1. Toy Story 3
Most have come to expect greatness from Pixar, but 'Toy Story 3' is undisputed Oscar material- and not just in the animated category, either. At the very least, it deserves a nomination for 'Best Picture,' and I'd venture that it deserves to win.
2. Harry Brown
Michael Caine is at his best - as if he ever isn't- in a brutal film which might be measured as a halfway point between 'Gran Torino' and 'Taken,' but, like those other two films, sits comfortably in it's own category.
"You failed to maintain your weapon, son."
3. Kick-Ass
It's difficult to describe the sweet surprise that comes with one's first viewing of 'Kick-Ass.' But one phrase would be "HELL YES!!" Not appropriate for audiences who disapprove of Quentin Tarantino-style violence.
The true star of the film: Chloe Moretz as Hit Girl.
4. The Book of Eli
*Spoiler Alert* 'Mad Max' meets Christianity. Denzel Washington as the wandering "Eli" proves that faith and manliness go hand-in-hand. Gary Oldman as the power-worshipping "Carnegie" helps make it a wonderful experience.
"We walk by faith, not by sight."
5. True Grit
A good, solid Western if I ever saw one. Not as intense as 'Unforgiven,' but arguably an improvement on the original (Besides John Wayne, of course). Hailee Steinfeld also makes an unforgettable debut as Mattie Ross, outperforming costar Matt Damon with ease. Jeff Bridges is no John Wayne, but he wears an eyepatch well and handles the role of Rooster Cogburn nicely.
6. Let Me In
As tender as it is terrifying (think Nicholas Sparks meets Stephen King). But mostly terrifying.
Believable performances by child actors Kodi Smit-Mcphee ('The Road') and Chloe Moretz ('Kick-Ass') as well as an old-fashioned, subtle filming style help make this the best vampire movie in decades, surpassing even the original Swedish film.
7. Iron Man 2
It may lack a "jump-out-of-your-seat" moment (i.e. when Iron Man punched an Islamic terrorist in the first film), but you just can't deny how damned entertaining this sequel is. Mickey Rourke plays the villain with gusto, and Scarlett Johansson proves once and for all that you CAN beat up henchmen and look good while doing it.
And did I mention the explosions?
8. Resident Evil: Afterlife
Sometimes you just can't trust critics. Or your friends, for that matter.
Despite bad reviews, I enjoyed every minute of the fourth entry in the 'Resident Evil' franchise. Milla Jovovich is one of the best genre actresses around, and she's not bad-looking either. Leave your brain at the door, and enjoy the party.
9. From Paris With Love
Bald is badass. 'Nuff said.
10. The Expendables
Sylvester Stallone, Jet Li, Bruce Willis, and every other action star under the sun, with the conspicuous absence of a certain Texas Ranger. Absolutely necessary viewing if you consider yourself a fan of action movies. There are no surprises here, but it's all worth it for a couple hours of mindless escapism.
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