Top 10 Movies of 2010

Since most of my friends see my movie reviews, I've decided to post my top 10 flicks of the year. By my tally, I've seen somewhere in the neighborhood of 45 films released in 2010. The rules for being considered for this list are quite simple: 1) A 2010 theatrical release, and 2) I've seen it (either in the theater or on DVD).

Before we get to the main course, let me get your whet your appetite with my honorable mentions. These are 3 movies that I really enjoyed, but for one reason or another, just didn't quite crack the list. They are: Predators, The Book of Eli, and The Expendables. I gave each of these films 3 1/2 stars (out of 5), but since my top 10 all received 4 stars (or better), they are on the outside looking in.

Here's the Top 10...in dramatic reverse order... (Ranking. Film (release date) - rating out of 5)

10. Red (Oct 15) - 4 stars

For a film that uses an aging cast and a plot that's been done before, it stays fresh and fun for the majority of the film. Great chemistry in the cast and a truly fun film from start to finish.

9. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I (Nov 19) - 4 stars

Really good set pieces and enjoyed watching the characters really grow up. It's really the sudden ending and a bit of a lull in the middle that drags down the film a bit. It does make me want to see how the story will end.

8. The Town (Sept 17) - 4 stars

A very solid drama that mixes in some action packed robberies along the way. Reminiscent of Heat, only better (in my opinion). Pacing is pretty decent, which is always the difficulty with this type of film.

7. Inception (July 16) - 4 stars

Christopher Nolan solidifies his standing as an excellent director. This mind-trip of a movie is well made, interesting, and thought provoking. Most high-concept movies don't do much for me, but this one kept my attention.

6. Green Zone (March 12) - 4 stars

Matt Damon shines in this film about the Iraq war. Really draws you into the search for answers with a realistic take on war. Makes for a good war and political intrigue movie.

5. The Crazies (Feb 2) - 4 stars
An edge of your seat intense movie that captures the zombie feel without actually having zombies. Excellently pulls off the small town feel and the atmosphere is equally superb.

4. Shutter Island (Feb 19) - 4 stars
Atmospheric thriller that really keeps you guessing at what is going on. Pretty solid ending. Side note: Leonardo Dicaprio's second appearance on this list (Come a long way since that crapfest that was Titanic).

3. The Social Network (Oct 1) - 4 stars
A really interesting tale about how Facebook came to be. A great script and outstanding acting really make for an amazing film. It's crazy in just how little time a concept can go to being an integral part of many people's lives.

2. The A-Team (June 11) - 4 stars
I simply did not have a more fun time at the movies this year than when I saw this one. Great action, characters, humor, and a good all-around time. If you like entertaining action films, this is an absolute must see.

And the number 1 film of 2010....

1. Toy Story 3 (June 18) - 4 1/2 stars
Not quite as laugh-out-loud funny as the first 2 entries in the Toy Story universe, but an excellent movie. A phenomenal story, and it holds together extremely well from start to finish. Really gives a sense of nostalgia and makes you feel attached to a group of cartoon "toys".

There you have it. All-in-all a pretty good year for movies. Here's for hoping next year might be even better.