Note: This post is a part of our Best of the Best Blogathon

C inema is a way of life: for some it is a mere means of indulgence, while for others it is a profound medium to satiate the intellect. Cinema’s omnipresence gives it the enormous potential to entertain and educate, simultaneously. In fact, cinema is the most effective means of communication ever devised as the message reaches everywhere and to everyone. Cinema that is primarily light-hearted and humorous can help punctuate the monotony associated with mundane lifestyles, while cinema that is thought-provoking and insightful can have cathartic effects on the viewers. Cinema can also become a medium to portray the deepest of the human emotions and thoughts that are otherwise inexpressible.

The commercialization of cinema has taken it a long way in becoming a ubiquitous medium of entertainment. While the technical advancements have transformed cinema into an exact science the attributes of art that make it insightful have inexplicably taken a back seat. And cinema is increasingly becoming an instrument to generate revenue. This unfortunate transformation has made people forget the true purpose and meaning of cinema.





A Potpourri of Vestiges was started with the aim of acquainting the masses with the realm of cinema, especially as the ultimate medium of human expression. 2K12 has been a very special year for "A Potpourri of Vestiges". During the course of the year the blog accomplished several feats. It not only hit the 100K and 200K counters but also bagged the "Blogger of the Fortnight" award from Winchimes. Indian top blogs showcased it in its eclectically chosen list of Top 50 Indian blogs. As 2K12 draws to an end, I present to you my very last post of the year. The month of December has been a very busy one for me. I have not managed to contribute as much as I would have liked. Actually, I have been occupied with the task of exploring different films from the world of cinema. My main focus has been on covering the 2012 Sight & Sound list of all time best films. Alas, I have miserably fell short of the target! After all, there is only so much that one can imbibe (in any given limited period of time) when it comes to high quality cinema. However, the overall experience has been quite rewarding Here, I would like to express my gratitude to Mr. Iain Stott of 100 Evenings Illuminated for giving me the opportunity to participate in his esteemed Film Poll

For the poll's result, click

Mr. Jugu Abraham of I would also like to thankof Movies that make you think for recommending me for the same.





So, my last post of 2K12 is basically a compilation of my favorite films that I have chosen from the films watched over the past few years. And while I have watched hundreds of them I believe that I have just reached the tip of the iceberg, for I have been introduced to the real good ones only recently (not to mention the new ones that get added every year). And so, if you find one or more of your favorite films missing from the list then it's highly likely that I may not have watched them yet.





Note: For the latest list by the author, click here









Lo and Behold!



Readers, please feel free to share your opinion by leaving your comments. As always your feedback is highly appreciated!



— Murtaza Ali