The Almost Top Ten Films of 2004

I've finally had a bit of time to slap together my Top Films of 2004 list. A lot of good movies this year, but apparently not enough to make my list ten films long.

9.) The Incredibles. Directed by Brad Bird
While not as good as Bird's Iron Giant, he's still made a film that kicks Disney's ass and also moves Pixar into a new genre.

8.) Collateral. Directed by Michael Mann
This movie is on the list as much for Mann's precision as for the film itself. He's one of the smartest, most meticulous directors around. The third act is a bit weak but the performances are fantastic. Cruise and Foxx are incredible.

7.) In Good Company. Directed by Paul Weitz
Just a well-made comedy that doesn't go for cheap laughs.

6.) Million Dollar Baby. Directed by Clint Eastwood
First off, it's an amazing boxing picture, one of the best Hollywood's made. Second, it has a moving second act that you wouldn't see coming if not for the press the film has been getting.

5.) I Heart Huckabees. Directed by David Russell
Weird and wonderful. Lightweight and meaningful. Just see it.

4.) Spider-man 2. Directed by Sam Raimi
The best superhero movie ever made and it's about the comic character I collect! Action and heart.

3.) Sideways. Directed by Alexander Payne
Payne has yet to make a bad picture. There's a lot of talk about overhyping on this film, but if you go in cold, you will love it. Giamatti was robbed of an Oscar nomination.

2.) The Aviator. Directed by Martin Scorsese
Scorsese's in top form. This is what Hollywood pictures should be about; exhilarating entertainment with top notch acting and big production values.

1.) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Directed by Michel Gondry
Gondry's previous collaboration with screenwriter resulted in the interesting, but uneven Human Nature. This time, the duo hit the mark. Jim Carrey's never been better and Kate Winslet is amazing. A movie about what love and heartbreak feels like.