The Best of Celluloid

A round-up of the ten finest films from the past ten years.

New Year's Eve 2009 saw the end of one of the most politically charged and aesthetically challenging decades in human history. What easier way to make sense of the endless ricochet of event and analysis than with a list?

Our contributors have chosen their top ten creative works of the decade, from artworks to albums, which we will publish on a daily basis.

The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
The film simultaneously captures the comedy and beauty in dysfunction, while innovating style and creating a completely unique tone. Rarely does comedy become funnier with time.

Punch Drunk Love (2002)
This was known for Adam Sandler’s “artsy” comedic performance. Growing up with seven sisters, Sandler’s character has serious emotional trouble. In his first intimate moment, he speaks softly, “I’m looking at your face and I just want to mash it with a sledgehammer."

Elephant (2003)
Gus Van Sant’s recreation of the Columbine massacre effectively placed the audience in the school, as student. This Cannes Palm D’Or winner revolutionized cinematography as it contributes to story.

Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)
Thankfully, people don’t drink milk in theatres.

Adaptation (2002)
If there’s a genius in Hollywood, it’s writer Charlie Kaufman and this is potentially his best script. Nicholas Cage and Meryl Streep are at their best, but Chris Cooper’s performance steals the show.

I'm Going Home (Je rentre a la maison) (France, 2001)
An unforgettable portrayal of a famous elderly actor who loses his family in an accident and must care for his now orphaned grandson. A soft and touching tone exposes the humor in tragedy.

Pan's Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno)(Mexico, 2006)
It blends the real and surreal with confidence and technique. A visual masterpiece.

The Squid and the Whale (2005)
The film makes you laugh without telling a joke. The characters are uniquely flawed and relatable with identifiable quirks.

Away From Her (2006)
Pure drama and emotion with uncompromising integrity. Canada’s finest.

Man On Wire (2008)
A character driven documentary with stunning footage from the 1974 tightrope crossing of the WTC’s twin towers. A life lived differently on film.