David’s Top Movies of 2004

Greetings again from the darkness.  Although 2004 was a bit of a let down from the fabulous year of film that was 2003, there were still a few gems and a few more must-sees.  Here are my top 10 favorites plus a few others that I just couldn’t help but mention.

1.  SIDEWAYS

Writer/Director Alexander Payne was the creative force behind one of my favorite films from the past couple of years, About Schmidt.  With Sideways he proves his insight into human nature is no fluke, but instead, an amazing gift.  He captures many Hollywood stereotypes such as mid-life crisis, groom-to-be cold feet, post-divorce confidence crunch and the overall desire to be loved … or at least liked.  What makes Payne's work so unique is his ability to deliver multiple messages, with brilliant comic twists, using little more than unlikable lead characters and sizzling dialogue! 

Moral bankruptcy is at a peak in Sideways as one of our leads (the magnificent Paul Giamatti from American Splendor and Man on the Moon) steals cash from his mother, and the other (Thomas Haden Church from TV's Wings) is on a mission to have his bachelor party last an entire week while claiming we just don't understand his plight.  Also delivering a wonderful touch to the film is Sandra Oh (Diane Lane's pregnant buddy in Under the Tuscan Sun and also Payne’s real life wife).  Oh has very unique looks and mannerisms, but is terrific as one of Church's conquests.  However, the soul and spirit of this film belongs to the drastically underrated Virginia Madsen (if you have never seen The Hot Spot, make it priority viewing).  Madsen (sister to cult favorite Michael Madsen of Kill Bill and Reservoir Dogs  fame) literally jumps off the screen with her eyes and smile.  Her character longs for a better life, but is strong enough to avoid her past mistakes.  She is the only one we really root for. 

This is an excellent film and nice character study with a snappy jazz score.  It received some well deserved Oscar nods including screenplay.   Payne has proven he should be considered among the best filmmakers of today.  See this one while enjoying a nice bottle of wine – just make sure it’s not Merlot!!

2.  KILL BILL Vol. 2

The most descriptive word I can come up with for Vol. 2 is DELICIOUS! Although I am a big fan of Vol. 1, this one is superior, stands on its own, and is mad creativity onscreen. Vol. 2 provides us with much of the background and history of our key players, including their acceptance (or not) of spirituality. What a pleasure to see David Carradine given such a wonderful role ... an evil role that reminds of his Kung Fu days (replete with flute) - only this plays as Caine's gleefully monstrous twin brother! Michael Madsen and Darryl Hannah offer nice supporting work and some very welcome humor. The fight scene with Hannah and Uma in the trailer is incredible, given the limited space with which to work. I would like to say that this scene proved the most claustrophobic for me, but it barely compares to the gasping I felt as The Bride is buried alive!

Despite the wonderful and diverse cast of characters, this is Uma's film all the way. She delivers like no other female action star ever has. She is at once, humble, personal, beautiful and vicious. Her physicality is remarkable and enthralling to watch. Tarantino delivers again. His creativity and love of film (and Uma) is beyond question. I take this as much more of a tribute to the old chop-socky movies than a spoof. QT is the master at interjecting humor just when the audience needs it. The use of music is pure genius and helps create this terrific masterpiece. We also owe Tarantino a big THANKS for casting Michael Parks in 2 roles - the sheriff in Vol. 1 and the old man at the whore house in Vol. 2. Tarantino and Thurman both deserved Oscar nominations for this film but were somehow neglected.  Nothing else to say about this one, but that it is tremendous filmmaking and a joy to watch.

3. MILLION DOLLAR BABY

What a pleasant surprise this gem of a film is! I had to force myself to go after the nominations because the trailer was SO BAD. Hilary Swank is totally believable as the “trailer park trash” dreamer who wants so much to be a professional boxer. The great Morgan Freeman brings elegance to his role as a former boxer / now sage janitor in Clint's gym. Freeman again proves he is not only a great actor, but also the best movie voice-over working today (see Shawshank Redemption).

As wonderful as Hilary and Morgan are, there is no doubt that this is Clint's (multi) million dollar baby. He directs and stars and wrote the music. At almost 75 years old, he proves for the first time since The Unforgiven that he can carry a picture, while not trying to steal every scene. Yes, the twist in this one smells a bit like a Hollywood chick-flick, but the talented director (Eastwood) never lets it sink to that level. This is a terrific film by a top-notch filmmaker. The story is interesting, funny, dramatic and heart-warming, and the acting is truly first rate. Don't let the trailer or the thought of a boxing movie keep you away.  It’s not every film that treats us to lemon pie and Yeats.

4.  ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND

Writer Charlie Kaufman has a frightening brain and, thankfully, he loves to share it. Although it probably does not reach the near perfection of Being John Malkovich or Adaptation, this Kaufman script proves to the film-goer that the ride is what it's all about. The only thing that life in general, and relationships specifically, offer is the memories and experiences. Results matter little.

Jim Carrey bashers will surely crucify his dramatic turn, but most will see the depth he brings to the role. He can act ... it is just difficult for many to get past the Carrey icon. Kirsten Dunst again proves she is so much more than a pretty face. She leaps off the screen with pain and joy and eagerness. Mark Ruffalo and Tom Wilkinson provide steady supporting roles.  The biggest disappointment is Kate Winslet. Think knock-off of Madonna in Desperately Seeking Susan. She does not have the edge necessary to pull off this role. Her scenes come up empty when it is necessary for her to step up. Obviously, I am not onboard with her Oscar nomination, but Hollywood loves a good comeback. 

Many will liken the film to Total Recall, but thanks to the writing, it will take you much deeper in your feelings than Arnold ever could! So enjoy the story (even if it a bit far-fetched) and the wonderful visuals, and be thankful there are filmmakers willing to take risks.

5.   THE SEA INSIDE  (MAR ADENTRO)
Director Alejandro Amenabar (The Others) creates life against all odds in this based on a true story version of one man's struggle to control his destiny. The great Javier Bardem (Before Night Falls) is fascinating to watch in his role as Ramon. His eyes and head movements leave little doubt what is going on in his mind. The dream and fantasy sequences are not overused, so prove very effective in explaining why he wants what he wants. Rather than force us to answer the euthanasia question, the real question posed is, “What is Love?” At every turn we see people in love, looking for love or dying to be loved. The script is tight and keeps the film moving despite being filmed mostly in one room. The supporting cast is wonderful and we truly feel their pain and how each family member deals with Ramon's decision and wishes. We understand how Ramon has learned to cry with a smile.  Nominated for an Oscar as Best Foreign Film, this is a gem and deserves to be seen.

6. NAPOLEON DYNAMITE

Ligers and Talons and Llamas … Oh My!!  Director and writer Jared Hess has created one ... scratch that, three of the most bizarre screen characters of all time. There aren't very many movies where Uncle Rico would not easily qualify as the strangest character, but here he has big time competition. Jon Heder as Napoleon is simply spectacular. Whether giving time travel a (painful) shot, firing an orange at a van, caging a chicken, feeding his llama or slow-dancing, he is mesmerizing to watch. His dance solo on stage is priceless (and pretty good!). His brother Kip finds love on the internet, his best fried Pedro is the shyest class president in history and his girl-crush takes "glamour" shots in her garage. By the way, Deb is played by Tina Majorina who was the little girl with the map tattoo in Waterworld. This movie is such a wonderful commentary on high school, nerds, small town America, broken families, the need to connect with someone, chat rooms and "glory days" that never were. Not everyone will appreciate the spastic characters or film pacing, but the characters will keep your attention. Not only has much of this movie worked its way into our daily vernacular, it is funny and strangely affecting.

7.  FINDING NEVERLAND

Finding Neverland caught me a bit off guard.  Not exactly sure what the original marketing plan was, but this is an adult story presented in dramatic fashion by director Marc Forster (Monster's Ball).  Johnny Depp continues his stellar run of spellbinding performances as Scottish playwright J.M. Barrie, who penned the fantastical Peter Pan.  Although the film glosses over many of the details of the enigmatic Barrie's life, it does a wonderful job of capturing his fascination with Andrew and Sylvia Llewelyn Davies' kids and their hunger for playtime and childhood.  Freddie Highmore as Peter had more than a few moms in the audience reaching for Kleenex.  He will next be seen (again alongside Johnny Depp) in Tim Burton's Charlie and Chocolate Factory (a reinterpretation by Burton of Willy Wonka).  A slimmed down Kate Winslet and still striking Julie Christie play well against Depp and the kids.  Dustin Hoffman (miles from his lead in Spielberg’s Hook) offers up another nice turn in a supporting role as the theatre owner.  Hopefully Hoffman continues embracing these roles as his acting ability really is amazing, even though his leading man days are long past.  My original concern was that this film would fail to find an audience.  It is not a remake of Peter Pan and most kids will probably be bored.  Adults, on the other hand, have been enthralled and have recommended the film to all their friends.  The just reward is a Best Picture nomination.

8.  RAY

Having seen the great Ray Charles perform live many times, I was slightly apprehensive about how his  early years would be treated on film. When I heard Taylor Hackford (Against All Odds, An Officer and  a Gentleman) would direct, I was less than thrilled. Although the film does not capture the true meanness of the times (racial inequities, music biz sleaze), it does a wonderful job of bringing to life the spirit of Mr.  Charles' music genius.
 
Terrifically acted throughout by Regina King (Will Smith's wife in Enemy of the State), Bokeem Woodbine (The Rock), and Curtis Armstrong (Booger in Revenge of the Nerds) as the visionary, Ahmet Ertegen,  and newcomer Sharon Warren as Aretha Robinson - Ray's tough, hard working, pull no punches mother.  However, this film is carried with dazzling brilliance by Jamie Foxx. Similar channeling was seen by Jim  Carrey as Andy Kaufman (Man on the Moon), Foxx IS Ray Charles. The head movement, smile and walk  are all spot on. Foxx’s performance and the live Charles cuts make the movie something to behold. A few  Hackford things that I could have done without were the numerous close-ups and the whole drug rehab section. I would have preferred more attention be given to Charles' business savvy and his impact on musician’s dealings with record companies.
 

Casting was excellent ... down to the boyhood Ray and his brother. Numerous flashbacks are utilized to  connect his childhood to growth as an adult. The drug abuse is dealt with head-on, as is Mr. Charles’  infidelity. The music will give you chills and please stay for the closing credits and the absolute best version of "Georgia on my Mind" that you will ever hear. Everyone should own at least a couple of Ray Charles CD's and absorb the greatness of the performer.

9.   THE INCREDIBLES

OK, so I felt a little foolish walking into an animated feature without any kids.  However, the embarrassment turned into fascination as soon as the short, "Boundin'" started.  Nice little parable to start the day.  The Incredibles is the latest offering from Pixar (and the director of The Iron Giant) and is bit like Toy Story on steroids.  Everyone from age 5 and up will enjoy this and some will be shocked at the realism, action sequences and drama of the story. 

Craig T. Nelson (TV's Coach and the Poltergeist dad) and Holly Hunter (Thirteen and The Piano) are the lead voices as Mr. Incredible and his wife, ElastiGirl.  They are Superheroes forced into hiding and a feeble attempt at normalcy with their kids, who were of course also blessed with (developing) superhero traits.  The action sequences are nothing short of breathtaking and the mix of parental struggles, teen angst, sibling rivalry and hero worship make for a story strong enough to maintain one's interest for 2 hours.  Pixar continues to flirt with reality in their animation and we get the feeling that at anytime they will trick us with the blurred line between reality and fantasy.  Samuel L Jackson and Jason Lee turn in nice voice acting, but little Dash is “totally wicked” and pretty much steals every scene he is in.  So, hold your head up high and go see this one.  You don't even have to spend the day with your nieces or nephews!!  Also, make sure to stay for the closing credits - they are a delight with the visuals and the score, which blends James Bond, The Avengers, The Pink Panther and Looney Toons all into one sound!

10.  HOTEL RWANDA

Don Cheadle's Academy Award nomination for Hotel Rwanda is a well deserved and a wonderful thing.  Hopefully it will encourage even more to see director Terry George's

incredibly moving tale of the 1994 Rwandan crisis between the Tutsis and the Hutu. As with Schindler's List, nothing is more powerful than a real life hero. Paul Rusesabagina is a real life hero. With the slaughter of nearly a million just outside his front gate, Paul R gave refuge to nearly 1000 who surely would have been killed. The tour de force by Cheadle provides a divergent performance from the elegant Hotel manager to the smooth negotiator to the passionate husband, parent and humanist. This man cares about people and what is right. He knows “there is always room”.  Although, Nick Nolte's performance was slightly askew, the movie is well paced and heartfelt and should be seen by many. Very powerful.       

Others worth seeing:

THE AVIATOR

Somewhat disappointing account of the early years of the Howard Hughes mystique.  Leonardo DiCaprio captures the mannerisms, but not the power of Hughes. Director Martin Scorcese actually underplays the importance and legend, but we are treated to the typically breath-taking Scorcese visuals. As usual, Scorcese provides a stellar supporting cast including Alan Alda, Alec Baldwin, Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale, John C. Riley, Jude Law and Gwen Stefani. The performance that jumps off the screen is Blanchett as Kate Hepburn. Overall, the movie does an admirable, but not great job of capturing Hughes at the most creative point in his life.

BEING JULIA

Annette Bening’s performance is certainly Oscar worthy.  She goes through a wide range of emotions - from self pity, to child-like happiness, to revengeful diva. Veteran Michael Gambon adds grace and humor and Jeremy Irons plays his role in a mocking manner given his history of stuffy Brits. The most confusing cast member is Bruce Greenwood.  He can't act and surely isn't convincing as a Brit. Although I have only seen one other film by Hungarian director, Istvan Szabo, his touch is very clear and I enjoy his pace.

MARIA FULL OF GRACE

Excruciatingly painful and stressful to watch, this low budget film from director Joshua Marston's plays in documentary style as we watch the horrific danger that Maria  (Catalina Sandino Moreno) takes on so that she might escape her hopeless life.  The strength of the story lies within the thought that one never knows how much they will risk when faced with almost no way out.

I AM DAVID

A very touching, heartfelt film without the Hollywood gloss, "I Am David" takes us on a journey of hope and discovery as we experience the world through the eyes of a first-timer.  Ben Tibber (a child actor well-schooled at the Tiny Tim role) follows the advice he is given prior to his escape from concentration camp. While in the camp, David befriends Jim Caviezel (The Passion of the Christ), who’s courageous death sets in motion the plan to allow for David's escape. The movie really gains spirit when Joan Plowright explodes onto the screen, but regrettably, this is also where it appears the producers ran out of money.  The last 10 minutes of the film are harried and rushed with little dialogue.  The result is a wonderful ending spoiled.  Still, the film is a delight to watch and will tug at your heartstrings.

SUPER SIZE ME

Director (and lab rat) Morgan Spurlock takes on a fast food exclusive diet for 30 days and fills us in on the painful steps and sickening conclusion. Many have attacked Spurlock for picking on McDonalds or for not selecting the healthiest thing possible at every meal. These people are missing the point. He explains in the movie that McDonalds is the selection because they so dominate the fast food scene in the world and especially in Manhattan (where he lives).

For the most part, Spurlock does an excellent job proving that we eat too much fast food, that it is very harmful to our bodies, and that there is evil at work conditioning kids that fast food is real food. The most frightening part of the story was the school cafeteria segment showing how kids eat when parents are not around and when school administrators pay no attention. This is the crux of the problem. Overall, this is a nice documentary without twisted truth and total disregard for decency shown by Michael Moore in most of his films. I believe this should be required viewing for all junior high and high school students, as well as their parents.

by David Ferguson, film critic at-large, Dallas, Texas, fergusontx@comcast.net