The most underrated films of '08

Just in time for summer! Start catching up

By: Paresh Jha

Posted: 4/30/09

For every "Slumdog Millionaire," there will be a film like "Rescue Dawn" or "Fracture" that simply slips through the cracks of awareness. There are a variety of ways this could happen. "Slumdog" actually began as an indie hit that catapulted to astronomical levels of success through word of mouth.

Other films are just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Take 2007's "Breach" for instance. The film had all the makings of success. It had a heartthrob leading man - Ryan Phillippe - and a seasoned Oscar nominated actor like Chris Cooper in a brilliantly paced film about the FBI. But, a lack of strong publicity and an awkward release date had this movie stumbling out of the gate, box office-wise. In 2008, there were a handful of movies that fell into these traps. But do not let the promotional miscalculations alter your perceptions of the film. The following selections are all quality movies that are begging for your attention.

"The Bank Job"

In a world obsessed with the "Ocean's Eleven" new age heist genre, it is ironically refreshing to see a film that works as a throwback to the old school crime films. The movie is based on a true story about a controversial heist that happened in London about 30 years ago. Much of the movie's greatness needs to be attributed to director Roger Donaldson, who veers away from the tempting slick nature of these types of films and goes for a grittier style instead. Jason Statham and company bring developed and sincere performances to a film that is as fun as it is simple.

"The Visitor"

"The Visitor" was one of the most emotional and moving films of the past year. The movie focuses on a Connecticut English professor, Walter Vale (Richard Jenkins), who has lost his drive to teach. He has a chance encounter with a Syrian man whom he befriends. Drama takes place when this man is deported and Vale gets pulled in trying to help his newfound friend. The movie's strongest aspect is the examination of a post 9/11 world that happens to affect more people than just foreigners. Jenkins throws in an excellent performance with a wide range of skills as his character transforms from lost, middle-aged teacher to a man with a passion. There is a reason he was nominated for Best Actor.

"The Wackness"

It is really great to see a movie that actually explores the culture of the '90s. Considering many of us are products of that decade, this film should be interesting for all of us. It is your typical coming of age comedy a la "Garden State" and "Adventureland" that focuses on a teenage pot dealer by the name of Luke who simply (or not so simply) has problems with life. The movie shines with some surprising performances and an extremely unique script with respect to dialogue. Josh Peck portrays Luke and throws down a memorable performance but he is definitely trumped by Ben Kingsley's quirky character. With a unique title, unique characters and a not-so-unique plot, "The Wackness" is certainly worth anyone's time.

"Stop-Loss"

Imagine coming home after serving your country in Iraq for a long time. You have just been awarded the Purple Heart for your bravery and all you want to do is just put the battles behind you. Then just when you are settling in, you are stop-lossed. That means you are forced to do another involuntary tour of duty. This was the case in the film "Stop-Loss" for Brandon King (Ryan Phillippe) and company. The film explores life after war for soldiers and what happens when love for your country conflicts with feelings of betrayal. Performances by Phillippe, Channing Tatum and Joseph Gordon-Levitt are great and make this film one of the most profound films of the year.

"Vicky Christina Barcelona"

Woody Allen never gets enough credit for his directing skills. He has done great films like "Hollywood Ending" and "Match Point." He adds "Vicky Christina Barcelona" to his resume of great films. The premise is simple: two girls spend a summer in Spain and encounter a painter and his crazy ex-wife. What ensues is both tragic and hilarious. Penelope Cruz gives a very amusing, yet convincing performance as the crazy ex-wife while Scarlett Johansson never lets up as the adventurous Christina. Cruz won the Oscar for a reason and the film deserves as much credit as the performances do.