BEST MOVIES of 2007 (A Continuing Series)

This first post in my BEST MOVIES OF 2007 SERIES is part BEST OF LIST and part disclaimer. Several great movies were released in Memphis in early 2007. But, because they were "officially" released in 2006 I have deemed them ineligible for the best of 2007 list. These movies would have easily made my best of list for this year, but instead they get a brief mention here...

The Last King of Scotland - This movie was the best that I SAW in 2007. I enjoyed every single aspect of the film. Forest Whitaker was brilliant and his many awards earlier this year were well deserved. This flick also cemented in my mind what a great actor James McAvoy is. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and I consider this movie a MUST SEE.

Children of Men - I know a lot of people thought that this was the best movie of 2006. It was certainly up there. Clive Owen is in a class of his own. Even mediocre movies are raised a level by his presence. This dire, futuristic film was part action, part tragedy, all amazing. Michael Cain did annoy me just a bit, but that's just because I don't find him all that entertaining. His role didn't alter my take on the movie.

Volver - A foreign language film that most of my friends will never see. But trust me when I tell you that this movie hit a home run on every aspect I consider important. The story was tight and provided plenty of twists and turns. The directing, done by the always inventive Pedro Almodovar, was versatile yet very direct and intentional without being distracting. The acting was believable and real, especially Penelope Cruz. After several horrible American roles, she had a triumphant return to her roots.

Pan's Labyrinth - Another foreign language film by another cutting edge filmmaker. This time the damage was being done by Guillermo del Toro. The story is an adult fairy tale. The movie was creepy and wonderful, brutal and kind. The only knock was not getting to spend more time in the wonderful fairy tale world.

Each of these movies were great in their own way. Each are movies I encourage you to see.

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