Comments on: List: U.S. Films of 2009

By: Robert

Robert — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 20:54:20 +0000

Is ARMORED a pseudo-remake of director Yves Simoneau’s 1986 thriller POUVOIR INTIME (aka BLIND TRUST)? It seems to have the same plot device of an armored car robbery gone awry, with one person sealed inside the truck thwarting the efforts of the criminals who have stolen it.

By: Mimi

Mimi — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:29:55 +0000

I’m glad Up! made it on your list. Although it’s not my favourite Pixar film, I was delighted by it. Did you notice how the protagonist looked like Spencer Tracy? Yeah!

By: R. Emmet Sweeney

R. Emmet Sweeney — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:12:48 +0000

Rick, I recognize the film’s craft for the most part (the fine pacing in some of the action sequences), but I object to the cuisinart-style editing and the extraneous use of slow-motion. I also found the characterizations to be one note, the most egregious instance of this in the clueless Ivy-league counselor, who is thusly blown up. To me it’s an average war film.

But it should be little surprise at the level of craft it does have, since Kathryn Bigelow is one of the finest action directors going. It’s Hollywood’s loss that they haven’t given her more work, due to the prejudice against female helmers, who only seem to land romantic comedies. She was able to make this film because she worked outside of the system. And whatever my criticisms of the THE HURT LOCKER, I hope she’s able to churn out any number of white-knuckled thrillers in the future. She’s one of the best.

By: Rick

Rick — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 23:40:08 +0000

I do not understand why you left “The Hurt Locker” off your list. The story, acting, and cinematography were excellent. And its direction was really surprising to me as it was directed by a woman, that is, a war movie directed by a woman.

Even my wife, who does not like or enjoy war movies, became completely wrapped up in it.

By: Andrea

Andrea — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 23:34:16 +0000

A resounding second re: Orphan. An underrated addition to the murderous child genre/canon.

By: Shadow and act

Shadow and act — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:24:23 +0000

You lost me at “Armored.” That one’s a head-scratcher.

By: Pammy

Pammy — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 21:12:13 +0000

Delighted INVICTUS made your list, R. Em. Good show!