Ten Best Performances by an Animal (Real or Fake) in 2011:
10) Argonaut the Dog – “Spy Kids: All the Time in the World”. Played by Elmo the dog, voiced by Ricky Gervais (the only somewhat funny thing in the entire movie).
9) Bitey – “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” – There were real penguins on set!
8) Puss in Boots – “Puss in Boots”. Voiced with purr-fection by Antonio Banderas, who makes us want to root for him even though “Puss” is a prequel.
7) Animal – “The Muppets”. Out of control and very funny as he tries to hold it all in, but can’t quite contain himself. Voiced by Eric Jacobson.
6) Winter – “Dolphin Tale”. A tail-less dolphin who played himself in the movie. That’s not something you see everyday.
5) Eeyore – “Winnie the Pooh”. Another character who needs a new tail but keeps his composure. Classic voice by Bud Luckey.
4) Snowy – “The Adventures of Tintin”. Cute K9 who helps his owner find the secret to a ship…and his lunch.
3) Joey – “War Horse”. With many human qualities and much personality, he is a powerful character and the uncredited star of the film.
2) Caesar – “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”. He may be played by Andy Serkis, but Caesar also has a mind of his own…for going bananas.
1) Uggie – “The Artist”. A smart and talented dog who loves his owner (A 1920’s silent movie actor) and gives one of the Best Supporting Actor performances of the year.