1. “Knocked Up”: Hilarious. That’s the word that comes to mind when I think of this surprise summer blockbuster. If “The 40 Year Old Virgin” didn’t do it, “Knocked Up” has officially taken Judd Apatow and friends into the next stratosphere of comedic genius. Seth Rogen nails his role as the stoner slacker who unintentionally impregnates his one night stand Katherine Heigl. Funny and yet heartfelt, this film kept me in stitches with its witty script and white hot performances, which is why “Knocked Up” was my favorite film of 2007.

2. “Lars and the Real Girl”: This film was perhaps the most unique of my top 10. There are no swashbuckling pirates or fast action bank heists but this indie film about a boy who believes that a plastic doll is his real live girlfriend was one of my favorites this year. What could have been a crass, low brow comedy was instead a sweet story of love and a cohesive community unit. Ryan Gosling makes my list twice this year, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he has to offer next year.

3. “Dan in Real Life”: Steve Carell stars in yet another film making it to the top of my favorite films list. Last year his film “Little Miss Sunshine” came in as my favorite movie of the year, and “Dan in Real Life” didn’t disappoint. Funny and sweet, the film tells the story of advice columnist and widower Dan who is trying to raise his three daughters on his own. A weekend holiday with extended family reveals the complex relationship he has with his daughters and the rest of his family and an unexpected meeting changes the course of their lives.

4. “Fracture”: It’s a shame to me that “Fracture” had an April release date. So early in the year, the release’s timing is too early for much award consideration and came during a rather low period for movie outings. Ryan Gosling and Anthony Hopkins dominate this crime thriller with acting chops that rival any other modern actors. Gosling, who re-wrote the film’s ending, has proven himself to be at the top of the Hollywood heap, and I don’t see him coming down from there anytime soon. If you missed this one, make sure you seek it out on DVD.

5. “Across the Universe”: Going into this filmic rock opera, I felt it could go one of two ways: really good or really bad. Luckily for me, a life-long Beatles fan, Julie Taymor’s musical tale hits almost all the right notes, with the exception of one particularly trippy segment. “Across the Universe” brings to life on screen 29 of The Beatles legendary songs, treating each with care and a fresh approach. This one is already on my Amazon.com wish list for its spring DVD release date.

6. “The Bourne Ultimatum”: I missed this one when it came out in theaters and had to wait until it was released on DVD to see how the Bourne story would end. Matt Damon has indicated that he’s through with the series, and I don’t blame him after hearing about the trial-filled shooting of this third part. Despite all of the trouble the cast and crew encountered, “The Bourne Ultimatum” holds its own in the series.

7. “Bella”: This independent gem was a pleasant surprise for me when I stumbled upon it last month. It’s a film about choices, about how a family’s support can make all the difference in the world and about a love that transcends barriers and hardships. Comprised of a stellar cast and interesting script, “Bella” is a film I highly recommend watching on DVD if you missed in in theaters.

8. “Juno”: Zingy dialogue, witty banter and a big heart backing it all up are the things that make “Juno” one of this year’s best films. Ellen Page makes a name for herself in this film about a teenage pregnancy. After finding out that she’s in the family way, the title character seeks out an adoptive family for her unborn child. Edgy, sarcastic and a little lost, Juno just wants her child to have a good home. “Juno” may be a bit hard to find in theaters, but it’s worth the trip to Atlanta if it doesn’t come our way.

9. “Ocean’s Thirteen”: I said it before, and after seeing it for a second time, I will say it again: this is the perfect summer movie. It’s exciting and entertaining, visually stunning and most importantly, it’s fun! All of the old characters we love, as well a few we love to hate, are back and completely in their comfort zone. A fresh twist on the action-packed casino heist, this threquel earns its place as one of the best of 2007.

10. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”: Johnny Depp is as good as ever as Captain Jack Sparrow in the third installment of this series. I’m especially thrilled at the indication that there may be a Captain Jack sequel waiting in the wings while Elizabeth and Will’s story-lines seem to be wrapped up tight. Different than the first and better than the second, “At World’s End” is a pirate film not to be missed.

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