S.K.Jha's top 10 films 2012 ! - Page 3

We are coming to the end of 2012 and with the last release of the year, Dabangg 2 already out, dust is slowly settling down, and the bright spots are beginning to emerge. 2012 has been a mixed bag year for Hindi films, though it truly has been a year where Indian films took the next step in recognizing and placing itself on the global map with several films making it up to international film festivals. Not surprisingly the film that finds itself at the top of this list truly leads the pack in bringing the laurels for the industry by representing Indian cinema at four of the most recognized global film festival - Cannes, Toronto, London, Sundance.

As it's not hard to guess, box office numbers are seldom the true determinants of good films, I too, am not going to be swayed by the pile of money a film made rather I prefer judging a film by the longevity of impression that it made on my mind. Honestly speaking it was a little arduous picking top 10, not because I had the luxury of abundance to choose from but rather it was the paucity of truly great films that worried me. There are films in this list specially towards fag end that I am not too pleased about them making the Top 10 list, but those were the only best options I had among mediocre stuff. So, presenting it to you, the Best of 2012. You are welcome to put in your own favorites in the comment section.

1. Gangs of Wasseypur I & II : A fascinating crime-drama upheld by its rustic charm, delectable characters, indigenous music and supremely crafted performances. Not to mention Kashyap's familiarly handled authenticity.

2. Barfi! : Flawed but highly enjoyable romance-saga buoyed by the effervescence and infectiousness of Ranbir's performance, saccharine musical score and pristine Darjeeling beauty.

3. Paan Singh Tomar : An epic tale of ambition and courage, directed with amazingly believable conviction by Tigmanshu Dhulia, and enacted by Irrfan with irrepressible gutso.

4. English Vinglish : A heart-warming story of a resolute yet loving women, who shatters the presumptions and notions of her husband and children ultimately winning over everyone including the audience. Sridevi, at her ultimate best.

5. Ek Main Aur Ek Tu: A twisted breezy fresh romance that begins where most Hindi films end i.e marriage. Not as formulaic as typical hindi romance, charts out its own way into audience's hearts without taking an easy or convenient path. Imran Khan has never been this good.

6. Kahaani: Surprisingly grounded and uncharastically thrilling, suspense drama. And the best part - woven around a strong willed women, and nostalgically beautiful Calcutta.

7. Vicky Donor: Experimental yet easy-going tale with plenty of good laughs, and some heartfelt moments with best supporting performance of the year by Annu Kapoor.

8. Talaash: An emotional pshyco-thriller-drama about relationships and pasts, helped immensely by strong performances and great cinematography.

9. Shanghai: Promising premise gives way to ordinary ending, but still thought provoking if not evocative, and surprisingly a non-star turn from Emraan Hashmi who nails the part with convincing ease.

10. Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana: Innocuos, funny and admirably simple tale told through interesting characters.

Honorable Mention: Sadly, None.