In my opinion, 2019 been solid for film- and I'm not just talking about Avengers. Silent hits such as 'Luce,'and 'The Farewell' put indie films in the spotlight and a long awaited films such as Toy Story 4 and Aladdin did not fail to disappoint. 'Joker' has been the latest craze in the world of film, but some of the year's best films might be coming out during the last two months of the year. I scoured the internet for some future (and one current) cinema gems that are worth looking forward to:
'Parasite' (Released October 11th)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isOGD_7hNIY&t=1s
It's one of those independent films, released amidst the hype of Joker and even El Camino (also a pretty decent film!),however, its near perfect rating on rotten tomatoes & IMDB puts it in the same category, if not higher than both of these films. The movie tells a darker, more satirical tale of the symbiotic relationship between two families- one wealthy and the other poor. It touches on important societal themes such as the vast distinction between various classes in a way that is highly original and unpredictable. Not to mention that it was written and directed by a Korean filmmaker and that representation is highly needed. Its not playing everywhere unfortunately, but if you happen to have it in a theater near you, it definitely looks worth the watch.
'Charlies Angels '(Releasing November 15th)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voYLots_ZOg
If you loved Naomi Scott's portrayal of Princess Jasmine in Aladdin earlier this year, then you're in for a treat for her next big role. Scott is joined by veteran Kristen Stewart, Ella Balinska and Elizabeth Banks (who also writes and directs the film!) in a modern, female empowering twist to the 1970s cult classic franchise. Despite the success of a few female-centric films, that have made it to the big screen, (most recently Hustlers), more positive female representation continues to be needed. The Charlie's remake looks genuinely entertaining with the mix of action and some a few satirical rom-com tropes. My only hope is that its aided with an engaging story line with characters who are as dynamic as the action shown in the trailer. Even if it doesn't end up to be surprising, it looks like a fun ride. Plus, it's nice to see Kirsten Stewart smile.
'Knives Out' (Releasing November 27th)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xi-1NchUqMA
A classic old fashioned mystery is hard to find these days, but 'Knives Out' looks like a modern take on the tale of 'Whodunit?' Former James Bond star Daniel Craig comes as a world renowned detective, is in charge of solving the perplexing mystery behind the death of the patriarch of an even more perplexing and combatant family. One of my favorite actors, Lakeith Stanfield makes a cameo appearance in this star studded film full of satirical comedic jabs and a new type of noir. I'm very intrigued by not only who may have committed the crime, but seeing the power dynamics of the family unfold. If anything, watch it for the satisfaction of seeing a different side of the righteous Captain America, as an unapologetic problematic member of the family.
'Clemency' (Releasing December 27th)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzUhz2XkFfE
Hollywood saved the best for last with the release of Clemency arriving in late December The film stars the legendary Alfre Woodard as an apathetic prison warden who is faced with a moral dilemma when forms a bond with an imprisoned man whom she is sanctioned to execute. It's a close look into the complexity of the prison industrial complex portrayed as a gripping drama with a flawed protagonist. The internal conflict is one worth seeing on screen, as humans are constantly faced with moral dilemmas, big and small. I'm for sure going to get my tickets in advance- and I advise you to do the same as I can predict that the acclaim for this film will continue into 2020.