Possibly the Best Film of 2004

Rating: 10/10 (11 March 2005)

'Million Dollar Baby'? Fantastic. 'The Aviator'? Amazing. 'Sideways'? A triumph. But the film of the year? How about 'The Incredibles'? I know a lot of people will question the sanity of a man who says such things, but consider for a moment the merits of my case. The 'Best Picture' accolade (whenever presented, by whichever group) recognizes the highest achievements in film making and in all the individual endeavors that make up a film. On this basis, I call 'The Incredibles' the best film of the year. The animation was superb, on par or better than any FX done in any other film in 2004. The acting, especially Holly Hunter's Elasti-Girl, was amazing (and yes voice-over is still considered acting). The script was as inventive and fresh as anything since 'Pulp Fiction' stunned the nation a decade ago. And the soundtrack is one of the finest musical achievements I have ever witnessed, hearkening back to the great big, brassy sounds of the 1960's spy and action adventure films. This film pays tribute the comic book genre without playing down to the crowd and it moves with a pace that actually asks you to pay attention and stay alert, a rare thing in today's cinema.
'The Incredibles' DID win the Best Animated Feature Oscar, and rightly so, but it seems to this reviewer that, despite not being eligible for the Best Picture category, 'The Incredibles' was the Best Picture period. This is truly a masterful accomplishment or artistry and I hope that many generations to come will recognize it for what it is and cherish it as I do.