Once again the typical Hollywood blockbuster sequels took most of the lime-light (and cash) this year, though independent films have started to look at an incredible comeback, thanks in part to the little indie film that could, the comedy My Big Fat Greek Wedding which proved an amazing popular hit.  Apart from that, much of the American fare has been familiar stuff - good, but not too outstanding. Still, there have been some rewarding films, though international films have been much more interesting.

• 11'09"01: September 11 - a powerful, interesting international mix of views and emotional responses on the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the New York Twin Towers
• About a Boy - British charmer Hugh Grant is at his best here in an engaging, funny, emotional comedy by the directors of American Pie (who would have guessed?)
• Astérix & Obélix: Mission Cléopatre - an absolutely hilarious live-action adaptation of the classic French comic strip that just gets better on repeat viewings
• Bowling for Columbine - the most startling, funny, and harrowing documentary on the problem of firearms in America from acclaimed rabble-rouser Michael Moore
• Catch Me If You Can - Spielberg offers up another fine slice of nostalgia and daring-do as Tom Hanks chases con man Leo DiCaprio
• Gangs of New York - a terrific, epic slice of American history brought to life with blood and tears from a master director
• Go - a stylish, spirited coming-of-age tale that is also a quest for identity for a Korean teen living in Japan
• The Hours
• I Am Dina - part period piece, part epic family drama, and part ghost story, this is what the director rightfully calls "an emotional action movie"
• Lilo & Stitch - taking chances with the tried-and-true formula, all to Elvis songs, this is one of Disney's best animated features ever
• The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - Though not quite up to the first installment, this is still 
  excellent, highly engaging fantasy fare
• Minority Report - a thrilling recreation of a bleak possible future, and a fine mystery to boot
• The Pianist - an intimate portrait of a Pole's struggle for survival during the Holocaust, this is Polanski at his best
• The Ring (USA) - 
• Salomé - an erotic, delectable dance adaptation of the famous opera by the director of Carmen
• The Son (Le Fils) - filmed with a minimalist sense, this is a gripping suspense drama thanks to some fine portrayals
• Spider-Man - finally a terrific, faithful adaptation of a comic book icon and a fun ride as well
• Spirited Away
• The Trespasser - a shining example of the Latin American new wave, an exciting suspense thriller that's also a powerful social condemnation
• Y Tu Mamá También - a colorful, sexually charged, and heartfelt road trip / romantic drama, a passionate journey into the heart of Mexican adolescence

Note that this selection only comprises films that I have seen this year and that have been somehow distributed in North American theatres (or at film festivals). Obviously, I have not seen all the films that have come out in theatres (who has?), but some of them have had enough good word of mouth that I would be remiss in not pointing them out:

• 24 Hour Party People
• Adaptation
• Bloody Sunday
• City of God
• The Quiet American