Best Films Of 2012

In the latest episode of The Society For Film podcast, James Marsh and I took some time to look over the best films of 2012. It was a really fun way to celebrate our 20th episode. If you haven’t yet checked out The Society, then you might enjoy this episode, or maybe our recent discussion on the best Bond film ever.

The Usual Disclaimer

While, I love making these kinds of lists, I just don’t get to see anywhere near as many new release films as I once did, especially compared to when I lived in London. Moreover, being in Asia means many good films either don’t get screened here, or won’t be released until the new year. For example, I’ve not seen The Master, Holy Motors or Beasts Of The Southern Wild; all which I imagine, based on the reviews I’ve read, might be contenders for my top ten list.

My Top Ten

10 The Raid Redemption – Slick, dynamically paced and ultra violent this is a thoroughly original, “does what it says on the tin,” action film.

9. Killing Them Softly – You’ll watch it for Brad Pitt, but remember it for Richard Jenkins. Rough in parts, but rewarding nonetheless.

8. Brave – Pixar’s unfairly maligned fantasy adventure says everything I would want to say to my own daughter about taking control of her destiny as a young woman. Inspiring.

7. The Sound Of My Voice – A low key drama traces two undercover reporters who set out to infiltrate an cult and come face to face with the enigmatic leader, played by Brit Marling in of the most faultlessly intriguing performances I’ve seen in a long time.

6. Red Hook Summer – A welcome return to form from Spike Lee, who delivers a gritty urban tale, with amazing music and some barnstorming performances, not least from Clarke Peters of Treme and The Wire.

5. Skyfall – My pick for the best Bond film of all time is also my choice for the best action film of the year. Sharp, visually compelling and thouroughly satisfying in every way.

4. Robot and Frank – An eleventh hour entry into my top ten, this is a charming and lighthearted look at aging and memory as told through the relationship between an ex-convict and his caregiving robot.

3. Vicky Donor – The best Indian film I saw this is year is not your typical Bollywood hit. A very funny tale about a fairly taboo subject this Delhi based film charmed me from begining to end.

2. Amour – Written and directed by Michael Haneke this is a bleak, sad and in some ways brutal story about an aging couple’s fight to retain their sense of connection and family. Destined to do well in the awards season.

1. Where Do We Go Now – Nadine Labaki’s second film as a director is one of the most original and mesmerising films I’ve seen in years, this telling of the Lebanese War makes us question who is fighting who and why.