Best Films of 2011


Steven Greydanus shares his 10 best films of 2011.

Here are my top five favorites for 2011:

1. Of Gods and Men  This compelling historical drama relates the ordeal of seven French Trappist monks in the mountains of Algeria who are taken captive by Islamic fundamentalists. Before the monks' abduction, they have ample reason to believe they may be in danger, but their assumption that there can and must be common ground between Islam and Christianity leads them to remain at the monastery. This is truly a masterpiece and a must-see movie. Teens and up.

2. War Horse  A friendship begins between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert, who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the horse moves through the First World War, changing and inspiring the lives of all those he meets -- British cavalry, German soldiers, and a French farmer and his granddaughter. Bring a box of klennex. Teens and up.

3. Jane Eyre  Jane Eyre flees Thornfield House, where she works as a governess for wealthy Edward Rochester. The isolated and imposing residence - and Mr. Rochester's coldness - have sorely tested the young woman's resilience, forged years earlier when she was orphaned. As Jane reflects upon her past and recovers her natural curiosity, she will return to Mr. Rochester - and the terrible secret that he is hiding.  One of the best versions I have seen. Teens and up.

4. The Mighty Macs  In the early 70s, Cathy Rush becomes the head basketball coach at a tiny, all-girls Catholic college. Though her team has no gym and no uniforms -- and the school itself is in danger of being sold -- Coach Rush looks to steer her girls to their first national championship. This is one of the best Catholic movies I have seen in a long time – it is reminiscent of the Bing Crosby films of the 50s. The difference is it is based on a true story. It is exciting, funny, and uplifting – a feel good film. All ages.

5. Courageous  Four men, one calling: To serve and protect. As law enforcement officers, they are confident and focused, standing up to the worst the streets can offer. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge they're ill prepared to tackle: fatherhood. When tragedy strikes home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Sherwood Pictures, creators of Fireproof, returns with this heartfelt, action-packed story.  The humor in the film lightens the heaviness. Have your box of klennex with you! Teens and up.

Note: I have yet to see The Way, which I think will most likely be a favorite, based on everything I have heard about it. I have seen Midnight in Paris, which I did not like at all.

What are some of your favorites?
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