2011 Pretentious Film Awards - Best Ensemble Cast

The Artist
Cast: Bérénice Bejo, James Cromwell, Jean Dujardin, John Goodman, Malcolm McDowell, Penelope Ann Miller, Missi Pyle, Uggie

For a consistent dedication to the movies stylization.  The cast somehow manages to do this without everyone's acting style feeling homogenized.  Very impressive work.


Bridesmaids:
Cast: Rose Byrne, Jill Clayburgh, Jon Hamm, Ellie Kemper, Matt Lucas, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Chris O'Dowd, Maya Rudolph, Kristen Wiig, Rebel Wilson

When the comedy clicks, it rewards and the cast is so dedicated.  Each of these performers either builds on their persona in an interesting way or introduces us to a new side of them.


Melancholia
Cast: Brady Corbet, Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, John Hurt, Udo Kier, Charlotte Rampling, Alexander Skarsgård, Cameron Spurr, Kiefer Sutherland

The ensemble takes on the dual task of effectively and admirably portraying a group of people with unique histories and relationships, while still reacting to the impending doom.  Everyone here feels essential.


Midnight in Paris
Cast: Kathy Bates, Adrien Brody, Carla Bruni, Marion Cotillard, Adrien de Van, Kurt Fuller, Yves Heck, Tom Hiddleston, Mimi Kennedy, Rachel McAdams, Alison Pill, Corey Stoll, Owen Wilson 

The conceit in Midnight in Paris is rife with complications, many of which the screenplay doesn't rush to explain.  The successful lure can therefore be attributed to the cast and their commitment to the material. They walk a fine line between broad caricature and specific interpretations of this melange of literary and cultural figures.


The Tree of Life
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Laramie Eppler, Hunter McCracken, Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, Fiona Shaw,  Tye Sheridan

Brad Pitt aside, few are given the opportunity the opportunity in this piece to showcase really meaty, actorly moments.  As a whole, however, the cast remarkably cohesive with a palpable family dynamic that feels lived- in and authentic.