Manohla Dargis addresses her "dear (and hostile) reader"

In a sweetly optimistic, even uplifiting year-end countdown, New York Times film critic Manohla Dargis is inspired by the lead character of Happy-Go-Lucky: "There is, of course, perverse pleasure in ending the year with an angry rant, as I have proven in the past, if only to myself. But given the clanging of so much bad news, I thought I would try a change of pace. I’m not sure if optimism becomes me, but it sure feels nice. Every year filmmakers from around the world offer us stories filled with grief and tragedy that either feed our souls or rip out another little piece. I tend to fall for movies like these, but I also swoon for those filled with grace and generous sentiments, like Happy-Go-Lucky, that suggest that one way to face hard times (and raging driving instructors) is with an open heart and smile. Quickly now: give it a try!"