Toy Story 3D (2010) - The most accomplished Pixar film yet. I went in with the highest of expectations and these were met on every front. To succeed, it had to be more - and how it did this is with honest emotions and values - not sight gags and gimmicks. Much like the first two in the trilogy, the story takes you on a journey with not even a hint of the destination. There were noticeably less laughs in the cinema that then other two (which I also revisited this year in 3D) but it didn't need them. It's proof you can still do intelligent and original filmmaking that appeals to the widest audience. So good was this film that I wonder if Pixar possibly have another film this good in them? Essential

Shutter Island (2010) - Two U.S. marshals are mysteriously summoned to a remote island off the coast of Massachusetts to investigate a disappearance at a hospital for the criminally insane. Great synopsis. This is Scorcese recreating the true feel of the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema with a stunning noir narrative style and . Total class, so vivid, so deliberate and a level of tension under tight control at the hands of a master. This is not just the best of the Scorsese/DiCaprio quadrilogy - it’s one of the best thrillers in years. Essential

Avaze gonjeshk-ha (The Song of Sparrows) (2008) - A man is faced with new challenges after losing his job on an ostrich farm and must venture out from his rural village to Tehran in order to make a living and restore harmony to his family life. This is outstanding World Cinema from Iranian director Majid Majidi. Told with humour and heart, we struggle along with a man who will never get a break in life - loses his sense of direction - but finds redemption through the people close to him. A beautifully shot film that will give you an unexpected insight into the values and community of modern Iran and the coexistence of urban and rural life. Essential

Chop Shop (2007) - This is the age of American neorealism in cinema and Chop Shop was part of this revival. We follow an ambitious and streetwise Latino orphan as he works and lives in an auto-body shop on the outskirts of Queens, New York. It’s a gritty social portrait that feels so real you almost expect the actors to start talking to the camera. Roger Ebert rated it the sixth best film of the decade - an honour that is more than earned. Director Ramin Bahrani followed this up with the also brilliant Goodbye Solo in 2008. Essential

Fish Tank (2009) - Director Andrea Arnold follows up the equally bleak Red Road with another grimly realistic portrait of life in housing-estate Essex. In this Loach-esque coming-of-age tale we follow a young girl as she tries to find a path through her socially dysfunctional family environment and pressures of finding a meaningful existence. A great film of the times and did well to claim the BAFTA for Outstanding British Film in recognition. Essential

El secreto de sus ojos (2009) - The surprise winner for Best Foreign Language film at this year’s Oscars (Michael Haneke may feel slightly robbed). It’s a real gem of a thriller from Argentina about a retired court employee who can’t shake the memory of one case and decides to revisit the events. It’s not a perfect film but I grade it essential viewing for two reasons - this is world class cinema from Argentina, and there is a single-take chase sequence in a stadium that will be studied in film schools for many years to come. There is nothing more certain than an American remake will eventuate - it might even be a great one. Essential

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire (2009) - This little piece of Oscar bait captures the gritty social landscape of ’80s Harlem and drags you through the lowest depths of human experience. It’s tough viewing but the tone it’s trying to promote is positive. Aside from strong performances across the board, there are imaginitive montages and even occasional moments of comic relief - there is also questionable use of narration, though it is in keeping with the creative style of the film. Essential

An Education (2009) - The only reason you really need to see this 1960s suburban London coming-of-age tale is for the unforgettable performance by newcomer Carey Mulligan. If that’s not enough then may I present exhibit B: Alfred Molina’s role as a concerned father is hysterically funny. There’s no surprise it took out the BAFTA for best British Film. It’s complex and intellegent and funny and bittersweet and OMG Sally Hawkins couldn’t have found a better way follow up her role in Happy-Go-Lucky. Essential

Up in the Air (2009) - Jason Reitman follows up Juno with a film that is both deeper and more mature, and yet still retains the biting dialogue and humour we have come to expect of his productions. Coupled with Clooney at perhaps his best and Reitman’s ability to portray female characters as intelligent, we have one of the best films of the year. It’s a long way from perfect, but the way it taps into the social milieu makes it a must see of contemporary cinema. Essential

How the West Was Won (1962) - This ambitious Western epic, complete with four directors and an astounding ensemble cast of A-listers from the era, is one of the greatest visual spectacles of cinema history. The story itself is largely inconsequential to the experience, even some of the performances are not up to scratch (James Stewart is never convincing in this genre), but the overall accomplishment is timeless. One of only two dramatic feature films to have been produced using the three-strip panoramic Cinerama process. It has now been restored and had distortion adjustments made for viewing on a flat screen. Essential

Un prophète (A Prophet) (2009) - Some critics are already tipping this French based mafia prison drama to take out the Foreign Language Oscar - it's easy to see why. A young Arab man is sentenced to serve six years in prison and we follow his induction into the world of organized crime. Strong on all fronts, it is both character and plot driven with tight direction and compelling performances. A times it feels overlong at 155 minutes, there's a lot of ground to cover and director Jacques Audiard is quite a storyteller. Essential

Goodbye Solo (2008) - "Wherever you live, when this film opens, it will be the best film in town" - Roger Ebert. An apt description for a film that I find difficult to describe. We follow a Senegalese cab driver struggling to make good for his family, and an older southern man who looks back on a life of regret. Intelligent, engrossing and yet anti-dramatic - it's an unflattering portrait of the changing face of America. Essential

Das weisse Band - Eine deutsche Kindergeschichte (The White Ribbon) (2009) - Winner of the Golden Palm at this year's Cannes festival, Michael Haneke has again proven himself to be a leading auteur in modern cinema. Outstanding in every aspect, Haneke explores the origins of fascism and terrorism from the setting of a small village in northern Germany prior to the outbreak of WWI. I found the parable style of storytelling to be reminiscent of Lars Von Trier's 'Land of Opportunities' trilogy in that the viewer is conscious that each character is in some form a depiction of moralism. Visually stunning in crisp black and white with an amazing cast of talented child actors that provide a stark contrast to the brutality of everyday life as it plays out. Essential

Gegen die Wand (Head-On) (2004) - The first German film in 17 years to win the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. Birol Ünel (the Turkish Klaus Kinski) plays a man who has given up on life after the death of his wife. An unlikely connection with a young German Turk strikes up - leading to a tumultuous marriage of convenience that culminates in a cathartic resolution for them both. A powerful and intense study of cultural identity, love and self destruction. Essential

Our Hospitality (1923) - Keaton’s life-long passion for trains is once again evident here where he plays a character who returns south to claim his Appalachian homestead and steps into a generations long family fued. It’s a slow starter but the slapstick and sight gags soon come quick and fast, delivered with precision timing. Sits alongside The General as Buster Keaton’s most accomplished and spectacular production - not to mention a classic of the silent comedy era. Essential

In a Lonely Place (1950) - Humphrey Bogart stars as a screenwriter in a great Hollywood suspense noir. It starts out as one thing, then ends up earning its aptly attributed existentialist title. The contrast of dialogue rich with poetic wit and Bogart’s character’s violent tendencies makes for haunting viewing. It’s been described by some who knew Bogart as the closest to his in-real-life persona. Essential

Out of the Past (1947) - Ranks amongst the best in the noir genre. Mysterious characters, confused loyalties, light and shadows, a seductive femme fatale and a fatalistic hero played by Robert Mitchum. If you don’t love this film then you might as well give up on noir altogether. This era of films and the period they represent will never return, but there are so many gems like this just waiting to be relived. Essential

Safety Last! (1923) - In the 1920s Harold Lloyd was number one in box office sales - outpacing both Chaplin and Keaton. This is his most celebrated work; a silent comedy about a store clerk who organises a publicity stunt to climb the outside of a tall building in order to win money to retain his intended love. As was typical of silent films of the time, sight gags propel the story forward - and Lloyd provides plenty. There is a lot more to this classic - but the climactic scene where an eighteen-story building is scaled is one of those great iconic moments in film history. Essential

Machuca (2004) - I’ve seen my share of failed ‘coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of [insert war/political struggle]’ films, so it’s refreshing when you see it done well. This is a sincere effort to draw attention to Chile’s bloody history through the eyes of two children. It may even be the best film to come out of Chile. The performances, the historical realism, and the human aspect are spot on. Essential

The Lady Eve (1941) - Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda shine in what must be one of the best comedies of the ’40s. Father and daughter card sharks try to take a naive and wealthy young man but love gets in the way. I think the word ‘zing’ was invented for moments like those captured here on screen. A timeless piece of cinema from Preston Sturges. Essential

The Devil at Your Heels (1981) - A remarkable documentary that follows the five year journey by the late Ken Carter to jump a rocket-powered car across a mile-wide stretch of the St. Lawrence River. It’s not your typical daredevil story, there is a lot of heart as one man's obsession turns into a broken dream. Produced by the National Film Board of Canada, it went on to win the Genie Award for Best Documentary. Essential

Kiss Me Deadly (1955) - Everything you could want in a noir film. A mysterious female hitchiker, cars rigged to explode, sleaze, a gigantic wall-mounted answering machine, cold war paranoia, a mystery box and a loosely coherent plot. Need I go on? Brilliant. Essential

Bin-jip (3-iron) (2004) - A young man breaks into the homes of people while they are on vacation and lives in secret. Another endlessly inventive, original, and thought provoking classic from Korean arthouse favourite Kim Ki-duk. Like all his films, the dialgoue is scant and the plot is equally sparse and left to your own interpretation. More essential World cinema. Essential

The Hurt Locker (2008) - Quite simply, this is the most convincing and visceral film I have seen about the current Iraq War. You will follow an elite Army bomb squad unit and feel the searing heat, the grit in their eyes, and the disorientation as they seek to make it through each day. The authenticity comes via writer and former embedded journalist Mark BoalI. I have to also mention the cinematography from long time Ken Loach collaborator Barry Ackroyd. Essential

El orfanato (The Orphanage) (2007) - Having never been a fan of the fantasy-horror genre (and not being overly enthusiastic about Pan’s Labyrinth) I approached this Guillermo del Toro produced Spanish multi-award winner with trepidation. The bottom line is that this is a beautifully told ghost story, among the best of its genre, which succeeds because it plays by all the rules it creates for itself. Essential

L’armée des ombres (Army in the Shadows) (1969) - A masterpiece of French cinema from Jean-Pierre Melville that captures the grim futility of the French Resistance during WWII. There are no grand displays of patriotism, this is simply the downplayed heroic activities of the everyday members fighting against their oppressors. Essential

Un chien andalou (1929) - The combined creative talent of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel bring to screen a surrealist vision that defines the genre. With a timeline that shifts arbitratily and no real plot to drive, it was the intention from the outset to create a film that defied any attempt at rational explanation. Essential

Ônibus 174 (Bus 174) (2002) - A documentary chronicling the hostage drama in Rio when an armed young man held up a bus with ten people. The event that shone a light on Latin America’s exploding social problems is reconstructed on screen as an indictment of all involved. A study of cause and effect that is well researched and told with gripping intensity. Since been made into a motion picture as 'Última Parada 174' in 2008. Essential

Synecdoche, New York (2008) - I've taken a couple of days to think about this review - how do you rate a film that chews you up spits you out feeling bewildered and alone? I'm not even sure I could sit through it a second time, and yet that is almost what it is daring you to do. Charlie Kaufman is already a well established creative genius, but this is his directorial debut - and it's immensely ambitious in scope. Many will claim it is a futile exercise and too clever for itself (too clever for them?). Ultimately this film offers a free ride for critics - whatever you believe, you are right.  Essential

Gomorra (2008) - This is not a phoney glorification of mafia life. Lives are ruined, fear is cast and we see cold hearted gangsters as ruthless capitalists. Stylistically, it's very European and neo-realist minimal - almost documentary like. The wars being fought on many fronts are complex and deftly interwoven giving a grim and relentless overall portrayal of mob life. Essential

The Kid (1921) - The first of a number of films Charles Chaplin directed, produced, wrote, and starred in. A simple story of a tramp who adopts and orphaned baby. What makes this essential viewing is that the story and the film are deeply intertwined with Chaplin's own life - this is his most personal work. Essential

The Reader (2008) - Critics are wildly mixed on this Post-WWII war crime trial 'romantic' drama. I found it to be very powerful and the screenplay one of the best of the year. It feels like it goes on two scenes too long but the characters are honest and uncompromising. Essential

Changeling (2008) - To appreciate this film you have to surrender yourself to the mindset of the late 1920s LA setting and to the reality that the events in this film did occur. Now to see Christine Collins' (Jolie) struggle for truth in this milieu and the way Eastwood captures it is nothing short of a triumph. Essential

Stranded: I've Come from a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains (2007) - 35 years after spending 72 days on the snow covered Andes, the survivors return to the crash site to recall their harrowing story of endurance. This is an exceptional documentary that uses reenactments and archive footage to capture the anguish and grueling nature of their experience. Essential

The Wrestler (2008) - Darren Aronofsky delves into cinéma vérité and it's grim viewing from start to finish. Plenty has been said already about he acting in this award winner - it's solid throughout. There are however a few contrived moments in the script - but this is a must see for Rourke and Tomei alone. Did anyone else think this was going to end like Being There? Essential

El Callejón de los milagros (Miracle Alley) (1992) - The most awarded film in Mexican history (if you don't count Pan's Labyrinth) is a complex tale of life in lower-middle class of Mexico City. Told from three perspectives, in a somewhat soap opera style, the issues facing society at the time are explored and exposed. Essential

The Gunfighter (1950) - A masterpiece of American western cinema as Gregory Peck plays a quickdraw gunfighter who is sick of the lonely outlaw life and seeks a new quiet life. It sounds like a cliche now, but the writing is tight and the suspenseful delivery ranks it among the best in the genre. Essential

Vicky Christina Barcelona (2008) - This is damn near perfect entertainment. And not just because it has Penelope Cruz (although usually this is enough) but because Woody knows how to take the viewer on a journey wherein that journey is the destination. Essential

Låt den rätte komma in (Let The Right One In) (2008) - Given this is the only vampire film I have liked since Nosferatu (not counting Shadow of the Vampire) I would argue this film is essential viewing within the genre. But this is also one of the best human stories of the year. Essential

Milk (2008) - My man Gus Van Sant delivers another outstanding piece of cinema. Sean Penn is so very good in this film that I can separate out all the off screen issues I may have with him - you will truly believe he is Harvey Milk. This is the must see film of 2008. Essential

Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966) - How many films can say every credited member of the cast received an Academy Award nomination? Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton play a middle aged couple who tear each others live apart over one drunken night. Essential

Standard Operating Procedure (2008) - This is the story of Abu Ghraib as told by the soldiers involved. What I love about Morris is that sometimes he seems like the only person in the media who values accuracy and truth of information. At no time does he get political, in a film that is by its very existence political in nature. As Morris states in interviews about the film - the crime is that photos were taken and people were embarrassed. The punishment was not for the acts that took place. Essential

WALL·E (2008) - It's likely this is the best mainstream animated film ever. The ambitious storytelling and cinematic effects are near perfect. Even the unlikely love story is played out with poetic class. Essential

Bigger Stronger Faster (2008) - Insightful and entertaining look into the absurd hypocrisy and disjuncture between steroid use and achieved ambition in American culture. The damning revelations are essential viewing for anyone wishing to weigh in on the performance drug debate. Essential

Happy-Go-Lucky (2008) - Celebrated British director Mike Leigh has created another unforgettable masterful character study. The film centers around a chirpy primary school teacher and her attempts to make those around her happy, while somehow having a profound depth that inspires. Essential

This is England (2006) - Powerful dystopian story following a troubled boy growing up in England in 1983, in the fallout of Maggie Thatcher's invasion of the Falklands, and the rise of skinhead culture. The balance between politics and urban life is perfect and performances are gritty and chilling.  Essential

Once (2006) - An unpretentious love story, set in Ireland, and told through music and an age old 'boy meets girl' narrative. Took out Oscar for Best Original Song. Essential

4 luni, 3 saptamâni si 2 zile (4 Months, 3 Weeks & 2 Days) (2007) - Not exactly the feel good movie of the year. This is a bleak portrayal of a young woman helping a friend through a black market abortion in communist Romania. The realism is dark, unsettling and relentless, told through many long still takes that force you to confront the situation as a helpless voyeur. Essential

Paranoid Park (2007) - Let me start by suggesting that Gus Van Sant is the most important director working today. This is the work of a master - a fluid, mesmerizing and finely balanced look at disaffected youth. Essential

Le Scaphandre et le papillon (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) (2007) - Julian Schnabel's very original interpretation of the true story of Elle editor Jean-Dominique Bauby after he suffers a paralyzing stroke. A visceral character study of the human spirit. Of course, life aint so bad if you've got Emmanuelle Seigner looking after you. Essential

Gone Baby Gone (2007) - It encouraging to know that there are still some smart and thought provoking thrillers coming out of Hollywood. This is my kind of entertainment and if there is a flaw in this film, it is how much of what you have seen could really happen. Essential

If... (1968) - Malcolm McDowell's film debut captures what it was like to be young and rebellious in Britain in the late 60's. It's a brilliant prelude to A Clockwork Orange. Essential

No Country for Old Men (2007) - I can hardly believe it's been 12 years since Fargo. If there is one thing that 'No Country' shows, it is how far the Coen brothers have matured, and that they are still capable of greatness. Essential

There Will Be Blood (2007) - I never thought Paul Thomas Anderson had an epic film of this kind of genre in him. But this is the highest rated film on IMDB in the last 5 years - and a must see! Essential

Juno (2007) - Jason Reitman's follow up to the also great Thank You For Smoking is a winner thanks to the delivery of a never-ending stream of sharp lines by a very well cast Ellen Page. Essential

Double vie de Véronique, La (The Double Life of Veronique) (1991) - Did Kieslowski ever make a film that wasn't simply brilliant? Even when you don't know what is really going on, there is still so much to admire. Essential

La Battaglia di Algeri (The Battle of Algiers) (1966) - Gritty documentary style depiction of the events that occurred during Algerian revolution. First class historical drama. Essential

McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971) - With Robert Altman at the helm, this western starring Warren Beatty and Julie Christie is close to perfection. Beautiful winter location, emotionally deep script and a Leonard Cohen soundtrack. Essential

Leben der Anderen, Das (The Lives of Others) (2006) - A flawlessly crafted political thriller which expertly examines East Germany's secret police from the perspective of an increasingly disillusioned Stasi officer. Essential

Lone Star (1996) - John Sayles has created a wholly satisfying Texas border county crime drama that is going to reward repeat viewings. Essential

Judgment at Nuremberg (1961) - The Stanley Kramer directed historical drama about the trial of four Nazi judges for war crimes. One of the best courtroom dramas committed to film with expert performances and direction. Essential

The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser (1974) - Remarkable film from Werner Herzog about the mysterious life of Kaspar Hauser who suddenly appeared in Nuremberg in 1828, barely able to speak or walk, after being held captive his entire life. Essential

Bullitt (1968) - Back when action films had a lot more integrity and stunts were done the hard way there was this Steve McQueen classic action thriller. Thirty years on this is just retro cool in every way. Essential

Oliver Twist (1948) - Regarded as the best screen adaptation of the Dickens classic. The brilliant vision of David Lean at his creative peak - this is one of the best looking B&W films you will see. Essential

Tengoku to jigoku (High and Low) (1963) - Akira Kurosawa's magnificent crime thriller about a kidnapping and clever hunt for the perpetrator. Essential

Mar adentro (The Sea Inside) (2004) - Why would you want to put yourself through the emotional anguish of a real-life inspired film about a man's struggle for euthanasia? I've been putting off seeing this for a couple of years for this reason, but this Alejandro Amenabar, Oscar winning foreign film is simply brilliant. Essential

A Fei zheng chuan (Days of Being Wild) (1991) - Another beautiful and hypnotic vision from director Wong Kar Wai. Set in 1960's Hong Kong - a tale of searching for an intimate connection. Essential

The Thin Blue Line (1988) - The celebrated Errol Morris documentary that solved a murder case. This landmark of the genre, featuring a Philip Glass score, evokes an eerie atmosphere and confronts the stark reality of an innocent man on death row. Essential

Knocked Up (2006) - Other comedies could learn a lot from the pace and delivery (pun intended) of this movie. Seth Rogen is great but the real success lies with the simplicity of the main theme and its ability to mirror the modern relationship. Essential

The Departed (2006) - Even with Scorcese at the helm I was worried this remake wouldn't match the original. But it ended up being everything you would expect from so much talent. Essential

Transformers (2007) - For the first time in his career, Michael Bay has shown that a film with non-stop action, ground breaking FX, and great humour, doesn't need character development or a credible storyline. A must see on the big screen. Essential

Godfather (1972) - A revisit of this timeless epic. Perfection in film. Essential

Stranger Than Fiction (2006) - An IRS auditor suddenly finds himself the subject of narration only he can hear - what a great premise for a film. And yes, the film delivers and has a lot of great moments. I'm a little bit over Maggie Gyllenhaal, but Will Ferrell is great as always. Essential

Brick (2005) - Once again, Joseph Gordon-Levitt shows depth of talent - this time in an original high school noir. Brilliant dialogue and visuals make this one of the best dark comedies in years. Essential

Volver (2006) - I've enjoyed every Pedro Almodovar film I have seen - this one is no exception. Penelope Cruz is outstanding and the cinematography (especially the colour juxtoposition) is a strong feature. Essential

Bande a part (Band of Outsiders) (1964) - A French crime drama with a similar feel to Jean-Luc Godard's also great 'Breathless'. Very cool. Essential

Pather Panchali (1955) - A masterpiece of Indian film and the first in director Satyajit Ray's Apu trilogy.  Essential

Au revoir les enfants (Goodbye, Children) (1987) - The heartbreaking story of friendship and devastating loss between two boys living in Nazi-occupied France. Essential

The Defiant Ones (1958) - Simple storyline, but great performances and tension as Tony Curtis and Sidney Poitier play convicts on the run in this classic Stanley Kramer film. Essential

Breaking the Waves (1996) - A career breakthrough film for Lars von Trier. While I find his films difficult to watch, I am constantly impressed at this genius in dealing with disturbing subject matter. Essential

Great Expectations (1946) - The original David Lean adaption of the Dickens masterpiece. Stunning cinematography that impresses from the opening scene and continues throughout. Essential

Capote (2005) - A film without flaws, profiling Truman Capote during his writing of the book "In Cold Blood". Outstanding performances. Essential

Rio Grande (1950) - John Wayne stars in this John Ford directed Western with a romantic slant. A little dated in places, but an entertaining watch. Essential

Der Himmel über Berlin (Wings of Desire) (1987) - Wim Wenders' stunning multi-levelled masterpiece about angels on the streets of Berlin. Essential

Last Days (2005) - The final act in Gus Van Sant's so called 'Death Trilogy'. This one, like Elephant and Gerry, is brilliantly crafted and despite mixed reviews, is a must see work. A vision inspired by the last days of Kurt Cobain. Essential

Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) - So much genius on display here, from David Mamet's play/screenplay, Alec Baldwin's unforgettable six minute scene and every performance is a character study in body language and dialogue. Essential

Les Diaboliques (1955) - Looked upon as the greatest film that Alfred Hitchcock never made. This may be the best suspense crime thriller ever. Essential

Kakushi-toride no san-akunin (Hidden Fortress) (1958) - One of Kurosawa's most accessible and entertaining films and as stated by Lucas, a key inspiration to his Star Wars series. Some great comedic scenes that are a rarity in Kurosawa's other works. A timeless adventure epic. Essential

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter... and Spring (2003) - A spiritual and beautifully shot Korean film about an old monk acting as a master to a young boy passing through the seasons of life. Essential

Harold and Maude (1971) - This is a true gem of the 70's and a life affirming masterpiece. Not all the humour comes off and some patches have dated, but this is an undeniable classic American romance story. Essential

A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) - The Elia Kazan directed classic which won Vivien Leigh the Oscar in 1951. Marlon Brando is at the beginning of his career and all his potential is exhibited in this adaption of Tennessee Williams' play. Essential

La Dolce Vita (1960) - Is this Fellini's best? A tale of sin and excess, tracing seven days in the life of a man in search of "The Sweet Life". It's going to take several viewings to fully comprehend. Essential

Swingers (1996) - A landmark independent film from the 90's with well scripted comedy that captures a period in time and is even funnier ten years on. Perfectly entertaining. Essential

Fitzcarraldo (1982) - Werner Herzog creates a bizarre yet captivating adventure about obsession and the pursuit of dreams. Essential

Der Untergang (Downfall) (2004) - An accurate and moving historical portrayal of the Nazi dictator's final days in his Berlin bunker at the end of WWII. Captures the spirit and atmosphere of the time with painful realism. Essential

La Jetee (The Pier) (1962) - At just 28 minutes long, this sci fi short achieves with still photos, narration and editing, what few in the genre have matched in the four decades since its release. Ingredients include Nuclear fallout, underground scientists and time travel. Essential

Manufacturing Consent - Noam Chomsky and The Media (1992) - I'm not necessarily a Chomsky supporter, but I appreciate the guy's honesty and openness in discussing politics. This is a must for anyone interested in the media and propaganda - but it is also just a really well made documentary. Essential

Trouble in Paradise (1932) - From the directorial vision of Ernst Lubitsch comes this classic romantic comedy about a high class thief and pickpocket who fall in love. It's a masterpiece and surprisingly daring for 1932. Essential

Aguirre, The Wrath Of God (1972) - Werner Herzog's telling of a 16th century Spanish expedition. This is my kind of film - so mesmerizing you struggle to comprehend how someone could have conceived it. Essential

The Naked Kiss (1964) - Samuel Fuller wrote and directed this examination of the dark underbelly of society in a way that decades later, David Lynch would emulate in films like Blue Velvet and Twin Peaks. Essential viewing for fans of the genre. Essential

Ôdishon (Audition) (1999) - I've seen a lot of freaky Japanese horror films in recent years but this one is surely the most fascinating. It catches you off guard and sets up one of the goriest scenes in cinema history. Essential

My Darling Clementine (1946) - So timeless that despite many remakes of the events and shoot-out at the OK Coral, this one from John Ford remains by far the best. Essential

Dirty Harry (1971) - Clint Eastwood's famous role as a San Francisco cop with little regard for authority. One of the most influential films of the 70's crime thriller genre. Essential

Casablanca (1942) - A rewatch of this flawless Bogart classic. No explanation necessary. Essential

Chelovek s kino-apparatom (The Man With A Movie Camera) (1929) - A spellbinding visual documentation of Soviet Union society in the 1920's. No traditional plot or actors, just life through cinematography and editing. Essential

Grizzly Man (2005) - The true tale of Timothy Treadwell who was killed by a grizzly bear while living among them in Alaska. The best documentary made in years. Essential

Ken Burns' Mark Twain (2001) - Ken Burns hasn't made a dud yet - and this biographical piece on Samuel L Clemens is no exception. Essential

Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936) - Frank Capra won the Best Director Oscar for this story of Longfellow Deeds - the small town tuba player who inherits a fortune and moves to the city only to become disillusioned by his new life. Another timeless classic. Essential

The Bank Dick (1940) - My first full length W.C. Fields comedy. It's brilliantly funny and a comedy classic. Essential

Monty Python's Life Of Brian (1979) - A rewatch of this Python comedy classic. Essential

Mou gaan dou (Infernal Affairs) (2002) - This superb Hong Kong crime drama is a rare find. Intelligent and entertaining and leaves you wanting more. Now being remade by Scorcese for release later this year. Essential

La Nuit américaine (Day For Night) (1973) - Truffaut's film inside a film is an entertaining look at the chaotic events involved in filmmaking. A well cast classic.  Essential

A Christmas Story (1983) - A true masterpiece and easily the most fun Christmas movie I have ever seen. With such rich detail and quirky sentimentality it is a winner on all fronts.  Essential

Oldboy (2003) - Stunningly good Korean film (and IMDB high-flyer) about a man who was kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years without explanation only to be released with 5 days to find and empathise his captor. Final scenes shot in NZ! Essential

Le Cercle Rouge (The Red Circle) (1970) - Classic cool French crime thriller about a jewel heist executed by two ex-convicts.  Essential

The Squid and the Whale (2005) - Brilliantly flawless family drama set in Brooklyn in the mid eighties. This isn't a minor work, it's the fillet of modern independent cinema. Essential

Layer Cake (2004) - Directorial debut for Guy Ritchie collaborator Matthew Vaughn. I personally feel this is better than any of Ritchie's crime gangster films. The real success is Vaughn's ability to make a fairly worn out genre look fresh. Essential

Broken Flowers (2005) - The pace is sublime in this quirky road movie from visionary writer/director Jim Jarmusch. Bill Murray continues his recent form of picking winners. Essential

Little Dieter Needs To Fly (1997) - Stunning documentary about a POW in Laos retelling and revisiting his experiences. Expertly written and shot by Werner Herzog and soon to be a major motion picture starring Christian Bale. Essential

The Dead Zone (1983) - While some of the effects may have aged a little, everything else about this Cronenberg/Stephen King classic fantasy horror is first rate. Essential

Belle de jour (1967) - Luis Bunuel's influential classic erotic drama starring Catherine Deneuve is rich in symbolism and timeless in the issues it deals with. Essential

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) - Despite some very average performances and rough looking cinematography, you are left feeling that this iconic horror film is an accidental masterpiece. Essential

Lifeboat (1944) - Hitchcock war drama, from a John Steinbeck story, about 6 survivors of a torpedo attack, grouped in a lifeboat in the mid-Atlanic. Essential

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) - One of the most deeply satisfying, intelligent and richly developed romantic comedies I have seen in a while. Essential

East Of Eden (1955) - Allegorical retelling of Cain and Abel, with James Dean at his absolute best. Watch Ron Howard butcher this in a remake next year. Essential

Days Of Heaven (1978) - Terence Mallick follows up the brilliant Badlands with another flawless creation. A richly told tale of love and loss, set in Texas following the first World War. Essential

Au hasard Balthazar (1966) - Deserving of recognition, this French classic follows life through the eyes of a donkey from birth to death. Essential

Mean Streets (1973) - The first of Scorsese's films that take a look at the gritty side of New York city. Essential

Buffalo '66 (1998) - Impressive and original independent film and debut directorial effort from Vincent Gallo with a great performance from Christina Ricci. Essential

Shi mian mai fu (House of Flying Daggers) (2004) - Reaches new levels of filmmaking in the martial-arts genre with visually stunning action sequences and cinematography. Essential

Laura (1944) - Classic film-noir from the golden age of cinema. Essential

Klute (1971) - Landmark 70's thriller starring Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland. Loaded with self-destructive behavior, pimps, and eerie music. Essential

Bad Day at Black Rock (1955) - The first Spencer Tracy film I have seen, and a tightly directed, flawless suspense thriller. Great opening sequence.  Essential

A Room with a View (1985) - Superb Merchant/Ivory comedy drama period production. The film that made Helena Bonham Carter. Essential

Million Dollar Baby (2004) - Once again Clint Eastwood excels in every area - deserving of its four Oscars including Best Picture and Director. Essential

Badlands (1973) - A landmark film in 70's cinema. Terrence Malick's directorial debut based loosely on a real life killing spree in the Dakota badlands. Essential

You Can't Take It with You (1938) - Classic Frank Capra romantic comedy about an eccentric family and the humourous situations that arise from their collision with a higher class family. Essential

Fanny och Alexander (Fanny and Alexander) (1982) - Clocking in at over 5 hours, this Bergman epic should be accomanpanied by a medal of dedication. But the time passes swiftly as the story unfolds and characters develop towards a satisfying finish. Essential

Walkabout (1971) - Likely this is Nicolas Roeg's greatest achievement. A truly thought provoking and landmark 70's film about two children wandering in Australia's outback. Essential

Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975) - By then end, I realised very quickly that this Peter Weir directed film from the 70's was the best I have seen from Australia. The mystery and myth is captivating and surreal. Essential

Repulsion (1965) - This is the film that firmly established Polanski as a master and auteur of cinemtic vision. Deneuve descends into a spiral of insanity in a way never seen in film. Essential

Mitt liv som hund (My Life as a Dog) (1985) - Swede Lasse Hallstrom has created one of the great "coming of age" tales in cinema. Richly detailed with an outstanding cast. Essential

The Grapes of Wrath (1940) - One of the all time great American films - the directing force of John Ford with Citizen Kane cinematographer Gregg Toland. Powerful acting performances do this Steinbeck classic justice. Essential

Capturing the Friedmans (2003) - Fascinating Acadamy nominated doco about a family on the path to destruction amid massive allegations of child abuse. The more you learn, the less you know for sure. Essential

Batman Begins (2005) - I am tagging this film as essential simply because it achieves something rare in the action genre - everything works and you don't leave feeling cheated. Essential

Educating Rita (1983) - A real gem of British cinema and a fantastic character study. Leaves you with sympathy and understanding for each of the leads struggles. Essential

Straw Dogs (1971) - I can't remember the last time I was left so affected by a film. Banned from being released on DVD in Britain for over 30 years - Peckinpah unveils the absolute worst fears of a man, and reveals the hidden and horrifying nature of society lying under the surface. Essential

The Fog of War (2003) - Oscar winning documentary on 'Eleven Lessons from the Life of Robert S. McNamara'. This may well be the best documentary I have ever seen. Essential

Le Notti di Cabiria (Nights Of Cabiria) (1957) - Fellini's classic blend of tragedy, comedy and self realisation. Essential

Memory & Desire (1997) - The film Niki Caro would follow up with Whale Rider. This one has stuck in my conscience and is a flawless examination of Japanese cultural pressures and personal tragedy. Essential

Jules et Jim (Jules and Jim) (1962) - Loved it. I was unsure about Truffaut, as I didn't particularly enjoy his earlier work, '400 Blows'. Oozing with influence that continues to this day. Essential

The Station Agent (2003) - The only thing wrong with this film, is that we have to leave the characters at the end. Beautifully simple yet completely satisfying. Essential

Tôkyô monogatari (Tokyo Story) (1953) - The best regarded of Yasujiro Ozu films. A beautiful meditation on life and culture in Japan during the 50's. Essential

Les Triplettes de Belleville (The Triplets of Belleville) (2003) - I think it is amazing that this sort of brilliant and clever type of film gets made. A neo-surreal French animation feature that is both funny and tragic. Essential

Once Upon a Time in America (1984) - The great Sergio Leone's final film. Every frame of this 220 minute masterpiece is like a exquisite oil painting. Essential

Sideways (2004) - Absolutely the best new film I have seen in a long time - I couldn't take my eyes away. Blends comedy and drama, without going all silly and Hollywood about it. Essential

The Odd Couple (1968) - Walter Matthau and Jack lemmon play off each other to create an experience that is both brilliantly funny and clever. Essential

Garden State (2004) - Zach Braff's Graduatesque existential comedy drama. Essential

Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) - Quentin Tarantino builds on the momentum of the first part by adding adding character, background detail, and more cult trash film influenced dialogue.  Essential

Witness for the Prosecution (1957) - I am a huge Agatha Christie fan and this is a great big screen adaption, directed by the consistantly brilliant Billy Wilder. Essential

Notorious (1946) - Claimed by many to be Hitchcock's masterpiece, this tense thriller features a great Bondesque performance from Cary Grant. Essential

City Lights (1931) - Chaplin's comedy romance, and reportedly Orson Welles' favorite movie of all time. Some memorable scenes and great body language. Essential

Nuit et brouillard (Night and Fog) (1955) - Alain Resnais' documentary account of the Holocaust, made just 10 years after the event, contains some of the most vivid and memorable footage I have seen. Essential

Persona (1966) - Ingmar Bergman's psychological study of two women whose personalities merge and identies become blurred. Essential

Hotaru no haka (Grave of the Fireflies) (1988) - Emotionally powerful post WWII anime film about the plight of a brother and his young sister dealing with the struggle for existence. Essential

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) - Often cited as both Huston's and Bogart's best work. Timeless in both its performances and presentation. Essential

Hable con ella (Talk To Her) (2002) - More accessible and watchable than Pedro Almodovar's previous film 'All About My Mother'. Pedro has a unique ability to portray genuine tortured emotion. Essential

King Kong (1933) - Audiences for whom Jackson' s Kong is their first introduction will no doubt look upon this original as dated and kitschy. But I see this as one of the most terrifying and moving examples Hollywood has ever produced. The importance of this film in cinema history is undeniable (and well deserving). Essential

Kill Bill Vol.1 (2003) - Not my favourite Tarantino film due in part to the lack of his previously excellent stylistic dialogue. Nontheless, enjoyable, if a little overrated. Essential

Elephant (2003) - Multiple interweaving timelines and long protracted shots expertly contextualise student life in the lead up to a high school shooting. Essential

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) - At the very least it is an original and well crafted escapist pleasure. IMHO Jim Carrey's finest career performance, and currently the only film of 2004 to crack the IMDB top 100. Essential

Cidade de Deus (City of God) (2002) - Richly compelling. Most likely the best film I will see this year. Essential

Stalag 17 (1953) - I love Billy Wilder films, and this is one of his best. Tightly written and directed with great dialog.  Essential

Whale Rider (2002) - This may well be my favourite NZ film. But then again I would have a hard job trying to name 5 NZ films I have enjoyed. (OK, maybe I liked The Piano more.) Essential

Manhattan (1979) - There's a lot of all-round greatness in this timeless Woody Allen classic - excellent cinematography and clever social commentary. Essential

Modern Times (1936) - My favourite Chaplin to date and the last great silent film to come out of Hollywood. Essential

Metropolis (1927) - It took me a while to finally get around to seeing this amazing and visionary 1927 classic. This was the recently fully restored and authorised edition. Essential

Gone With The Wind (1939) - I have to say I really enjoyed this one. I loved the interplay between Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable. Essential

21 Grams (2003) - Exceptionally great film - my pick for best picture of 2003. Essential

Mystic River (2003) - This film delivers in so many ways. Great depth of feeling and character development. Essential

Giant (1956) - Frequently cited as a forgotten masterpiece (all 200 minutes of it) this is the kind of sprawling epic Hollywood no longer makes. James Dean was brilliant. Essential

Solyaris (Solaris) (1972) - My pick of the week. I'm not sure I completely understand it, but Solaris must surely be one of the greatest sci-fi films ever. I can't wait to see more of Russian director Andrei Tarkovsky's works, though I don't think there are any others of his on my viewing schedule. Essential

Local Hero (1983) - My surprise favourite pic of the week. This Scottish film, deservedly on the BFI's top 100 list, tells the story of a rep from an American oil company sent to Scotland to buy up an entire village where they want to build a refinery. Beautifully existential. Essential

Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) - Sergio Leone has created without a doubt the greatest western ever. Essential

The Wild Bunch (1969) - Bloodlust, masculinity and loyalty. The near perfect western. Essential

The Apartment (1960) - A seriously great romantic comedy featuring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine in fine form. Essential

12 Angry Men (1957) - A timeless classic. Essential

Zulu (1964) - The true story of outnumbered British soldiers doing battle with Zulu warriors in 1879. Nice cinematography. Essential

Kes (1969) - Great little coming of age british film - deservedly high on the BFI top 100. Essential

Fargo (1996) - A second watching of this classic confirms it as the dark comedy to rule them all. Essential

Trois couleurs: Rouge (Three Colors: Red) (1994) - A rare combination of substance and style - watch out for it on my Five Star 100. Essential

Cool Hand Luke (1967) - "What we've got here is failure to communicate". Worth watching for the memorable '50 Eggs' scene alone. Essential