2011

——THE ESSENTIALS—––

BRIDESMAIDS (Paul Feig)

A master class in how to make a comedy. Makes it look easy. It isn’t. Everybody shines in this one. From top to bottom, Kristen Wiig (also co-writer), Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Ellie Kemper, the lot!

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATOO (David Fincher)

Another remake, this time from a 2009 original from Sweden (itself based on the 2005 Swedish novel). And again, a success. Strange, wonderful and strangely wonderful. Great casting, as a punk computer hacker with a past (Rooney Mara) joins forces with a journalist (Daniel Craig) to solve a mystery for a wealthy patriarch (Christopher Plummer). Fincher’s meticulous direction keeps the plot points in line while exploring a most unusual relationship.

——JEFF’S PICKS——

THE DESCENDANTS (Alexander Payne)

Another gem from director Alexander Payne, who also took an Oscar for co-adapting the screenplay. George Clooney navigates the choppy waters of familial love and loss, legacy and betrayal. Oh, and also while trying to raise 10-yr and 17-yr old girls. Payne’s familiar blend of humanity and unflinching dark humor make everything feel real. Like lives truly lived. A winner.

DRIVE (Nicolas Winding Refn)

Ryan Gosling scores as a stunt double and part-time getaway driver in this nifty Indie. Hard to pidgeon-hole, there’s action, dark humor and the human touch. Creates its own little universe, tough and tender. Carey Mulligan co-stars along with Albert Brooks, Bryan Cranston, Oscar Isaac and Ron Perlman. Refn won the Best Director award at Cannes for his efforts.

SHAME (Steve McQueen)

A harrowing character study of a man trapped in his self-loathing, sex addiction, anger and loneliness. Michael Fassbender is devastating as the tortured Brandon, who lives a precarious double life as a successful, functioning human being. Carey Mulligan is heart-breaking as his emotionally scarred sister. Not your average feel-good movie or a good choice for a first date. But a deeply rewarding experience for discriminating adults.