We could’ve had it all: Best films of 2011
(Disclaimer: I am aware that some people believe that you shouldn’t be posting ‘Best of 2011′ lists after 2011 but that makes no sense so just deal with it. It’s not as though I’m the only one guilty of this 
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Yeah, I said it. This could have been a year full of utterly amazing films – yet I found myself facing a rather dreary list when time came for me to look back at this year’s new releases. Maybe it’s because I found myself watching a far greater number of classics/moldy oldies/films made before I was born, or maybe I just need to make better choices – who knows?
In no particular order:
1. Senna
It’s hard enough to make a good documentary, it’s even harder to make a documentary on a godlike figure in F1. I must admit that I didn’t even have any sort of expectation when I sat down in the cinema on a Sunday morning but came away quite the advocate. It’s a shame that it won’t gain an extra push of attention at Oscar time but hey, that’s what these end of year lists are for!
2. We Need to Talk About Kevin
This might be the best showcase of Tilda Swinton’s talents since “I Am Love”. The casting director deserves major props for casting the freakiest children (of the corn?) as younger versions of Kevin.
My 2011 should also be known as The Year of Bad Timing; it was particularly spectacular in that regard when it came to movie-going. I had to watch this Sundance darling on a plane of all places. I love the way the story unfolds and breathes without ever feeling a need to highlight the genre elements. It’s just a drama with sci-fi elements.
4. Drive
Unlike “Another Earth,” this is about as loud and in your face as it can get. I don’t really have anything to say that hasn’t been said before aside from this: don’t be fooled by that trailer. It’s not what it seems.
4. The Tree of Life
Guh, what else can I say that doesn’t involve the flapping of limbs? It is a gorgeous, gorgeous meditation on love and loss.
5. Trollhunter
TROOLLLLLLLLLLL! I wasn’t expecting this monster movie to feature a somewhat snarky commentary on bureaucracy but hey, it was entertaining. The mockumentary style might not be for everyone but please, please give it a try.
7. Rabies
The directors took all the standard conventions of a horror movie, flipped them on their heads and presented it to the audience with great big smirk on their faces. This was definitely one of the best things about EIFF 2011.
8. The Woman
What an interesting, interesting take on “the civilisation of a wild woman” trope.
9. Blue Valentine
I’d almost forgotten that this came out in 2011. As much as it managed to break my heart into little pieces, it was also one of the more touching movies I’ve ever seen. A love story has never been quite so heartbreaking.
(10. Take Shelter)
This would most certainly be up on the list if the ending didn’t go against everything that was put forth in the first 100 minutes. I can’t say much more without ruining it for you but seriously, leave before the last scene.