2012 will be remembered as the year independently minded film-makers finally took over Hollywood. With some of the year’s most successful films guided by those steadfastly thinking outside the cinematic square, they delivered crowd-pleasing productions with genuine depth. Their success was an interesting counter-point against the usual array of commercial movies failing to set the box-office alight. Hopefully 2013 sees further gains with traditional block-busters having some intelligence. Elsewhere independent cinema continued to flourish with some works delivered by exciting new talents.
So to this year’s best and worst – which ones made the grade and which need another spell in the naughty corner…
THE BEST
10. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
9. The Artist
8. My Week with Marilyn
7. The Avengers
6. Lawless
5. Argo
4. The Descendants
3. Magic Mike
2. Hugo
1. The Dark Knight Rises
What I said then: “It is sad thinking this is the end of Nolan’s take on the caped crusader but we should be thankful for the respect he’s shown the character. He’s made a high calibre superhero movie series which will be difficult to top from the many imitators it will influence in years to come.”
What I say now: Christopher Nolan’s amazing finish to a fantastic trilogy delivered what fans wanted while having something to say about today’s society. Full of action, excitement, drama – this one had it all and was the most memorable commercial block-buster of the year.
Honourable mentions: The Muppets, Hope Springs, Skyfall, The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
THE WORST
10. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island
9. The Lucky One
8. A Few Best Men
7. Mental
6. Paranormal Activity 4
5. John Carter
4. The Dictator
3. Killer Elite
2. Gone
1. Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2
What I said then: “With news the series may live on after this ‘final’ chapter, one should heed this cinematic threat. Its producers seem more than happy to milk this cash-cow for all its worth although hopefully its maligned stars can rest in peace even if this franchise doesn’t.”
What I say now: Choosing to make a fast dollar than something of substance, the Twilight franchise will be remembered as a typical example of Hollywood’s ability to make a series out of truly nothing.
Dishonourable mentions: Red Dawn, Any Questions for Ben?, 21 Jump Street, Rock of Ages.
That’s it for another movie-going year. May everyone enjoy a safe and happy Christmas and may 2013 be a lucky one for you all. Until next time – thanks for reading!
Agree with Patrick about his Best and Worst Movies for 2012? Then please use the comment box, titling your comments with Movie Review Best and Worst
Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.
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