I love story and how it is shared through film.
2012 was a great year for movies. Almost every movie I experienced caused me to think, feel, cry, laugh, long for God, and hate the broken world in which we live.
There were 9 movies nominated for best picture by the academy awards. Here is how I would have ranked them 9 - 1 and a brief thought about each. Also mentioned is the film in 2012 that impacted me the most.
9. Amour
Love. The story of love and pain between an aging couple. In a word, the movie was excruciating but caused me to face the reality that death is coming some day. Fun hugh? Did I mention excruciating?
Very artistic in it's approach. The 9 year old actress, Quvenzhané Wallis, stole the show. As she goes on a search for her mom we get to learn about life through her young eyes. It was also interesting to see how the story explored spirituality as all things fitting together.
Typical Terantino with exaggerated violence and story of vengeance. Right or wrong I felt good about justice being done. I know, kind of crazy. It's funny how movies explore god like characteristics (justice) without a thought of the source.
6. Lincoln
Unbelievable portrayal of Lincoln and others securing a constitutional amendment leading to the end of slavery. Daniel Day Lewis was unbelievable winning best actor. I found myself weeping at the reality of how slaves were viewed and treated. Some unbelievable dialogue about leadership and seizing life and the moment for change that impacts millions of lives.
Compelling story of how one women led the charge to find and kill Ben Laden. She never gave up even when the powerful around her doubted and flinched. I'm not sure how true it is to historical fact but a great story never the less.
Redemption, forgiveness, hope and love. There are so many words that describe the incredible themes portrayed with passion in this musical. And yes, I felt intense gratitude for how God has pursued and loved me. I'm not sure if a movie this year caused me to connect with as many characters.
Another story of failure, redemption and new beginnings. I particularly enjoyed the interaction with the love of parents for an older son struggling to find himself and start again. And Jennifer Lawrence, wow! She won and deserved best female actor of the year.
2. Argo
Intriguing depiction of a CIA agent creating an elaborate scheme to rescue Americans during the Iran hostage crisis. Ben Affleck was compelling. Believe it or not I still remember the hostage crisis which made this movie particularly interesting to me.
1. Life of Pi
Magical, spiritual, heartbreaking, surrender, beautiful are all words I would use to describe this incredible story. The exploration of reality and fantasy was fascinating as well as it's depiction of spirituality in the midst of this pluralistic culture. After watching it I woke up the following morning still thinking, feeling and questioning what I had experienced. The story effected me personally at a deep level and gave insight into what many feel about spirituality today.
My favorite movie of the year
Or I should say the film that impacted me at the deepest level. I care deeply for the next generation. This particular film did an extraordinary job exposing what many middle school and high school students are experiencing every day. I left the theater broken and with and extra longing to bring hope to those who are facing the complex issues of life in the teen age world.
If you care anything about the younger generation it's a must see. It is perhaps the best window into the lives of teen culture since "The Breakfast Club".
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
So there you have it. How many of the nominees did you get to see? How would you adjust the order?
I'm all ears.
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