It was a tough year to compile a list of the best movies — even tougher to pick the best geeky movies. Why? Because most of the movies of ’06 sucked. Didn’t you notice? These 10 genre movies, however, didn’t make us wretch — in fact, in most cases we actually enjoyed ourselves. Here are the best geek movies of 2006. Drum roll, please…
10. The Illusionist
This would have been crowned the best magician movie if only The Prestige hadn’t come along (see #4). Even so, Edward Norton shines as the title character who proves he’d do anything to get the woman he loves.
9. Nanny McPhee
Who knew that watching a magic-wielding, wart-ridden nanny torture seven bratty kids into behaving properly could be so endearing?
8. V for Vendetta
V was the coolest looking hero to grace the silver screen in ’06. But beyond the coolness factor, V for Vendetta is one of the smarter comic book adaptations to come along in a long time.
7. A Scanner Darkly
Cool animation, brilliant performances, and faithful to the original Philip K. Dick novel. Now we can forgive Keanu Reeves for The Lakehouse.
6. Superman Returns
Director Bryan Singer brings over his X-Men magic and delivers a wonderous addition to the Superman franchise. Now we can finally put Superman IV behind us.
5. Casino Royale
James Bond is back and he’s more badass than ever. Daniel Craig gives a riveting performance. Now let’s see some more.
4. The Prestige
Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale shine as rival magicians. This movie has twists and turns you definitely won’t see coming, but the magic of this film is what’s left to the imagination.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man’s Chest
It’s got everything you want in a swashbuckling blockbuster: action, adventure, battles, treachery, intrigue, supernatural monsters — and PIRATES! Oh yeah, and a little someone named Johnny Depp.
2. X-Men: The Last Stand
You can’t help but love the mutant X gang in action, even when they’re fighting each other. This third installment has some of the best display of mutant powers in the franchise, especially when Dark Phoenix rises.
1. Borat
Borat is hilarious, shocking, irreverent, and like nothing you’ve ever seen in a mainstream American movie. Others will try to make a funnier movie, but they don’t have much of a chance. Chenquieh, Sacha Baron Cohen!
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Slither, Happy Feet, Nacho Libre, Monster House
BEST NON-GEEK MOVIE:
Little Miss Sunshine
