Ed's Top 15 Best Movies of 2017
- Jan 1, 2018
- 4 min read
2017 was an outstanding year for movies of all genres. It was so good, that you'll probably might have a different list than mine. If your favourite doesn't make it to the list, it doesn't mean that they aren't worthwhile. Movies are such an objective art and even for myself, if you asked me months ago to make the list, it would have been different than what I put today. All of these movies, in one way or another, have given some good enjoyable time in theater (that I didn't mind paying twice), impacted me emotionally or even changed my perspective on certain subject matter. Without further ado, this is what my selection came down to:
Still-to-watch list: A Ghost Story, Wonder, Darkest Hour, Molly's Game, The Post
Honorable mention: Logan, Guardian of The Galaxy Vol. 2, Dunkirk, Call Me by Your Name, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Three Billboards outside Ebbing Missouri, The Disaster Artist
15. The Big Sick
Boy meets girl, some unfortunate thing happened to the girl & funny romcom ensues. It challenged society perception satirically through interactions between Kumail Nanjani's portrayal of his younger-self and the other outstanding supporting casts. It is the most down-to-earth comedy of the year.
14. Spiderman: Homecoming
The reboot that finally got it right. Memorable villain which Marvel usually has never been able to solve since Loki and believably age-appropriate dorky Tom Holland as the titular superhero. The twist also helps it to be quite memorable and different than other Marvel movies. I can't wait for further adventure from our friendly neighbourhood friend!
13. Gifted
Chris Evans delivered his most heart-wrenching performance as a self-sacrificing father figure (and it's not Captain America) raising up a child prodigy. Charming film that tugs at your heartstrings due to the chemistry of its lead performers. Sadly it is one of those rare indie movies that no one has heard about because of its limited theatrical run.
12. War for the Planet of the Apes
Apes on horses! What more can you ask from the last movie in the most arguably, one of the greatest modern trilogies. It's a study of characters that successfully allures you to be more sympathetic towards the apes and scorns against the survival of mankind.
11. The Greatest Showman
Personally, it has the most endearing musical performances that tears me up & songs which will be remembered for years to come. Who would've guessed that I'm a sucker for the big old-school musical spectacles with catchy tunes. It's one of the most joyful film experiences I've had in a while!
10. The Shape of Water
The most gorgeously shot film that tells an unconventional love story between a mute cleaning lady and a river monster. Its cinematography choices, without no doubt, transported me into another world where every raindrops, street lights, etc presented as beautiful crafts in a dystopian era.
9. Blade Runner: 2049
Almost 3 hours of visual feasts that truly stands out in expanding its 1982's original world. Continuing the same trend as the most philosophically debatable film, it presented us with some answers to the first film and follow-up questions to the next phase of the story.
8. It
If you're looking for one of the best adaptation of Stephen King's source materials, look no further than this horror film. I fell in love with the adventure of Losers' Club and for once, horror movie that doesn't depend on jump scares - but rather on the haunting imageries and intensity of saving your loved ones.
7. Thor: Ragnarok
It's a hella good time. No pun intended (or maybe). In a surprising way to keep superhero genre fresh, Taika Waititi managed to creatively bring Thor: Ragnarok into consideration for the best comedy movie of the year. I came out highly entertained & it is simply thunderful!
6. Get Out
Simply an intelligent unorthodox film that's very relevant to today's social commentary of race relations. I didn't believe all the hypes when most critics came out buzzing. Once I braced myself for how smart Jordan Peele's dark satire was, I couldn't stop raving about it!
5. Wonder Woman
A female-led inspirational film that changed Hollywood landscapes through great accomplishments by its casts & director on-and-off screen. Dare I say, it's a complete celebration of feminism without diminishing the roles of men. What a magnificent trailblazer!
4. Lady Bird
Every beat of this coming-of-age indie film felt like a love letter to our hometown, parents, high school and most importantly, our younger selves. Its heartwarming closing shot was very relatable to me (and I think for most people), that I had a hard time no putting it on top 3. It's a wonderful film experience and will always hold a special place in my heart!
3. Wind River
I'm definitely a sucker for under-the-radar independent film that offers beautiful, stunning cinematography. Coupled with fantastically written murder mystery in the isolated area of Wyoming, I hope it will get more attentions during awards season. Also, I was left stunned by the small fact quoted at the end of it.
2. Baby Driver
It's a technical perfection. Every sound of windshield wiper, bullet collisions & explosions were timed perfectly to create beats / music. Characters don't perform any dance or song, but this film does it for them. It got my feet tapping every time and I still believe that it'll be a game-changer to the newly created movie genre: action musical!
1. Coco
In my opinion, it stands as Pixar's best masterpiece that hits all the right notes. The film's message of cultural heritage, dreams and family struck my chord that orchestrated so much tears I didn't even know I had. This is the film that will be celebrated by young and old alikes, for many years to come!
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