Favorite Movies of 2009 (so far...)

Now that we are well over halfway through the year and well into the summer season, it seems like a rather appropriate time to reflect on some of the films that I have seen this year so far.

Before you read this list, please note the following things: 1. I am not a professional movie critic. 2. Out of the hundreds of films that have been released this year, I have really only seen about 15-20.

With that said, here is my list for 'My Five Favorite Films of 2009...so far'

5. I Love You, Man

Despite having a rather simple premise, the film is driven by it's hilarious performances from Jason Segel and Paul Rudd as well as the great supporting cast. I Love You, Man is filled with awkward situations, heartfelt relationships, hilarious one-liners, and non-stop laughs.

4. Away We Go

A fantastic little indie comedy from Sam Mendes about a hilarious, yet heartfelt journey of an expecting couple struggling to find themselves. Away We Go features very impressive performances from John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph, two actors best known for their roles on TV.

3. Up

Another wonderful piece of work from Pixar. Much like previous Pixar films, Up successfully executes a perfect balance of comedy, adventure, and powerful emotional themes that probably go right over the heads of children.

2. The Hangover

Without a doubt, this summer's biggest surprise hit. Even without a cast of well-known actors or a previously existing franchise for support, The Hangover proved that an original R-rated comedy film can still appeal to mass audiences.

1. Star Trek

Forget Transformers. Forget Terminator. JJ Abrams's reboot of the classic sci-fi franchise is by far the best action film of the year. Unlike other summer blockbusters, Star Trek's action sequences don't soley rely on the use of large explosions and computer generated effects. The film features outstanding acting performances from it's young, rather unknown cast (specifically Chris Pine as James T. Kirk and Zachary Quinto as Spock). But what really makes Star Trek an incredible film, is it's ability to appeal to hardcore "Trekkies" as well as those of us who are just looking for a solid summer action film.

------------------------------------
There are still a ton of critically acclaimed films that I have not seen yet that would have probably had a good chance of making the my top 5...here is a list of some of them:

Movies That I Haven't Seen Yet (But really want to...)
(500) Days of Summer
The Hurt Locker
Sin Nombre
Moon
Sugar
Goodbye Solo
Sunshine Cleaning
Coraline
Two Lovers