*Fun fact: While compiling this list, I realized I might be one of the only people in America who earnestly did not pay any attention to coverage of the Royal Wedding.
Favorite Performers:
Ryan Gosling: I think pretty much everyone else on the planet can think of at least one reason why he makes the list, but I’ll try to jog the memory of anyone drawing a blank. First of all, he was everywhere at the movies this year, from Blue Valentine to Crazy Stupid Love to Ides of March to Drive. He’s just plain awesome in 99% of his public appearances, from bringing his dog to Jimmy Fallon’s show for an interview to intervening in a brawl on the streets of New York. Not to mention the unf factor. I mean, seriously, have you LOOKED at the man?
The HP Trio (aka Dan Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson): True, it’s very possible that none of them will really have a career to speak of now that the biggest franchise of their lives has drawn to a close, but even if these three never do anything of note again, all the memories they’ve given us are more than enough to last a lifetime. I know I’m not the only one who enjoyed every minute of growing up alongside them while they brought my favorite stories to life. I’ll miss all the hype and the anticipation of a new HP film every two years, but it’s undeniable that these three absolutely went out on top. So to Daniel, Rupert, and Emma—thanks for a decade of magic.
Amy Poehler: Ms. Poehler has always been both hilarious and extremely innovate (and very underrated-ly so), but she really took 2011 by storm. Parks and Recreation aired its entire flawless 3rd season during 2011, and continued its winning streak in season 4. As if that weren’t enough, Amy also delivered a commencement address at Harvard this spring, in which she imparted her unique brand of wisdom to an audience of young people who genuinely need to live in the same spirit of passion, determination, and kindness that is evident in everything this fantastic woman does.
People I’m Sick of Hearing About:
Anyone with the last name Kardashian (second year in a row, congrats ladies!).
All the batshit crazy Republicans running for President in 2012.
Anyone who is or has been a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
Best Shows:
Parks and Recreation
How I Met Your Mother
Great Episodes:
Parks and Recreation: “Road Trip” and “The End of the World”
Community: “Remedial Chaos Theory”
Modern Family: “Phil on Wire”
The Office: “Goodbye Michael”
How I Met Your Mother: “Symphony of Illumination”
Top 5 Films:
1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part Two
2. The Ides of March
3. Contagion
4. Bridesmaids/Horrible Bosses (tie)
5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Disappointments:
Codes and Keys: Death Cab doesn’t work when Ben Gibbard is happy. There, I said it. This album is boring and repetitive. Additional note: now that he’s divorcing Zooey D, maybe the magic of DC’s initial gloom will return (silver lining, yes?)
America/the American economy: No jobs, no money, no concern from the men in charge; no wonder the 99% have taken to the streets.
Honorable Mentions (no category, but they kept me interested/intrigued/excited throughout the year):
ADELE: Remember the first time you heard Someone Like You? Did you cry in public a little bit, like I did? This woman’s voice is magic. Case closed.
Steve Carrell: Since he didn’t get an Emmy, I’m giving him my equivalent.
The cast of Parks and Recreation (especially Aziz Ansari and Adam Scott): Flawless, and the fact that they didn’t snag a SAG nod for their work as an ensemble is criminal.
Jason Sudeikis: This is rumored to be his last season on SNL, and I’m psyched to see if the career momentum he’s had recently continues.
Alexandre Desplat: If he doesn’t get an Oscar (or at least a nomination) for the DH2 soundtrack, I’m considering it a crime.
Arrested Development: It’s coming back!!!
JK Rowling: Always and always, because none of the magic would’ve been possible without her.
Seth Meyers: Killed it at the White House correspondent’s dinner, head writer at SNL in his 11th year, remains absolutely charming in everything he does.
That's all I've got! Here's hoping that 2012 brings even more laughter, epic moments, and joy (and you know, not that pesky apocalypse). Happy New Year, and thanks for reading!
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