Top 10: Best Movies of 2007
10. Superbad
Here’s a film that probably not on many top ten lists, but deserves a respected nod. “Superbad” proved it is possible to take the standard format of a teen comedy and turn it into a story that is not only immensely funny, but importantly touching as well. The characters are true and honest even with their wacky antics and rapid-fire dialogue. This is one fun movie that might give you more than you expect.
9. Surf’s Up
This may be the one animated film that features penguins to finally get it all right. That might seem strange seeing it’s a film about tropical surfing penguins, but what is highly original here is a documentary-style form of story telling, colorfully distinct characters, and a respectful message that can break waves for both adults and children.
8. Bourne Ultimatum
The third film in the always solid Jason Bourne series turns out to be more intriguing and emotional than the rest. For the supposed final chapter, “The Bourne Ultimatum” unleashes all the answers and puts our hero in unimaginable situations revaeling his troubled past. Watching Matt Damon open the doors in an extremely complex character presents a performance that is not only believable, but truly shocking. Plus, this is one action thriller that refuses to let go.
7. 3:10 to Yuma
The debate over which performance was better is pointless. Christian Bale and Russell Crowe deliver two equally powerful performances in this western remake. With these two opposing forces, “3:10 to Yuma,” poses two non-archetype characters that challenge themes of loyalty and honor. This is a landmark of moral interpretation and a triumph of stylized storytelling that may have single handedly saved the western film.
6. Sweeny Todd
This is the film that Tim Burton was born to make. With dark, tragic, and captivating themes, this is one revenge film that finally understands all desires and consequences associated with it. Johnny Depp leaves nothing to the imagination in a performance that carries nearly all the credit. On top of it all, Burton’s outlandish and distinct style has never been more appropriate and extravagant. This is a masterpiece from one of cinema’s most underrated directors.
5. There Will Be Blood
If Paul Thomas Anderson wanted to win awards with “There Will Be Blood” he certainly hired the right actor for the lead role. Daniel Day Lewis stars as oil-man Daniel Plainview in a haunting and harrowing performance that will leave you speechless long after its bizarre finale comes to a close and the credits have rolled.
4. Juno
This year’s most unique film is undoubtedly one of the best. For a dark comedy, “Juno” carries a story that rings so true and important to its target audience. Audiences will surely be seeing more of Ellen Page who does wonders as our sarcastic young title character who takes her situations lightly, but is capable and willing to capture our emotions when the story demands.
3. Michael Clayton
“Michael Clayton” is a movie that is so rich in storytelling you’ll be amazed by the near-perfect execution of its performances, suspense and thrilling revelations. Holding it all together is an ultra-cool performance by George Clooney, that is easily, his best work to date.
2. Ratatouille
No other Pixar film has been so charming and sophisticated. The flawless animation studio has created a daring and completely original film about a gifted rat longing to become a master chef. This kind-hearted and loveable story combines themes and humor that are both appropriate and entertaining for audiences of all ages. This is Pixar’s most accomplished film since “Toy Story.”
1. No Country for Old Men
Absorbing. Captivating. Haunting. This is the masterpiece from the uber-talented Coen brothers that has a message deeper than its engaging thriller of a plot. Javier Bardem creates a psychopath so relentlessly evil that it transcends normal viewing habits to tread deeper into our own fears. Nothing is artificial, as the Coen brothers absorb everything at the disposal to tell a unique visual story. Even for a movie that doesn’t need a single musical note to spark interest, this film will surely have you thinking long after it leaves the screen.
