Drive
Here we are at the penultimate movie in our countdown to find the best movies of 2011 - believe me you won't find too many finer movies than Drive this year.
Ryan Gosling has had a superb year but no performance of his comes greater than this - I cannot stress just how good he is in this movie.
Gosling really is the driving force in this movie as he gives a really captivating performance as a man who says very little - but give plenty away with just a look.
Driver is a man of many layers a seeming straight laced stunt man who enjoys the thrill of breaking the law before turning on the violence to protect Irene and her young son.
Director Nicolas Winding Refn really does have to be applauded as in a time where the big budget blockbuster rules with it's CGI laden action set pieces he has shown that less really is so much more.
He mixes beautifully steely, almost haunting, silences with these explosions of graphic violence - they really are in your face and break the peace and quiet of the movie.
Refn slowly racks up the tension throughout the movie with a feel that danger could be lurking around every corner, the elevator scene being the perfect example.
Drive is a compelling movie from start to finish it's well thought out and is beautifully crafted. Refn's unhurried style of story telling it gripping and it will hook you from the very beginning.
There is also a controlled performance from Carey Mulligan as Irene - who says so much with her silence. She is such a captivating actress to watch and she really shines in this supporting role.
But it's Gosling who really does stand out as he oozes this sexy charm that is reminiscent of Steve McQueen in his hayday.
This is a stunning movie and if you haven't seen it yet than I can't urge you enough to see it.
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw