2009 was a record-breaking year for movies, and, once again, family films led the way. Here is my list of the Top 10 Family Films of 2009: #1) “Fantastic Mr. Fox” – Wonderful adaptation of the popular children’s book, with memorable characters and phenomenal stop-motion animation. It has a quirkiness that I simply love, and the voice-work, led by George Clooney and Meryl Streep, is outstanding. #2) “Up“– Nice bounce-back by Pixar, after last year’s disappointing “Wall-E”. A very emotional story that also has it’s funny moments. The most adult of any of the Pixar films. It was #1 on my list until late November. #3) “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” – Great writing, terrific animation and a nice story. Plus, the 3-D is as good as it gets. So many funny lines and sight gags that I had to see it twice to get them all. The funniest animated film of the year by far. #4) “Michael Jackson‘s This Is It” – A wonderful tribute to The King of Pop. Fantastic music and rehearsal footage. I smiled through the entire film. #5) “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” – The third and BEST of the “Ice Age” films. Very funny dialogue, great voice work and sparkling animation. #6) “Julie and Julia” – Outstanding performances by Meryl Streep and Amy Adams bring this parallel story of a young wife looking to become a good cook and a young Julia Child, to life. Maybe the most entertaining movie I saw this year. #7) “Star Trek” – The best of the big budget summer blockbusters. Fast-paced and action-packed. A cool looking film that provides the backstory to the Star Trek saga, meaning you don’t have to be a Trekkie to enjoy it. #8) “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” – Released in January and still made my list. Funniest live-action film of the year. Kevin James was born to play this mall security guard forced to become a hero. #9) “The Blind Side” – Inspiring, true story of homeless football player Michael Oher and the family that takes him in. Sandra Bullock’s role of a lifetime. #10) “Bandslam“– Came out in August and hardly anybody noticed, which was too bad. Solid acting and a nice story, with believable characters, surprising twists and good music. Next time: My Worst Film of 2009!
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