Essential 2008

In spirit of all the listings that appear around this time of peoples favorite things of this ending year, I thought I'd join in with my top picks of this years finest treats for our eyes and ears. So here it is. The best 2008 had to offer:

Viewing:
1. "There Will Be Blood" came out early in the year and really set the bar on fire. P.T. Anderson delivers his best work to date in this adaptation of Upton Sinclair's novel "Oil!". Stunning cinematography, a haunting soundtrack and flawless performances from everyone involved. Daniel Day-Lewis is a study of monumental acting and this role will surely stand as his career high. It's a remarkable performance. The film is an instant classic and one of the most impressive pieces of cinema I have ever seen. Hands down, the best picture of the year.
2. "The Dark Knight" is Chris Nolan's second instalment in the Batman series, and it's the best one yet. Both darker and more complete than any of its predecessors it stands as one of the best comic book adaptations ever made. Amazing set pieces and a gritty realism adds to the effect and the pitch perfect casting is tremendous. What great movies are all about.
3. "The Visitor" has been mentioned here earlier. Tom McCarthy's second feature is a brilliant story of lonely hearts and open minds. It is a humanly original fable about unlikely friendships and second attempts. Richard Jenkins is terrific in his first real leading role and if there is any justice in this world he should win every award out there the next couple of months.
4. "The Diving Bell And The Butterfly" by Julian Schnabel requires patience and tolerance, but if you're willing to let yourself go in it the payoff is well worth it. This true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby and his unbelieveable journey from a life as a successful magazine editor to the confines of a hospital bed enlights and celebrates the best and worst things in life.
5. "Juno" is everyone's favorite. A hilarious and orignal story with smart directing from Jason Reitman. Arguably the best cast of the year and without a doubt the finest soundtrack. This film is exactly what Hollywood needed and hopefully it will inspire more films ABOUT something and with REAL people. Qute and filthy at the same time and sharp around the edges.

Listening:
1. Vampire Weekend from New York created the years best with their self titled debut album. A smart and fresh pop album with classic and cathy tunes. Sounds like The Clash, and Bowie if he still allowed himself to have fun. And the single "A-Punk" just might be the coolest track of the year too.
2. The Music's third album "Strenght In Numbers" elevates this Leeds quartet from basement electro rock to stadium sounding and larger possibilities. A great collection of songs and a sound that no one else has at the moment. After a four year break they are certainly back on track and this album leaves you with the wonderful feeling that their best work might be yet to come.
3. "Dig!!! Lazarus Dig!!!" is a smashing return to form by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Raunchy and funny tracks with some of the most memorable lyrics by the aussie. Not quite enough to compete with his early work but a solid reminder that Cave is still alive. And he wants your soul.
4. "Walk It Off" is americans Tapes 'n Tapes sophmore record and a different take on the alternative rock scene they explored in their brilliant debut "The Loon". A delishious sounding band with enough energy to blow the door off the room to stardom. Warning: Contains guitar riffs that require air guitar participation.
5. Madrugada is dead, but at least they left us a beautiful soundtrack for the funeral. Their final album, simply titled "Madrugada", only contains nine songs but it is more than enough to confirm their status as the finest norwegian rock band of all time. Sivert Høyem is friends with both God and The Devil and will sing his heart out for any of them. A perfect swansong for a perfect band.

2009 has got work to do.