My Top 10 of 2011

Brutal, unflinching and shocking to the very end, this British film really packs a punch. A superb turn by Michael Smiley provides some comic relief which only accentuates the horror. Just brilliant.

One of Ryan Gosling's strongest roles in an already glittering career, Nicolas Winding Refn's movie is in turns heartwarming drama and nightmarish violence. Classy and dark with a fabulous soundtrack to match.

Richard Ayoade's debut film is moving, beautiful, funny and reminiscent of many an 80s childhood. Excellent turns from the young leads whilst Paddy Considine's grotesque spiritualist is also a highlight.

Michael Shannon gives a barn-storming performance in this pychological drama that reaches a dramatic conclusion. The exploration of mental illness is fascinating as well as the apocalyptic visions.

Far from being the stuffy period drama it seems, this touching and rousing drama features Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush at the top of their careers. Poignant, beautifully shot and uplifting.

Lars Von Trier continues to amaze me with his dark and nightmarish visions, with Melancholia proving no exception. A film of two halves, it shows both a director and its stars at the top of their game, whilst being full of dread and sadness. Again, another interesting and believable insight into mental illness.

Confusing, scary and fascinating, Black Swan is a purely one-off movie. Natalie Portman is divine as the mentally confused dancer whose life is taken over by the role of her career. It is visually and emotionally powerful and the effects stay with you for a long time.

Dark, disturbing and ultimately cathartic, this film takes all ideas of gender, sexuality and identity and turns them on their head. Almodovar's most mature drama yet?

A scary insight into the world of the internet and how things are not always what they seem, Catfish is a film of the modern age. Whether it be truth or fiction, the filmmakers are definitely people to watch.

A full on Western complete with snippets of Coen charm and humour. Jeff Bridge's Rooster Cogburn is a thing of bold actions and little subtleties. Ultimately the plot is its weakest point, but as a visual package and piece of acting it is brilliant.