This is the 4th in a series of 12 posts discussing the top films of the year. Remember these are not the most profitable films, or necessarily the best, but the ones we will be unlikely to forget.
10. Tropic Thunder- The resurgence of Tom Cruise is due to this film, and considering he has about 5 minutes of screen time and dons a fat suit, that is amazing. But its just a small reason why Tropic Thunder was so successful. With Ben Stiller and Jack Black leading the way, it would take a lot to upstage them, but it happened. Robert Downey Jr playing a method actor who became black for the role, Steve Coogan being the uptight director, and the aforementioned Tom Cruise stole the show. Along with Iron Man, this also brought Downey Jr back from purgatory.
9. Iron Man- Speaking of Downey Jr..... In addition to bringing RDJ back, it really helped establish the Marvel Universe, and really set up the upcoming Avengers film.
8. Wall-E- A film where words aren't necessary is a long shot, but Wall-E makes you forget words are how we speak. Another Pixar sensation, and the political commentary on where this country is headed is shockingly accurate.
7. The Hurt Locker- The Best Picture winner at the Oscars the following year, and a gripping, suspenseful drama. Would be higher on this list except it made nothing in theaters, and isn't quite as relevant as would be expected. However star making performances from Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie will at least keep the film in conversations.
6. Forgetting Sarah Marshall- The rash of male frontal nudity lately? Blame this film. Star Jason Segel became famous for this film and baring it all, and now is a top film draw. In addition this film confirmed that Russell Brand can be great, in moderation. No film has used him this well since.
5. Taken- Liam Neeson, action star? Seems easy to think of now, but 6 years ago most would laugh at you. The older, lanky actor took it to his doubters with Taken and showed why he is on the A list. Taken is up there with Die Hard as action movies that will be watched and loved 25 years after they are released.
4. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button- Critically and financially, the film did amazing. Some people weren't as thrilled due to its 3 hour run time, but overall the film stuck with people and is still a top rental film, even 4 years later.
3. Slumdog Millionaire- The film came from nowhere to win the 2008 Oscars biggest prize. And justifiably so as it is just as memorable now as it was when I saw it first 4 years ago.
2. Gran Torino- The last onscreen performance of one of the all time greats in Clint Eastwood. And while it flew a bit under the radar, this is the most recent example of Eastwood's greatness both in front of the camera and behind it.
1. The Dark Knight- Was there any other choice this year? No. The Dark Knight showed that comic book films could be amazing, not just great, but amazing. Heath Ledger's final and award winning performance is just a small part of the grandeur of The Dark Knight. With the conclusion to the trilogy due out in 2012, we will see if Christopher Nolan can keep his hot streak going.
Honorable Mentions- Doubt, Revolutionary Road, Changeling.
-Maximus
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