3 good movies from 2008 you probably didn't see..

1. The Dark Knight – (That was a joke). Seriously though, this year (like most years) someone asked me to list my favorite movies from the year. I froze up. I had no answer. I'm hardly at a loss of movie recommendations, yet I couldn’t think of a couple, let alone an entire list of movies that really stood out in 2008.

After reviewing the movies released, I came to realize why I had such a stupor of thought. There were only a handful of what I would qualify as “good" to "great movies” this past year. Many people enjoyed The Dark Knight, Ironman and Wall-E. Yet I also remember sitting thru many hours of lousy sequels and box-office garbage. Luckily, I found a few more gems I'd like to share. Below is a list of three good movies from last year you probably didn’t see in the theatres and can now rent on DVD. Here they are, in reverse order:

3. Flawless – Demi Moore, Michael Caine
IMDB Synopsis: “A crime/drama set in 1960 London, where a soon to retire janitor convinces a glass-ceiling constrained American executive to help him steal a handful of diamonds from their employer, the London Diamond Corporation.”(Even though it is dated 2007, it wasn't released in the US until March 2oo8.)

Why I liked this movie: Even though you try not to side with the thieves it would be hard not jump on board with a plan devised by the likable character played by Michael Caine. Even Demi Moore is slightly less irritating than usual. The story moves a little slow at first, but gives a nice backdrop for the character development and circumstances that eventually bring you on board with the job. Everyone loves to stick it to the man, and who doesn't love a quality heist movie?

2. Young @ Heart – Old folks you'll come to love in less than 1 hour and 30 minutes.
IMDB Synopsis: “A story of the Young at Heart Chorus, a group of senior citizens who perform contemporary and classic rock and pop songs.”

Why I liked this movie: I don’t want to say anything about this one and cause you to judge prematurely, so just go rent it. I know what you are thinking, "Old people singing in a documentary? No thanks!" Just trust me on this one. Even if you haven't believed a word of what I said thus far and hate documentaries, go see this movie. There. I have done all I can to spread the joy and warmth you will inevitably feel after seeing this film. Also (and I don't share this with many) have tissues handy. It may get a little "misty," even for you tough guys.

1. Traitor – Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce
IMDB Synopsis: “When straight arrow FBI agent Roy Clayton heads up the investigation into a dangerous international conspiracy, all clues seem to lead back to former U.S. Special Operations officer, Samir Horn.”

Why I liked this movie: A great all around movie from beginning to end that incorporates all my criteria for a great flick. (Quality story that carries itself from beginning to end, unpredictable, leaves you thinking long after it is over and leaves you wanting to see it again and again.) I am shocked that this movie came and went from theatres so quickly. However, I enjoyed how it took an alternate look at the topic of terrorism, by giving us a main character that knows both sides and questions who are the good guys and who are the bad guys... or is there really a distinction.

Enjoy.