Top 10 Films of 2017

2017 has been a bit of a year. But with times being so lousy, it allows room for magnificent cinematic adventures. These are my top 10 of 2017:

10. Ingrid Goes West: Sharp, savage and insightful, Ingrid Goes West takes a satirical observation at our Instagram obsessed society. Stellar performances by Aubrey Plaza and Elizabeth Olsen spearhead this film, revealing the toxicity of seeking validation via social media. You might laugh. You might cry. But you will certainly #relate. 

9. The Big Sick: It has been a long time since we’ve gotten a good love story. But thanks to Emily Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani, we finally have one that does not stick to the traditional romantic comedy formula. The Big Sick brings realism to the romance genre in this quirky, heartfelt and engaging dramedy that teaches us about falling in and out of love. Based on the true love story of Nanjiani and Gordon, The Big Sick is a must see that will surely bring a smile to your face.

8. The Shape of Water: Guillmero del Toro’s dark and enchanting film, The Shape of Water is easily one of the most imaginative and memorable pieces of the year.  With a beautiful story, stellar cast, nostalgic undertones, visually stunning set design and a hauntingly beautiful score, this fantastical world helped us escape our own reality for a while.

7. Logan: There are superhero movies and then there is Logan, a film that turns all conventional superhero movie tropes on its head. Profoundly moving and undeniably raw, Logan is the perfect way for the curtain to close on this chapter in the X-Men universe. Hugh Jackman’s final performance as Wolverine is gritty, violent and shockingly heartbreaking. I assure you comic book fans, you will need tissues. 

6. Wonder Woman:  Women finally got the superhero they deserved and needed in 2017. Wonder Woman is aprogressive and high energy heroic masterpiece starring charming and charismatic, Gal Gadot as the titular role. Patty Jenkins not only masters a superhero origin story but manages to leave audience members feeling confident and empowered as they exit the theatre. As I have said all year if the No Man’s Land sequence doesn’t give you goosebumps, we cannot be friends. 

5. Baby Driver: Within the first ten minutes of Baby Driver, set to the heart-pounding “Bellbottoms” by The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, you know you’re in for a wildly good time. Gorgeously shot, smartly written and exceptionally edited, Baby Driver is a fast-paced, well-oiled monster of an action film set to the perfect soundtrack. Edgar Wright has created one of the most original hot rod movies to date, definitely speeding past any other rivals in its path. 

4.The Florida Project: The Florida Project shines a light on the overlooked impoverished population living in the shimmering shadows of the city of Orlando. Through the juxtaposition storytelling between six-year-old, Moonee’s fantastical summer and her mother’s struggles, Sean Baker captures the harsh realities that fill this pastel-colored world that outsiders and tourists deem “magical”. The film is beautiful, touching, and will stick with you for a long time.

3. Lady Bird: In a world where there are hundreds of coming of age stories,  none really nail the metamorphosis from adolescence to adulthood like Lady Bird. Greta Gerwig captures the beauty, excitement, and disappointment of being a teenager – especially a teenage girl. Saoirse Ronon gives a marvelous, heartfelt and witty performance, shining alongside her mother, played by Laurie Metcalf.  

2. Three Billboards Over Ebbing Missouri:  Jam-packed with sharp dialogue and powerhouse performances, Martin McDonagh has created the darkest of comedies. Three Billboards Over Ebbing Missouri will take you through a range of emotions, leaving you feeling punched in the gut. Full of untamed anger and fury, Frances McDormand is absolutely unforgettable and wickedly funny. Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson are extraordinary in their supporting roles. 

1. Get Out: Considered a game changer for the horror genre, nothing can prepare you for the brilliance of Get Out. Jordan Peele’s clever, poignant and thrilling screenplay shines a light on the savage racism still existing in our society. Every action is deliberate. Nothing is gimmicky. It is by far one of the most perfect films I have seen in my lifetime. If you haven’t seen it, make it a priority. 

Honorable Mentions: The Disaster Artist, Call Me By Your Name, Thor: Ragnarok, It, Dunkirk