The Ten Most Disappointing Movies of 2010

From a very young age I was taught a valuable lifelong lesson, "You take the good with the bad". This timeless adage applies to all facets of life. And although we typically enjoy acknowledging the greats, it's also imperative that we take a step back to address the not-so-great. 2010 had more than its fair share of cinematic duds, and I decided to sort through my list finding the ten most disappointing movies of the year.

Before reading on, it's important to understand my criteria. I'm not finding the ten WORST films of the year, I'm identifying the films that you and I wanted to see, and when we did, they left us perplexed. Whether it's an awesome trailer, an A-List cast, or a great premise, there's always a catch to a hyped film. However, more times than not, we end up being letdown by the final product. In 2010, the following films were no exception:

#10) Alice in Wonderland

Having grossed over $300 million domestically, I may not have much of an argument here. However, I went into the film completely objective. I had very little knowledge of the back story, and I had no recollection of any of the old movies. That being said, the film was strange, creepy, and borderline intolerable. Outside of the vivid visual effects, Alice in Wonderland had very little to offer. I see it as another dull remake added to Tim Burton's resume.





#9) Get Him to the Greek

Let's face it, Forgetting Sarah Marshall was a hit. Not only was it a hit, the out-of-nowhere comedy was an instant classic. Therefore when I heard about the spin-off being made, I was as eager to see it as anyone else. Overly raunchy and vulgar, there were definitely some laugh out loud parts in Get Him to the Greek. But with nowhere near as much charm as its predecessor, this second installment of rocker Aldous Snow was too over the top for its own good.





#8) A Nightmare on Elm Street

Freddy Krueger is one of the scariest villains ever created. In 1984, Wes Craven crafted a horror masterpiece. And when I heard they were releasing a re-imagining of the classic film, I was skeptical, yet eager. 2010's A Nightmare on Elm Street focuses intensely on the brutal back story of the child murderer Freddy Krueger. Far too disturbing and graphic, the film falls way short of the spine-chilling fear generated by the original. Unfortunately, the terrible trend of remaking 80s hits continues.





#7) The American

Somewhat quiet in its release, The American stars George Clooney, and it pairs him with up-and-coming director Anton Corbijn. In 2009 Clooney reached all new heights with his brilliant work in Jason Reitman's award winning film Up in the Air. How quickly they fall. The American is beautifully shot and the cinematography is excellent. However, the deep character study is far too slow and non-climactic to experience any sort of enjoyment. The characters are lifeless, and it inevitably makes The American a difficult watch.





#6) Date Night

Two of the most talked about sitcoms on television are The Office and 30 Rock. When the leads from both shows announced they were making a comedy together, all ears perked up. Steve Carell and Tina Fey are two of the hottest names in Hollywood. Yet their stardom alone couldn't keep the laughs coming. Poor dialogue and plot ultimately made Date Night a disaster. Take away a few random laughs, this hyped comedy was easily one of 2010's biggest disappointments.

#5) Robin Hood

I'm still yet to find anyone who truly loved Ridley Scott's take on the classic tale Robin Hood. I know I'm a minority when I say that I wasn't particularly a big fan of Scott and Russell Crowe's big hit, Gladiator. But when word came out that the two would join forces once again, many people anxiously awaited Robin Hood's release. Much to our surprise, we were left baffled by its unoriginality and diluted story. I doubt it will be the last time we see the director and actor paired up again, but perhaps it should be.





#4) Dinner For Schmucks

Once again, Steve Carell happened to let us down in 2010. Dinner For Schmucks offered a hilarious trailer and an all-star cast including Carell, Paul Rudd, and Zach Galifianakis. Unfortunately, it didn't offer much more. Schmucks was incredibly over the top and the humor was all too forced. A jumbling of uncomfortable jokes and erratic plot, the film was certainly a letdown.

#3) Shutter Island

Hopefully by now everyone has seen legendary director Martin Scorsese's Shutter Island. If not, spoiler alert, so stop reading. Teaming up Scorsese with Leonardo DiCaprio for the first time since The Departed, there wasn't anyone on the planet more excited for this film than me. Since this top ten list centers on flops, obviously you can tell I was extremely disappointed in the movie. Shutter Island offers no more than the marginal thrillers we've been exposed to over the past decade. Following almost the exact same formula as The Number 23, the film drags and the twist is overdone (he was crazy all along, how clever). I was immensely displeased with Scorsese's lack of originality. I've come to expect more from a director of his stature. Also, DiCaprio was far from excellent in the movie. Almost impossible to differentiate from his William Costigan role in The Departed, Shutter Island is living proof that even Leo isn't perfect.

#2) Grown Ups

Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider, Kevin James, and David Spade, need I say more? Probably the most gifted comedic cast of the year, Grown Ups had everyone excited. Having reeled in over $160 million in the box office, people lined up to see this over-hyped comedy. Unfortunately for big time Sandler fans like myself, Grown Ups was a far too "family oriented" film. With recycled jokes and childish potty humor, this comedy fell extremely short of its expectations. If you haven't seen it, believe me, you aren't missing much.

#1) Hereafter

Acclaimed director Clint Eastwood proved to be out of his element when he decided to tackle the posthumous tale Hereafter. With recent hits like Gran Torino, Invictus, Million Dollar Baby, and Changeling, Eastwood's reputation helped build anticipation for the film. Couple that with one of Hollywood's finest, Matt Damon, as the lead, Hereafter was sure to be a hit. However, from beginning to end, the movie felt like a rainy day. It seemed as though it would never end. The 3 separate stories come together in an unsatisfying resolve that ultimately feels unsettling. Rumors circulating the film are that is was rushed. The script was unfinished and thrown together hastily by the director. Eastwood's rare flop has been ignored by everything this awards season, and it's not a surprise. Hereafter is definitely a thought provoking movie, but it's message isn't worth the drub you're required to sit through. And there you have it, 2010's biggest disappointment.

The Top Ten Films of 2010

Now that Christmas has come and gone, it's only fitting to get nostalgic and discuss the top movies that 2010 had to offer. As the season's first snow storm pummels the east coast, what better time than now to start the debate?

2010 has been a strange year for cinema. The early months started out slow and left us all crossing our fingers for a redeeming Summer. However, Summer came and passed with plenty to be desired. We sat around wondering if there was any light at the end of the tunnel. And then all of a sudden Christopher Nolan's much-hyped, psychological tale Inception kicked off a relieving stretch run. It turned out to be a fantastic Fall, and ultimately, 2010 was a really good year for cinema. Unfortunately though, it's beginning to appear as though this will be a template for the major studios to follow in the upcoming years. If so, it could be a while until we have a smorgasbord of fantastic features again.

When thinking back to this year's releases, the phrase "very satisfying" comes to mind. There weren't any unbelievable films, however there's at least a baker's dozen worthy of top ten status. Not only were there plenty of solid movies this year, there were a plethora of top-notch performances. Everything from newcomer Jesse Eisenberg's portrayal of Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg, to Colin Firth's depiction of King Henry VI during World War II. When all is said and done, the following ten films were this year's best:

#10) Toy Story 3

Very iconic of my childhood, Toy Story 3 was a film I was very excited to see this year. And when it finally came out, I was thrilled to watch it restore the franchise to it's original heights. Another adventure following Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the crew, Toy Story 3 addresses sincere topics like adulthood, friendship, and the passing of the torch. It's truly a pleasure for any audience.

#9) Black Swan

If you were to tell me in January that one of 2010's top films would center around a ballerina in New York City, I would've called you crazy. However, Darren Aronofsky's intense thriller Black Swan was one of this year's most beautifully crafted pictures. Natalie Portman gives a glaring performance as Nina Sayers, a young ballerina consumed by the pressure to be the best dancer in her company. The ending will stick with you for a while.

#8) True Grit

Jeff Bridges, fresh off an Oscar gold for his role in Crazy Heart last year, heads a wonderful cast in this Coen Brothers' remake. True Grit couples clever dialogue with pristine imagery to deliver one of the best Westerns in years. A murdered man's daughter seeks vengeance on the killer, and she hires a U.S. Marshall to help bring the man to justice. True Grit is a must see.

#7) The Town

As director Ben Affleck's successful follow up to Gone Baby Gone, The Town is highly entertaining. The film takes place in present day Boston, as a small community of crooks and thieves attempt a risky bank heist. Afterward, one of the robbers (Affleck) falls for the bank manager (Rebecca Hall) and it creates quite the controversy. The Town is more than just a typical cops and robbers movie, it offers a satisfying and deep look into redemption and change.

#6) Nowhere Boy

Despite the film's 2009 release in the United Kingdom, Nowhere Boy didn't reach the United States until this year. Starring Aaron Johnson (Kick Ass) as a teenage John Lennon in 1950s England, the movie explains the internal and external factors that helped breed a musical genius. Nowhere Boy teaches us a truth that Lennon so perfectly turned into a popular song. Sometimes ... all you need is love.

#5) The King's Speech

This year's festival darling, The King's Speech is perhaps 2010's most well-acted film. With an all-star cast containing Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter, The King's Speech is an epic tale of overcoming great odds. Firth plays King George VI as he attempts to conquer his speech impediment. Bonham Carter as his wife, Queen Elizabeth, and Rush as his vocal coach, the film creatively ties together an unconventional story during a trying time.

#4) 127 Hours

Danny Boyle is one of the most gifted directors in Hollywood. As versatile as anyone else, Boyle used his rare gift in 2010 to give us one of the greatest survival pictures of all time. 127 Hours is based on the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston (played by James Franco) and the adversity he faces while being trapped in a canyon in Utah. Franco gives one of the year's top performances and helps Boyle create an intense, epic journey in the mind of a man desperate to survive. Quite graphic during its resolution, 127 Hours is worth seeing if you can stomach it.

#3) The Social Network

Clever and fast-paced, The Social Network examines the real life story of Mark Zuckerberg (played by Jesse Eisenberg). Zuckerberg, a Harvard undergrad, creates the world's greatest social website on a college campus with the financial aid of his best friend Eduardo Saverin (played by Andrew Garfield). However, when a billion dollar idea is at stake, anyone and everyone will do their best to get their hands on the prize. A story about friendship and betrayal, The Social Network is a brilliant portrayal of intellectual conquest and the American dream.

#2) Inception

Inception was 2010's first big name release. It was released in July and afterward, moviegoers worldwide never looked back. Director Christopher Nolan's thriller centers around a futuristic world where shared dreaming is possible. When a group of thieves are hired to implant an idea into an heir's mind, keeping track of reality becomes a difficult task. An ending that had everyone talking for months, Inception is yet another great film by one of Hollywood's best living directors, Christopher Nolan.

#1) Get Low

2010's list of great films is headed by an unknown, Get Low. The story follows a local hermit in 1930s Tennessee named Felix Bush (played by Robert Duvall). When Mr. Bush has a strange idea to have a funeral for himself while he's still living, a struggling funeral director (played by Bill Murray) is happy to take on the task. Filled with fabulous acting and a perfectly constructed story, Get Low is absolutely charming. Duvall delivers a performance for the ages, and it's wonderful watching the sly old man's interior motive come to life. Get Low is a great film and one suitable for any audience. Be sure to check out the best film 2010 had to offer.


Have you seen most of these movies? Are there ones you think I've missed? Feel free to leave a response and let me know what you think. Have a great new year!

The Kings Speech - Official Trailer

The King's Speech: A Worthy Oscar Darling?

Film: The King's Speech

Starring: Colin Firth (A Single Man and Love Actually), Geoffrey Rush (Pirates of the Caribbean and Munich), and Helena Bonham Carter (Fight Club and Sweeney Todd)

U.S. Release: 2010 (rated R)

Director: Tom Hooper (The Damn United)

Genre: Drama

Runtime: 118 minutes


Every year there's a movie that critics alike deem the awards season frontrunner. This year, it's The King's Speech. Director Tom Hooper's incredible depiction of the events leading up to the reign of King George VI garnered the most Golden Globe nominations, and many speculate it will head the Oscar nominations as well. The King's Speech was out in limited release as early as November 26th. In its first weekend, having only been released at 4 theatres nationwide, the film grossed about $350,000 (an astounding $88,000 per theatre). In addition to its financial recognition, The King's Speech was also an early festival favorite throughout the world. After winning numerous awards, it was clear that this film would be difficult to dethrone.

Prior to becoming King George VI (played by Colin Firth), he was known as the Duke of York. Being the second eldest son of King George V, the Duke was sure to never see the throne. His eldest brother David (played by Guy Pearce), was the next in line. Deep down, the Duke, also known as Bertie to his close friends and family, was quite conflicted. After the passing of his sick father, Bertie believed himself to be the most qualified to hold the throne. However, with the invention of wireless broadcasting, Bertie's speech impediment (he stammers) inhibited him from being a strong public speaker. Through a sequence of uncontrollable events, Bertie's wife Elizabeth (played by Helena Bonham Carter) and a local Speech expert, Lionel (played by Geoffrey Rush), helped him overcome incredible odds on his way to becoming King George VI during World War II.

The King's Speech is a well crafted, beautifully acted film. Tom Hooper constructs a witty masterpiece that's extremely easy to watch. Fresh off a difficult Oscars loss, it will be interesting to see if the hangover sways voters to cast their ballots for Colin Firth. His performance was brilliant, but he's up against some stiff competition this year. It's a similar story for supporting actor Geoffrey Rush. He's absolutely charming as the profound Speech coach, Lionel Logue. Yet, Rush finds himself as a suitable number two behind Christian Bale (The Fighter). Despite the fantastic performances by Firth and Rush, perhaps it's Helena Bonham Carter who delivers best. Queen Elizabeth is such a wonderful character, and Bonham Carter brings her to life. She's so convincing as the rock and backbone of the King during his ascension to the throne. Also filled with excellent, laugh out loud dialogue, The King's Speech is surely one of this year's finest films.

As it turns out, The King's Speech is a difficult movie to locate. Therefore, in order to see it, I expect many people will have to wait for DVD. But if you're really in touch with this year's awards season, then it's clearly a must see film.


Stars: 3 stars out of 4

True Grit: Snub-worthy?

Film: True Grit

Starring: Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski and Crazyheart), Matt Damon (The Departed and Invictus), and Hailee Steinfeld

U.S. Release: 2010 (rated PG-13)

Director: Joel and Ethan Coen (Fargo, No Country For Old Men, and The Big Lebowski)

Genre: Western

Runtime: 110 minutes


I have always enjoyed Westerns, but unfortunately I have never seen the original True Grit, starring the Hollywood legend, John Wayne. After seeing the latest Coen Brothers hit, I was told that this, however, is far from a remake. With its own imagining of a similar story, 2010's True Grit proves that the Western genre is far from dead.

Set in Arkansas some time ago, True Grit follows Mattie Ross (played by newcomer Hailee Steinfeld). The young, 14 year old miss Ross is set in her ways. She plans on finding a bounty hunter to aid her in avenging her father's murder. After demonstrating her successful bargaining skills, Mattie lands enough money to swindle a rugged and crude U.S. Marshall named Rooster Cogburn (Bridges) into taking the job. There's a catch though. The wanted murderer, Tom Chaney (played by Josh Brolin), is quite the criminal, and a young Texas Ranger named LaBoeuf (Damon) is already tracking him. Somewhat pitted against one another, miss Ross and Cogburn hope to catch Chaney before LaBoeuf, and give the outlaw the hanging he deserves.

Tuesday marked the much anticipated release of this years Golden Globe nominations. However, it turned out to be far from a joyous day for the Coen Brothers and their all star cast. True Grit, surprisingly, received an unimaginable zero nominations. Sure to hurt its buzz, the directors still expect the Oscars to properly reward them for their final product. With clever dialogue and beautiful cinematography, True Grit, is far from the snub-worthy film the Golden Globes indirectly labeled it to be. Jeff Bridges delivers a memorable performance as the despicably charming Rooster Cogburn. Very selfish and independent (just listen to his recollections of his ex wives), it's remarkable seeing Cogburn's opinion of the job mold into a life-defining mission. In her first big role, Hailee Steinfeld's Golden Globe snub is far from warranted. She was magnificent and dazzling as the mature, vengeful daughter of the slain Frank Ross.

I have awaited the release of True Grit for months. I had the highest expectations imaginable for this film, and although it didn't reach them, it was still a very good movie. It's a nice, easy watch, but it lacks typical Coen Brothers flare. However, any fan of Westerns must see this film. Bridges will be remembered for his role for years to come. It's a great take on an underrepresented genre. I definitely recommend spending your Christmas holiday enjoying one of 2010's finest films, True Grit.


Stars: 3 stars out of 4.

Rabbit Hole

Film: Rabbit Hole

Starring: Nicole Kidman (Moulin Rouge and Australia), Aaron Eckhart (The Dark Knight and Love Happens), and Dianne Wiest (Edward Scissorhands and I Am Sam)

U.S. Release: 2010 (rated PG 13)

Director: John Cameron Mitchell

Genre: Drama

Runtime: 91 minutes


My main motivation for trekking into the brisk, cold December air was to see Nicole Kidman's performance first hand. However, the dramatic Oscar hopeful, Rabbit Hole, offers far more than a one-trick pony.

Set in a present day suburb of New York, Rabbit Hole centers around a young, married couple with a rocky relationship. Nearly eight months have passed, but Becca (Nicole Kidman) and Howie (Aaron Eckhart) are still trying to cope with the loss of their only son. After unsuccessful attempts at group meetings and talking with close relatives, the couple acknowledges that something has to change or else it may mean the demise of their marriage. Seeking any sort of comfort and resolution, Becca and Howie go to very different extremes to feel at peace with their son's accidental death.

Nicole Kidman, fresh of a Golden Globe nomination for her performance in the film, perfectly depicts a struggling mother. Both her and Eckhart feel responsible for their son's death, but playing the blame game gets them nowhere. Filled with numerous intense, dramatic scenes, Rabbit Hole provides the audience with an inspiring story and unquestionable raw, emotional acting. Dianne Wiest also gives a wonderful performance as Becca's mother. She too has lost a child, but almost desperate to differentiate herself from her mother, Kidman brilliantly demonstrates Becca's resentment towards any comparison.

I was aware of the premise prior to viewing the film, and my initial thought was "here comes another slow-paced, depressing drama". However, the young director, John Cameron Mitchell, graces us with a short, but sweet, outlook on the power of forgiveness. Rabbit Hole teaches us that every person grieves differently, but in that grievance, we must learn to accept life for what it is. Nothing is perfect, and nor should we expect it to be. Sometimes we experience trials and tribulations, but how we overcome these difficulties defines who we are. Based on a very popular play, Rabbit Hole also shows us to always look to the future and take initiative. When you're consumed in the past, you're no longer living. The characters Becca and Howie realize this, and they work together beautifully to get back some sort of semblance of a life.

Despite its depressing story, Rabbit Hole actually is an uplifting film. The audience finds itself emotionally invested in the main characters, and at the film's conclusion, you are content with the progress they make. If you are interested in an excellent character piece that flows well, I definitely recommend Rabbit Hole.


Stars: 3 stars out of 4