As 2011 draws to an end, we’re going to look forward to the top 10 films of January 2012. From gritty dramas to spectacular sci-fi flicks, there truly is something for everyone in this collection. Plus, what with the London Olympics and the end of the world due shortly, we figured it was best to try and be optimistic about our futures…

A sombre, quietly funny and frustratingly unhurried little homage to traditional movie-going as well as a warning to those who dedicate their lives to it, the lethargic A Useful Life is just about self-aware enough to keep you interested. Also – and this is the key thing – it’s quite short.