3. True Grit
I know a few folks who'd like to challenge me to a duel for saying this, but Jeff Bridges is better than John Wayne in True Grit, the Coen Brothers' adaptation of the Charles Portis novel. Joined by Matt Damon and the remarkable debut of Hailee Steinfeld, Bridges spearheads an impeccably acted, masterfuly directed western adventure.
2. Black Swan
Intense and wildly dramatic, Darren Aronofsky's creepy ballet psycho horror is boosted by a transformative performance by Natalie Portman.
1. The Fighter
What are you people waiting for? There's only one movie worth braving the snow for, and that's The Fighter, the best sports drama of the year featuring an impeccable ensemble cast featuring epic turns by Christian Bale, Amy Adams, and Melissa Leo. Mark Wahlberg ain't bad, either.
DVD Pick of the Week: The American
If you're tuning in to Anton Corbjin's crime thriller, The American, expecting wild car chases and fantastic shoot outs, then you're probably going to be disappointed. Likewise if you're looking for superstar ladies man, George Clooney, to emphasize his dashing charm and sense of humor. The American is the actor's most understated performance in a uniquely European film about a hitman sent to hide out in Italy after assassins ruin his seclusive getaway. While there he takes on one last job, a simple job constructing a unique weapon for a gorgeous killer much like himself, and gets a little too attached to a prostitute looking for a fresh start. The problem? The women in his life has a tendency to die, and if he's ever going to be happy he's got to find out why he's been targeted.
