Movie Box Review

Contraband
Devil Inside, The
Divide, The
Haywire
Innkeepers, The
Inside Lara Roxx
Moon Point
Tyrannosaur
Underworld Awakening
Viral Factor, The

If you are looking listing of 2012 releases you can find them here: by title or by release date.

Contraband
Devil Inside, The
Divide, The
Haywire
Innkeepers, The
Inside Lara Roxx
Moon Point
Tyrannosaur
Underworld Awakening
Viral Factor, The

If you are looking listing of 2012 releases you can find them here: by title or by release date.

When 2011 I started writing a memoir like fashion about the films I saw and each month I would tally up the films in terms of which I thought were the best, and which films I most enjoyed. They had very different results from the get go, and I've long been a supporter of acknowledging and embracing films you enjoy, even if they aren't perfect, or 'important' or meaningful or touchstones, revolutionary, etc. Those are all great marks in film, but how much YOU enjoy a film is important too. The reverse logic held up because one of the early theatrical releases of 2011 was the brilliant yet brutal Incendies, and as much as I can acknowledge it as a formidable film, I got zero enjoyment from watching it. So, in an effort to acknowledge and support both the films I think are formidable as well as the ones that warmed my heard and made me light up, I'm writing 2 lists the year; and here are in my opinion The Best Films of 2011 (I saw 100/400 released) and the Most Enjoyable Films (to me) of 2011:

Movie Moxie's The Best Films of 2011:

These are the films that I think are hands-down brilliant films on all levels.

1. Drive (2011)
2. TrollHunter / Trolljegeren
3. The Tree of Life
4. Small Town Murder Songs
5. The Guard (2011)
6. Four Lions
7. Melancholia
8. Incendies
9. In a Better World / Hævnen
10. Beginners
11. Jane Eyre (2011)
12. Meet Monica Velour
13. Pina
14. One Day (2011)
15. Thor
16. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
17. Beautiful Boy
18. Familiar Ground / En Terrain Connus
19. Another Earth
20. The Adjustment Bureau

Movie Moxie's Films I Most Enjoyed in 2011:

These are the films that made me laugh, smile, cry and giggle. They are the films where I felt that the film was speaking directly to me, and I wanted to hear what it had to say.

1. Drive (2011)
2. Soul Surfer
3. TrollHunter / Trolljegeren
4. The Adjustment Bureau
5. The Tree of Life
6. The Guard (2011)
7. Thor
8. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
9. Fast Five
10. The Three Musketeers (2011)
11. Jane Eyre (2011)
12. Small Town Murder Songs
13. I Am Number Four
14. Super 8
15. Country Strong
16. Another Earth
17. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 1
18. Kung Fu Panda 2
19. One Day (2011)
20. Melancholia

Special shout out to both Rubber and Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls, which would have made both my lists but I saw them prior to 2011 therefore they don't meet my own parameters!

I'll be writing more about the particular films and their impact in a separate post about my movie memories of the year.

When 2011 I started writing a memoir like fashion about the films I saw and each month I would tally up the films in terms of which I thought were the best, and which films I most enjoyed. They had very different results from the get go, and I've long been a supporter of acknowledging and embracing films you enjoy, even if they aren't perfect, or 'important' or meaningful or touchstones, revolutionary, etc. Those are all great marks in film, but how much YOU enjoy a film is important too. The reverse logic held up because one of the early theatrical releases of 2011 was the brilliant yet brutal Incendies, and as much as I can acknowledge it as a formidable film, I got zero enjoyment from watching it. So, in an effort to acknowledge and support both the films I think are formidable as well as the ones that warmed my heard and made me light up, I'm writing 2 lists the year; and here are in my opinion The Best Films of 2011 (I saw 100/400 released) and the Most Enjoyable Films (to me) of 2011:

Movie Moxie's The Best Films of 2011:

These are the films that I think are hands-down brilliant films on all levels.

1. Drive (2011)
2. TrollHunter / Trolljegeren
3. The Tree of Life
4. Small Town Murder Songs
5. The Guard (2011)
6. Four Lions
7. Melancholia
8. Incendies
9. In a Better World / Hævnen
10. Beginners
11. Jane Eyre (2011)
12. Meet Monica Velour
13. Pina
14. One Day (2011)
15. Thor
16. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
17. Beautiful Boy
18. Familiar Ground / En Terrain Connus
19. Another Earth
20. The Adjustment Bureau

Movie Moxie's Films I Most Enjoyed in 2011:

These are the films that made me laugh, smile, cry and giggle. They are the films where I felt that the film was speaking directly to me, and I wanted to hear what it had to say.

1. Drive (2011)
2. Soul Surfer
3. TrollHunter / Trolljegeren
4. The Adjustment Bureau
5. The Tree of Life
6. The Guard (2011)
7. Thor
8. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
9. Fast Five
10. The Three Musketeers (2011)
11. Jane Eyre (2011)
12. Small Town Murder Songs
13. I Am Number Four
14. Super 8
15. Country Strong
16. Another Earth
17. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 1
18. Kung Fu Panda 2
19. One Day (2011)
20. Melancholia

Special shout out to both Rubber and Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls, which would have made both my lists but I saw them prior to 2011 therefore they don't meet my own parameters!

I'll be writing more about the particular films and their impact in a separate post about my movie memories of the year.

Above: Movie Moxie's List of Best Films of 2011 (so far)

It's no secret that I loved list. Film lists, to do lists, grocery lists (okay.. that's uber practical..), goal lists... lists are awesome. You can check things off lists, highlight them, disagree with ranking or nod along in agreement.

I usually do a mid-year check in list of films that I'm loved and the ones I'm looking foward to in the future. At the end of 2010 I switched things up a bit with The Perfect List of films that I literally feel achieve perfection. So, I naturally thought my mid-year check in would be of those perfect films. But then something along the way happened. More specifically The Adjustment Bureau and totally messed up my whole perfection thing because... it wasn't perfect. I love it to pieces, but it wasn't perfect. What's a film lover to do? Whelp. Fix the problem of course with not one list but two. First I have my list the 10 Best Films of 2011 (so far) and then I have my 10 Favourite Films of 2011 (so far), because as much as I can acknowledge and appreciate perfection (and I really do), the experience of enjoying a film can be just as, if not more, powerful. After thinking about it I decided I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate both types of cinematic achievement. There is similar in titles with 6 out of 10 films grace *both* lists, although rankings are rather topsy-turvy.

Movie Moxie's List of Best Films of 2011 (so far)
1. The Tree of Life
2. Small Town Murder Songs
3. Four Lions
4. The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
5. Incendies
6. In a Better World / Hævnen
7. Jane Eyre (2011)
8. The Adjustment Bureau
9. Thor
10. Super 8


Above: Movie Moxie's List of Favourite Films of 2011 (so far)

Movie Moxie's List of Favourite Films of 2011 (so far)
1. The Adjustment Bureau
2. The Tree of Life
3. Rubber
4. Soul Surfer
5. Thor
6. The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
7. Jane Eyre (2011)
8. Super 8
9. I Am Number Four
10. Country Strong

Please note these lists were created before seeing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Source Code or Kung Fu Panda 2. I'm not sure exactly where those would fall in my lists, but there is a strong possibility they would have made the cut, especially Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Titles that qualified for consideration to this list are films that had a theatrical release in Toronto during the 2011 calender year.

Building Anticipation for the Rest of 2011!

I'm surprized at how few of the titles are aligned to my Most Anticipated Films of 2011 List, but you never know how films will turn out until you see them! To complete this mid-year cycle I'm adding a handful of new titles to the anticipated list, and again I'm surprized that it's only 5 titles as usually it's a good set of 15-20. Even when you keep patterns in place, you never know where your interests and energy will land! Here are the five will become added grace to the original list:

Rise of the Planet of the Apes
I, like many, wasn't a huge fan of the recent Planet of the Apes reboot and with that I pretty much wrote off this new version until I saw the trailer, and I was captivated. It looks like there really is an interesting story and moral question in there. Cast includes James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, Tom Felton and Andy Serkis, and it's directed by Rupert Wyatt (The Escapist).
Release date: August 5, 2011

One Day
This is earnestly a recommendation that started though the power of Twitter. I was looking to fill the last spot for 2011 for the Book to Film Club, and was instantly won over by the idea of seeing two peoples lives and relationship unfolded by seeing them 1 day a year over many years. I loved the idea and I simply adored the book. I think the casting of Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Getting Married) and Jim Sturgess (Across the Universe, Heartless), is simply perfect. Directed by Lone Scherfig (An Education).
Release date: August 19, 2011

The Help
Another Book to Film Club Selection that won me over, this one based on the book The Help by Kathryn Stockett, this one is set in Mississippi during the early 1960s the centred on unlikely friendships and courageous women. Stars Emma Stone (Paper Man), Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, Directed by Tate Taylor (Pretty Ugly People).
Release date: August 10, 2011

Anonymous
I'm feeling super literary here with almost all my additions being book released, and this one is close to as it looks at the questioning of who really wrote the works of William Shakespeare. Stars Jamie Campbell Bower, Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave and David Thewlis, and directed by Roland Emmerich.
Release date: September 30, 2011

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
I was semi interested in this John le Carré novel adaptation until the trailer. At that point I was glad I decided not to read the book as it's clear it's a mystery, and I can't wait to see it unfold (and hopefully solved) by lead actor Gary Oldman. Also stars Colin Firth (The King's Speech) and Tom Hardy (Bronson) from director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in).
Release date: November 18, 2011

Above: Movie Moxie's List of Best Films of 2011 (so far)

It's no secret that I loved list. Film lists, to do lists, grocery lists (okay.. that's uber practical..), goal lists... lists are awesome. You can check things off lists, highlight them, disagree with ranking or nod along in agreement.

I usually do a mid-year check in list of films that I'm loved and the ones I'm looking foward to in the future. At the end of 2010 I switched things up a bit with The Perfect List of films that I literally feel achieve perfection. So, I naturally thought my mid-year check in would be of those perfect films. But then something along the way happened. More specifically The Adjustment Bureau and totally messed up my whole perfection thing because... it wasn't perfect. I love it to pieces, but it wasn't perfect. What's a film lover to do? Whelp. Fix the problem of course with not one list but two. First I have my list the 10 Best Films of 2011 (so far) and then I have my 10 Favourite Films of 2011 (so far), because as much as I can acknowledge and appreciate perfection (and I really do), the experience of enjoying a film can be just as, if not more, powerful. After thinking about it I decided I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate both types of cinematic achievement. There is similar in titles with 6 out of 10 films grace *both* lists, although rankings are rather topsy-turvy.

Movie Moxie's List of Best Films of 2011 (so far)
1. The Tree of Life
2. Small Town Murder Songs
3. Four Lions
4. The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
5. Incendies
6. In a Better World / Hævnen
7. Jane Eyre (2011)
8. The Adjustment Bureau
9. Thor
10. Super 8


Above: Movie Moxie's List of Favourite Films of 2011 (so far)

Movie Moxie's List of Favourite Films of 2011 (so far)
1. The Adjustment Bureau
2. The Tree of Life
3. Rubber
4. Soul Surfer
5. Thor
6. The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
7. Jane Eyre (2011)
8. Super 8
9. I Am Number Four
10. Country Strong

Please note these lists were created before seeing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Source Code or Kung Fu Panda 2. I'm not sure exactly where those would fall in my lists, but there is a strong possibility they would have made the cut, especially Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Titles that qualified for consideration to this list are films that had a theatrical release in Toronto during the 2011 calender year.

Building Anticipation for the Rest of 2011!

I'm surprized at how few of the titles are aligned to my Most Anticipated Films of 2011 List, but you never know how films will turn out until you see them! To complete this mid-year cycle I'm adding a handful of new titles to the anticipated list, and again I'm surprized that it's only 5 titles as usually it's a good set of 15-20. Even when you keep patterns in place, you never know where your interests and energy will land! Here are the five will become added grace to the original list:

Rise of the Planet of the Apes
I, like many, wasn't a huge fan of the recent Planet of the Apes reboot and with that I pretty much wrote off this new version until I saw the trailer, and I was captivated. It looks like there really is an interesting story and moral question in there. Cast includes James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, Tom Felton and Andy Serkis, and it's directed by Rupert Wyatt (The Escapist).
Release date: August 5, 2011

One Day
This is earnestly a recommendation that started though the power of Twitter. I was looking to fill the last spot for 2011 for the Book to Film Club, and was instantly won over by the idea of seeing two peoples lives and relationship unfolded by seeing them 1 day a year over many years. I loved the idea and I simply adored the book. I think the casting of Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Getting Married) and Jim Sturgess (Across the Universe, Heartless), is simply perfect. Directed by Lone Scherfig (An Education).
Release date: August 19, 2011

The Help
Another Book to Film Club Selection that won me over, this one based on the book The Help by Kathryn Stockett, this one is set in Mississippi during the early 1960s the centred on unlikely friendships and courageous women. Stars Emma Stone (Paper Man), Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, Directed by Tate Taylor (Pretty Ugly People).
Release date: August 10, 2011

Anonymous
I'm feeling super literary here with almost all my additions being book released, and this one is close to as it looks at the questioning of who really wrote the works of William Shakespeare. Stars Jamie Campbell Bower, Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave and David Thewlis, and directed by Roland Emmerich.
Release date: September 30, 2011

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
I was semi interested in this John le Carré novel adaptation until the trailer. At that point I was glad I decided not to read the book as it's clear it's a mystery, and I can't wait to see it unfold (and hopefully solved) by lead actor Gary Oldman. Also stars Colin Firth (The King's Speech) and Tom Hardy (Bronson) from director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in).
Release date: November 18, 2011

Today I'm a guest on the podcast Creative Living with Jamie, a podcast that brings inspiration and strategies for bringing creativity to life. It was a lot of fun to chat with Jamie, who is a great creator, cultivator, inspireror and also my sister! Being on the podcast really got me thinking about writing, art and inspirations and I thought it would be a fun to put together a list of inspiring films for the listeners of the show, and for my readers here at Movie Moxie. I hope you enjoy this list of inspiring films!

For the Dreamers

The Tooth Fairy
Yes, it stars The Rock. Yes, it has hockey in it. But the heart of this film is not only about the power of dreams but also the absolute injustice of not supporting them. It's a funny, cute family film that really has a beautiful message.

Bandslam
This film totally snuck up on me, and it's a little coy because it almost hid the fact that the protagonist is a guy, the new guy in town who manages a band of oddballs, including folks from all sides of the tracks, together. It's not all sunshine and daisies but it is about following your dreams and standing up for your beliefs.

Persistence is not Futile: Young Women Who Don't Take No For an Answer!

Gidget
No one is more persistent than Gidget, a teen girl who wants to learn how to surf. Even though it's datedness shows through, there is still a lot to be learned from this 4'3" blond firecracker.

The Secret of Moonacre
Every time I run across a new film with a young, adventurous, persistent female protagonist I wish it had been released when I was a kid. Still fun to enjoy as an adult, this film follows young Maria through her exciting adventures filled with mysterious family history, magic and wonder.

Getting it Done! You. Can. Do. It.!

The Devil Wears Prada
Sometimes seeing someone else do the work can inspire us to do the same. This one was a slow burn on me, as it took a few years to appreciate the all-or-nothing-into-the-work attitude when it comes to learning the ropes and paying your dues, which is certainly what we see here. Plus, the a fashion flick, so their is awesome clothes and fashion references.

Billy Elliot
This one can doubles up for many film lists: dance films, inspiring teacher films, coming of age films but one of the strongest things I take from it is seeing, acknowledging and supporting creativity and the power of persistence and the choice to support and be in the choose arts.

Legends of the Guardian: The Owls of Ga'Hoole
Gorgeous storytelling in this beautiful animated film about bravery, the power of belief and the willingness to stand up for those beliefs.

What Just Happened? Confusion Percolates Inspiration

Mr. Nobody
This beautiful, smart science fiction film will leave you possibly confused but inevitable inspired by it's fascinating ideas. One that is so complicated that it can't help but spiral you to lots of different interesting thinking patterns.

Rashômon
If you've not yet had a chance to see this amazing Akira Kurosawa film, it's time to sit down and see it and it's wonderfully unique storytelling style. You may recognize it as it gets used time and time again, but this is where it came from.

Run Lola Run
Manic & panicked, this face paced crime thrilled is a unique and brilliant film that captivates the audience while we watched the flaming red haired Lola run through the streets of Germany to save her boyfriend.

Would You *Look* at That? Visuals That Say a Thousand Words

Constantine
A darker pick, but with a fantastic and fantastical visual style that follows religious and paranormal beings and creatures that live among us. Absolutely fabulous art director and costumes.

Night Watch / Nochnoi Dozor
This Russian supernatural action flick is the film that really honed in to me that ideas can be understood without verbal language, that you can really get a point across perfectly through visuals, tone and editing. Plus it has the best subtitles ever. And I really mean ever.

Because You Just Have to Be Yourself

Whale Rider **Jamie's Pick**
We end off with Jamie's pick for the list, this New Zealand film is truly inspiring and follows a young girl who sheerly and openly is always 100% herself, 100% of the time, through the good times and bad. Kleenex is definitely required.

Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion
This is my companion pick for Jamie's pick of Whale Rider, not so much that they are alike but because they both demonstrate the power of the choice to supporting your loved ones, which is something that always makes me think of Jamie.

Today I'm a guest on the podcast Creative Living with Jamie, a podcast that brings inspiration and strategies for bringing creativity to life. It was a lot of fun to chat with Jamie, who is a great creator, cultivator, inspireror and also my sister! Being on the podcast really got me thinking about writing, art and inspirations and I thought it would be a fun to put together a list of inspiring films for the listeners of the show, and for my readers here at Movie Moxie. I hope you enjoy this list of inspiring films!

For the Dreamers

The Tooth Fairy
Yes, it stars The Rock. Yes, it has hockey in it. But the heart of this film is not only about the power of dreams but also the absolute injustice of not supporting them. It's a funny, cute family film that really has a beautiful message.

Bandslam
This film totally snuck up on me, and it's a little coy because it almost hid the fact that the protagonist is a guy, the new guy in town who manages a band of oddballs, including folks from all sides of the tracks, together. It's not all sunshine and daisies but it is about following your dreams and standing up for your beliefs.

Persistence is not Futile: Young Women Who Don't Take No For an Answer!

Gidget
No one is more persistent than Gidget, a teen girl who wants to learn how to surf. Even though it's datedness shows through, there is still a lot to be learned from this 4'3" blond firecracker.

The Secret of Moonacre
Every time I run across a new film with a young, adventurous, persistent female protagonist I wish it had been released when I was a kid. Still fun to enjoy as an adult, this film follows young Maria through her exciting adventures filled with mysterious family history, magic and wonder.

Getting it Done! You. Can. Do. It.!

The Devil Wears Prada
Sometimes seeing someone else do the work can inspire us to do the same. This one was a slow burn on me, as it took a few years to appreciate the all-or-nothing-into-the-work attitude when it comes to learning the ropes and paying your dues, which is certainly what we see here. Plus, the a fashion flick, so their is awesome clothes and fashion references.

Billy Elliot
This one can doubles up for many film lists: dance films, inspiring teacher films, coming of age films but one of the strongest things I take from it is seeing, acknowledging and supporting creativity and the power of persistence and the choice to support and be in the choose arts.

Legends of the Guardian: The Owls of Ga'Hoole
Gorgeous storytelling in this beautiful animated film about bravery, the power of belief and the willingness to stand up for those beliefs.

What Just Happened? Confusion Percolates Inspiration

Mr. Nobody
This beautiful, smart science fiction film will leave you possibly confused but inevitable inspired by it's fascinating ideas. One that is so complicated that it can't help but spiral you to lots of different interesting thinking patterns.

Rashômon
If you've not yet had a chance to see this amazing Akira Kurosawa film, it's time to sit down and see it and it's wonderfully unique storytelling style. You may recognize it as it gets used time and time again, but this is where it came from.

Run Lola Run
Manic & panicked, this face paced crime thrilled is a unique and brilliant film that captivates the audience while we watched the flaming red haired Lola run through the streets of Germany to save her boyfriend.

Would You *Look* at That? Visuals That Say a Thousand Words

Constantine
A darker pick, but with a fantastic and fantastical visual style that follows religious and paranormal beings and creatures that live among us. Absolutely fabulous art director and costumes.

Night Watch / Nochnoi Dozor
This Russian supernatural action flick is the film that really honed in to me that ideas can be understood without verbal language, that you can really get a point across perfectly through visuals, tone and editing. Plus it has the best subtitles ever. And I really mean ever.

Because You Just Have to Be Yourself

Whale Rider **Jamie's Pick**
We end off with Jamie's pick for the list, this New Zealand film is truly inspiring and follows a young girl who sheerly and openly is always 100% herself, 100% of the time, through the good times and bad. Kleenex is definitely required.

Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion
This is my companion pick for Jamie's pick of Whale Rider, not so much that they are alike but because they both demonstrate the power of the choice to supporting your loved ones, which is something that always makes me think of Jamie.

Although I found that my 2010 Most Anticipated Films list ended up with as many misses and hits, I can't resist doing it all again and with the rarely excited for releases month of January behind us, it's time to look ahead at what to get excited about in 2011.

There are a few carry overs from last year that got bumped to 2011 that I'm still looking forward to but aren't actually making the list:

• Beastly - A new interpretation of Beauty and the Beast, set in New York. That was really all I needed to know. I read the book it's based on by Alex Flinn last year. The film stars Alex Pettyfer (Wild Child, I Am Number Four), Vanessa Hudgens (Band Slam) and Mary-Kate Olsen. Release date is now March 4, 2011.
• Priest This one has had so many release dates I stopped keeping track after it changed 3 times, but considering it stars Paul Bettany and s of a fantastical / religious nature and has vampires I can't resist it. Also stars Karl Urban (Star Trek) and Cam Gigandet (Twilight) and is directed by Scott Stewart (Legion). Release date is now May 13, 2011
• Hamlet directed by Catherine Hardwick (Twilight) starring Emile Hirsch. This one still has no release date, but I will continue to look forward to it!

Now, back to the official list.

Movie Moxie's 26 Most Anticipated Films of 2011

26. Breaking Dawn: Part 1
I adored Twilight, was disappointed about New Moon and think they got back on track with Eclipse. Although Breaking Dawn is my least favourite of the books, I can't help but be excited for the continuation of the female protagonist romance-fantasy saga based on the highly successful and very well-loved and well-read books. There are also so many things that technically I have no clue how they will do (more so for Part 2 in 2012), both parts star Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner and will be directed by Bill Condon (Dreamgirls). For more twi-goodness check out my co-hosted podcast Before the Dawn: A Twilight Podcast.
Release date: November 18, 2011

25. Fast Five
Likely the oddest entry on the list as I can't tell one freaking car from another, in real life or on the screen. But I actually loved the first Fast and the Furious, mostly because I had just discovered both Vin Diesel (Pitch Black) and Michelle Rodriguez (Girlfight). I haven't seen all of the films in the series, but the trailer for Fast Five won when I saw that this instalment will have Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Yeah. I'm there.
Release date: April 29, 2011

24. Hugo Cabret
One of several films on this list that's doubling up with the 2011 Book to Film Club, and one that I don't know too much about yet other than the fact that it's based on the book The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick inspired by Georges Méliès. the film will be directed by Martin Scorsese and fantastic cast including Chloe Moretz, Emily Mortimer, Jude Law, Sacha Baron Cohen, Michael Pitt, Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone and Christopher Lee.
Release date: December 9, 2011

23. X-Men: First Class
I almost forgot about this one until I was chatting about anticipated films with Marina and realized that yes, of course, X-Men films are always a yes. I didn't love the 3rd one but loved the original, the sequel and the X-Men Origins: Wolverine. X-Men First Class is set in the early days of Xavier (James McAvoy) & Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and has a freaking awesome cast including Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Rose Bryne and Kevin Bacon.
Release date: June 3, 2011

22. The Apparition (2011)
Not much info out on this one yet, but a supernatural thriller starring Tom Felton (Draco from the Harry Potter films) was enough to be a yes for me. Also stars Ashley Greene (Twilight), Luke Pasqualino and Sebastian Stan.
Release date: September 9, 2011
BUMPED to August 24, 2012

21. The Three Musketeers (2011)
Another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club, and I am looking forward to diving into the book and the films is listed as adventure/action/romance (?) but feels very historical/adventure to me. Film stars Milla Jovovich, Logan Lerman, Matthew Macfadyen and Ray Stevenson and will be directed by Paul W.S. Anderson.
Release date: October 14, 2011

20. Drive Angry 3D
Another car-ish film, really? Yeah, yeah I'm full of suprizes this year and I love how this one totally so knows how crazy tongue in cheek it is. It's also... supernatural. Yeah. The cast is awesome: Nicolas Cage (Season of the Witch), Amber Heard (And Soon the Darkness), Billy Burke (Twilight) and William Fichtner (Heat) and directed by Patrick Lussier.
Release date: February 25, 2011

19. The Eagle
Another based on a book film, this is one that is a kids historical adventure series and it feels very sword & sandal-y. Stars Channing Tatum (Step Up, Fighting, Dear John) & Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot, King Kong) and is the earliest release of the year.
Release date: February 11, 2011

18. The Woman in Black
Based on the book by Susan Hill and is about a lawyer who heads to small down to investigate a haunting. Stars Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter films) , Ciarán Hinds and Janet McTeer, directed by James Watkins (Eden Lake). Another 2011 Book to Film Club selection, and the one that I have my fingers the most crossed that we will see it this side of the pod
Release date: October 28, 2011 (UK)
BUMPED to February 3, 2012

17. Source Code
A film from director Duncan Jones, who brought us the brilliance of Moon, is enough to get me interested. Add that it's a action/scifi/thriller starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga and it's a sure-fire must see.
Release date: April 1, 2011

16. Battle: Los Angeles
I wasn't really getting the hype of this one initially, but when the second trailer came out I got all excited for this science fiction / action / war flick. Looks like mostly impressive effects but it feels like it knows that, and I appreciate that.
Release date: March 11, 2011

15. The Tree of Life
Films from director Terrence Mallick (The New World) are must-sees. This one so much so that I'm not even listening, watching or looking for anything about it because I don't want to know to much. Stars Brad Pitt, Sean Penn and Jessica Chastain.
Release date: May 27, 2011

14. Immortals
Another always must-see director for amazing visuals and atmospheres is Tarsem (The Cell, The Fall) and this one is Gods vs Titans. Can't wait. Stars Mickey Rourke, Kellan Lutz, Henry Cavill, John Hurt, Stephen Dorff and Freida Pinto.
Release date: November 11, 2011

13. Drive
One I know little about, another hat-not to Marina on this one but I will forever and always see films be directed Nicolas Winding Refn (The Pusher Trilogy, Valhalla Rising, Bronson), this one stars a stunt man who becomes involve in heists. That's all kinds of awesome in my book. Stars Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan and Bryan Cranston.
Release date: September 16, 2011

12. I Am Number Four
Based on the book by Pittacus Lore (book is Part 1 in the Lorien Legacies, a proposed six-book series), which is a young adult science fiction novel with film adaptation starring Alex Pettyfer (Wild Child, Beastly), Timothy Olyphant (High Life), Teresa Palmer, Dianna Agron, Kevin Durand, and CallanMcAuliffe. Directed by D. J. Caruso (Eagle Eye, The Salton Sea). Another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club.
Release date: February 18, 2011

11. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
I really, really enjoyed the first one and can't wait to see what director Guy Ritchie comes up with to see more adventures of Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and Watson (Jude Law). This one also stars Noomi Rapace (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo / Män som hatar kvinnor).
Release date: December 16, 2011

10. Red Riding Hood
Thriller/Drama/Historical and Werewolves is a yes. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Twilight) and starring Amanda Seyfried (Chloe, Letters to Juliet, Dear John), Lukas Haas (Mars Attacks, Inception), Gary Oldman, Billy Burke (Twilight, Drive Angry), Julie Christie & Virginia Madsen.
Release date: March 11, 2011

9. The Muppets (2011)
Do you need to know more. It's the Muppets! It's time to get things started... it's time to... The most sensational, inspirational, celebrational...!!
Release date: December 23, 2011

8. Warrior
Tom Hardy (Bronson), Joel Edgerton (The Square), MMA, troubled home life & training for a tournament. Gets better and better after each comma there. Also stars Nick Nolte & Jennifer Morrison, directed by Gavin O'Connor (Pride & Glory).
Release date: September 9, 2011

7. Water for Elephants
Based on the much loved book by Sara Gruen, and follows a veterinarian student who runs away with the circus. Stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz and James Frain. Directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine).
Yet another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club,
Release date: April 22, 2011

6. Curling
Denis Côte (Nos vies privées / Our Private Lives, Carcasses) is one of my always must-see directors, he's got a very unique emotional sensitivity and picks fascinating topics for his films. I always look forward to see what he will get up to next.
Release date: March 4, 2011

5. Thor
I was only ho-hum interested in this film until I saw the trailer, which instantly grabbed me. Based on a fallen from grace Nordic God is stars Chris Hemsworth (as Thor), plus Anthony Hopkins and Natalie Portman and directed by Kenneth Branagh. Can't freaking wait.
Release date: May 6, 2011

4. Sur le rythme
Dance film alert! And Canadian to book. That was enough to me to get all excited, let along the fact that So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 1 winner Nico Archambault is in it! He's awesome. The film follows Delphine (Mylène St-Sauveur) and feels like it has that great blend of dance film & coming into your own. love that. Directed by Charles-Olivier Michaud. Shout out to Anh Khoi Do for this one and you can see the trailer at The Culture Post here.
Release date: Ete (Summer) 2011. I really hope this one makes it to English Canada too!

3. The Thing (2011)
I'm not usually a prequel fan but I am making an exception to that rule for this prequel to the fantastic John Carpenter 1982 film The Thing, and I'm totally loving the cast here with Joel Edgerton, Ulrich Thomsen, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Eric Christian Olsen and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Feature film directorial debut by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Release date: October 14, 2011

2. The Adjustment Bureau
One of the few carry-overs from last years lists and the trailers stopped me dead in my tracks, wanting to know more but not needing to know more because I knew I would see it. Stars Emily Blunt (The Wolfman (2010), The Devil Wears Prada) & Matt Damon (The Bourne Trilogy, Gerry) in a romance/sci-fi flick with a chance meeting of a politician & a ballerina lead to mysterious complications. Based on the short story by Philip K. Dick and directed by George Nolfi.
Release date: March 4, 2011

1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
Was there any double this would be number 1? The whole 10 year film series based on the books by J.K. Rowling novels (which I re-read in their entirely last year) comes to a close this summer. I've absolutely adored the series so far, and loved Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and is easily one of my favourite series ever.
Release date: July 15, 2011

Plus: Mid-Year Additions

Rise of the Planet of the Apes
I, like many, wasn't a huge fan of the recent Planet of the Apes reboot and with that I pretty much wrote off this new version until I saw the trailer, and I was captivated. It looks like there really is an interesting story and moral question in there. Cast includes James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, Tom Felton and Andy Serkis, and it's directed by Rupert Wyatt (The Escapist).
Release date: August 5, 2011

One Day
This is earnestly a recommendation that started though the power of Twitter. I was looking to fill the last spot for 2011 for the Book to Film Club, and was instantly won over by the idea of seeing two peoples lives and relationship unfolded by seeing them 1 day a year over many years. I loved the idea and I simply adored the book. I think the casting of Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Getting Married) and Jim Sturgess (Across the Universe, Heartless), is simply perfect. Directed by Lone Scherfig (An Education).
Release date: August 19, 2011

The Help
Another Book to Film Club Selection that won me over, this one based on the book The Help by Kathryn Stockett, this one is set in Mississippi during the early 1960s the centred on unlikely friendships and courageous women. Stars Emma Stone (Paper Man), Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, Directed by Tate Taylor (Pretty Ugly People).
Release date: August 10, 2011

Anonymous
I'm feeling super literary here with almost all my additions being book released, and this one is close to as it looks at the questioning of who really wrote the works of William Shakespeare. Stars Jamie Campbell Bower, Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave and David Thewlis, and directed by Roland Emmerich.
Release date: September 30, 2011

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
I was semi interested in this John le Carré novel adaptation until the trailer. At that point I was glad I decided not to read the book as it's clear it's a mystery, and I can't wait to see it unfold (and hopefully solved) by lead actor Gary Oldman. Also stars Colin Firth (The King's Speech) and Tom Hardy (Bronson) from director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in).
Release date: November 18, 2011

Although I found that my 2010 Most Anticipated Films list ended up with as many misses and hits, I can't resist doing it all again and with the rarely excited for releases month of January behind us, it's time to look ahead at what to get excited about in 2011.

There are a few carry overs from last year that got bumped to 2011 that I'm still looking forward to but aren't actually making the list:

• Beastly - A new interpretation of Beauty and the Beast, set in New York. That was really all I needed to know. I read the book it's based on by Alex Flinn last year. The film stars Alex Pettyfer (Wild Child, I Am Number Four), Vanessa Hudgens (Band Slam) and Mary-Kate Olsen. Release date is now March 4, 2011.
• Priest This one has had so many release dates I stopped keeping track after it changed 3 times, but considering it stars Paul Bettany and s of a fantastical / religious nature and has vampires I can't resist it. Also stars Karl Urban (Star Trek) and Cam Gigandet (Twilight) and is directed by Scott Stewart (Legion). Release date is now May 13, 2011
• Hamlet directed by Catherine Hardwick (Twilight) starring Emile Hirsch. This one still has no release date, but I will continue to look forward to it!

Now, back to the official list.

Movie Moxie's 26 Most Anticipated Films of 2011

26. Breaking Dawn: Part 1
I adored Twilight, was disappointed about New Moon and think they got back on track with Eclipse. Although Breaking Dawn is my least favourite of the books, I can't help but be excited for the continuation of the female protagonist romance-fantasy saga based on the highly successful and very well-loved and well-read books. There are also so many things that technically I have no clue how they will do (more so for Part 2 in 2012), both parts star Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner and will be directed by Bill Condon (Dreamgirls). For more twi-goodness check out my co-hosted podcast Before the Dawn: A Twilight Podcast.
Release date: November 18, 2011

25. Fast Five
Likely the oddest entry on the list as I can't tell one freaking car from another, in real life or on the screen. But I actually loved the first Fast and the Furious, mostly because I had just discovered both Vin Diesel (Pitch Black) and Michelle Rodriguez (Girlfight). I haven't seen all of the films in the series, but the trailer for Fast Five won when I saw that this instalment will have Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Yeah. I'm there.
Release date: April 29, 2011

24. Hugo Cabret
One of several films on this list that's doubling up with the 2011 Book to Film Club, and one that I don't know too much about yet other than the fact that it's based on the book The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick inspired by Georges Méliès. the film will be directed by Martin Scorsese and fantastic cast including Chloe Moretz, Emily Mortimer, Jude Law, Sacha Baron Cohen, Michael Pitt, Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone and Christopher Lee.
Release date: December 9, 2011

23. X-Men: First Class
I almost forgot about this one until I was chatting about anticipated films with Marina and realized that yes, of course, X-Men films are always a yes. I didn't love the 3rd one but loved the original, the sequel and the X-Men Origins: Wolverine. X-Men First Class is set in the early days of Xavier (James McAvoy) & Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and has a freaking awesome cast including Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Rose Bryne and Kevin Bacon.
Release date: June 3, 2011

22. The Apparition (2011)
Not much info out on this one yet, but a supernatural thriller starring Tom Felton (Draco from the Harry Potter films) was enough to be a yes for me. Also stars Ashley Greene (Twilight), Luke Pasqualino and Sebastian Stan.
Release date: September 9, 2011
BUMPED to August 24, 2012

21. The Three Musketeers (2011)
Another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club, and I am looking forward to diving into the book and the films is listed as adventure/action/romance (?) but feels very historical/adventure to me. Film stars Milla Jovovich, Logan Lerman, Matthew Macfadyen and Ray Stevenson and will be directed by Paul W.S. Anderson.
Release date: October 14, 2011

20. Drive Angry 3D
Another car-ish film, really? Yeah, yeah I'm full of suprizes this year and I love how this one totally so knows how crazy tongue in cheek it is. It's also... supernatural. Yeah. The cast is awesome: Nicolas Cage (Season of the Witch), Amber Heard (And Soon the Darkness), Billy Burke (Twilight) and William Fichtner (Heat) and directed by Patrick Lussier.
Release date: February 25, 2011

19. The Eagle
Another based on a book film, this is one that is a kids historical adventure series and it feels very sword & sandal-y. Stars Channing Tatum (Step Up, Fighting, Dear John) & Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot, King Kong) and is the earliest release of the year.
Release date: February 11, 2011

18. The Woman in Black
Based on the book by Susan Hill and is about a lawyer who heads to small down to investigate a haunting. Stars Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter films) , Ciarán Hinds and Janet McTeer, directed by James Watkins (Eden Lake). Another 2011 Book to Film Club selection, and the one that I have my fingers the most crossed that we will see it this side of the pod
Release date: October 28, 2011 (UK)
BUMPED to February 3, 2012

17. Source Code
A film from director Duncan Jones, who brought us the brilliance of Moon, is enough to get me interested. Add that it's a action/scifi/thriller starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga and it's a sure-fire must see.
Release date: April 1, 2011

16. Battle: Los Angeles
I wasn't really getting the hype of this one initially, but when the second trailer came out I got all excited for this science fiction / action / war flick. Looks like mostly impressive effects but it feels like it knows that, and I appreciate that.
Release date: March 11, 2011

15. The Tree of Life
Films from director Terrence Mallick (The New World) are must-sees. This one so much so that I'm not even listening, watching or looking for anything about it because I don't want to know to much. Stars Brad Pitt, Sean Penn and Jessica Chastain.
Release date: May 27, 2011

14. Immortals
Another always must-see director for amazing visuals and atmospheres is Tarsem (The Cell, The Fall) and this one is Gods vs Titans. Can't wait. Stars Mickey Rourke, Kellan Lutz, Henry Cavill, John Hurt, Stephen Dorff and Freida Pinto.
Release date: November 11, 2011

13. Drive
One I know little about, another hat-not to Marina on this one but I will forever and always see films be directed Nicolas Winding Refn (The Pusher Trilogy, Valhalla Rising, Bronson), this one stars a stunt man who becomes involve in heists. That's all kinds of awesome in my book. Stars Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan and Bryan Cranston.
Release date: September 16, 2011

12. I Am Number Four
Based on the book by Pittacus Lore (book is Part 1 in the Lorien Legacies, a proposed six-book series), which is a young adult science fiction novel with film adaptation starring Alex Pettyfer (Wild Child, Beastly), Timothy Olyphant (High Life), Teresa Palmer, Dianna Agron, Kevin Durand, and CallanMcAuliffe. Directed by D. J. Caruso (Eagle Eye, The Salton Sea). Another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club.
Release date: February 18, 2011

11. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
I really, really enjoyed the first one and can't wait to see what director Guy Ritchie comes up with to see more adventures of Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and Watson (Jude Law). This one also stars Noomi Rapace (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo / Män som hatar kvinnor).
Release date: December 16, 2011

10. Red Riding Hood
Thriller/Drama/Historical and Werewolves is a yes. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Twilight) and starring Amanda Seyfried (Chloe, Letters to Juliet, Dear John), Lukas Haas (Mars Attacks, Inception), Gary Oldman, Billy Burke (Twilight, Drive Angry), Julie Christie & Virginia Madsen.
Release date: March 11, 2011

9. The Muppets (2011)
Do you need to know more. It's the Muppets! It's time to get things started... it's time to... The most sensational, inspirational, celebrational...!!
Release date: December 23, 2011

8. Warrior
Tom Hardy (Bronson), Joel Edgerton (The Square), MMA, troubled home life & training for a tournament. Gets better and better after each comma there. Also stars Nick Nolte & Jennifer Morrison, directed by Gavin O'Connor (Pride & Glory).
Release date: September 9, 2011

7. Water for Elephants
Based on the much loved book by Sara Gruen, and follows a veterinarian student who runs away with the circus. Stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz and James Frain. Directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine).
Yet another selection that's also in the 2011 Book to Film Club,
Release date: April 22, 2011

6. Curling
Denis Côte (Nos vies privées / Our Private Lives, Carcasses) is one of my always must-see directors, he's got a very unique emotional sensitivity and picks fascinating topics for his films. I always look forward to see what he will get up to next.
Release date: March 4, 2011

5. Thor
I was only ho-hum interested in this film until I saw the trailer, which instantly grabbed me. Based on a fallen from grace Nordic God is stars Chris Hemsworth (as Thor), plus Anthony Hopkins and Natalie Portman and directed by Kenneth Branagh. Can't freaking wait.
Release date: May 6, 2011

4. Sur le rythme
Dance film alert! And Canadian to book. That was enough to me to get all excited, let along the fact that So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 1 winner Nico Archambault is in it! He's awesome. The film follows Delphine (Mylène St-Sauveur) and feels like it has that great blend of dance film & coming into your own. love that. Directed by Charles-Olivier Michaud. Shout out to Anh Khoi Do for this one and you can see the trailer at The Culture Post here.
Release date: Ete (Summer) 2011. I really hope this one makes it to English Canada too!

3. The Thing (2011)
I'm not usually a prequel fan but I am making an exception to that rule for this prequel to the fantastic John Carpenter 1982 film The Thing, and I'm totally loving the cast here with Joel Edgerton, Ulrich Thomsen, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Eric Christian Olsen and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Feature film directorial debut by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Release date: October 14, 2011

2. The Adjustment Bureau
One of the few carry-overs from last years lists and the trailers stopped me dead in my tracks, wanting to know more but not needing to know more because I knew I would see it. Stars Emily Blunt (The Wolfman (2010), The Devil Wears Prada) & Matt Damon (The Bourne Trilogy, Gerry) in a romance/sci-fi flick with a chance meeting of a politician & a ballerina lead to mysterious complications. Based on the short story by Philip K. Dick and directed by George Nolfi.
Release date: March 4, 2011

1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
Was there any double this would be number 1? The whole 10 year film series based on the books by J.K. Rowling novels (which I re-read in their entirely last year) comes to a close this summer. I've absolutely adored the series so far, and loved Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and is easily one of my favourite series ever.
Release date: July 15, 2011

Plus: Mid-Year Additions

Rise of the Planet of the Apes
I, like many, wasn't a huge fan of the recent Planet of the Apes reboot and with that I pretty much wrote off this new version until I saw the trailer, and I was captivated. It looks like there really is an interesting story and moral question in there. Cast includes James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, Tom Felton and Andy Serkis, and it's directed by Rupert Wyatt (The Escapist).
Release date: August 5, 2011

One Day
This is earnestly a recommendation that started though the power of Twitter. I was looking to fill the last spot for 2011 for the Book to Film Club, and was instantly won over by the idea of seeing two peoples lives and relationship unfolded by seeing them 1 day a year over many years. I loved the idea and I simply adored the book. I think the casting of Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Getting Married) and Jim Sturgess (Across the Universe, Heartless), is simply perfect. Directed by Lone Scherfig (An Education).
Release date: August 19, 2011

The Help
Another Book to Film Club Selection that won me over, this one based on the book The Help by Kathryn Stockett, this one is set in Mississippi during the early 1960s the centred on unlikely friendships and courageous women. Stars Emma Stone (Paper Man), Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, Directed by Tate Taylor (Pretty Ugly People).
Release date: August 10, 2011

Anonymous
I'm feeling super literary here with almost all my additions being book released, and this one is close to as it looks at the questioning of who really wrote the works of William Shakespeare. Stars Jamie Campbell Bower, Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave and David Thewlis, and directed by Roland Emmerich.
Release date: September 30, 2011

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
I was semi interested in this John le Carré novel adaptation until the trailer. At that point I was glad I decided not to read the book as it's clear it's a mystery, and I can't wait to see it unfold (and hopefully solved) by lead actor Gary Oldman. Also stars Colin Firth (The King's Speech) and Tom Hardy (Bronson) from director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In / Låt den rätte komma in).
Release date: November 18, 2011

The first Friday of each year marks freeing time for me, because it's the time when I start to make new archive lists. Although it may looks like link bombardment, for me it's exciting to see the lists build of 2011 release by title and by date, and also new box office lists of #1's by week and by weekend gross. And I'll have a new list up soon for 2011 release, after I've reviewed films that are from this year, Country Strong and Season of the Witch are likely candidates for first entries to that list. These are lists I update every week diligently and often peruse over the year.

I've always been a list maker, but usually for my own to do's, goals, etc, but several years back when I started getting back into film I was all about the lists. How many titles have I seen from this list or that list? Often I looked at what I loved and hated, but more often I was just obsessed with how much I had seen - was it all of the titles? Could I see all the films? Could I even *find* them all?

This was heightened during any awards season. I was (and still do) craft this in multiple formats: by category, by film (detailed) and by film (simple number of nominations), the world work to see all the films before the awards show. I've never done that, never saw them all. But, I got interested in number of titles, and then looked even further and wondered what films even qualified for this list? That was harder to find, and usually I could only find the parameters of the list but not the list itself. And those parameters were pretty wide, and usually were something like 'all releases in specific location for at least 7 days consecutively'. But I could never find anyone who was tracking that. The IMDb list by year is enormous and doesn't filter out DVD from Theatrical, plus you can pin point it to US release date - but I don't live there! I live in Toronto, Canada. It's a whole different country!

Then I had a total Mike moment from A Chorus Line where I said "I can do that!" We get lots of releases here in Toronto, and I can track what comes out every week! I can ever share it with others so that they know what's been out this week, month, year. I can look back on that list, a list of films that I actually had access to see and that people around me might have seen to and would be talking about. It also shows the film tempo of the city each year. I keep the standard up of a one-week consecutive day release as a guideline and presto! Now I have are archive including titles from 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and this week the cycle starts again the first six films released in 2011.

I love being able to look back at this list throughout the year, to print it off and have a highlighter handy and mark of the ones I've seen, or the ones I want to see. Or to look back at the list after the years have gone by and go "Wow, that was a good year" or "That was the year that westerns came back" or "That was the year that superhero movies exploded". I love looking at information from different angles, and having an archive is a like diving into puzzle where you don't know what the end picture looks like but you have all the piece. As we put together each piece of this years puzzle, I wonder what 2011 will bring, and what it's picture will say. What do you think 2011 will bring?

The first Friday of each year marks freeing time for me, because it's the time when I start to make new archive lists. Although it may looks like link bombardment, for me it's exciting to see the lists build of 2011 release by title and by date, and also new box office lists of #1's by week and by weekend gross. And I'll have a new list up soon for 2011 release, after I've reviewed films that are from this year, Country Strong and Season of the Witch are likely candidates for first entries to that list. These are lists I update every week diligently and often peruse over the year.

I've always been a list maker, but usually for my own to do's, goals, etc, but several years back when I started getting back into film I was all about the lists. How many titles have I seen from this list or that list? Often I looked at what I loved and hated, but more often I was just obsessed with how much I had seen - was it all of the titles? Could I see all the films? Could I even *find* them all?

This was heightened during any awards season. I was (and still do) craft this in multiple formats: by category, by film (detailed) and by film (simple number of nominations), the world work to see all the films before the awards show. I've never done that, never saw them all. But, I got interested in number of titles, and then looked even further and wondered what films even qualified for this list? That was harder to find, and usually I could only find the parameters of the list but not the list itself. And those parameters were pretty wide, and usually were something like 'all releases in specific location for at least 7 days consecutively'. But I could never find anyone who was tracking that. The IMDb list by year is enormous and doesn't filter out DVD from Theatrical, plus you can pin point it to US release date - but I don't live there! I live in Toronto, Canada. It's a whole different country!

Then I had a total Mike moment from A Chorus Line where I said "I can do that!" We get lots of releases here in Toronto, and I can track what comes out every week! I can ever share it with others so that they know what's been out this week, month, year. I can look back on that list, a list of films that I actually had access to see and that people around me might have seen to and would be talking about. It also shows the film tempo of the city each year. I keep the standard up of a one-week consecutive day release as a guideline and presto! Now I have are archive including titles from 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and this week the cycle starts again the first six films released in 2011.

I love being able to look back at this list throughout the year, to print it off and have a highlighter handy and mark of the ones I've seen, or the ones I want to see. Or to look back at the list after the years have gone by and go "Wow, that was a good year" or "That was the year that westerns came back" or "That was the year that superhero movies exploded". I love looking at information from different angles, and having an archive is a like diving into puzzle where you don't know what the end picture looks like but you have all the piece. As we put together each piece of this years puzzle, I wonder what 2011 will bring, and what it's picture will say. What do you think 2011 will bring?