Skyfall (2012)

Daniel Craig and the other “Bond”-makers strike the perfect balance of art and action film, throwing away all those cheesy gadgets and cheeky dialogue, and there’s even a song by Adele. It is certainly the best Bond film of all time, but that’s not saying much.

d: Sam Mendes | imdb.com | trailer

My Week with Marilyn (2011)

Michelle Williams doesn’t have Marilyn Monroe’s body or smile, but she does capture the icon’s madness and insecurities during the filming of “The Prince and the Showgirl.” The best parts are Williams’ musical numbers at the beginning and end.

d: Simon Curtis | imdb.com | trailer | Charlie Rose | Heatwave