In 1945, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (the "Oscar" people) reduced the number of nominees for the "Best Picture" award from 10 to five.
This year, they have gone back to the old system, and thus opened the field for some worthy films that may have been overlooked if only five were to be considered.
Two of the best movies of 2009 were animated features, one was a science-fiction drama with political overtones, one was a multimedia amazement and one was an old-school, stop-action animation wonder. In a field of five, none of these movies would likely have a chance.
All in all, 2009 was a great year in film. I can think of more than 10 movies that deserve an Oscar nod, but I've limited this list to the number that the Academy has chosen.
In no particular order, they are:
"Up"
The Pixar people, who started with "Toy Story," delivered again. "Up" is a marvel of animation but, more importantly, features an undisputedly great plot and wonderful character development. It won't win the Oscar, but if it did, no dyed-in-the-wool movie lover would mind.
It's available on DVD.
"9"
Another fantastic animated film with great writing behind it. "9" is a post-apocalyptic tale of redemption. The characters seem more real than many of the ones featured in live-action, lesser developed films. It's out on DVD and comes with the original short film upon which the feature was based.
"The Road"
Speaking of post-apocalyptic tales, this film based on Cormac McCarthy's best-selling novel is as bleak as a movie gets. But its powerful story and beautiful cinematography make it a worthy contender. It's still playing at The Moxie.
"Fantastic Mr. Fox"
Stop-action animation at its finest and an idiosyncratic director in Wes Anderson made this adaptation of the Roald Dahl novel a marvel to behold. It's not currently showing or available on DVD, but watch for it to come to The Palace Theatre soon.
"Where the Wild Things Are"
It's based on the 1963 children's book by Maurice Sendak. Director Spike Jonze ("Being John Malkovich," "Adaptation") combines live action, costumes, animatronics and computer-generated images with results that move the viewer. It really is movie magic. It's playing at the Palace.
"Inglorious Basterds"
Quentin Tarantino serves up another film filled with violence, uncomfortable humor, great dialogue and his brand of storytelling. Brad Pitt has never had a better role or given a better performance. It's not currently playing in town and not available on DVD.
"Up In The Air"
Director Jason Reitman's third film, following "Juno" and "Thank You For Smoking," completes a hat trick for him. He's yet to make a bad movie. George Clooney's affable charm makes him the the most lovable corporate-hatchet-man-for-hire that one could ever imagine.
This film stands as the odds-on favorite to win the most Oscars, including the one for best picture. It's still playing at the Campbell 16 Ciné.
"Star Trek"
I was apprehensive to see yet another "Star Trek" film. I liked the original TV show, but of the 10 major motion pictures I only found "Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan" to be worth the price of admission.
2009's retake on the entire franchise, even being a "prequel," is the best of anything ever committed to screen associated with "Star Trek." It's available on DVD.
"A Serious Man"
Only two words to describe this film: Coen Brothers. If you like them you'll love it.
I loved it.
"District 9"
This is science fiction/fantasy/action at its best with serious political, sociological underpinnings. The special effects add to, rather than distract from, the viewing experience.
There were many other great movies this year. Critics rave about "Precious"; I've not seen it yet so I'm not able to comment on it, but everything I've read about it leads me to believe it is a great piece of work.
On a broader list, it would be fair to include "Coraline," "Zombieland," "Crazy Heart," "Food, Inc.," "The Blind Side," "Julie and Julia," "Drag Me To Hell," "The Cove" and "An Education."[[In-content Ad]]
Jim Wunderle owns Wunderle Sound Services and is a Springfield freelance writer and musician. He can be reached at info@wunderlesound.com.
