HOLLYWOOD—One can say that the year 2009 delivered some spectacular films and sensational music.  From the explosion of country superstar Taylor Swift to the box-office domination of the film “New Moon,” there was a little something for everyone to enjoy.  As a decade comes to an end, I look back at the finest in music and movies in 2009, be warned my top five picks for music and films aren’t like everyone else’s eclectic list.  I pay tribute to films and songs that may have been overlooked by critics, radio stations and the public. 

"Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" created a pop phenomenon.

Music

5. Taylor Swift “You Belong to Me.”  Swift’s country anthem proved to be a sensational hit not only on the radio, but with pop culture.  Swift was able to do something many country artists have tried to do for years: turn country music into a pop sensation.  Her catchy lyrics transcended her sound into something that was likable by all audiences.

4. Alicia Keys “Doesn’t Mean Anything.”  Keys proved once again that she knows how to deliver a groundbreaking ballad that soars with heart.  It’s a gut-wrenching tale of love and pain. While it didn’t rise to the top of the charts, “Anything” is a testament to great songwriting. 

Swift had an incredible year with hits like "Love Story" and "You Belong with Me."

3. Lady Gaga “Paparazzi.”  She was the best new artist of 2009, even if the Grammys won’t acknowledge it. She scored nods for Record and Song of the Year for “Poker Face,” but it was Gaga’s hit “Paparazzi” that set her apart from all the other pop stars.  An appealing and melodic hit about a celebrity’s infatuation with the photogs that proves she’s no one-hit wonder.

2. Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys “Empire State of Mind.”  Jigga proved why he’s the best lyricist still alive with this anthem dedicated to the city of his birthplace.  Keys singing that groovy hook is an added extra that gives the song that punch that is needed.  Not only is it a node to NYC, but to any city that one wants to praise.

Gabourey Sidibe in the film "Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire."

1. Beyonce “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).”  Conceivably the catchiest song ever, with a hook that was so ubiquitous it had every woman, man and child saying put a ring on it.  Her simple black and white music video created a pop culture phenomenon that had everyone trying to recreate that infamous dance routine. It's infectious and  I have to admit, while the song is a female anthem, Beyonce makes a great point, if you like what you got, why not put a ring on it.

Film

5. “The Final Destination.”  You’re probably thinking why in the world is this horror flick on the list? Maybe because it was a film that actually delivered to moviegoers.  A spine-tingling thriller where Death dispatches a group of teens and adults in vicious ways, and as a heightened effect it was in 3-D.  The film only gave audiences what it asked for —a great theater experience. 

4. “Star Trek.”  The J.J Abrams remake of the television classic proved that even the most anti-Trekkie fan could find solace in this sci-fi action flick.  With terrific casting (Chris Pine, Zoe Saldana and Zachary Quinto) and a unique story, “Star Trek” soared to new heights that audiences salivated to see.

3. “Invictus.”  Director Clint Eastwood is a genius.  His drama based on the true story of South African president Nelson Mandela and his journey to unite his country through the sport of rugby is an engaging and powerful masterpiece.  With Oscar-caliber performances by Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, “Invictus” is a film that inspires and tugs at your heart.

2. “State of Play.”  It was a clever and smart thriller about a journalist on the trail of uncovering a massive cover-up; it delivers enough twists to leave you gasping for air.  The film which was released in April was all but forgotten by critics.  With fantastic performances by Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdams and Helen Mirren, “Play” asks a terrific question about the plight of newspapers in today’s economy.  Even though more media is consumed online today, it can never replace the hard hitting facts of print journalism where investigating leads can lead you to the unexpected.  Moreover, there’s something about a newspaper that a computer can never replace and “State of Play” makes its argument very compelling.  A film for adults that is magical.

1. “Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire.”  This film isn’t for everyone, but it’s a film that you must see.  Newcomer Gabourey Sidibe delivers a captivating performance of an obese, illiterate and abused teen living in Harlem.  The film makes you cringe on several occasions as the viewer’s eyes are open to a harsh reality all too common for many children and teens in America.  Comedian Mo’Nique as Precious’s mother, Mary Jones is wickedly evil.  The venom she spews at her daughter is unimaginable.  The acting is superb, the writing magnificent, but overall “Precious” is a film about hope.  Even though the path through darkness is horrid, that glimmer of light at the end is uplifting.  Expect this film to garner several Oscar nominations come January. 

Here’s hoping 2010 delivers more sensational songs and flicks.  Happy New Year!

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