HOLLYWOOD—As we count down the final days in the year 2011, it's time to recap what reigned supreme (in my opinion) in movies and television this year. From breakout series to movies that had audiences talking for days, there were big things happening in 2011  Let’s start our discussion with the top 5 television series of 2011.

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone in "Crazy Stupid Love."

5. The Vampire Diaries. Spectacular is just one of the many adjectives that can be used to describe this sensational thriller that continues to appeal to adults and teens. Not only did Stefan cross over to the dark side, but Klaus continues to dispatch the citizens of Mystic Falls where the residents are completely unaware of the vampires, werewolves and witches running lose. Each season tends to promise audiences with a shocking death, so I expect nothing less from Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec in the second half of the season.

4. Revenge. This saucy thriller from ABC didn’t resonate with me on first glance. I’m always skeptical about TV series where the title tends to say it all, but “Revenge” has blossomed into the guilty pleasure of the year. With such stellar acting from Madeline Stowe as the wicked Victoria Grayson, and Emily VanCamp as Emily Throne, this show has more mystery than one can imagine. Beware" if you miss one episode, you’ll beat yourself up for weeks.

3. The X-Factor. Is the show dramatic? Yes. Is the show over the top? Yes. Are the contestants great? Yes. With so many singing competitions dominating the television waves, Simon Cowell returned to television in a way we never expected. Singers from all ages vie for the prize of a $5 million recording contract. There has been more heartache and shock this season from Astro’s unpleasant behavior, to the heartbreaking eliminations of teenagers Drew and Rachel. It’s also entertaining to watch the judges mold their contestants into superstars.

2. Modern Family. To say that this show is funny is an understatement; it's flat out hilarious. Not often can you watch a show without the audience’s laughter in the background and expect to cheer, but “Modern Family” takes the cake. What’s not to love about this group of suburbanites who find themselves involved with more hi-jinks than the Simpsons?

1. Pretty Little Liars. Millions may be asking themselves why this show tops the list and there is one reason: edge-of-your-seat suspense. While the ABC series is geared towards teens, this show has some wicked dialogue, great storytelling, memorable characters and a mystery fans have been eagerly waiting for since the series premiered back in 2010. Good things come to those who wait as the big reveal as to who “A” is will happen in 2012. My only hope is that the reveal lives up to all the hype. Otherwise, audiences may falter.

Now there’s no way to talk about TV without speaking about the sensational movies that wowed audiences and critics this year. This year’s best may differ from those most critics are in agreement in as I pride myself on stepping outside the box

5. Scream 4. First and foremost, it was not the box-office hit everyone expected, but this fourth chapter in the successful horror series reunited the original cast that included Neve Campbell, David Arquette and Courteney Cox. The opening sequence was clever and witty and the big revelation of the second killer left audiences in awe. The one question that continues to vex inquiring minds is just what Kevin Williamson has up his shelve for “Scream 5.”

4. My Week with Marilyn. Michelle Williams is a revelation as Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. She brings poise and charisma to a woman who has fascinated audiences for decades. The film provides a slice of Marilyn’s life that the public hasn’t seen and it’s amazing to watch that week unfold on the screen.

Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe in "My Week with Marilyn."

3. Crazy Stupid Love. That’s right: a comedy makes the list, and rightfully so. With an ensemble cast that includes Julianne Moore, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Marisa Tomei and Emma Stone, this romantic comedy excels with heart, humor and stellar acting. Trust me, the movie has a twist that audiences won’t see coming, making it that much more satisfying.

2.  The Ides of March. This savvy political thriller starring and directed by George Clooney is poignant. It tackles a difficult subject matter in the public sphere with several twists that will have audiences buzzing for days. With an all-star cast including Ryan Gosling, Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Marissa Tomei, it’s a must-see. 

1. The Help. It was the summer blockbuster that came out of nowhere.  This movie tells the tale of African-American maids in the South during the 1960s. Anger, fear, sadness, rage and comedy are just a few emotions spectators will experience while watching. With a stellar ensemble including Oscar-caliber performances from Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Jessica Chastain, Bryce Dallas Howard and Emma Stone, “The Help” is that movie audiences will continue to discuss long after 2011.

Check out my column next week as we discuss some of the most anticipated movies of 2012 and what flicks should be on any moviegoers' list.

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