My favorite movies of 2009...

Okay, another list. Sorry. It's not only the end of the year, but the end of the decade, so its a time to pause and reflect, and that's what I've been doing. So... here ya go...

1.) Avatar - James Cameron has made yet another masterpiece with this sci-fi action film set in the future world of Pandora. I've only seen this movie once, but I plan to see it again soon. I'm still not sure what my long term thoughts will be concerning this film, but I know its the best film I saw this year.

2.) District 9 - Peter Jackson and Neil Blomkamp hit it out of the park with this sci-fi thriller. I put off seeing for a long time because of mixed reviews from friends of mine. However, I was blown away by its action, special effects, and solid storytelling. Rumor has it that the suits want a sequel but Jackson and Blomkamp are dragging their feet. Let's hope they get to work on it as soon as possible.

3.) Adventureland - Some movies strike a chord with you, while others do not. Adventureland was one of those movies that just worked for me in every way. I rank it with Dazed and Confused, Stand by Me, and Sixteen Candles as some of the very best coming of age movies that you'll ever see.

4.) (500)Days of Summer - I think everyone can relate to a romance like this, either from current events or something that took place in their younger days. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel have perfect chemistry for their on-screen romance, and the direction is beautifully accuerate. A must see.

5.) Zombieland - Who doesn't want to watch Woody Harrellson blowing up Zombies? This movie is tons of fun. It has a simple, yet lovely story with it too. Can't wait to watch it again on DVD.

6.) Inglorious Basterds - Tarintino has probably put forth his best effort yet. I could have done without some of the quirky spice that he feels compelled to sprinkle over all of his films, but there's no escaping the overall quality of his effort. The opening sequence is about as brilliant a piece of film making that you'll ever have the opportunity to enjoy. While setting the bar very high, and giving you a real desire for a pay-off that never really comes, the first several minutes of the movie is masterful. Brad Pitt gives the performance of his career and Christoph Waltz gives one of the most enjoyable performances ever as "The Jew Hunter".

7.) Watchmen - Again, some movies do it for you, and others don't. I tend to enjoy movies that most dislike and vice versa. Alot of people didn't care for Watchmen, and I can I understand why. However, for me, it was (and is) a truly amazing experience. Bravo to Zach Snyder and company for this outstanding achievement in film making.

8.) Star Trek - Despite huge plot holes, this movie is a great reboot of the franchise. I'm really looking forward to where the series heads in the future, now that the re-introduction of characters are finished. Here's hoping for a Khan-esque sequel.

9.) Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince - Another fine entry to the series, with probably the best performances to date by the ensemble cast. As a fan of the books, I wasn't wild about the adaptation, but it was still a solid effort.

10.) The Blind Side - Sanrda Bullock did a tremendous job with her performance in this movie. To be honest, I didn't know she had it in her, but this movie was very moving, thanks in large part to her character.

11.) The Hangover - Bradley Cooper, Mike Tyson and Andy from "The Office," what's not to like?

12.) A Christmas Carol - A terribly underrated film. Jim Carrey gives an amazing performance and the special effects are top notch. I really enjoyed this movie.