Top 13 movies of 2013 [tumblr re-post]

Top 13 movies of 2013May 18, 2014 by reostzombie13

Usually I get these done much sooner. Like as in the first days of the new year, which since I started this I believed may have been too soon but if I didn't get it in that soon I would post my list a month and half too late when folks would stop giving a care. Well, it did give me the chance to catch up on a couple movies, which is fantastic cause the format I do this by sometimes forces me to put movies on the list I haven't seen. Only reason it's this late is cause I really didn't have a computer around New Years as it crashed on one of my worst Christmas ever and that's not just cause of my computer crashing but it sure didn't help.

Okay, this isn't particularly a straight forward list. The reason there is 13 instead of 10 or whatever number kids like these days is that so every month(film release) has a chance to make it on the list. Number 13 is for the wild card. I feel too often especially when it comes to the Oscars favorite list are always more lenient towards more recent openings than older ones. This format forces me to consider them all.

For reference sake here's 2012's top 13 movies.

13. Gangster squad (January) D

Remember the Untouchables, well this a dumber version of that. I get Brolin's character was relentless on taking the main bad guy down but was pulling stupid move after stupid move killing his own guys. Like when one of his crew members would die I would blame Brolin than I would of Sean Penn's gang. The movie was quite forgettable. Only bit that did stand out was Ryan Gosling's character trying to take Penn's off hands girl. There was no relationship like that in the Untouchables but even that left things a bit confusing as it was hard to tell whose is on who. Well, it still made thee list but I spent my whole time smack my head rather than cheering for Sean Penn to get brought down. Also, was Sean Penn acting or was he playing his typical douchey self? Probably only reason I wanted to see good guys win is to see Sean Penn get taking out.

12. Carrie (October) C-

Carrie was a pretty shallow movie, which I'm sure the filmakers of it didn't even know the definition of subtlety. Biggest problem a lot of stuff is assumed as if we already seen the original. The only character I was really rooting for was the principal, who couldn't handle talk about femininity. It made me chuckle. Acting was great especially from Juliane Moore. She was the reason I was excited to see this remake in the first place but still can't get invested without knowing the reasoning behind the great madness. In the end even though it wasn't Carrie's fault for being the way she was, she just wasn't likeable. The funny part about this is that it almost seemed like the mother was the hero in the end for trying to stop her. WTF? Go Mom and Principal!

Also, another factor that took me out of this was the massive amount of CGI used. Here body didn't even look real with the way they had to add that special effect. It's a common downfall personally when movies use it especially when it isn't needed as proven by the original. In the that's it's main downfall is that Carrie 2013 didn't find a reason to exist and actually relies on the original for character development. Her powers became so obvious and powerful so quickly. I get it's not the first assumption of those around her is that it's not mistical powers but how could they not when it's so very blatant.

Guess this goes in front of Ganster Squad cause it did have it's creative moment and a couple characters I cheered for but at the theatars I practically zoned out.

11. Identity Thief (Feb) C

This movie had such a great combination of things going for it but it just felt short of hitting the comedy jackpot. When first viewing I didn't know why. I kind of am a sucker for comedies with a bad girl female lead like Bad Teacher. It's hard to hit that right note of obnoxious without going too far and becoming Roseann(the show was good the character was not). Guess the main problem is the movie felt tv showish with the plot not being strong and needing obvious bases here and there. This should've been a Planes Train and Automobile like clash of characters but neither character had enough depth. Heck, Melissa Joan Hart was almost more likeable just cause she had more depth than Mr.IHaveFamily. The gangster chase made sense but seemed forced. Actually the actors did an enjoyable job but were so clownish it was tough to take them as any threat. Favorite part with the gangsters is when TI is being threatened to get in the trunk and TI respond by telling the bounty hunter to shoot cause he ain't going in no trunk and then a second later after he cocks the gun I'll be getting my ass in the trunk.

There was certainly joy to be had in this flick with its premise but no bits that had be dieing. The ending of it was pretty fitting but it probably could've happened much sooner, which shouldn't be the case with a feature film.

     *Safe Haven (Feb runner up) C

10. Wolverine (Aug) C+

I almost put Identity Thief in front of Wolverine but decided not too cause Wolverine had a better story structure and it's rewatchabilty(?) factor is higher.

Was very hesitant about this film cause there was so much failure with the first Wolverine flick. That one had so much importance going into it with the duty of explaining the numerous flashbacks during the other X-Men films. In the end it just build the Wolverine's origins story to it's most basic form and tried to make up for it with numerous Marvel cameos. As if they didn't the Wolverine character was strong enough to hold it's own film. This one definitely wasn't plagued with that problem which I give a nod for such improvement. Also, another factor that had me enjoying it more was the fact it was based in Japan and the movie seemed to respect the culture for the most part and not try to make up half the culture for the parts they were too lazy to research like Hollywood does tend to do. Even thought it was cool is how this was 3/4 a Wolverine vs Yakuza movie. Sure he can slice up whoever but dealing with the intricate politics of the Yakuza can mentally be more troublesome.

Wolverine is such a good character it's tough to figure how anyone could go wrong. Well when the rest of the characters aren't even close to as to developed as the feral one that can be a start. Beside Yuki & sister everyone was just evil and busy betraying each other. Guess that makes it easy to hate them and want them to be sliced up but it just makes it tougher to follow or care about the story that's not involving Hugh Jackman.

Now, that may be forgivable because it is unfair to compare Wolvering to any other characters but what isn't forgivable is again the ridiculous CGI. The odd thing is it only sticks out for a quarter of the movie. The bed looked so goofy, the rope scene(which I felt potential in) and the samurai with a light saber. I get it's a cheap tool for filmakers to use but it really takes me out of the movie. Obviously those CGI objects don't exist. Makes me think of a play. The props are supposed to represent something that isn't there but the audience must play along since there's an understanding of theater's limitation. At least when it comes with props the actors can touch the props to an extent.

9. Lords of Salem (April) C+

Alright I sort of cheated even in my own review with my own rules I cheated. Frankly, a lot of thinks were missing in Lords of Salem. Of course, it was meant to be a somber tale but where Zombie does stellar in imagery he didn't follow through so well in story. Stuff just fell so in line for the witches, that the story went too smoothly with no bumps. House of 1000 Corpses has a similar situation but their characters were so much more interesting than the witches. I rated Pain & Gain higher but it didn't make the list due to the imagery of Lords of Salem going to outlast the comedic & tragic downfall of three idiots. Rob Zombie's movie are usually categorized but non have quite put the fear into me as this movie did. Sure there was a couple jump scares in Halloween but the kitchen scene where Sherri Moon walks past the dead is probably one of the the freaking with the deterioration of her psyche in the end. This goes before Wolverine cause a lot more thought and development into but stops at 9 cause the story and some of the characters don't quite measure up to the other top 8.

    Pain & Gain (April runner up) B

8. Enders Game (November) B

This was a pretty sound movie. A lot of creativity in t

7. Dead man down (March) B+

    Runner Up:The Croods (March) C-

//

6. Pacific Rim (July) B+

    Runner-up: Redemption(July) B

5. Fast & Furious 6 (May) B+

4. This is the End (June Wildcard ) A-

3. Man of Steel (June) A

    June's runner-up: Purge B+

2. American Hustle (December) A+

    December's runner-up: 47 Ronnin B-

1. Prisoners (September) A+

Movies I should've seen(not saying they would've made the list cause I don't know): Frozen, Iron Man 3, Kick-ass 2,

My Top 13 movies of 2015 [tumblr repost]

Original post

Movie Tuesday: My Top 13 movies of 2015

reostzombie13:

So this is my top 13 movies. It’s the best out of the 60 movies I’ve watched this year. Now, this top 13 isn’t just a straight up list of the top 13 movie. So 12 of the 13 movies are the best releases from each month and #13 is a wildcard. This may not be 100% to what is the best movies of 2015 but this is still a pretty damn good list that will hopefully give folks some good recommendations. 

Biggest reason I do the special listing is cause I’m sick of seeing list where 80% of the movies on the list came out in the last two months of the year. I get that’s the time of the year where studios do an Oscar dump but I feel part of it also short term memory. Although a bit messy cause some release dates could be argumentative, I feel it gives more movies a chance that are forgotten due to their early releases.

13. American Sniper (January) – 2nd A Most Violent Year

This was an excellent patriotic(just waiting for people to get upset just cause of that adjective) film that was held by a strong performance by Bradley Cooper. His character was that of a typical redneck, who loves America no matter what. It’s a somewhat alpha male movie but Cooper knows how to keep it humble despite his merits. The film puts depth for a lot of things as the training it takes to become a seal and how they have to go out of the way for each in the War. 

This is where a big chunk of my investment comes in. I guess I can see the controversy citizens had to be put aside for the safety of the troops but understanding that is big hook into the movie. This movie is bit similar to Hurt Locker, another great ‘in the line of duty’ film but has a more cohesive story. What makes this stand out from Hurt Locker is the 3rd act, Cooper’s rehabilitation from the by helping others. It was a best outcome in a no win situation such as war. 

Clint Eastwood put together another great military themed film story making it no surprise getting on the list but with Hurt Locker amongst others recently coming out the film doesn’t come off as innovative as others on this list.

Originally posted by marialeriel

12. Martian (October) 2nd – Sicario

I didn’t necessarily avoid this film but at the same time I really had no interest in seeing either. Matt Damon doesn’t get me excited like he used to when he first came onto the scene with the Bourne movies. Saying the though, I certainly enjoyed this movie. Matt Damon played likable Matt Damon and Michael Pena was not the kiss of death. Now, it wasn’t necessarily the character who made Martian good, although it was a great cast, it was the step by step problem solving both sides went through to save Matt Damon.Just see this epic effort to do something that’s never been done before was very enticing. 

This does end on the lower end of the list because although it was innovative in seeing how one could realistically survive in Mars I had no particular investment in it like the other stories in my list. Ridley Scott knows what he’s doing with his space films and I’m glad this year he had a more cohesive script to work with.

11. Inside Out (June) - 2nd Spy

Another instant classic by Disney Pixar. Hard to have any negative about this. It’s a flick that knows how to play with one’s emotions especially when there’s emotions as the direct characters. Even the short before the film had me strung out questioning if such a film would be able to be handled by children due to the harsh story.

Like most comedies that have me hooked, I was the loudest one laughing in theaters. Analysis of the mind maturing was great. With the creativity and cleverness of this world would make Inside Out almost an impossibility in missing this list. Not sure we were supposed to be on Sadness’ side the whole time but I was rooting for her character to get the fair chance it deserved. 

This easily out did the previous film in creativity but doesn’t cross the 10 mark due to the film story structure being sort of a one way track. 

10. Terminator Genisys (July) 2nd – Mission Impossible

This movie has the movie negative critical reviews on my list. I don’t care cause I was having a blast throughout this movie. Honestly going into this I didn’t have the most positive outlook. I’m a ridiculous Terminator fan and the trailers to this movie seem to spit on everything I loved about the franchise and they were spoiler heavy. Reluctantly I went to this and was so please I did. It ended being a fantastic popcorn movie.

Although I don’t think a Terminator movie should be described as such but with them T5 being at a disadvantage not having Linda Hamilton and plainly repeating scenes, that couldn’t be done better, it was done the best a movie in this situation could’ve been done. Heck I was even appalled they brought back Sarah Connor character. One of the most badass female characters and no one could replace Linda Hamilton. It even seemed they cast Emilia Clarke from the popular show Game of Thrones. 

In the end like I mentioned it was no comparison but it still worked.The story flowed well enough and certainly had me engaged. Also, the glue to this 5th installment was Arnold Schwarzneggar. This man can do no wrong and gave the film a whole new energy the young actors could. Between Arnold’s comedic timing, his typical baddassery and the most sincere part to me is his connection to Sarah Connor, he made this movie worth watching. 

This movie shouldn’t have won me over like it did but I’m glad I saw it cause it was a heckuva rollercoaster.Cause I enjoyed the grand scheme of things in this movie, whatever little details the movie may have slipped with the time traveling loop was easily forgotten cause I was much more worried about where this movie was going than how it got there.

Originally posted by fatalitum

9.  Goodnight Mommy (Sep) 2nd –Hotel Transylvania 2 

Oooh, this one didn’t almost make the list. At first the twist felt pretty childish but after a couple days thinking about it, it is a movie I do want to watch again and wouldn’t mind owning. The days following the movie the premise became more thought provoking than the ending had me initially believe. My enjoyment for this chilling film didn’t come all from post. During the film I was going back and forth of whose side to be and not in a ridiculously forced way like The Gift. This movie by no means was a pile of cheap thrill. 

A lot setup that leaves the imagination to create one’s own fear but then the film takes over and gives suggestions, which one isn’t sure how much is truth or the mind. Although the first act does leave much to the imagination the imagery of the mother’s bandages are creepy enough to make a comic book villain from but by no means is the mother a two dimensional character creating one of 2015′s most enticing films that gives the audience a change to get their fair share of mental abuse as they attempt to choose what moral are fair in this scenario.

It does end up on the lower end due to my initial reaction and there is one scene which was holding me back from being in the position I should’ve been in the third act. I suppose it was my fault but at the same time the film knew what it was doing with that suggestion.

Originally posted by nintendontdodrugs

8. Turbo Kid (August) 2nd – Straight Out of Compton

From here on out are movies I was pleased for about at least 95% of the viewing. Turbo Kid was certainly a bunch of fun in the schlockiest way. It basically is a story about a loner underdog, which I’m always a sucker for when not forced. The story isn’t necessarily the movie strongest point but with this type of movie it doesn’t need to be. The eye patch villain and his ghetto badass lt were obvious with the underdog hero and girl being incredibly likable. They even have a red herring for a hero that is a combination of Indiana Jones and Man with no name(who kind of stunk as the hero hilariously). When these two parties collided it was epic.

The action although not crisp was super entertaining and had great effects. Tension was certainly in the air when the good and evil collided. This film had me laughing, applauding and smiling thoughout the whole thing. I would certainly regard this as one of the more fun movies of 2015 if one can handle extreme violence and gore(although done in a very over the top fashion) 

Originally posted by barelyregal

7. Tangerine (wild card)

I thoroughly enjoyed this comedy. Going into I only thought of the color. Although the opening scene through me off by the fact this movie was shot on a freaking iPhone. Really though, I grew incredibly nervous with the opening scene but that was quickly forgotten as the story starts with Sin-Dee ferociously hunting the girl who was trying to steal her man.

Both main characters had great chemistry. Even though these are transgender hookers, they brought forth some very relateable situations. The characters were great and I wanted to see what happened to them even if there wasn’t a strong direction for this story. I was definitely invested and found myself laughing at almost all of the scenes of ridiculousness.

6. It Follows (March) - 2nd Run All Night

The simplicity yet effectiveness of this movie was incredible. I was freaking so bad while watching this but at the same time trying to contradict myself. ‘They’re just walking, why you scared?’ In a time where horror relies on effects so much this was a breath of fresh air not just cause of it’s effectiveness as a horror movie. It does what a horror movie is finally supposed to do.It if the best horror move of 2015 and hopefully this throwback will be remembered as a modern classic.

5. What we Do in the Shadows (Feb) – 2nd Kingsman

This was funny as hell(um no pun intended). This was another one where I was constantly laughing at the ridiculousness of this character. When vampires are being desecrated this movie does a great job protecting the lore by making fun of them.  This is genuine too. This movie does take place in modern day asking the question of how do these relics survive in our modern society.

The character’s interaction with characters from the past and present. It’s said that a majority of this film was improv, which is somewhat a surprise it worked so well. Usual raw emotions connect the best to audience but it was reported they had to through 120 hours of footage to put this movie together. I feel it was certainly worth it cause I was laughing at the original material they had and the way they tainted different legacies of vampires all worked. 

The crew from flight from the choncord although using characters based on previous came up with one of 2015′s best comedies, which I am more than pleased to have on my list.

4. Room(Nov) - 2nd Hunger Games [SPOILER WARNING]

So I went into this movie with my only hope being that it wasn’t prequel to The Room. tehe. The beginning initially annoyed me I must shammingly admit. It basically seemed like the mom was the biggest hippy in world. Her little boy’s hair longer than most women and his toys were made of egg shells. I was rolling my eyes thinking ‘oh great, this movie is going to show us what a wasteful society we live in and how she can raise her son with just the resources of a room. Then Old Nick came into the picture and I felt like the biggest A hole.

This movie was an incredible story about discovery and we get it from two vastly different perspectives. Here we see how one takes in the world for the first time and the other is someone rehabilitating of sorts back to our society. It’s a vastly different experience. The screenwriting was very compelling and didn’t just make things happen because they’re conventional. For example, the boy doesn’t get a hair because that’s what boys are supposed to so, he get it in hopes that it would make his mother feel better when she is ill. 

The acting was excellent but subtle. Even William H Macy makes an appearance; it’s short but I very much understood what he was going though. The child’s persona was great too. He whined like a kid but showed excitement for simple things because it was his first time seeing them. Brie Larson was outstanding in her role as a mother.  She went through so much but was used to putting on a strong face to protect her son. Once she could let her guard down, she doesn’t know how to adjust. 

Putting this as #4 wasn’t a difficult could between the smart screenwriting and effectiveness of its theme. It reminded me of Boyhood with the fact it’s about a boy’s discovery about the everyday world but compared to that this film had a much stronger narrative where even the smallest decision had strong support. It’s a big time gem with a minimalist execution                                                                                                  

3. Ex Machina (April) - 2nd Furious 7 [Spoiler Warning]

Wow, this movie gave me chills. Just the simplest line of dialogue or visual could change the perspective of what was happening here. This is one I wish I saw on the big screen. Usually I get taken out of AI shows cause most of the times the film’s message is so forced it makes the character so flat so it seems that the AI robots are real. This film didn’t have to do that cause it had more going for it than ‘shouldn’t they stop mistreating her just cause she’s not a human being?’

This movie does an excellent job of sucking it’s audience into its eerie atmosphere.  At the beginning it almost seems like a fun vacation only to turn into something incredibly serious. As Caleb discovers more and more the environment becomes a lot more dangerous. What really puts this film as one of the best in 2015 is Isaac Oscar’s character and portrayal of such.  A big chunk of it is his own self destruction. The man essentially wants to play god  but it’s taken a toll on his. We don’t see the downfall throughout the but Isaac Oscar present a character whose lived that and understanding that makes what happens in the film somewhat satisfying in the end.

I was shaken by this film and when a movie does that it makes me excited. For me this had a great possibility of #1. Think it just did too much and I wasn’t able to appreciate and not appreciate things until the end. This is a flick that will leave one pondering what just happened in the next few days following its viewing.

2. Hateful 8 (December) - 2nd Star Wars 

So happy this was the last movie I saw in the theaters this year. Between the ridiculous over the top action and vast landscapes of Wyoming. Due to the big mystery in this film it reminded of a more over the top and stylized version of Reservoir Dogs. Now I suppose the biggest complaint of the film is the somewhat intimidating running time of the film of almost 3 hours. Honestly I didn’t feel it all.  I wanted to learn about all these characters past and how it ties into the major plot of Kurt Russell surviving this blizzard with his prisoner. We don’t know how dangerous they are or how they landed in this tiny haberdashery in the first place. I even found myself changing the my strong first impressions on some characters and I’m usually not that easy to persuade.

A very important aspect of the film is the time period and because of that race. A small hipster crowd likes to jump on Tarantino for his language over the subject matter. It’s an annoying complaint cause if you actually pay attention to the dialogue, it’s not being pointlessly used and that’s a major factor here. Part of the mystery of Hateful Eight is figuring out the alliances and with this taking place just after the civil war, the side these characters was on for the war does create incredible tension. It’s another exciting variable Taratino creates in this clue like environment. 

Like usual Tarantino does create film that is different from 90% of what we see in the theaters. Compares to all other films in 2015, Hateful 8 had the dirtiest characters, the most enticing storylines and an atmosphere that locks its audience in like no other. It was very hard to not make this #1.  I’m not bothered that it’s getting soft praise but if you can handle the over the top violence and a malapropos scenario here and there, this movie is certainly worth viewing. The visuals are pretty, the characters are exciting and the mystery makes the 3 hour running time a non subject. 

Originally posted by zucherman

1. Mad Max: Fury Road (May)

Now, we’re at #1. So happy this movie came out this year.  I just fell in love with it so much and couldn’t just see it in a theater once. Fury Road is the reason movie theaters exist. This film did have a slight advantage since Road Warrior is one of my favorite films of all time but similar to It Follows, it stands out as a film that sticks to what it can film on set and not what it can do it post production.  

The atmosphere created for Max’s Homeric adventure is a very enthralling experience for the audience. It legit does not slow down. Part way through the film I had to take a moment and check my heart cause it beating out of control as if I was on a rollercoaster. Such a feeling is exactly why go to the movies. The fact that these vehicle legitimately exist is so cool. Of course cg was used but it was mostly background stuff. The worst part about movies today is that when cg is used I don’t believe it’s actually there. The situation almost becomes play like, where the audience has to pretend what they’re being told is there is there while in Fury Road pretending is not needed. When a spear is being thrown, we actually believe that car is legitimately exploding because of it. 

Not only were the effect the most stimulating of 2015 but the atmosphere is what will make this movie memorable. The War Boys were so awesome. They just added to the legacy of the villain but at the same time I pumped due to their mad vigor.

The story was simple but it didn’t need to be convoluted to keep me invested. Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron carry a strong narrative with simple line and strong facial expression. Theron did a great job but I feel Hardy is getting dismissed cause at the start his character was boiled down to a talking gorilla. I thought his simplicity carried over a lot of the past Max lived in. It’s why newcomers to the series had no need to see the previous films. I was very happy with his performance. A lot of it even reminded me a bit of Gibson’s portrayal. 

In the end this movie had me on the edge of my seat like no other film in 2015 could.  It wasn’t a tough decision cause even with a 2 hour running time I wanted more of the same thing given to us in Fury Road between the stellar stunts, captivating characters and an ambiance that stands out despite the numerous post apocalypse stories we’ve been given.

Past list: 2009 X 2010 X 2011 X 2012  X 2013 X 2014

Thanks for reading. Would love to see your list and what you may think I may be missing or what you feel I may have overrated. These list are a blast and hopefully they portray the best of 2015 despite my odd format.

My top 13 of 2016 [tumblr re-post]

Original post

Movie Tuesday: My top 13 movies of 2016

So this is my top 13 movies. It’s the best out of the 60 movies I’ve watched this year. Now, this top 13 isn’t just a straight up list of the top 13 movie. 12 of the 13 movies are the best releases from each month and #13 is a wildcard. This may not be 100% to what is the best movies of 2016 but this is still a pretty damn good list that will hopefully give folks something highly to look back on from 2016. 

Biggest reason I do the special listing is cause I’m sick of seeing list where 80% of the movies on the list came out in the last two months of the year. I get that’s the time of the year where studios do an Oscar dump but I feel part of it also short term memory. Although it’s a bit messy cause some release dates could be argumentative, I feel it gives more movies a chance that are forgotten due to their early releases.  

13. Wazir (January) [Indian|PG-13]

This movie had some dark elements but really is a light hearted flick about a game of chess that is played both literally and metaphorically. The characters are super likeable. What makes this standout through out the year is just how fun it was to see where the pieces were played. It may be the first time an Indian movie has made the list I don’t mind it being this one for all the interesting elements the movie did hold between the charismatic cinematography, devoted characters and mesmerizing music. Reason it is on the bottom though is cause this flick isn’t as smart as it thinks it was. Not the worst thing to have but despite enjoying the ride I was a step ahead of the movie most of the way. 

Originally posted by mquinn88

12. Witch (February) [American|R]

Atmosphere is exactly what this movie champions. It’s a depressing downward spiral that brings us into a world that all too surreal.. The great thing I find about this movie is it approaches the scenarios oddly enough that witches could very well be real or fitting if they weren’t too close to home as to what happened during the Salem witch trials. Every member is coming from a different angle in trying to find hope, safety or survival. A fantastic psychological thriller that’s aim to keep authentic doesn’t give one an opportunity to roll their eyes. Happy to put it on the list. Only reason it’s lower is due to the story being pretty non eventful.but is still one of the most unique films of 2016.

Originally posted by singstreeteamon

11. Sing Street (April) [Irish|PG-13]

Quite the inspirational movie. Uplifting to say the least and should get one to at least thinking about going back to that project they’ve been holding off. Somewhat of a come along story that I only wish had a better title(almost just skipped the film because of it.) Classic story of the kid trying to get the girl but what makes it refreshing how real the story can get between the rough school environment, the wisdom spouting do-nothing brother, the struggling yet conceited parents and the struggle of art. Really enjoy the journey and camaraderie of this band coming together. The music is great too if you’re into classic rock. This is a completely joyful story but there’s really nothing at risk so it’s well done fun movie keeping it at the end of the list despite how well crafted this kid’s tale is.

10. Rogue One (December) [American|PG-13]

STAR WARS!!! Okay, I’ll cool down. Just exaggerating a bit. I’m definitely a Star Wars fan but that didn’t make Rogue One an automatic for the list. Last year I knew for sure I wasn’t going to allow Force Awakens on my list due the laziness of the story(I enjoyed the film enough just was sure there was something better.

Rogue One on the other hand was a pure blast all the way through. There were a few problems (shallow characters/forced cameos) throughout the flick but I was enjoying the ride so much didn’t care for the most part while watching. The story was simple but adventurous , the action was downright radical and boy was that robot sassy, It was something fresh I wanted from this new kickstart of the Star Wars Universe and I’ll keep coming back for more. Due to the mundane issues though the sci fi flick stays towards the bottom of my list.

9. 31 (September) [American-R]

This might be a bold statement but besides Nicholas Reft(Neon Demon), Zombie is one of the top in the business when it comes to visuals. Now 31 didn’t do a better job at visuals than Lords of Salem, if fact some of his cliches seep through. Problem is I love his cliches, which is why I keep coming back to Zombie’s films. The presentation is what hooked me. It’s a fitting combo of Running Man & Purge. 

Rob puts his won into this film. As the Purge movies are made a nickels to dollarsa(not the worst thing cause I do like 1 & 3) for profit, Rob is worried about the art, the fantasy and what makes stories like these so surreal. Looking through quick blurbs from reviews I was expecting something way more bloody and shallow. For, Meg Ryan’s story arc and performance is what really set this apart. His characters really click for me too, where I’m thinking about their motivations even when it comes to the ‘psychos’, who usually only motivation is that’ they’re crazy. Just found something intense in this movie I didn’t want to let go. Also, I’m a sucker for the camaraderie between the band, the killers or even the aristocrats. 

 This movie edges into the single digits due to fact I was thinking over some of the elements even after the movie was finished but still is on the lower end due to the plot not being so original despite Rob’s unique presentation of it all.

8. Les Cowboys (June) [French-R]

This straightforward movie took me by surprise. The search and rescue tale of a father(and son) searching for daughter who ran away comes off like a simple plot but the twist was the daughter ran away with her boyfriend to Islamic Isolation. The basic tale of a family falling apart in attempt to bring itself back together is an infuriating thing to watch at first. We don’t know who this girl is and why should we care. She’s 16 so being that old why should she be responsible for ruining this family? As the film went on I began caring more about the father and son than the initial plot and how strong their determination is.

 In the end it’s the pair who truly need to be saved and that’s where the hook is. They enter into an environment which is still very alien the western civilization and not only is the environment dangerous but also that intriguing assertion they both hold too. Consequence come a plenty.  It isn’t quite a rollercoaster but a venture in a different world I did not expect with such a title. John C Reilly makes an appearance which baffled me just cause I didn’t except to see anyone I recognized. 

The peculiar take on a simple search and rescue with hard to forget dedicated characters locks this at the lower portion of the single digit. The unique take sets it apart but lack of gravitas keeps further from the top 5 threshold. 

   

7. Batman vs Superman (Wildcard) [American-PG-13]

Possibly the most controversial movie to be on a top 2016 films list. Folks, who don’t like Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel went into this movie very skeptical. I loved Man of Steel.  It even made #3 on my 2013 list. Even with that I was skeptical going into Batman vs Superman with the trailers completely spoiling key plot points and Wonder Woman’s skinny physique wasn’t impressing me either. 

Watching this in theaters I got carried away with the clash of philosophical and psychological clash of our heroes(and villains). This more than Man of Steel gave me a grander appreciation of the kind hero Superman is and can mean. A lot of folks did have problems with Superman not having as many quips and was too silent(I saw it as ominous). Superman didn’t see himself as a God but in the same time doesn’t see the need to get involved in political squabbles to justify himself saving lives. It’s why the committee scene is such a bit deal(a bigger deal in the director’s cut). Think this character telling didn’t click as well with audience cause Snyder does his storytelling through visual instead of blatantly have Superman exclaim how he feels about his place in the world. It’s a visual media so I always appreciate Snyder operating like this.

  Point being similar to 31 & Les Cowboys, this film didn’t leave my mind after my initial viewing. It gets higher on the list though cause it did a better job than them in that particular category and also that production value Snyder puts in his visuals is something that we’re not seeing in any other Superhero film. Saying that the story could’ve been and the emotions weren’t quite as strong as others on the list keeping it from breaking the top 5.

6. Hacksaw Ridge (November) [American|R]

So happy Mel Gibson is back filmmaking. Despite it being a war flick, the plot came off as a bit of a surprise with the core of the movie based on a medic rather than some warrior like William Wallace of Braveheart. Theme turned out to be a very princple joyful yet savage(as WW2 should be presented) film. The way Mel combines these tones is seemless. It reminded me of Fullmetal Jacket, which I can appreciate but came off as several films in one, but Mel found a way to make the different event hold strong bearings on on another. 

One element that had me worried was Andrew Garfield being the star in Mel’s WW2 movie. I get the film wasn’t about a healer instead of a warrior but Garfield these days is coming off more like a goofball than a trained professional due to the atrocious Amazing Spiderman films. Had nothing to worry about as it wasn’t an issue. In fact Garfield does come off as a goofball but comes off with a Tom Hanks like charm. This was a character tale and Garfield with Mel’s direction and atmosphere composing plays off amazingly. Tension is given adequately per each environment never giving the audience that great of contrast in how the scenes are playing. Emotionally was hooked in this great tale of wanting to see our hero succeed even at time when the audience may outright disagree with their choices.

 This movie was locked and loaded all the way going over the rest of the film which may have at least one element needed mission. Hacksaw Ridge is just outside top 5 due to as far as, where it was going being predictable. It isn’t the films fault but all the same is the reason it where it’s at.

5. Zootopia (March) [American|PG]

Well, Disney does it again(yeah I know it’s too late to say that with Rogue One but whatevs) Last Year Inside Out made #11. and was on the lower end to lack of suspense. It may be odd to ask for that component in a kid’s film but that’s needed for it to cross that emotional threshold to stand for the year as one of the best. By suspense I don’t just mean the adventure Nick Wild and Judy are tied to but the levity of the theme of prejudice and the history the characters have with said theme. Several time during my viewing, I must confess, that I was choked up with what these characters had to deal with. 

These days everyone is trying to address prejudice from many different angles. Usually it comes off as heavy handed especially when needed to be simplified for a kid’s movie but Zootopia doesn’t take the easy way out as they make sure to show both sides of the spectrum, that everyone has their own problem. It doesn’t even use it as an excuse for rules broken now as there are consequences. Now of course this isn’t the be and all when it comes to such them but the way it handled. This movie was just a blast. The story had a great adventure and mystery setup for our odd couple characters trying to be as creative as possible about each aspect although not all. It really couldn’t be helped that I would get choked up. Being that this movie went all out it couldn’t help but breach the top 5. 

Originally posted by maomamo

4. Your Name (August) [Japanese|PG-13]

Just a wonderful story of two adolescents coming together by some means. Can’t even be sure if I can call it a romance or not. Similar to Zootopia, what Your Name explores is different points of views one would not normally think about. The characters are thrown into opposite genders, class and just plain lifestyles. It was intriguing yet fun to see how these kids playoff these new skins. The  movie did more than grab my emotions but started plotting little motivations of seeing something new rather it be forestry, farm life or an even bigger city than the one I currently am ploted in. 

This wasn’t just a well done Freaky Friday that places the film so high for 2016 but a bombshell of a twist that would even blow M Night’s socks off. Other then a couple awkward um…gender appreciation moments, this journey can be witnessed by most. The story, character and just scale of where a relationship of this super odd couple can go breaks this new anime classic past #5. 

3. Handmaiden (October) [South Korean|R]

This is by far the biggest rollercoaster one is going to get out of a plot as far as 2016 goes. So much to expect with this film…love, betrayal, comeuppance and the scary part is that it was all mesmerizing. Some scenes I could not look away because the visuals were too enticing or tension was extremely high. It comes off as a romance but never in the way one would imagine…necessarily. At least one that can never be claimed easy to put their finger on. 

The way the scenes are put together masterfully even to the point where even a scene of a book reading with content, I myself don’t particularly care for, but with just the way she reads it, it’s so hard to look away. This novel plays out in 3 acts, that instead of going in appropriate order of a set timeline, it more turning the book upside down and rotating three times before continuing on. Jumped out of my seat each act. 

Making the top 3 this brings something new to the table I can’t say I’ve seen in years especially how the story was told; just had me engaged all the way through. If mature enough to handle certain sexual content this becomes a must see of 2016. 

2. Green Room (May) [American|R]

Wow, what a nightmare of a film and I mean that in the best way possible. The movies that I become attached to either have me so engaged I’m piecing the puzzle together even after the viewing it or it’s dialed my emotions all the way to 11 and has me at a lost for word….Green Room pulled off the later in a grand fashion. No movie of 2016 compares in placing its audience in such a nightmare except for maybe 31 but Green Room is easily a lot more raw. To the extent where one could see themselves trapped in that very Green Room getting more claustrophobic, paranoid and scared as the seconds tick away. It’s scary how easy this movie makes those circumstances seem real. That’s where I was hook lined and sinkered. The best horror movies are ones that I can put myself in the place of the victim. Like the films behind it on the list, the story doesn’t come with its twist but that’s not what makes this movie stand out. The atmosphere is absolutely the reason it take the cake. Here is an experience not a viewing. 

Anton Yelchin performs very well playing the individual who is over their head with Patrick Stewart, who is also great but not used to his full potential.  The balance performance help with the realism actually. Can’t say there’s any sympathy with the skinheads but there is empathy that Jeremy Saulnier finds a way to plant. He did the same with Blue Ruins making the rednecks not straight up a holes. Though the probability is low there shown a chance, where the whole thing could be avoided.

This isn’t for the faint of heart but that why it’ll stick to you. I find Blue Ruin had a better story which may be why it didn’t break #1 but there’s not shame in where it ended up and I certainly am going to want to get the Saulnier collection soon.

1. Captain Fantastic (July) [American|R]

Felt like this came off more of an epiphany than a story. Is that a little too strong? Usually I roll my eyes at such hippy lifestyles about being one with nature but this doubt never hit me. The way this was presented made me envy what Viggo Mortenson was doing for his family, even though it could be arguably wrong. The family wasn’t full Amish but they were still out of touch with the modern world where a lot of the kid’s interaction was not only funny but interesting. None of the family odd nature was forced. As a viewer I was excited when they made someone feel awkward and got away with it. 

The presentation made me want this family to be right while everyone else was wrong. Similar to Your Name the films comes off as inspirational but to a lot stronger extent. That’s why I was so captivated by this tale of this isolated family.   Emotionally it put me in higher spirits than any film in 2016 and that’s all I need for it to be the best in my book.

Past list: 2009 X 2010 X 2011 X 2012  X 2013 X 2014 X 2015

Thanks for reading. Would love to see your list and what you think I am missing or what you feel I may have overrated. These list are a blast to make and hopefully they portray the best of 2016 despite my odd format.

• WAZIR
• WITCH
• SING STREET
• ROGUE ONE
• STAR WARS
• 31
• RZ31
• LES COWBOYS
• BATMAN VS SUPERMAN
• HACKSAW RIDGE
• ZOOTOPIA
• YOUR NAME
• THE HANDMAIDEN
• GREEN ROOM
• CPT FANTASTIC
• CAPTAIN FANTASTIC