The Best Films of 2011 That No One Saw

In 2011 I saw over 180 films in the theatre. So, needless to say, I love movies! But some of you may be thinking, how is that possible? There weren’t that many good films? Well, the answer is independent movies and foreign films. If you take the time to look outside of the mainstream there are many wonderful movies that deserve your attention. Below is a list of some of the best movies I saw in 2011. Some you may have heard of and others only received a limited release, but luckily for all most of these films will be available to rent and I urge you to seek them out. Happy renting!

Take Shelter - This film is an exciting psychological thriller starring Michael Shannon as a man who is having apocalyptic visions regarding a catastrophic storm. He has an overwhelming urge to protect his family and becomes compulsive about expanding their backyard shelter. However, there is another element that is causing him equal distress. He fears that he is going crazy. Are these visions a cautionary gift or is he following in the schizophrenic footsteps of his mother. This film will keep you guessing until the end.

Attack the Block – I loved this little film about a bunch a teenage hoods from a South London neighborhood who try to protect their block when it is invaded by aliens from another planet. Using their street smarts they give these invaders a run for their money. The movie is fresh, smart, funny and contains some very original aliens. I guarantee you’ll be quoting this movie when it’s over. “Allow it!”

Bellflower – If you’ve ever gone through a really bad break-up then Bellflower may give your experience some new perspective. Two flame-throwing best friends have their world turned upside down when a fun-loving girl enters their life. The results are explosive.

Beginners - Christopher Plummer gives an award worthy performance as a gay man who doesn’t come out of the closet until he reaches his eighties. His son (Ewan McGregor) grew up believing that his father was straight and was bewildered by his parent’s unconventional relationship. Now he must reevaluate everything he thought he knew.

Exporting Raymond – Comedy is subjective and funny doesn’t always translate. This is the dilemma of Phil Rosenthal as he is sent to Russia to do a Russian version of his hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. I found this documentary hysterical and enlightening, too. Apparently, exporting sitcoms is big business.

The Devil’s Double – I’m not sure why Dominic Cooper’s performance has slipped through the cracks of award show consideration, perhaps it’ the violent and unsavory subject matter. The Devil’s Double tells the true story of Latif Yahia who was forced to portray Uday Hussein’s body-double. Imagine having to share the life of a vain, spoiled, out-of-control rich kid who just happens to be Saddam Hussein’s son. Dominic Cooper plays both parts and I believe that his performance is excellent and multifaceted.

The Hedgehog – I loved this quiet little French film about a young girl who becomes fascinated by her lonely widowed building super and the new Japanese tenant who just moved in. It is a story about seeing people for who they really are and looking beyond outside appearances. I was very touched by this lovely film.

Brideflight – This film was up for Academy consideration but was not released for general viewing until 2011. It is the true story of a group of young Dutch people who immigrated to New Zealand after World War II. It is one of those emotional epic sagas full of love, romance and family secrets. It’s a tear-jerker.

The Music Never Stopped – This interesting little film is based on a true story about a father and son who become estranged when their taste in music diverges. The son runs away just short of graduation and eventually turns up roaming the streets. A tumor causing severe brain damage leaves him non-commutative. He only comes out of his trance like state when music is played from a very specific era, music like Dylan, The Beatles and the Grateful Dead. In order to reconnect with his son, Henry Sawyer (played by J.K. Simmons) must put aside his musical snobbery and learn to see the beauty in his son’s chosen music.

Sarah’s Key – This historical drama is about a very shameful episode in French history. In 1942 thousands of French Jews were rounded up and had their property confiscated. When a present day investigative reporter discovers that her family home once belonged to a Vel’ d’Hiv victim she begins a search to find the original owners and discover their fate after World War II.

The Way – Written and directed by Emilio Estevez, The Way tells the story of a father (Martin Sheen) whose son dies while hiking the El Camino de Santiago. After going to Spain to collect his body and his effects, the father decides to finish the journey on his son’s behalf. This spiritual tale will really stick with you after the film is over. Don’t be surprised if you hear of me making the journey, I really want to go.

Mozart’s Sister – History is full of interesting facts and stories. Apparently Mozart had an older sister who was extremely talented and wanted to be a composer too. But because she was born female, her father disapproved and discouraged her. After befriending a royal princess, Nannerl Mozart is required to dress as a man to gain an audience with the Dauphine of France. Once she sees how easy it is to be mistaken for a man, she disguises herself again and attends music school.

The Beaver – A lot of people avoided this film because of the media backlash surrounding Mel Gibson. It is a shame because he delivers a very sensitive portrait of man battling depression. It is a strange film about a man who communicates through a hand puppet. It is sweet, disturbing, inspirational and sad. Only small budget films can afford to be this bold. It is strange and interesting movie.