Tuesday, December 31, 2019

 30 Second Critic's Top 10 films of 2019


1917- brilliantly shot and acted film about a perilous journey by two soldiers in World War I. While I cheated and saw it New Year's Day, it deserves to be on my list for 2019.
Parasite- Class warfare that is remarkable in its simplicity and yet and full of surprises.
The Nightingale- A difficult but important film that is just remarkable featuring incredible performances. 
JoJo Rabbit- brilliant Nazi satire with a great cast and starring in his film debut, a terrific Roman Griffin Davis
Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood- Tarantino does it again. Brilliant with amazing work from Leo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. People who didn't like it, just didn't get it.
Uncut Gems- A high energy drama set in the world of the NY Diamond Exchange starring an electrifying Adam Sandler.
The Irishman- Excellent true crime story with a different point of view. Masterful performances from DeNiro, Pesci, and Pacino as well as a master class in directing from Martin Scorsese.
Marriage Story- emotional, raw and real, the story of a failed marriage with outstanding performances by Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver.
Motherless Brooklyn- Edward Norton wrote the screenplay, directed and stars in this throwback to 1950’s New York. An absorbing detective film noir with a great score and plenty of atmosphere.
Blinded by the Light- based on a true story, a joyful celebration of the trans-formative power of music. In this particular case, the music of Bruce Springsteen.


Honorable Mention-

The Mustang- Deeply moving and powerful film about the bond between man and animal.
Her Smell- amazing performance by Elizabeth Moss as an out of control rock star.
Maiden- inspirational documentary about the first all female sailboat crew to sale in the Whitbread round the world race.
Avengers: Endgame- a perfect ending to a remarkable entwined series.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker- satisfying ending to a staggering saga.
Rocketman- Fanciful take on Elton John’s life with a terrific performance by Taron Egerton.
Honey Boy- Shia LeBouf bares his soul in this autobiographical story.

Bottom 10 films of 2019

Midsommar
Glass
The Dead Don't Die
Ad Astra
Knives Out
Stuber
Everybody Knows
Luce
Queen & Slim
Midsommar (Yes, it made the list twice)

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