So far you have seen my top ten films (to be revisited soon), my bottom ten films, and my top on-screen choices for my theatrical viewings of 2006. Well, it isn't over yet. I know, it feels like the recap of the prior year is going on and on without end. Don't worry, there is not much left to go over. Here are my top choices for behind the scenes work, and no, I do not go through all possible categories, I go through what I am comfortable commenting on. Oh yeah, there will be one final part to follow this, a final roundup of random movie awards.
Best Director
Guillermo del Toro for Pan's Labyrinth. One of the year's finest films, helmed by a director fulfilling his potential. I have always been a fan of his work, but often it has been at a level lower than what we have found here. His work has generally risen above similar works in the genre, always hinting at what he could do. This is a film that is magical, it is dark, it has hope, it has violence, and you are not safe. Amazing film from a director at the top of his game.- Alfonso Cuaron for Children of Men. This was my favorite theatrically seen film for the year, and Cuaron very nearly took the top spot. His work here is very impressive, he brings us a perfectly realized world that draws you in with each frame.
- Martin Scorsese for The Departed. As much as I would like to see Marty take home the big prize, he comes in third on my list. He made a completely involving film that actually surpasses its source material. It is quick, funny, thrilling, and suspenseful, and masterfully directed.
- Christopher Nolan for The Prestige. Nolan has fast come into his own as a first rate director, not having a failure yet. His follow-up to Batman Begins is a suspenseful struggle of two dominant personalities. Of course, he had a couple of great performances to work with, but much credit to the man behind the camera.
- Paul Greengrass for United 93. It must have been a daunting task, attempting to create a film that honors the memories of those who lost their lives and not feel exploitative. Paul Greengrass has created a film that places the viewer right in the middle of the events, like a fly on the wall. It is a powerful experience.
- Honorable Mention:
- Alejandro González Iñárritu for Babel. The concept of intersecting lives, experimented with in the great 21 Grams, is taken worldwide in this global film of intersecting lives and the inability to communicate.
- Wayne Kramer for Running Scared. This was an absolutely wild movie. Not the best, mind you, but completely insane. It is a credit to Kramer for being able to keep focus and not allow it to get away from him, letting it fly out on the rails but never flying off.
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