With award season upon us, I thought it would be fun to look at a recap of 2017’s best movies. This list is completely opinion based (as are all lists like this), and no, I have not seen every single movie that came out in 2017. This list is based on just movies I’ve seen and just movies I personally think are deserving. I am not a film critic. Hell, I’m not even a film major. Feel free to disagree.
10. Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Let’s get this out of the way: despite the reputation, The Last Jedi was not a bad movie. It had problems with pacing at times, and the film as a whole is a bit choppy, but overall, it was a breath of fresh air the franchise desperately needed. Johnson takes everything you thought you knew about this new trilogy and turns it on its head. With constant twists, thrilling action scenes, and electric performances, this is hands down one of the best films of the year, both for avid fans and novices alike. Leave your predictions and expectations at home. This film rises above it all.
9. Thor: Ragnarok
Having little to no context on the previous two movies in the Thor trilogy, I didn’t know what to expect going into this one. I had zero expectations and was hit with a fun movie that had me grinning like a fool for the entirety of its runtime. Thor: Ragnarok excels because Marvel knows how to write entertaining and fun characters. Ragnarok is charming, visually compelling, and is a good time for all involved. Marvel has hit its stride and learned its fan base well, and this is just the beginning.
8. Wonder Woman
When I heard this movie was being made, I hoped and prayed for a good adaptation, lest people cry out and point to this as the reason why there should be no more female fronted superhero movies. With a medley of flops among the DC extended universe, especially in recent years, this was just what the company needed. Wonder Woman is a hopeful and empowering film with some absolutely chilling moments. While it is not without fault, I can say without a doubt that three viewings do nothing to take away from the quality of this wonderful film. DC finally hit back.
7. Logan
While four super hero movies somehow managed to make it on my top 10 list, I’d argue Logan is a different breed altogether. Logan stands out from the rest, because there is no huge fight to save the world, and no big-scale action sequences that now seem to be prerequisites for movies such as these. Instead, Logan’s Everest is himself; his past, trauma, and loneliness. This film is a look at the human condition packed within an intense, sincere, and action-packed story. This is the punctuation this character deserved.
6. The Florida Project
A film so ripe with nostalgia and innocence, it’s sure to warm and break the hearts of all. Sean Baker’s direction is masterful and the care by which he crafts each frame is evident. The performances are beyond excellent and bring this story to life. This film has a lot of heart and is truly something special. The Florida Project breaks the mold for the “slice of life” genre. Raw, honest, and one of the year’s best.
5. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
The film centers around the cast from the first movie, but this time, we see them in a much different light. Guardians 2 earnestly tackles complex family relationships, making it a relatable and heartwarming film, with a fantastical backdrop and endlessly interesting characters. The film mixes an intense and urgent plot with elements of comedy set to break it up and make the film more dimensional. It stands alone well without the context of the first and even more so, excels when put toe to toe against its predecessor. There’s something there for everyone. One of the best superhero movies of the year, if not one of the best of all time.
4. The Shape of Water
Del Toro has done it again. This year’s Oscar frontrunner is stunning beyond words. Guillermo del Toro brings this film to life with vivid colors, complex characters, and a tale as old as time. An authentic look at unorthodox love. Beautiful, dark, and raw.
3. Lady Bird
The paradoxical coming of age film that makes you feel something. Lady Bird tackles typical themes of fitting in and first love and transforms them into something altogether new and untouched. Heartfelt and honest. Lady Bird is in a league of its own.
2. Get Out
The year’s finest horror film. Jordan Peele makes his directorial debut in an earth-shattering and record-breaking film that follows you long after the credits roll. The film is filled with different layers of metaphors that enhance it to anyone who’s quick enough to pick up on them, making this a dynamic masterpiece. The horror elements are balanced well with comedic breaks that bring everything back down to earth. Lightning in a bottle. And just what the genre needed.
1. Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing Missouri
A candid look at raw emotion. The grieving process in action; no 5 stages necessary. A story about revenge, redemption, and the question of justice. Dark, harrowing, and outstanding in every way possible.
