The Skin I Live In

The Skin I Live In is a psychological thriller from the highly acclaimed Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar. His work is often compared to Alfred Hitchcock’s and it is easy to see why. Even though it was shot and set in present time the film looks like it could be from the 60’s when Hitchcock was around. As the title slightly suggests, the film is about how you still remain the same inside even if your outside has been completely changed.

Wrecked

Wrecked is an indie thriller that stars Adrien Brody who wakes up and is trapped in a crushed car with no memories of what happened. It is often compared to 127 Hours and Buried and rightfully so, it does share many of the same core elements. A man is alone, trapped and is trying to escape. It may not be on the same level of suspense or emotion as those two films, but it is modestly compelling nonetheless.

Source Code

Source Code is the sophomore feature by director Duncan Jones. It borrows the sci-fi aspect of his first film, Moon, and throws in a puzzle plot in this techno-thriller. The film was well-crafted, with only a slight plot-hole near the end, about a man who is in the same 8 minute time-loop trying to figure out who planted a bomb on a train. If The Matrix and Groundhog Day had a baby, Source Code would be it.

Let Me In

Let Me In is an American remake of the Swedish original called Let the Right One In. The film restores faith to those who thought an American vampire film done well was impossible. I must confess that I am not a huge fan of vampire films nor have I seen the original Swedish version, which in return makes it all the more impressive that I found it so entertaining.

Buried

Buried is a claustrophobic thriller that will leave you gasping for air and remains suspenseful enough that even Hitchcock would have been proud. You can guess what the film is about from it’s title, still Rodrigo Cortes keep us engaged as Ryan Reynolds stars in his best role yet and does not fail to outperform his past roles.

There Will Be Blood

It is impossible to describe There Will Be Blood in one word but if forced to, I would say powerful. If I had to further describe in using just single words they would be; politics, greed, religion and morality. It’s a true instant American classic film whose technical aspects far exceed that of most other films out there.

The Bad Lieutenant

The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call – New Orleans is an indie intelligent “cop movie” that is really much more. A little worried it was going to be a typical cop movie, I was a little hesitant to watch it, but I was glad I did. Digging deep into both addiction and morality, this thriller will keep you wanting more and it delivers.

Downloading Nancy

Downloading Nancy is an indie thriller that is; completely disturbing, controversial, well shot and captivating film. It was nominated for Grand Jury Prize at Sundance and is definitely one of the better indie thrillers of 2009. It’s a thriller that will have you asking “why” instead of “who”.

Shutter Island

If Stanley Kubrick was still alive, this is what he would have made. Shutter Island reminded me of Kubrick’s The Shinning with the creepy feel to this brilliantly written story. It’s also similar with eerie flashbacks and classical music woven throughout. Martin Scorsese plays with the viewers mind the entire film and keeps you on the edge of your seat without a single dull scene. In my mind, that is a rare thing to find in most films.