2012 delivered a vibrant slate of cinema, featuring the launch of a popular franchise and the finale of a beloved saga. As the year closes, this retrospective highlights the standout movies that defined 2012 for audiences in Canada and the United States.
10. Dark Shadows: The adaptation of the cult TV soap brought Barnabas Collins to contemporary screens, introducing a mysterious and lovable antihero to new viewers while reconnecting longtime fans with the character. The film wandered between surprises, wit, and eerie moments, offering a playful, spooky diversion that year.
9. The Lorax: Based on Dr. Seuss’s beloved book, this animated feature entertains while delivering a clear message about environmental stewardship. Featuring the voices of Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, and Danny DeVito, the film expands the book’s world to show the consequences for the planet if environmental care is neglected.
8. The Dark Knight Rises: Christopher Nolan’s gripping finale to his reimagined Batman saga stunned fans and critics alike with relentless action and a twist-filled ending. While the conclusion marked the end of a mighty trilogy, anticipation grew for possible spin offs.
7. Hotel Transylvania: A playful gathering of legendary monsters yields unexpected laughter and heart. Featuring a lineup of well-known comedians, the film follows Count Dracula as he tries to shield his daughter from a world he fears. It closes on a hopeful note, underscoring messages of acceptance.
6. Mirror Mirror: Reimagining a timeless tale, this film offers a fresh take on Snow White and the seven dwarfs while preserving the heart of the original. Strong performances and lighthearted humor make it a standout among fairy tale revamps, a reminder that remakes can sparkle when they honor the source.
5. ParaNorman: A blend of zombies, witches, ghosts and curses drives this inventive tale. The eleven-year-old Norman can speak with the dead, a gift that isolates him at school and at home, yet proves essential to saving Blithe Hollow from a looming undead threat. A standout for 2012, it invites repeat viewing.
4. Breaking Dawn Part 2: The saga culminates as Bella becomes a vampire following Renesmee’s birth, while the Volturi press for a final confrontation. The Cullens and their allies brace for the ultimate battle in this bittersweet finale to the beloved series.
3. The Hunger Games: As the Twilight era waned, a new blockbuster began. Based on Suzanne Collins’s bestselling trilogy, the film introduces Katniss Everdeen and her fight to survive the deadly games, forging powerful alliances and facing fierce enemies along the way.
2. Wreck-It Ralph: The story follows the arcade game villain who longs for acceptance beyond his role, blending heart with humor. With a clever plot, star-studded voice work, and Disney magic, it won over audiences.
1. The Amazing Spider-Man: Arguably the summer’s and the year’s standout hit, the refreshed origin tale for Peter Parker offers a faithful adaptation of the comics, strong performances, and cutting-edge effects that propelled its popularity.
Readers may have favorites the list misses. Share your picks in the comments.