MOVIE OF THE WEEK: Ajami

The first line of this film is “I know I can feel what is about to happen” and it really sets the tone for the rest of this movie. Throughout the film, you are so tense knowing that something bad is about to happen, but hoping that it won’t. This movie was so exceptional, I kept saying in head through the whole film, “Wow, this is a good movie.” Set in the region of Ajami in Tel Aviv, the film explored the instability of the day-to-day lives of people involved (often indirectly, as is the case with young children) in conflicts regarding religion (Christians, Muslims, Jews) and nationality (Israel, Palestine, Iraq). The non-linear plot really takes you for a ride as you get different perspectives and understand the bigger picture as the events unfold. To me, this should have been the clear winner at the Oscars for Best Foreign Language film. Amazing!

MOVIE OF THE WEEK/OSCAR WATCH: Toy Story 3

The second Oscar contender of the year is Toy Story 3. Definitely one of the best animated films I've seen in a while. I thought they were exaggerating when they said it was making grown men cry, but alas, my eyes did get a bit watery. Those toys are just so damn loveable! I even felt bad for throwing out my own childhood toys! A true testament to power of this film. Like 2009's "Up", this installment also had a slightly deeper plot, as it explored the dilemma of kids growing up (and of course, outgrowing toys). Haven't seen "How To Train Your Dragon", so can't say it's a sure win for Animated Feature. I can also see some Oscar love in the Best Picture and Adapted Screenplay categories. I liked it, but don't think I'm on the bandwagon yet to see an animated film win Best Picture.

OSCAR WATCH: Shutter Island

And the Oscar season begins! Not too convinced that this will be a Best Picture contender (especially with such an early release), but the wise people at Awards Daily seem to think so. Expectedly good acting performances, with Leo in the lead role and a stellar supporting cast. To be honest, I only expect this to be a significant contender for a Cinematography nomination. I really liked it, but I don't think it was memorable enough to be remembered come Oscar time.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK: The Shawshank Redemption

Yet another masterpiece from the early 90's. Saw this a long time ago and thought I should re-visit it. I am glad I did, as it reminded me how great a film it is. What an amazing script, with such a good flow to it. Keeps you interested from start to finish. The acting was exceptional, such a refreshment from the over-acting that is often prominent in today's dramas. Freeman and Robbins approach their roles with such subtlety and realism that you feel like you are watching true events being played out right before your eyes. No wonder it is ranked #1 on IMDb's Top 250 Movies.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK: The Silence of the Lambs

Wow, they really don’t make thrillers like this anymore! After watching “Seven” and now “Silence of the Lambs” I realize I really need to start watching some of these older films. What a tour de force! The editing was perfect, as every scene was important. The screenplay was exceptional and was well laid out. The acting was superb – Anthony Hopkins is the ultimate creeper and Jodie Foster’s performance was vital in creating the suspense-filled atmosphere. The music was good as well, but the acting and script was such that music wasn’t even required to set the tone of the film. Simply amazing! It’s easy to understand why it swept the Oscars (Best Director, Actor, Actress, Screenplay and of course, Best Picture). One of the best movies I’ve ever seen.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK: Nowhere Boy

Really struggled to find a new "Movie of the Week", so I chose one that I saw a couple weeks back. "Nowhere Boy" tells the story of a 15-year-old John Lennon (the same actor who plays Kick-Ass!) and is entertaining from start to finish. The entire cast is marvelous, especially Anne-Marie Duff who really gives an exuberant performance.