Movie Hopping 2006: The Year of Shit (#1-5)

Stay tuned next week for the top movies of 2006. The crew at PDL will compile a list of 40+ movies that took place in 2006, some of which were seen during movie hoppings, and some of which were seen at home on DVD.

Well, the top 5 movies in the movie hopping experience of 2006 were quite enjoyable:

1. Match Point

Quite Possibly the highlight of Woody Allen's career (yes I am aware of his rampage of brilliance in the 70's). He creates a topnotch thriller out of a cliche subject matter in this glorious celebration of romance. The movie is very mild, not overdone, and casted casted well. The final portion of the movie literally caused my jaw to hang for 20 minutes.

2. Departed, The

A gangster movie that takes place in the modern era. Scorsese is in his comfort zone; the east coast, guns, and villains. This cast is packed with talent, every lead actor, and every supporting actor is top notch; there is no question Mark Walburg steals the show despite his limited screen time. And the end is timeless signature Scorsesien mastership; never dull; they all kill each other Shakespeare-style.

3. Capote

Seymour Hoffman. Need I say more? This guy is great in any role he takes. This movie is very slow, boring, and colorless (in black and white), but Hoffman shines. The story deals with emotion, guilt, and humanity. These types of movies can be very shitty, very easily. This movie is quite good in telling its story, and keeps you interested throughout. The exploration of humanity is the focus of this movie, and it would not be crazy if in the end you forgive the two brutal murderers, and instead view their punishment as the true bad guy.



4. Blood Diamond

This movie takes us on a fast and action packed journey that is boring for like 2 seconds. The other 66391 seconds are sheer high-flying, anti-Bolshevik notes that only a composer of the highest rank could write. And the pleasant surprise is: this isn't a dumbed down action movie. The is great in all aspects; cinematography, acting, plot, etc.. A very effective movie, and one of the great surprises of 2006. Leo rules in this one.

5. V for Vendetta

Orwell's Animal Farm meets 1984, and an old friend Fahrenheit 451 . They go to a dinner together consisting of A Clockwork Orange, Kill Bill and any other sensible form of madness. What you get is V for Vendetta, the latest political commentary on capitalism, rules, and power. This is one of the most original concepts of the year (prolly second to Pan's Labyrinth), not because of the storyline, but because of the almost fantasy-like experience the viewer goes on. The choreography is great, the violence is great, and the British atmosphere is perfect. Upon watching this movie you cant help but say to yourself "Remember remember the fifth of November..."