10. White Out- The graphic novel this film is based on is actually pretty cool and unique, but they deviated so far from that story that it was the same in name only. Bad story and badly executed.
9. 2012- Just because a film is full of CGI doesn't make it an instant blockbuster film. A rehashed storyline and characters couldn't save this film from being an overly long film that will send your senses into over load.
8. The Surrogates- If you can get past the image of Bruce Willis with no wrinkles (has he ever not had wrinkles?), then you are able to sit back and watch a completely pointless movie. It's hard not to notice the similarities between this film and "I, Robot."
7. Twilight Saga: New Moon- While this film was better than the first by a long shot, the lagging story and lack of action pulls this one down. Acting was better, but there is still much room for improvement.
6. Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li- I think it's time for Hollywood to realize that even though video games have great stories, they just don't translate well to films. I will say that this was much better than the first attempt that was made. Hopefully "Prince of Persia" will change this trend.
5. Knowing- I don't like Nicolas Cage. There, I feel better. This film could have been so much better, but the ending did this film in. It was just way too over the top. Cage was actually tolerable in this film and the CGI work was incredible, but those aspects couldn't quite complete this film.
4. Dragonball Evolution- This film was just a bad idea for live-action. Anime needs to stay that way. The acting was horrific and the CGI work was very underwhelming.
3. Halloween II- This film should not have been allowed to even be associated with the iconic film series. Rob Zombie's first "Halloween" film was actually quite good, but this one came out of left field and it just did not work well. The characters were changed to the point that they were unrecognizable.
2. G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra- When I first heard about this film, I knew the quality was going to come down to the script...and it was BAD! When you have an actor like Dennis Quaid, you'd expect that he'd be able to make it work, but even he was lack-luster and unimpressive. I had to do my best to not walk out of this one.
1. Land of the Lost- I don't even know where to begin with this film. I guess they just figured since Will Farrell was starring, the film would just make money. Turns out that this film is one of the worst film flops in history. The story was weak and the acting was just embarrassing. If Farrell was smart, he'd disappear for a while and let this film be erased from peoples memories.
Now, on to the films that really impressed me this year, which was quite a few, but I think I did pretty well here.
10. The Hurt Locker- Jeremy Renner made this film what it was. His work in the lead role was amazing. The movie had some very intense moments, but they didn't quite last through out the film. This easily could have been the best film of the year had the intensity continued, but it is still worth the watch.
9. Avatar- James Cameron's latest film is a visual masterpiece and can't be missed. Zoe Saldana is amazing to watch and I can't wait to see her continue her career. The story is the only thing I didn't like about this movie, as it could have been a bit more original, nonetheless I enjoyed it .
8. Watchmen- Zack Snyder's adaptation of this award winning graphic novel is visually stunning, in a way that only Snyder can do it. However, the lack of a wider audience appeal keeps it from a higher ranking. If you are not familiar with the novel, then there is a lot of confusion and questions that arise. Still, a fantastic movie.
7. Brothers- I was thrilled by Tobey MacGuire's performance in this film. He tapped into a corner of his being that we have never seen. Natalie Portman proved that she can dance with the big girls with this film. Gyllenhaal just continues to show that he is an amazing actor. The story is touching and sad, but done with tact.
6. Fantastic Mr. Fox- Although I am not a huge fan of Wes Anderson, Mr. Fox is a film that can't be missed. It's a good change from the computer animation that we've been force-fed for so long. Not to mention the best voice over work in any film I've seen.
5. The Messenger- As with Brothers, this film touches on a subject that is very emotional. It is done in a way as to not press the issue or feed an agenda. Fantastic acting and a great story make this a film that needs to be watched.
4. Up- Easily Disney/Pixar's best film. They added a new level of emotion to the film and I think it worked out pretty well. It has comedy for both young and old as well as some fun action and hilarious characters. It's the best family film of the year, if not the decade.
3. Inglorious Basterds- Tarantino films aren't for everybody and this is no exception. I can't think of another director/writer who can include a scene in a film that for nearly 45 minutes, the actors do nothing but talk and it still holds your attention and is entertaining! One of Brad Pitt's most unique roles, but it is amazing and Christoph Waltz was stellar. I'd say this might be Tarantino's best work...so far.
2.(500) Days of Summer- This unique twist on a love story, a film is created that is a one of a kind. Joseph Gordon Leavitt has cemented his status as a legit actor. Add to that the quirkiness of Zooey Deschanel and you have quite the pairing. The story is not your typical love story, which disappointed some, but it's nice to see something different.
1. District 9- With a budget of about $30 million, this film proved that you don't need to spend hundreds of millions of dollars like some other "blockbusters" we see. A fantastic and unique story combined with some incredible CGI work makes this film a must see. It is not at all what you'd expect to see, so keep an open mind.
There you have it! I know some of you will disagree with this list, but I'd love to get some feedback from you. What would you add or take away? I can't wait to get going on the 2010 film year as it's looking to be a fantastic year for films!