say! That description was enough to get me in the theatre, another trip to Scotiabank on the big screen, and although I wouldn't ever classify District 13 as Sci Fi but that's okay because it still rocks. It was the first time I'd ever seen parkour (which we saw later in 2006 in Casino Royale) and I was blown away! The action sequences are beyond believe and it's wild to see them set to French rap music. Freaking awesome. What's even better is that it has a great story, interesting kick butt characters, a message and stars the founder of parkour himself, David Belle.

Bon Cop, Bad Cop
Another great Canadian film of the year and this one is unique because it bridged the divide between English and French by making it a inadvertent Ontario/Quebec buddy cop action/thriller. Yep, and it's pretty freaking funny to. Promo'd as a bilingual film it has it's fair share of language jokes, and it played with different subtitles depending where in Canada it was shown.

The Devil Wears Prada
This one is on my list for a few reason, firstly it was the 2nd film in the past 10 years that was actually sold out the first time I tried to see it. I remember being dumbfounded at the theatre. Sold out? That even happens anymore? And it was like a Tuesday or something. Anyway, the second time I saw it I had lots of reservations about it, not the film itself but the main character and her choices. But, over time I've come to change my mind and I always get hooked to watching it if it's on TV. I do love the cattiness of Emily Blunt's character and I also think it's also the first performance of Meryl Streep's that I enjoyed.

Conversations With Other Women
This was one in several films that were 'race to the Cumberland after work to see a matinee' films, and it really stuck with me. It's not the style of the film, which is memorable and interesting but that wasn't what really did it. There is literally one line in it that is such a moment of truth that I will always remember it just for that.

The Fountain
Is it awful to say that before seeing The Fountain I didn't realize that Hugh Jackman could act? I had seen and loved the X-Men films but in this.. I mean, that man can really act! I loved this film for taking on grand big life questions and concepts and putting them all together and all over the place. I wouldn't hazard to say I understood it all but I was marvelled by it, conceptually, visually and theoretically.

Dreamgirls
What a joy it was to see Dreamgirls in the theatre with my sisters Suzie and Jamie. I remember listening to the soundtrack of the Broadway show at home and singing along - I knew each and every word to it. But, I had never seen a production of the show so in essence I had no idea what the story was at all. So seeing the film was a bizarre experience in familiarity and revelation. But seeing it with my sisters was the best, there were lots of tears shed at that screening!

2006 is the year when my movie memories become very solidified. I started writing about film online at the first blog I ever tired and it was there the newsletter Film Fan Fridays found an online home there 2006. I also started reviewing film, my first was In the Heat of the Night for my first 101 in 1001 list and man, it was a short review! I also reviewed current films and made the conscience effort to see Canadian films in the theatre. As it happens, it was a freaking awesome year for Canadian film and I was thrilled to get out to so many of them. I was about to revel in the fact of how much more film I see or write about now, then I realized I did review all of the 2006 films on this list and I'll be surprized to see if that will happen with my 2009 picks. But now my reviews tend to be a tad longer. I own very few of the films from 2006 because at that time I was focusing on paying off debt and didn't start buying DVDs until later on. Ah, it's interesting to see how things change over time.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

The Rocket / Maurice Richard
I said I went hyper Canadian this year and you can't really get more Canadian than a biopic on the hockey player Maurice Richard. It's an absolutely spectacular film and sweeped the Genies that year including picking up 9 awards including 3 for acting: Stephen McHattie (Pontypool) for supporting actor, Julie LeBreton for actress, and Roy Dupuis for actor in the role of Maurice Richard. There is a calm beauty and strength to this film that makes it so special.

Babel
I'm breaking my rules a little bit here as I know I saw Babel in 2007 - on Superbowl Sunday to be exact. You see, the pipes froze in my house and I woke up and it was 10C in my apartment. So I got the flock outta there to give my landlord time to get it fixed. So, in doing so I went to see Babel at the Carlton which was warmer than my place. The film wasn't what I expected, but made me wonder if the 2000's would become known for the format of having lots of different stories told concurrently and then manage to come together. Regardless, it was warm there and I got one more film knocked off the 'to see for awards season' list.

Metal: A Headbanger's Journey
A documentary that looks at the history of Metal music from an anthropological point of view. Un-freaking-believable and again another fantastic Canadian film of 2006. The music is awesome, the interviews are not only entertaining but also informative. It's a beautiful combination of love for the music but also the drive to see who loves it and why. Brilliant.

Night Watch / Nochnoi Dozor
Fantastic fusion of current day with the fantastical/paranormal to bring a vision that is epic and accessible. There are a few things that bring this film to new heights for me - there is a familiarity to the European aesthetic with the characters from sensibility to physicality and the art direction drives me over the top. I love everything about it, and how you can tell that care was everything in every decision made, even the subtitles go the extra mile. It also accomplishes the amazing feat of having the created world make sense in it of itself so it doesn't have to be 'explained' directly to the audience. Having the opportunity to see this one the big screen over at Scotiabank (then Paramount) was amazing, I mean a Russian fantastical sci-fi esque film... in the theatre? Unforgettable.

District B13 / Banlieue B13
How often do you see a futuristic sci fi action crime movie? Not often enough I say! That description was enough to get me in the theatre, another trip to Scotiabank on the big screen, and although I wouldn't ever classify District 13 as Sci Fi but that's okay because it still rocks. It was the first time I'd ever seen parkour (which we saw later in 2006 in Casino Royale) and I was blown away! The action sequences are beyond believe and it's wild to see them set to French rap music. Freaking awesome. What's even better is that it has a great story, interesting kick butt characters, a message and stars the founder of parkour himself, David Belle.

Bon Cop, Bad Cop
Another great Canadian film of the year and this one is unique because it bridged the divide between English and French by making it a inadvertent Ontario/Quebec buddy cop action/thriller. Yep, and it's pretty freaking funny to. Promo'd as a bilingual film it has it's fair share of language jokes, and it played with different subtitles depending where in Canada it was shown.

The Devil Wears Prada
This one is on my list for a few reason, firstly it was the 2nd film in the past 10 years that was actually sold out the first time I tried to see it. I remember being dumbfounded at the theatre. Sold out? That even happens anymore? And it was like a Tuesday or something. Anyway, the second time I saw it I had lots of reservations about it, not the film itself but the main character and her choices. But, over time I've come to change my mind and I always get hooked to watching it if it's on TV. I do love the cattiness of Emily Blunt's character and I also think it's also the first performance of Meryl Streep's that I enjoyed.

Conversations With Other Women
This was one in several films that were 'race to the Cumberland after work to see a matinee' films, and it really stuck with me. It's not the style of the film, which is memorable and interesting but that wasn't what really did it. There is literally one line in it that is such a moment of truth that I will always remember it just for that.

The Fountain
Is it awful to say that before seeing The Fountain I didn't realize that Hugh Jackman could act? I had seen and loved the X-Men films but in this.. I mean, that man can really act! I loved this film for taking on grand big life questions and concepts and putting them all together and all over the place. I wouldn't hazard to say I understood it all but I was marvelled by it, conceptually, visually and theoretically.

Dreamgirls
What a joy it was to see Dreamgirls in the theatre with my sisters Suzie and Jamie. I remember listening to the soundtrack of the Broadway show at home and singing along - I knew each and every word to it. But, I had never seen a production of the show so in essence I had no idea what the story was at all. So seeing the film was a bizarre experience in familiarity and revelation. But seeing it with my sisters was the best, there were lots of tears shed at that screening!

Bring on 2005! Now we are getting to films being on the list and that I've actually reviewed! How exciting is that, I find it very exciting. I didn't start writing online until 2006 but 2 of the films of 2005 made various lists of mine therefore ended up being written about after the fact. Looking at the memories from 2005, it looks like an even split between genre films and dramas and I think as we continue into the second half of the decade the scales will tip to favour genre over drama by far.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

C.R.A.Z.Y.
Huge hit when it hit TIFF, where it was recommended to me and later went on to sweep the Genies winning 11 awards. Was a shoe in for my first 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen list for all that and just general Canadianness. And it's absolutely fantastic coming of age film.

The Squid and the Whale
Seeing this was a memorable experience for two reasons. First - one lady in the audience just couldn't handle was the youngest character was doing at times, and kept sighing and snickering with a "This isn't appropriate!" tone. She might have even said "Oh, dear." or "Heavens to Betsy", and it was partly annoying but partly funny. The second reason I found it memorable was it felt so familiar - set in early 80's revolving around a family that is breaking apart and usually I'd feel distanced with a story about a family with 2 sons (and no daughters) but it was completely accessible regardless of gender. How refreshing!

Constantine
I've praised Constantine before and I'll praise it again and again. What pulls me right into this film is the innovative, clever and rich design of the film from ideas to costuming. For that it made my The most influential films to me list and Tilda Swinton's fantastic performance as Gabriel made my Favourite Film Characters list. It's listy goodness! I often watch this one around Halloween and it's great on repeat viewings.

Sin City
I was hesitant to see Sin City, the uber violence and harsh characters didn't draw me in but the unique visual style piqued my interest to get me to the theatre. But once I was there? Oh boy. So bored. I think it's the only time in my adult life I left the theatre and didn't care if I missed anything while I was gone. I used to describe it jokingly that the best part about it was Mickey Rourke, which doesn't make much sense now that we've had the release of The Wrestler.

The Interpreter
This one is a bit of an anomaly for me. I saw it in the theatre with my Mom, we both thought it was okay but not stellar but it really stuck with me. In years since then I always get caught by it if it's on TV and can't turn away - which is something usually reserved for dance films or silly comedies, not international crime thrillers about relationships and... language. Mystifying.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Another film I saw with my Mom - this time at the Bloor after theatrical release but before DVD. I remember it opening to only lukewarm reviews, not a huge surprize given it's cult-like fandom and obvious book to film adaptations challenges. Due to those lukewarm review, expectations were really low and as a result I ended up loving the film! Mos Def and Sam Rockwell cracked me up, and a great small role played by Bill Nighy. I thought it did a lovely job incorporating the spirit of the book in these crazy unbelievable moments. I do wish I had liked the main character a bit more but other than that - it was completely fun!

Serenity
Another choice that had a huge cult following, this movie is based on the characters and world of the too short lived TV series "Firefly". Being a fan of the series I knew I had to see it but wasn't sure if my sister Jamie who hadn't watched it would be willing to come - but she was (thank you Jamie!) and boy did we have a good time. The theatre was full of fans who welcomed the film like an old friend. Shiny.

King Kong (2005)
Like The Interpreter, this is a film that I'm a little torn on but in this case I know the why. There are lots of little moments in King Kong (2005) that I love, they capture a certain idea, beauty, decision, emotion or realization. And they are all in the first section of the mammoth 3hr + film. I could watch the beginning of this film again and again, but the rest of it is so long and leaves me tired - not from watching a long film, but what we see people go through actually makes me weary. But my goodness I love the beginning, and almost all the scenes with Naomi Watts, both her and Adrien Brody have lovely performances here.

Walk the Line
Because, it's The Man in Black. Gotta love Johnny Cash biopic, especially when it is done this well. Heartbreaking & inspiring all at once.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Looking back 2005 had an odd number of nostalgic type films, and this one felt familiar but in a different way than The Squid and the Whale did which isn't surprizing as Narnia is fantasy, or magical realism if you prefer. Why The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is familiar is because it's about the adventures of four siblings and being someone who comes from a family of four siblings it's really nice to see this on screen. It's a unique bond, rarely do we see relationships of more than two siblings, let alone four! And I love the magic of it, and am thankful that the religious overtones were toned down for the film.

Bring on 2005! Now we are getting to films being on the list and that I've actually reviewed! How exciting is that, I find it very exciting. I didn't start writing online until 2006 but 2 of the films of 2005 made various lists of mine therefore ended up being written about after the fact. Looking at the memories from 2005, it looks like an even split between genre films and dramas and I think as we continue into the second half of the decade the scales will tip to favour genre over drama by far.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

C.R.A.Z.Y.
Huge hit when it hit TIFF, where it was recommended to me and later went on to sweep the Genies winning 11 awards. Was a shoe in for my first 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen list for all that and just general Canadianness. And it's absolutely fantastic coming of age film.

The Squid and the Whale
Seeing this was a memorable experience for two reasons. First - one lady in the audience just couldn't handle was the youngest character was doing at times, and kept sighing and snickering with a "This isn't appropriate!" tone. She might have even said "Oh, dear." or "Heavens to Betsy", and it was partly annoying but partly funny. The second reason I found it memorable was it felt so familiar - set in early 80's revolving around a family that is breaking apart and usually I'd feel distanced with a story about a family with 2 sons (and no daughters) but it was completely accessible regardless of gender. How refreshing!

Constantine
I've praised Constantine before and I'll praise it again and again. What pulls me right into this film is the innovative, clever and rich design of the film from ideas to costuming. For that it made my The most influential films to me list and Tilda Swinton's fantastic performance as Gabriel made my Favourite Film Characters list. It's listy goodness! I often watch this one around Halloween and it's great on repeat viewings.

Sin City
I was hesitant to see Sin City, the uber violence and harsh characters didn't draw me in but the unique visual style piqued my interest to get me to the theatre. But once I was there? Oh boy. So bored. I think it's the only time in my adult life I left the theatre and didn't care if I missed anything while I was gone. I used to describe it jokingly that the best part about it was Mickey Rourke, which doesn't make much sense now that we've had the release of The Wrestler.

The Interpreter
This one is a bit of an anomaly for me. I saw it in the theatre with my Mom, we both thought it was okay but not stellar but it really stuck with me. In years since then I always get caught by it if it's on TV and can't turn away - which is something usually reserved for dance films or silly comedies, not international crime thrillers about relationships and... language. Mystifying.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Another film I saw with my Mom - this time at the Bloor after theatrical release but before DVD. I remember it opening to only lukewarm reviews, not a huge surprize given it's cult-like fandom and obvious book to film adaptations challenges. Due to those lukewarm review, expectations were really low and as a result I ended up loving the film! Mos Def and Sam Rockwell cracked me up, and a great small role played by Bill Nighy. I thought it did a lovely job incorporating the spirit of the book in these crazy unbelievable moments. I do wish I had liked the main character a bit more but other than that - it was completely fun!

Serenity
Another choice that had a huge cult following, this movie is based on the characters and world of the too short lived TV series "Firefly". Being a fan of the series I knew I had to see it but wasn't sure if my sister Jamie who hadn't watched it would be willing to come - but she was (thank you Jamie!) and boy did we have a good time. The theatre was full of fans who welcomed the film like an old friend. Shiny.

King Kong (2005)
Like The Interpreter, this is a film that I'm a little torn on but in this case I know the why. There are lots of little moments in King Kong (2005) that I love, they capture a certain idea, beauty, decision, emotion or realization. And they are all in the first section of the mammoth 3hr + film. I could watch the beginning of this film again and again, but the rest of it is so long and leaves me tired - not from watching a long film, but what we see people go through actually makes me weary. But my goodness I love the beginning, and almost all the scenes with Naomi Watts, both her and Adrien Brody have lovely performances here.

Walk the Line
Because, it's The Man in Black. Gotta love Johnny Cash biopic, especially when it is done this well. Heartbreaking & inspiring all at once.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Looking back 2005 had an odd number of nostalgic type films, and this one felt familiar but in a different way than The Squid and the Whale did which isn't surprizing as Narnia is fantasy, or magical realism if you prefer. Why The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is familiar is because it's about the adventures of four siblings and being someone who comes from a family of four siblings it's really nice to see this on screen. It's a unique bond, rarely do we see relationships of more than two siblings, let alone four! And I love the magic of it, and am thankful that the religious overtones were toned down for the film.

Looking back at the films seen and movie memories of 2004 I can see that I pulled back a bit from Awards nominated films and went a little more indie and a little more fantastical. It's also a bit of a strange year with not having reviewed any of the films, and also not owning any of the films not on this list - although I almost picked up Troy at HMV for $6 this week, although that is a whole other ball of wax I'll get more into in January 2010.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Born into Brothels
I saw this film at the Cumberland and wow, it had such an impact on me. I wasn't ever a big documentary fan, not that I didn't like them but other films always interested me more so I didn't usually get to docs but Born into Brothels changed my opinion. The film follows a group of children of prostitutes in Calcutta and it fearlessly, yet tactfully tells their stories. Add to that it also shows the power of art, hope, belief and opportunity. Extremely powerful.

Childstar
My lovely friend Danette & I saw Childstar over at the Varsity and it was the first time I actually saw something in one of their VIP theatres full with cushy seats and little tables between said seats. It's a fantastic comedy from writer/director/star Don McKellar that also infuses commentary into the world of the experience of child actors. And yes, it's a comedy and a hilarious one at that.

Hellboy
It feels like post 2002 Spider-man lots of comic book films cropped up and Hellboy was one that I was thrilled to see on screen. Being completely unaware of the source material I had no idea what I was in for and with every turn I was impressed by the films cleverness in now it explained science with fable & fantasy instead. It was like X-Files meets steampunk or soemthing. The charismatic characters and great performances make it really memorable and I enjoyed it through and through. Wish I could say the same about the sequel.

Walking Tall
So now we take the train less travelled. This is one film that I wish I had looked into a bit more before seeing it, but after loving The Scorpion King (which made my 2003 list) I was prepared to see anything by The Rock. Not a good choice. This film was so harsh that afterwards I wished I could wash the images from my brain which ranged from lots of scantily clad-ness to gratuitous torture to what oddly felt what who inept people would beat each other up. Ugh. I don't need any of that. It did solidify that I really have zero interest in revenge films.

Van Helsing
Oh how I wanted to like Van Helsing. First up: casting - Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale? Awesome. Add the whole historically set monster hunter and I'm so there. I can't remember much beyond that - I think it was a vampire film with other monsters, therefore a hybrid film? Not sure. So much potential but just was so not good. I went with my Mom and we were both so disappointed. I think it was still early CGI days too and used too much.

Troy
Another film I went to purely out of timing, although add epicness and big stars and I'm sure I'd have seen it eventually either way. I went one day after work to see it at the Rainbow Cinemas, which were newly opened but feel oldschool - it's so strange. What I really remembered about the experience was not planning the timing out well and meaning to go grocery shopping after but the time the film was out the store was closed. Guess it was a long one!

The Village
I'm a big fan of M. Night Shyamalan (save The Happening) and it's been interesting to see the reactions to his films over the years. Everyone seemed to love The Sixth Sense, and some people dropped off with Unbreakable (which I loved) and more with Signs (which I loved) but I didn't understand that. Now with The Village (which I loved) I do understand how there can be a divide as it is a very different type of film, but I still love it. I love how it plays with your perception of things and how it can be scary in a different way. It's hard to explain, I know some people felt 'tricked' or that they 'figured it out' but I find with this one - it doesn't matter, it's really about the journey not the destination.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
This is a title that I'm sure will grace many lists of 2004 and I do love and appreciate it for the amazing film that it is but the memory I hold with it is that going to see it theatre with my sister Jamie we were so surprized that it was PACKED! I mean really, really packed with almost zero marketing. Now that is star power.

Closer
This is one of the films of the year that I saw purely for awards nominations. I'll give it that it felt like seeing a relationship (not romance) film from a man's perspective but that's about all I can give it. I really disliked Clive Owen playing a meanie, isn't that strange? I didn't want to believe it but I did! I didn't like any of the characters in it which always makes a barrier. It feels like quite a divisive film and I know which side of the divide I am on!

Finding Neverland
There always seems to be one film on the list that made me cry and for 2004 it was Finding Neverland. I'm still not entirely sure why, and I've not braved watching it again. Although thinking about it now it might be because it so beautifully shows bringing together family & friends through art. Dangnabit I might need kleenex pronto!

Looking back at the films seen and movie memories of 2004 I can see that I pulled back a bit from Awards nominated films and went a little more indie and a little more fantastical. It's also a bit of a strange year with not having reviewed any of the films, and also not owning any of the films not on this list - although I almost picked up Troy at HMV for $6 this week, although that is a whole other ball of wax I'll get more into in January 2010.

As with previous years 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 the parameters or the list are films seen theatrically, no series included and films are listed in the chronological order in which I saw them. This is a list of favourite movie memories, not a best of list.

Born into Brothels
I saw this film at the Cumberland and wow, it had such an impact on me. I wasn't ever a big documentary fan, not that I didn't like them but other films always interested me more so I didn't usually get to docs but Born into Brothels changed my opinion. The film follows a group of children of prostitutes in Calcutta and it fearlessly, yet tactfully tells their stories. Add to that it also shows the power of art, hope, belief and opportunity. Extremely powerful.

Childstar
My lovely friend Danette & I saw Childstar over at the Varsity and it was the first time I actually saw something in one of their VIP theatres full with cushy seats and little tables between said seats. It's a fantastic comedy from writer/director/star Don McKellar that also infuses commentary into the world of the experience of child actors. And yes, it's a comedy and a hilarious one at that.

Hellboy
It feels like post 2002 Spider-man lots of comic book films cropped up and Hellboy was one that I was thrilled to see on screen. Being completely unaware of the source material I had no idea what I was in for and with every turn I was impressed by the films cleverness in now it explained science with fable & fantasy instead. It was like X-Files meets steampunk or soemthing. The charismatic characters and great performances make it really memorable and I enjoyed it through and through. Wish I could say the same about the sequel.

Walking Tall
So now we take the train less travelled. This is one film that I wish I had looked into a bit more before seeing it, but after loving The Scorpion King (which made my 2003 list) I was prepared to see anything by The Rock. Not a good choice. This film was so harsh that afterwards I wished I could wash the images from my brain which ranged from lots of scantily clad-ness to gratuitous torture to what oddly felt what who inept people would beat each other up. Ugh. I don't need any of that. It did solidify that I really have zero interest in revenge films.

Van Helsing
Oh how I wanted to like Van Helsing. First up: casting - Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale? Awesome. Add the whole historically set monster hunter and I'm so there. I can't remember much beyond that - I think it was a vampire film with other monsters, therefore a hybrid film? Not sure. So much potential but just was so not good. I went with my Mom and we were both so disappointed. I think it was still early CGI days too and used too much.

Troy
Another film I went to purely out of timing, although add epicness and big stars and I'm sure I'd have seen it eventually either way. I went one day after work to see it at the Rainbow Cinemas, which were newly opened but feel oldschool - it's so strange. What I really remembered about the experience was not planning the timing out well and meaning to go grocery shopping after but the time the film was out the store was closed. Guess it was a long one!

The Village
I'm a big fan of M. Night Shyamalan (save The Happening) and it's been interesting to see the reactions to his films over the years. Everyone seemed to love The Sixth Sense, and some people dropped off with Unbreakable (which I loved) and more with Signs (which I loved) but I didn't understand that. Now with The Village (which I loved) I do understand how there can be a divide as it is a very different type of film, but I still love it. I love how it plays with your perception of things and how it can be scary in a different way. It's hard to explain, I know some people felt 'tricked' or that they 'figured it out' but I find with this one - it doesn't matter, it's really about the journey not the destination.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
This is a title that I'm sure will grace many lists of 2004 and I do love and appreciate it for the amazing film that it is but the memory I hold with it is that going to see it theatre with my sister Jamie we were so surprized that it was PACKED! I mean really, really packed with almost zero marketing. Now that is star power.

Closer
This is one of the films of the year that I saw purely for awards nominations. I'll give it that it felt like seeing a relationship (not romance) film from a man's perspective but that's about all I can give it. I really disliked Clive Owen playing a meanie, isn't that strange? I didn't want to believe it but I did! I didn't like any of the characters in it which always makes a barrier. It feels like quite a divisive film and I know which side of the divide I am on!

Finding Neverland
There always seems to be one film on the list that made me cry and for 2004 it was Finding Neverland. I'm still not entirely sure why, and I've not braved watching it again. Although thinking about it now it might be because it so beautifully shows bringing together family & friends through art. Dangnabit I might need kleenex pronto!