These past few weeks, and the several upcoming, are my favorite of the year. It's when I spend the most time at the movies (usually alone). I received $55 in AMC gift cards this Christmas, so my frequent visits to the theatres shouldn't hit my wallet too much.

For the last few years, I've made it my goal to see every movie in the running for Best Picture (Academy Awards). I have succeeded each year.

Although we won't actually know the nominees until the end of January, internet buzz and reviews can help one assume which flicks will be on the ballot. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" will most likely be up for the ultimate prize, but can it win?

I saw the film on Monday, and enjoyed every one of the 158 minutes. The movie follows a journalist (Daniel Craig) and a young computer hacker (Rooney Mara), who end up working together in an attempt to solve a murder mystery. The story was adapted from the award-winning novel.

The movie takes place in Sweden, but the audience feels right at home with an easy storyline, a perfect score, and a cast that goes above and beyond expectations.

The rumors are true; some scenes are even too graphic for a Rated R movie, but in my opinion, they are important scenes for character development and setting the right mood for viewers(an eerie one).

The film struck me as one that could please a fan of almost any genre - mystery, suspense, drama, adventure, thriller, romance (a stretch), etc.

There are several movies I've seen in theatres that I couldn't imagine just watching at home on DVD. A few examples - "Transformers", "Super 8", "The Dark Knight." "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" joins that list. See it in theatres.

My plan is to see War Horse (my idea) and Sherlock Holmes 2 (someone else's idea) this weekend. More reviews can be expected early next week.

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