Why? Has the economy affected the quality of films? I doubt it — some of the best films ever came out of the Great Depression and movie-going thrived. People always need some kind of escape, so during hard times alcohol and movies flourish. Can’t really say why this has been such a mediocre year so far, but that’s my take on it. Most of my favorites were carry-overs from last year.

Of all the films that I have seen during the last three months, few stand out. I loved “Julie and Julia” with Meryl Streep playing Julia Child. That was probably my favorite. “The Informant” with Matt Damon was fun but not really memorable. Ditto “My One and Only” (Renee Zellweger) and “Cold Souls.” “Extract” — the spin-off from the hilarious cult favorite, “Office Space” pales by comparison. “Adam” was interesting but also not terribly memorable. I learned a bit about Asperger’s Syndrome — that’s about it. “Whip It” was Drew Barrymore’s directorial debut. She’s competent and likable but I guess I’m not much into roller derby, so . . .  I’ve already forgotten that one. “Amreeka” was a good film about what it’s like to be a Palestinian who wants to improve his or her lot. One of the better films I’ve seen this fall,  Michael Moore’s highly anticipated “Capitalism: A Love Story,” has important content but perhaps his style is just beginning to wear thin. Box office receipts were disappointing and I, too, was disappointed  — just a bit. Ricky Gervais’ “The Invention of Lying” was creative and fun — one of the brighter spots but still not really Oscar-worthy. The story of the sad life and love of John Keats —“Bright Star” —  was artistically done but probably won’t remain with me as a truly great film. The Cohen brothers’ “A Serious Man” probably resonates best with a Jewish audience. I didn’t find it too compelling nor was I captivated by “An Education”— which I thought I’d really like. “Paris” was quite good — mainly because I’m a Francophile and the film captured the multifaceted nature of a fascinating city. “(Untitled),” was probably one of the best satires/spoofs on the art world to come along in awhile. It was good for a number of laugh-out-loud sequences and had something interesting to say and things to think about. Bravo.

In short, my top five in no particular order, were “Julie and Julia,” “Amreeka,” “The Invention of Lying,” “Paris,” and “(Untitled).” The rest, while not awful, weren’t really memorable either. As a complete movie nut, I hope for and expect more than I’ve gotten this year.

What will the next month and a half bring that will be worthy of Oscars? I don’t see much on the horizon that intrigues me. It will be interesting to see what the academy nominates since films this year had such meager pickings. Let’s hope that 2010 brings a better economic outlook and better movies! We’re long overdue.

Eve Visconti is a writer and longtime movie buff who lives in Foster City.