2. Its Originality
Way back when 2012 was a much more inviting prospect I wrote a 10 piece series on what films would be the biggest of 2012, Looper was one of them, and Looper was the only original entry on the list. Far beyond the fact that this isn't adapted from something; it approaches its concept in such a fresh way that it helps this film leap ahead of other competitors and live up to its billing. As opposed to playing out in an audience pandering action chase or see the two characters combine in a crusade against whatever; it's actually an emotive, character driven story which flouts conventions through its characters separate motivations forcing the narrative forward in a way which suits their own agendas. This makes the film both more emotive and strengthens its original take on the meeting your past/future self. There weren't even any awkward potential sexual encounters.
Where Other 2012 Films Failed:The Avengers: One shot of Scarlett Johansson's thighs away from being a Michael Bay film.
The Dark Knight Rises: Villain tries to destroy Gotham; Batman wins. Audience tries to understand why villains don't pick somewhere else to ply their trade...Like Seattle, there are no superheroes in Seattle.
The Amazing Spider-Man: A teenage boy gets spider powers after being bitten by a spider? Hmm. Doesn't sound familiar to me.