[RadfordVA]

I usually try to see as many of the Best Picture nominees before the oscars. Over the last week I was able to actually get caught up and make it through all 10 for this years nominees. Covering some night shifts for an employee in the hospital gave the needed free time to do so. So just thought I would post a quick run down on my thoughts after finishing. How I would rank them.

1.) True Grit....really enjoyed the film from start to finish. Thought all the parts were well done. Could have used a little more of Barry Peppers character Ned but of all the films it had me the most invested.

2.) 127 hrs.....Just found it amazing that I could be that entertained with so little actually going on in a film.

3.) Social Network....I think pretty much everyone has seen this and know the deal with it. I stayed interested throughout but the further I get away from it the less I have an interest to see it again. Just hasnt stuck with me like the Top 2.

4.) The Fighter...Great performances all around. Amy Adams managed to make kinda trashy seem kinda hot.

5.) Inception...seemed like the kind of movie I would love going in but lost my attention in a few spots. Doubt I will have desire to see it again.

6.)Winters Bone....This film is the one I was most surprised about. I knew nothing about movie going in, which is probably the best way. I think we see too many clips from trailers these days. Was mesmerized by how authentic the performances were. Most people will probably skip this film but I couldnt recommend more.

7.)Kids are all right....nice job of developing relationships between characters and letting us in on how each person is dealing with this strange situation. Couldn't stand Annette Benning's character though haha

8.)Kings Speech.....good performances all around. I usually enjoy historical films and this was no different.

9.)Toy Story 3.....watched with the kids. Really well done for a kids movie. Couldn't see watching again without them but its great for what it is.

10.)Black Swan...This is the only film nominated that I did not enjoy at all, so I think the academy did a great job this year. Just felt almost like a B movie to me except with top notch actresses and director. Felt like if you changed setting from ballet to strip club it could very easily be a movie you have seen on cinemax 20 times. Obviously I am in the minority on this one as most people enjoyed it but it wasn't for me.