1. The Company - Venerable filmmaker Robert Altman takes on another gloriously uncommercial topic: A backstage look at the ballet world. Great dance sequences, even if the plot is thinner than a prima ballerina.
2. City of God - Fernando Meirelles' grim look at Brazilian children corrupted by the streets is nominated for two Academy Awards for his direction and Braulio Mantovani's screenplay.
3. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King - The concluding chapter of Peter Jackson's epic trilogy won Golden Globes for best dramatic film and best director, and 11 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Finally, the story and emotions match the spectacular special effects.
4. Monster - Charlize Theron's Oscar-nominated, Golden Globe-winning, extraordinary portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos almost makes viewers overlook the sympathetic slant of Patty Jenkins' film.
5. Calendar Girls - Golden Globe nominee Helen Mirren persuades women's club members to pose nude for a calendar for charity. Naughty but nice comedy based on a true story.
