Welcome back! Yes, we're here for the final part of the Top 20 everyone has been waiting for, filmbore wants you!: a list of the best films out of filmbore's first 52 reviews that make up its inaugural year in existence.
For those of you a little bit behind, go and check out Part One here.
To remind those of you that did see the post, I have not decided solely on this list myself, but compiled it with the consideration of your own votes and feedback on the first year of filmbore's pick of the weeks, all via the reminders I've been posting over the last several months.
Taking into account your views, the Top 20 has been finalised. And, so as not to forget some of the other popular choices, a couple of "honourable mentions" are included too. So, let's get cracking, as filmbore wants you! looks at positions 10 to 1...has your choice made it into the the final section of the list? Which film has made it to the coveted "numero uno" slot?
WARNING! Some spoilers and some awesome films await!
10. Bronson (2008)
Tom Hardy is now one of the biggest names in Hollywood. His earlier forays into acting hold just as much gravitas as his recent portrayals, and Bronson is no exception. Nicolas Winding Refn's biopic of the UK's most famous prisoner is a wonderfully art-house approach that will stay with you.
9. Headhunters (2012)
A sensational blend of humour and thrills in this refreshing action-packed drama from Norway. Based on Jo Nesbo's book of the same name, we see Roger Brown, a charismatic head hunter with a particular talent in art theft. What begins as a straight up heist film evolves into a deadly chase of an unusual kind.
8. Brotherhood (2004)
I love South Korean cinema, and this picture is one of the reasons why. The Far East's answer to Saving Private Ryan sees two brothers consumed by the Korean Civil War. As their close bond is frayed, attacked and near obliterated due the unforeseen paths they are about to take, it's an emotional and hefty perspective on boys becoming men.
Honourable mention
Staying in Asia, I need to make a nod to one of Hong Kong's finest action pieces, Infernal Affairs. Bumped off by some of your votes, it's more famous for being the film that was remade into Scorsese's Oscar winning movie, The Departed.
Staying in Asia, I need to make a nod to one of Hong Kong's finest action pieces, Infernal Affairs. Bumped off by some of your votes, it's more famous for being the film that was remade into Scorsese's Oscar winning movie, The Departed.
At the turn of the century there was only one film on everyone's lips...Battle Royale! A mash-up between The Running Man and Lord Of The Flies, this comical yet alarming gore-fest is, surprisingly, brimming with metaphor and political brevity. A must if you haven't seen it...but only if you dare!
6. Let The Right One In (2008)
And who'd have thought that a horror movie can be both scary and sweet. One of the most unique films you are likely to see, Tomas Alfredson's left field approach to school bullying is touching while still carries enough chill to not forgot its genre roots. But at its heart, it's a story of love between friends.
And who'd have thought that a horror movie can be both scary and sweet. One of the most unique films you are likely to see, Tomas Alfredson's left field approach to school bullying is touching while still carries enough chill to not forgot its genre roots. But at its heart, it's a story of love between friends.
5. Searching For Sugar Man (2012)
So many documentaries to watch. Which one to choose? Just one! The story of the best unknown songwriter in the world, Rodriguez, is an incredible revealing tale. Initially played as a real life detective story, this eye opening film will melt your heart through its reveals. This man is a legend!
4. Kill List (2011)
A firm fan favourite. Your votes had an influence on the position of this picture too. Ben Wheatley's shockingly brilliant, disturbingly delicious thriller is in a realm of its own. A foray into the psyche of a troubled assassin and the underlying conspiracy that eludes him merits repeat watches as the subtle references slowly seep through. Dark but beautiful.
Honourable mention
Another favourite of yours was Sightseers. A great film admittedly, but with many UK films already in this list and a Wheatley film about at number 4, it had stiff competition. It's properly funny though!
And so...to the Top 3...
3. Tyrannosaur (2011)
The highest UK film on this roster and only the second review I ever wrote on this site. Tyrannosaur, the directorial debut from Paddy Considine, is one of the finest modern British films available. It's both subtle and brash, real and unbelievable, appealing and astounding. With two of the country's finest actors in Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman, it's proof that straight- forward storytelling, delicate and confident camerawork and plenty of room for performers to release is just the right recipe for a great picture. I've watched this piece several times and cannot tire of it. It's evidence of when a good team of talented artists get the balance just right.
2. Holy Motors (2012)
This very nearly took the number one spot! After a thirteen year sabbatical, Leos Carax came back to the world of cinema and birthed unto the world one of the smartest, craziest, prettiest, bravest films in many a year. This truly refreshing look into the world of voyeurism and reality TV, mainly encapsulating the ever growing demand for real-life entertainment, sees Monsieur Oscar (Denis Lavant) step between different realms to "perform" as a plethora of alternating personalities. Each vignette is absorbing in its own sense, as we are taken on a ride through an array of genres. This sounds hard to swallow, I know, but it truly works. It's the work of a genius and proof that the world of art really missed Carax. Try and find a film like this. In fact, just watched this live-recorded, Steadicam accordion skit and tell me it's not superb!
And the winner is...
1. I'm A Cyborg, But That's Okay (2006)
There can be only one winner! Quite clearly one of the most perfect films of modern cinema, this is Park Chan-Wook's masterpiece. Each frame paints its own picture, with vivid colours, obscure angles and intriguing sets. But it's the premise to this film that will really win you over.
Cha Young-Goon (the beautiful Lim Soo Yung) is at odds. She is adamant that she is a cyborg yet nobody else sees it. A confused attempt to "charge her batteries" is seen as a suicide attempt, or even just a cry for help, so she is placed in an institute for the clinically insane.
Park Il-Sun (action star Rain) believes he has many hidden talents, super powers even. Invisible when he wears his mask, he can steal personalities or traits from his fellow patients without a trace. Yet, he is enamoured when he's confronted by Young-Goon, and starts to see his world a little differently. Maybe he can use his abilities to help her somehow?
Chan-Wook can work a lens, we all know that. Yet, you won't see such a wide array of his talents as visible in I'm A Cyborg... as he switches genres in an instant, prompting some incredibly creative camerawork.
Yet, behind this visual smorgasbord is not a tale of insanity, or a big action piece, or a response to mental care. In fact, scrape away a lot of the surface art and beneath you will find one of the simplest, sweetest love stories that you'll even encounter. It's incredibly well paced too and should be studied for its sensational rhythm of editing.
If you are a fan of Park Chan-Wook, of his Vengeance trilogy, of particularly Oldboy, or of his recent output Stoker, then watch this film. If you are bowled over by artistically shot films with great choice in colour and design, then watch this film. If you are the type who's won over by wonderful storytelling and unique performances, then watch this film. If you haven't seen this film...watch this film! It is, quite clearly, one of the finest modern pictures ever made and - yeah, you guessed it - one of my favourite films of all time.
Enjoy!
So that's it. filmbore wants you! has finally come to an end. Did your choice make the list? Are the right films in the right place? Are there any that are placed so incorrectly that it just enrages you to the extent where you need to have a massive rant?
Then post your comments below and get the debate going. Alternatively, you can email me directly at filmborewantsyou@filmbore.co.uk, comment on my facebook page or tweet me @filmbore.
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