Best Movies of 2011

A ranking across a year of intricate moral drama, expressive spectacle, formally adventurous cinema and sharply performed comedy. The order favours complete films whose direction and performances give their ideas a distinctive experience. Begin with A Separation for dramatic precision, Moneyball for an inviting story about professional judgement or Attack the Block for compact creature action. Years follow first public screenings, including festivals: The Raid and A Letter to Momo belong through 2011 Toronto premieres despite wider releases in 2012. The notes distinguish leisurely observation, severe adult themes and graphic violence from lighter choices.