2010 Movies: #16, 15, 14 & 13

Ref: Mulhern

#16 Never Let Me Go

B and I saw Never Let Me Go on a romantical date. He coined the descriptor "soul-crushingly depressing" immediately after exiting the theatre, where the marquee indeed advertised, "Never Let Me Go featuring Future Spiderman Andrew Garfield."

Mulhern is right on the money on this one. It's a film I enjoyed seeing once because it was well-written and -acted, artistic and arresting. It's also creepy and heart-rending, showcasing sparse scenery and sparser prospects for those it follows. But I don't know if it's one I would enjoy popping into the DVD player on a whim because of its sheer weight.

Another excellent showing by Carey Mulligan.

#15 The King's Speech

The King's Speech was a wonderful film, well-deserving of its accolades to date. I disagree with B's assessment of pacing issues - I thought all the characters and scenes were captivating, even those featuring the brother. The interactions between the king and his daughters were touching, especially the penguin scene, as were the relationships between the king and his wife and the king and his therapist.

While it may have lacked some historical accuracy, The King's Speech felt real, employing excellent period costuming and immersing performances. Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter are all outstanding. I'd put this one on any must-see list.

#14 Winter's Bone

I missed this one and am sad that I did, although it sounds soul-crushingly depressing.

#13 How to Train Your Dragon

I loved this movie! It's one I would consider buying a 3D TV to see again, just because all of the flying scenes were so amazing. I also tried to get my sister to name her new vehicle Toothless (big, black and sturdy - what's not to like?).

A couple of corrections to Mulhern's review:

It's Night Fury, B, not a Nightmare. Gotta know your dragons. Brush up.

And Toothless isn't so much missing teeth as... well... *spoiler alert* hiding them a la Wolverine's claws. Surprise!

I think How to Train Your Dragon works well because its basic building blocks are so strong. Even though the tale itself is an animated fantasy, it incorporates the same elements that any successful story would. Enthralling, suspenseful storyline? Check! Believably flawed but relatable characters? Check! Stirring score? Check!

It is, as the trailer suggests, "a great adventure for all ages." I am definitely anticipating the sequel. I hope it's just as good!