THE PIANIST

Out of the numerous Holocaust films this year, The Pianist has gotten the most critical acclaim, and deservingly so. Director Roman Polanski proves he still has a few tricks up his sleeve and Adrien Brody finally gets the part to show off his talent.

TALK TO HER

In the best foreign film of the year, director Pedro Almodóvar continues his legendary career with a film that’s as funny as it is romantic.

ABOUT SCHMIDT

Known for their satiric humor, Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor continue their collaborative success with a surefire Academy Award contender, especially with Jack Nicholson in the lead. If you enjoyed Election you’ll love this film.

RODGER DODGER

With an amazing script and a talented actor (Campbell Scott) bringing it to life, Roger Dodger has made its filmmaker, Dylan Kidd, one of the hottest new talents in the indie world.

SECRETARY

Though her brother, Jake, has received most of the attention this year, Maggie Gyllenhaal shows she’s no slouch either in this erotic black comedy. Opposite James Spader, Gyllenhaal plays one of the funniest characters of the year as a shy teenager whose S&M cravings lead her to the man of her dreams.

LORD OF THE RINGS :: THE TWO TOWERS

The title should be enough of a reason for why it’s on many top 10 lists. But if you need more convincing I’ll give you one word: Gollum.

8 MILE

While much of the attention for the film has gone to the surprising acting talent of Eminem, not many have praised the diverse filmmaking ability of its director Curtis Hanson. In his last 3 films he’s done a period piece (L.A. Confidential), explored the trails and tribulations of an author with writer's block (Wonder Boys), and brought to fruition the gritty urban tale of a white rapper (8 Mile).

DOGTOWN AND THE Z-BOYS

One of the most interesting documentaries of the year, Dogtown highlights the founding fathers of extreme sports, the Zephyr skating team. Narrated by Sean Penn, the film is electrified by its killer 70s score.

JACKASS :: THE MOVIE

This was my guilty pleasure of the year. If you didn’t like the series you had no business seeing it on the big screen. With one of the funniest ending credits of all time, the Jackass gang gives a hilarious coda to their fans..

24 HOUR PARTY PEOPLE

Chronicling British music from punk to rave and from the 70s to the 90s, Party People recreates Manchester, England when it was the hot spot for pop. A hilarious film that’s been applauded for its authenticity of the time it covers.