Reflecting back on movies released so far this decade, it's fair to say that, despite the entirely predictable constant slew of remakes, reboots and sequels there have been plenty of thoroughly entertaining, high quality movies for audiences to sink their teeth into. Hollywood hasn't exactly reformed its fundamental business model, but at least it still manages to deliver no-nonsense thrills. Beyond the blockbusters there have been more than a few high profile quality movies, too - from the historical epic 12 Years A Slave through to Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue Of Ignorance), the studio system has proven that it can serve up cinematic treats which challenge historical morality and the conventions of narrative cinema just as effectively as it can entertain with mindless action and spectacle. Still, with so many movies coming out on a monthly basis it's easy for some of the smaller independent and foreign art house releases to slip past unnoticed by even the most ardent of film buffs, not least on account of the fact that many of these only get a limited release in small cinemas before shuffling their way onto the home markets. All of which is a crying shame, since many of these movies are not only equal to their big studio counterparts but often stand head and shoulders above them. The following list covers 15 such excellent movies which are essential viewing for any self-respecting fan of cinema. If you haven't already seen them they should be added to your wish list immediately.
