Top 5 Movies of 2010-2014

This will be a 5 part series where I pick my 5 favourite films within 5 year time periods, enjoy :)


1. Life of Pi (2012)

This is one of the greatest films ever, not just of this time period, because it is visually flawless but also manages to make the story of a boy in a boat fascinating (something that I felt that the book didn't do). Also, any film that shows animals in such a positive, respectful and realistic light makes me happy. The veteran director Ang Lee creates another stellar film but doesn't rest on famous actors, instead casting the unknown Suraj Sharma in the lead, which shows the strength of his conviction in his film not needing big names to draw in the audiences. You could watch this film with the sound off and just enjoy how beautiful it is and the superior CGI, however I do feel that it will begin to look dated as a lot of films do because technology is constantly advancing and we become more aware. Life of Pi is a film that I not only enjoyed but I believe is a master-class of film-making and I hope that it is one of those enduring films in the future.



2. Inception (2010)

Confusing to some but enjoyable for all, with an amazing cast, director and writer this film couldn't really fail and certainly didn't disappoint. The film was advertised in such an odd way that I remember going to the cinema without a clue of what will happen and, to be honest, throughout the film I was a little confused, but after millions of re-watches it actually makes sense. It's a typical Nolan film with a lot of complexities and subtleties, so if you like Nolan's style then this will be for you, and if you don't watch it anyway! This film is dripping with stars, worthy of their fame, and carries Nolan's name which is possibly a reason for its initially success, however the film itself that has made it endure. The best thing about this film was that everyone walked out excited, thinking and discussing which is what a film should make its audience do.



3. Toy Story 3 (2010)

I am a major Pixar fan girl, so obviously Pixar will appear on some of these lists, and the Toy Story trilogy are three equally amazing films and an incredible trilogy. Toy Story 3 does what the other two did, introduces amazing new characters, makes you fall in love with the old ones again, and spends 100 minutes focusing on a charming story. The first film came out 15 years before this, and this means that many of the little ones who watched the first were grown and therefore the emotional kick behind this narrative hit home for a lot of people. It has the Pixar heart of humour mixed with emotion and works so well for children and adults. This film is one of the most emotive Pixar films, making most people cry at some point, and would be a fitting end to the trilogy, although I think (and hope) it will become a tetralogy.



4. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

Although this is a recent discovery, it is a great one, because this film is so charming, witty and beautiful that it jut makes me smile. Similar to Inception because it has a big cast and very famous director, so it was going to successful but, again, the actual film lived up to expectations and quickly became my favourite of this year so far. It's another beautiful film and focuses on every little detail to ensure that each shot is perfected. The plot was good, although when writing this review I forgot what it was so clearly the film focuses less on the major plot but rather focuses on the more minor details, which is fine because you never lose the point of the film, you just don't focus on it. Sometimes Wes Anderson films go over my head but this one was perfect, so even if you're not a Wes Anderson fan you could try this film to ease yourself in; I think the main tip is to just go along with everything that happens without quetioning it.



5. The Intouchables (2011)

I do like a good French film but rarely find films in foreign languages funny because there is a barrier because of the reading and linguistic nuances, but this film was laugh-out-loud funny. I'm surprised it didn't get more Oscar attention, but I suppose the 'foreign language' film award is generally given to more emotive films. Despite being overlooked by the American awards this film is an impressive balance of humour and emotion so that you care about the characters and like them. It's one of the few French films that I've seen but if more are like this I hope French films become more commonly shown in England. Both actors are going on to do more English/American films and I would love to see the writers/directors to also do a film in English, just so that I can fully appreciate one of their films (especially with my lazy nature).

Animation Week (Day 1): 5 Best Pixar Films

1. Up (2009)
Charming, funny and beautiful. Fascinating story about dealing with the loss of a loved one and seeking adventure. The main reason this is my number one is because of the flawless opening sequence which, to this day, is one of the greatest cinematic openings ever. You'll laugh, you'll genuinely cry and you'll leave the cinema smiling. What more could you want from a film?



2. Toy Story (1995)
This film is filled with amazing characters, not just Woody and Buzz, who can make any adult or child laugh. The soundtrack for this film was particularly strong, especially with Randy Newman's amazing voice put to the opening credits. Considering how old the animation is, it doesn't look too dated and is a testament to Pixar as not just great story-tellers but also astonishing animators. This, as a first film, is possibly the strongest start a company can ever have. Toy Story captures the magic of childhood in a way few other films have managed to do.



3. Toy Story 3 (2010)
A great way to (potentially) end this trilogy. Similar to Toy Story 2, this adds in a few new characters to help keep momentum going (and generate more merchandise). This came out when I was turning 18 so the growing and leaving things you love behind really hits home for me, and many people in my generation. Yet another Pixar film that will make you feel every emotion under the sun. I don't know if there will be a 4th, or if it's even necessary but a 4th instalment would be welcomed by me.



4. Wall-E (2008)
Probably the prettiest Pixar film, they even managed to make living in a wasteland look romantic. Wall-E is somehow one of the most endearing characters even without really speaking and no recognisable facial movements. Although it can be read as slightly preachy about Global Warming, it's told in such a friendly way that most people won't mind. The love story, which is quite rare in Pixar films, is so endearing and enjoyable but doesn't overtake the plot. I can't believe that Pixar managed to make, what is essentially, a dystopian film and still make it charming.



5. Monster's Inc (2001)
Probably the funniest of Pixar's film but it doesn't shy away from the sentimental stuff either. Pixar do pairing very well (Woody and Buzz, Marlin and Dory) but Mike and Sully are my favourite friends. Watching this after having seen Monster's Uni, I was shocked at how simplistic the animation is (go back and re-watch, it's weird) but Pixar were so ambitious for their time, especially with Sully's fur, it's amazing that it looked as good as it did. I was even some how converted into liking little Boo, which is another achievement because I am an adamant child disliker. I was so pleased when Monster's Uni came out, but I do want a sequel to see how Boo turns out.


 P.S. Having finished this list I keep thinking of all the other Pixar films that could be here. Top 5 really does chop and change depending on how I'm feeling. To be honest, you can't go wrong with any Pixar film, so this list is almost irrelevant. Left it until the end to say so though ;)

Toy Story 3 (2010)

* * * * 1/2

A marvellous addition to the Pixar collection and a strong third in the series, however it is definitely one of a series and not a stand-alone film. Pixar mix classic jokes and new characters to appease the fans while updating the films.

The story is the same as before, the toys need to get back to Andy, but it is injected with an emotional ending that the others do not have. Pixar have found a formula for these films which works so well and they rejuvenate it with each film rather than just resting on the knowledge that millions will flock to see a Pixar film regardless. Despite the familiar plot this film is never predictable and there are several moments when you do not know what is coming next.

The Pixar team have also stepped up their animation and it was clear watching this film that, while they maintained the look of all the characters that this was a cleaner, clearer depiction than the first or second films. As in all the best Pixar films the audience laughs and cries while sitting on the edge of their seat in interest. Many of the audience, having grown up with the characters, can feel satisfied with this (possible) conclusion to the trilogy.