My Top 15 Films of 2018

2018 has obviously come to a close and I've got to say it was quite a memorable year for films. As with every year, there's of course been plenty of stinkers, and disappointments, but I'm happy to report that from the over 100+ films I watched this year, I overall liked more of them than I disliked, so I think I did a pretty good job staying away from a lot of bad movies. Anyway, with this list, I'm here to really dive into which of those films really stood out to me the most, made me feel many different emotions, and just left a clear lasting impact on me as I left that theater. This was really a difficult list to narrow down to just 15 picks (I didn't even want to narrow down to just 10), because there were much more than just 10 films that stuck me throughout the whole year. And because of that, I've got a pretty extensive list of films that just barely missed the cut. These films are all excellent though and are films that I will revisit plenty of times in the future.

Honorable Mentions (in no particular order):

#15: Crazy Rich Asians 

What was certainly one of the most culturally significant films of the year just also happened to be one of the year's most flat out charming films as well as perhaps my favorite mainstream rom-com since Crazy Stupid Love. Sure, it was formulaic as it followed most of the beats you'd expect from a rom-com, but more importantly it was also heartfelt, consistently funny, and contained a terrific ensemble of charming performers. Stars Constance Wu and Henry Golding also made for a irresistible and root worthy on-screen pairing, while Michelle Yeoh brought surprising nuances to what could've been such a one-note character. This is just one of those movies that made me smile from beginning to end.

#14 Won't You Be My Neighbor 

I'll admit that I'm not typically the biggest fan of documentaries, and I'm sadly not very familiar with Fred Rodgers's work, but good lord this was magnificent. By exploring the brilliant and inspiring work that Rodgers accomplished in his career, this was just one of those rare films that you leave the theater wanting to do everything you can to become a better person than you were walking in. Heartfelt and just simply delightful!

#13: Black Panther 

Another Home Run that has obviously become a landmark success, but also happened to be one hell of a film in its own right. With a compelling story at its center, an outstanding ensemble cast, a memorable set of characters, a beautifully realized world, and Michael B. Jordan's scene stealing turn as maybe one of the most complex villain performances ever in any comic book film, this is one of the most impressive MCU work to date. Ryan Coogler continues to showcase himself as one of the very best directors of today and it's easy to see why his latest work is quickly becoming an Oscar front runner. 

#12: Avengers: Infinity War

This surely just had to be included on the list somewhere, and for good reasons. Sure, given the ridiculous number of characters, Infinity War may undoubtedly feel a little stuffed, but the way the Russo Brothers were able to inject all these different characters and give them each something memorable to do I thought was just beautifully done. Amazing chemistry between these cast members, terrific set pieces, an unforgettable villain performance in Josh Brolin's Thanos, and one heck of a pretty ballsy ending, Infinity War was surely one of the most memorable cinematic experiences of 2018. Fingers crossed that Avengers: Endgame ends this particular saga of the MCU with a bang (I have all the confidence in the world that it will).  

#11: Mid90s 

There were lots of impressive directorial debuts I believe in 2018, and Jonah Hill's coming of age story was surely one of the best. Funny, honest, surprisingly even relatable, this was clearly a passion project for Mr. Hill and consists of a centered group of young teenagers growing up in 90s LA whom I honestly could've watched interact for hours. The dialogue and the performances from the young cast feel so natural that at times I almost forgot that I was even watching a movie. This was a real special one! 

#10: Widows 

Steve McQueen's latest has seemed to be quite divisive amongst many filmgoers, and I'm honestly kind of puzzled as to why. Maybe it has to do with my love for the crime genre, but whatever it was, Widows had me captivated from start to finish and I think even had more to say on its mind than your standard heist drama. For me, I loved its slow burn nature as it really did a nice job in fleshing out its complex characters and it also doesn't hurt that it rounded up one of the most impressive ensemble cast in years. Everyone is outstanding here, particularly Viola Davis (obviously) in yet another Oscar worthy turn, Elizabeth Deblicki, and Daniel Kaluuya in as the ruthless mob enforcer. The tension build throughout was palpable, the action was thrilling and the film even left me gasping a few times with some of the twisty directions the plot took. 

#9 Hereditary

 I loved A Quiet Place, as well as the new Halloween, but in 2018, no other horror film left the kind of unforgettable impact that Ari Aster's haunting film did. What in its opening minutes seemed like it would be your traditional ghost story quickly I think turned into one of the most deeply personal, tragic, unsettling, and sometimes just down right disturbing films about grief I have maybe perhaps ever seen. Toni Collette, who has always been a criminally underrated actress, gives one of the most unforgettable performances of all year in the grieving mother role, while Alex Wolff, Gabriel Byrne, and Milly Shapiro all deliver superb work as well. This was another directing debut, and it may just have been the very best because Aster crafts this film like he's been doing this for decades.

#8: Eighth Grade

This was almost a painful experience, not because it was like really bad, but simply because of how simply raw and at least from my perceptive relatable it was, watching everything unfold for its main character. Growing up as well as transitioning from middle school to high school can be a real nerve wrecking and often awkward journey for just about anyone, which this film understood as well as any coming of age story I've seen in years. Elsie Fisher really turns in an impressive performance here as a character that I believe just about anyone can relate to in one way or another (unless you were just always the coolest, most popular kid throughout your school years), and Josh Hamilton is really heartwarming as the supportive father. Bo Burnham crafted a real special one with this, one that is easy to see becoming a cult classic years from now. 

#7: BlacKkKlansman  

Love him, or not, there's no denying that Spike Lee is surely one of the most fascinating filmmakers of today, as his films usually tend to have an important message to convey. This dark comedic crime drama is surely amongst his best work in years, as it features one of the year's best ensembles, a razor sharp screenplay, and an unpredictable yet incredible true life story that feels every bit as relevant in today's climate as it would've in its time period. John David Washington (whom if you don't know, is also the real life son of Denzel Washington) and Adam Driver are both terrific, while it's almost scary how much Topher Grace perfectly resembles a young David Duke. This is bound to be a major player come Oscar season and it absolutely deserves to be.

#6: First Man

This was another one I expected to take Awards season as a front runner, but for whatever I've seen many say how they walked out of Damian Chazelle's latest feeling cold. As clearly seen by its inclusion on this list, I was not one of those folks, as I found it to be one of the most visceral and memorable cinematic experiences of the year. I do have a soft spot for space exploration films, and the moon landing sequence was easily one of the very most incredible scenes from any film this year, but I also appreciated how this film's main focus was really on humanizing the main man that led the charge in this historical event. Ryan Gosling turns in typically great and subtle work, while Claire Foy deserves a Supporting Actress nod for her work as the devoted wife. 

#5: Green Book

I know it may seem odd to say that a film about a fairly heavy subject matter made me feel so good inside, but that is exactly what Peter Farrelly's Green Book did and I wouldn't have it any other way. Even with its crowd pleasing charm and feel good nature, this film doesn't use those factors to sacrifice some touching and at times heartbreaking drama. It's also an exceptionally funny, and emotional tale of an unexpected friendship that forms between two men whom basically couldn't be any different from one another, both brilliant portrayed by Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali in Oscar worthy turns. I could'v easily watched these two play off one another for countless hours, and this is a film I see myself very well going back time countless of times in the future. I deeply loved this and want to watch it again like right now. 

#4: Roma 

Who knew Netflix films had it in them? Even with Alfonso Curan directing, and all the hype around it, I wasn't sure what to expect with this. For about the first half hour or so, I was sort of thinking to myself "Yeah it's really good and beautiful, but is it really pulling me emotionally?". Then the film continued on, becoming even better and then last 40 minutes or so really struck me in way hardly like any other film did this year. A beautiful work of art from all technical standpoints, as Alfonso Cuaron is one of the most visionary filmmakers of today, but it's really the performers and rawness of the drama that makes this one as special as it is. It's yet another one of those rare films where everything from the acting to the dialogue being exchanged on screen feels so natural that you almost have to remind yourself that you're watching a film. Yalitza Aparicio should be getting a Best Actress nomination for her heart wrenching performance here. 

#3: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

After about six movie adaptions in just 16 years, it's easy to feel a bit burnt out on these Spider-Man films, yet here comes this wonderful gem that not only feels like a groundbreaking achievement for the character, but for the animation and superhero genres as well. It's also the best animated film of 2018 by miles as well as the best of the superhero films that were released this year. The animation work is by no surprise jaw dropping, the action sequences are incredible, it's consistently hilarious, the voice cast is amazing, but the screenplay is also one of the smartest and most original of any film to have come out this year, while it also just has a huge heart at its core. The character of Miles Morales finally gets the lovable on-screen representation he deserves, much thanks to the great voice work by Shaemeik Moore and this film might even have my favorite version of Peter Parker yet (voiced wonderfully by Jake Johnson). This is one of those films that just feels like it will only get better amongst new viewings, and I personally can't wait to see more of this universe explored, as well as more of the different incarnations of Spider-Man that we are surely bound to see.

#2: Mission Impossible-Fallout 

22 years in, and now 6 films in, this is a franchise that continues to show no signs of slowing down, neither does its main star Tom Cruise. With Fallout, somehow Cruise and director Christopher McQuarrie have managed to once again outdo themselves here, crafting one of the most spectacular and insanely exhilarating action films in many years as well as the series greatest installment yet. With each jaw dropping set piece, whether it's Cruise himself literally dropping himself out of a plane or learning how to fly a helicopter, the film manages to continuously outdo itself and is absolutely relentless in its pacing. On top of all the ridiculously thrilling action and incredible stunts Cruise is able to accomplish at 56, the story is surprisingly emotionally engrossing, the twist & turns are clever, the ensemble cast chemistry is amazing (Henry        Cavil and his famous mustache are wonderful additions here), and the climax here is honestly probably my favorite from any film I saw this entire year. It's also the most personal MI installment yet, as it wonderfully ties in previous installments together without it ever contrived, and I absolutely loved the expansion of Rebecca Ferguson's alluring Ilsa Faust character. I just enjoyed the living crap out of every second of this, I'd even go as far as to say it's one of the greatest action films of all-time for my money.

There was just maybe one movie that left a slightly bigger impact on me, and that film was......

#1: A Star is Born

Bradley Cooper's directorial debut and retelling of a classic story swept me up unlike any other film I saw this year, right from the very first moment it started. The sizzling pairing of both Cooper and Lady Gaga make it one of the greatest romance stories in many years, but it's also just such a compelling and at times gut wrenching look into how personal fame can really impact one's relationship. Right from the incredible, mesmerizing moment where Cooper & Gaga take the stage to perform "Shallows", I knew I was absolutely in for something special, and that special feeling never once went away. Gaga is an absolute revelation here, as she obviously nails every single vocal performance, but also brings out the necessary nuances for the character of Ally, while Cooper I'm honestly not sure has ever been better as an actor than he is here as Jackson Maine (which considering the body of work he's displayed over the years from "Silver Linings Playbook" to "American Sniper", that's saying quite a bit). The soundtrack is one of the very best here in ages, I've been listening to it non-stop and it would be criminal not to mention some of the great supporting work we get from actors like Sam Elliot and Andrew Dice Clay. I was so floored by this film, and as of now, it is my personal pick to win Best Actor, Actress, and Picture at this upcoming Oscar season.

So many outstanding films this year, here's hoping 2019 is just as memorable, if not even more so! Feel free to comment on the films that would be on your list below! 

My Top 10 Favorite Movies of 2015

2015 has come and gone, but the great movies that it left us Audience members with, haven't gone away. 2015 as a whole I found to be a very strong year in Cinema, we got lots of great films, and I'm here to list off what were the 10 Best Movies I saw in 2015, along with honorable mentions. To be clear, I did not see every single movie that was released in 2015, I unfortunately will not be able to see Leonardo DiCaprio in The Revenant (which looks amazing), until next weekend, as well as Carol, Anomalisa amongst others. So let's just get to what were my 10 Favorite movies of the year.

Honorable Mentions aka the films I wish I didn't have to leave off this list

Ant-Man

One of Marvel's latest easily could've turned out to be a disaster, but instead is one of the studio's best efforts yet and definitely one of the more entertaining movies of 2015.

The Gift

What looked like yet another run of the mill, uninspiring creepy stalker flick, turned out to be one of the best directorial debuts in years from director/actor, Joel Edgerton. Suspenseful from beginning to end with a brilliant twist, and three outstanding lead performances.

The Big Short

One of the best ensemble cast of any movie in 2015, and known comedy director, Adam McKay, takes the story of the horrifying Wall-Street Stock Market, and makes for one of the more enthralling, entertaining films of 2015.

Now for the ones that really pained me to leave off the Top 10

Straight Outta Compton

One of the best Biopics in recent memory, this story of NWA got it right in everything from the casting choices, music, and a powerful emotional core.

The Hateful Eight

Quentin Tarantino is one of my favorite directors of today, so leaving this off was pretty tough. With that being said, despite a few minor issues I had, QT puts his signature style all over this flick, and as a fan, it makes for one of the most entertaining movies of the year.

Kingsman: The Secret Service

Darn me for having to leave off, Matthew Vaughn's over the top, stylish, balls out to the wall insane, and ultra fun spy flick with a terrific group of characters and a great cast.

Steve Jobs

I was honestly fighting back and forth between this and my #10 pick, but anyway, I found Danny Boyle's unconventional bio pic of Steve Jobs himself, riveting, brilliantly written by Aaron Sorkin, and Michael Fassbender gives arguably the best performance of the year as the man himself.

Alright, sorry now here's the meaty Top 10 list.

10. Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation

After Brad Bird's adrenaline rushing, and impeccably fun, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, it seemed nearly impossible for this Spy series to out do itself, but in my opinion, Christopher McQuarrie manages to do that with a pulse pounding, skillfully crafted, funny and ridiculously entertaining Rogue Nation. Tom Cruise, already in his 50s, does his own incredible stunt work practically unlike any other actor I've ever seen do, and Rogue Nation not only serves up a solid story, but also good amount of suspense and tension when these jaw dropping set pieces occur, one in particular set in a Opera House being maybe my favorite from any action movie of this year. The entire cast, returning members and new members are all great, but the real star of the show, is a breakout star in newcomer, Rebecca Ferguson as the mysterious, and ultra kick-ass, Ilsa Faust. I'm excited to see Ferguson, not only hopefully return in this particular franchise, but in many more movies in the future, and I'm excited for more Mission Impossible movies. 

9. Room

A movie literally feel like it's punching me in the gut (for good reasons), is a rare achievement, but Lenny Abrahamson's chilling, and powerful human drama did just that. A film with a gut-wreching story, of how difficult it is for a mother and son to adapt to the real world, after their world for 7 years, just consisted of one entrapped room, manages to feel horrifyingly real, and that is in no short a huge credit to the moving performances of Brie Larson, and Jacob Trembly. Larson, showcasing once again to be one of the best Young Actresses of today, should be a front runner for Best Actress come Oscar time, and Trembly in particular, gives one of the most remarkable child performances, I've ever seen. This movie really wouldn't work or leave the emotional effect it displays on you, if the mother-son chemistry between this two actors don't work, but it does, it's hard to believe Larson and Trembly aren't really mother and son in real life, the on-screen paring of these two is so genuine. Oscars should be all over this one.

8. Spotlight

Another film expected to be a big player during Awards season, and that left me rather emotionally drained, is Tom McCarthy's Spotlight, centered around the Boston Globe's reporting of the Catholic Church scandals. This is a film that takes its contervisonal subject matter, and does not in the slightest shy away from the horrifying truths that were discovered. McCarthy takes what could've been a rather boring film about journalists, and makes it one riveting film from beginning to end about what it takes to discover the truth. We also get arguably the best ensemble cast of the year, with Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber, John Slattery, and Stanley Tucci all delivering outstanding work. This just gets more and more fascinating as it moves along, and I felt certainly unsettled leaving the theater.

7. Sicario 

Denis Villeneuve's bleak, riveting, and disturbing take on the drug traffic war, was honestly the most intense film I saw all year. I was gripping (literally) on the edge of my seat, during this film's entire run time, director Villeneuve, really knows how to create and build up to real suspense, and there was never a moment during this movie I didn't feel unsettled by the events that unfold throughout this compelling story. Cinematographer, Roger Deakins, is at it yet again with some truly remarkable work, the scenery in this film is just beautiful stuff, and there are many unexpected twist and turns throughout, with one breathtaking climax. This thriller is only elevated by a A-game cast, with Emily Blunt, one of my favorite actresses working today, and Josh Brolin, delivering terrific work, but the particular standout is Benicio Del Toro, as the mysterious and fascinating Alejandro. Del Toro should be much more in the discussion for Best Supporting Actor for Oscar season than he appears to be right now.

6. The Martian 

Space + Ridley Scott, is normally right up my ally, but Mr. Scott lately in the recent years has delivered some really unfortunate misfires (ahem, The Counselor). However, "The Martian" puts the legendary director right back on track, as this was just one emotional journey and thrill ride from beginning to end. With a smart, exceptionally funny, and touching screenplay, written by Drew Goddard, "The Martian", takes a mostly basic story of a man left for dead on Mars all alone, and gives us a tale of human survivor, and how people coming together for team work + problem solving, can save one man's life. That might sound kind of corny, but I was swept up by The Martian, and Scott's confident, briskly moving direction behind the camera, makes this one of the most emotionally moving films of the year along with a outstanding, Oscar worthy performance from Matt Damon, as our main hero stranded alone on Mars. Damon is backed up by a remarkable supporting cast (Jessica Chastain, Chiewtel Ejofer, Jeff Daniels just to name a few), and some of the best use of CGI all year. 

5. Ex Machina 

It's remarkable that a movie that primarily centers around just three characters, can have me as glued to the screen as any other movie in 2015 did, but "Ex Machina" certainly did it. A.I. movies are starting to perhaps feel a bit over done, but director Alex Garland's directorial debut, takes a more original spin on the genre, and even offers, interesting subtle messages on the concepts of A.I.s. One of the most visually stunning movies of the year, with a seamless blend of practical + CGI mix in together, it's shocking the level of craftsmanship Garland is able to pull off as a first time director, and also writes a terrific screenplay. The dialogue, the dynamics that unfold between these three centric character really make for an endlessly thrilling watch, one where there's really no black and white, clear cut villains. And, this really works, because you get three outstanding performances, from Domhnall Gleeson, a mysterious Oscar Isaacs, and remarkable emerging star, Alicia Vikander. Vikander, in particular had herself a heck of a year in 2015, and she gives a remarkably sympathetic performance as a A.I., something that has got to be hard to pull off. Look for her name to pop up like everywhere within the next few years, as well as director, Alex Garland, I can't wait for his next film. PLEASE, check out Ex Machina if you haven't yet. If you like a good Sc-fi, but one that also feels personal and small scale, you won't be disappointed. 

4. Inside Out

The best Animation studio there is, that being Pixar, has been on a little bit of a downslide in the last few years, but Inside Out reminded me why I fell in love with so many of this studio's films in the first play. It shows the studio is truly at its best, when taking an original concept, and make for a relatable moving story with complex themes that can appeal to both kids, and the older adult audiences. That's exactly what makes Inside Out, work as expertly well as it does, tackling on mature messages, and exploring the depths of emotions in a very emotionally moving, and touching manner. It's not only got a great big fat heart, underath the surface of it all, and made me honestly tear up a few times, but is also very funny with great humor for both young and older audiences, sincere, and uplifting without ever feeling manipulative in getting its messages across. The voice cast is terrific, the characters are wonderfully charming & memorable (Bing Bong FTW), and the ending for me was one of the most emotionally satisfying endings all year. This should not only be a front runner for Best Animation, but imo also deserves a nod for Best Picture as well.

3. Creed 

Even as a fan of most of the previous Rocky films, it was hard not to be just a little skeptical of this spinoff/reboot/sequel of sorts that felt like was beginning to run out of some gas, being the 7th installment of the legend franchise. But, Ryan Coogler's Creed, is not only arguably the best of all Rocky sequels, I would easily put it through the ringer, and let it stand head to head in a face off with the 1976 original, because it's just that damn good. Very much like another movie, you might see on my list, it pays very much so as a homage to the very first film, but does so in a way that it still manages to feel very fresh, and really capture the spirit and heart that has made this franchise so iconic. Ryan Coogler's direction, I feel is honestly worthy of a Best Director nod, the way he films these boxing matches feel so brutal, gritty, and heart pounding, that make these sequences so tense to see unfold, and on the edge of your seat, with one amazing sequence in particular all being shot in just one take. But, this movie doesn't work without, the electric and emotional chemistry we get between, Michael B. Jordan, and Sylvester Stallone. These two just play off each other so well, you feel that like father and son bond that forms between them, and both Jordan, and Stallone truly excel in these roles. Jordan proves to be a young emerging star in the making, and Stallone in particular delivers maybe his best performance of his entire career. Seriously, Stallone moving me to near tears in a handful of scenes is something I never even thought he was capable of, and I'll be rooting for him to take home a Best Supporting Actor statue come Oscar season. Tessa Thompson is also terrific as Creed's love interest. I was floored from beginning to end, and look forward for more boxing matches with Adonis Creed, and Rocky Baloba in future installments. 

2. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Come on, you knew this would make its way on the list. Having seen The Force Awakens at least twice already (and at the very moment, I just want to go back and back for more viewings), I can absolutely say it delivered on all fronts I wanted it to as a huge fan of this saga, and is the most fun, emotionally satisfying experience I had at the Cinemas in all of 2015. Is it without some minor issues? No. Does it follow similar beats to the originals, particularly the first? Yes sure. But, those small nit-picks, especially when going on repeated viewings where anything that maybe bothered me on my first viewing just about vanish, mean almost nothing, compared to the feelings of joy, satisfaction, and energy, I felt witnessing what JJ Abrams manages to create with this film. The balance of both the old returning cast members (Harrison Ford in particular is the best he's been in years, in his return as Han Solo), and the new cast members, I thought couldn't have been handled more perfectly, Daisy Ridley & John Boyega both particularly show to be two emerging shining stars, as well as also great performances from Oscars Isaacs, and Adam Driver as maybe Star Wars most complex villain yet, Kylo Ren. From the first moment that opening crawl sequence hits, I felt welcomed back in this universe, and that feeling for me never left this movie, because Abrams, really does a great job in capturing that spirit, and the sense of an adventure that made this franchise so iconic in the first place. Like "Creed" does for the original "Rocky", The Force Awakens follows in a similar path as the first "Star Wars", but does so with style, taking it in a direction that still manages to feel fresh, and leaving much room for exciting stories to tell in the future. I was on board with this movie from start to finish, and I fell back in love with not only the returning characters, but all of the new characters as well. I know I've seen a really great movie not only when I'm craving to go back to see it in theaters again, but when it also only gets better upon new viewings.

And, now for my #1 movie of 2015, the one that struck me unlike any other movie this entire year

1. Mad Max: Fury Road

George Miller's masterclass work in the action genre, is not only my favorite movie of the year, but even upon walking out of seeing it just for the first time ever, I think literally said to myself, "One of the best Action films I've probably ever seen". And, that only rings even more true to me, upon the more and more I watch it, which up to this point has been a lot. George Miller's return to this franchise for the first time in 30 years, is the most perfectly executed 2 hour long chase sequence, we'll probably ever get, and I just adored every single of this movie. Every single frame Miller shoots this thing just looks beautiful, the use of practical effects mix in with very little amount of CGI is seamless, every single action set-piece is more exhilarating and ridiculously crazier than the previous one, the Oscar level Cinematography work from John Seale, Junkie XL's musical score, the scenery, just everything about this movie especially on a technical level, fired on all cylinders for me. But, on the top of the amazing filmmaking achievements this film accomplishes, Miller still manages to create a really original and surprisingly compelling story, through a lot of unique storytelling techniques, and impressive world building. A lot of people have complained about there not being a whole lot of substance, and sure I can agree with that to a certain extent, but I thought there definitely was a good enough story here to chew on, and get behind, not to mention a handful of memorable characters. Tom Hardy, while given a rather limited amount of dialogue, makes for a awesome Max, making the role into his own character instead of mimicking what Mel Gibson did in the role, and Nicholas Hoult is a blast as Nux. But, besides George Miller himself, Charlize Theron is the true front and center star of this vehicle, and delivers a incredible performance, as Imperator Furiosa, a memorable heroine for the ages, and probably my favorite character from any movie in 2015. I can not wait to see what the future of this series has in store, hopefully it doesn't take Mr. Miller another 30 years to make another one.

There you have it, my Top 10 of 2015, and overall since it was hard to make a firm Top 10, I'm pleased with the way 2015 turned out. Remember, this is just my list, and I didn't get a chance to see every single movie that came out in 2015, I'm sure, I'll end up seeing a few films, and thinking to myself, "Why didn't I wait to make my Top 10?". But, until then, this is my list.

Sicario Movie Review: A nail-bating, tense, and throughly engrossing thriller with a brilliant cast and brilliant direction.

French-Canadian director, Denis Villeneuve proved himself with 2013’s thrilling Prisoners, as well as the underrated, and polarizing, Enemy to be one of the most promising directors on the rise in Hollywood. His new film, “Sicario” seemed to be right up in his alley a crime thriller involving an investigation, and war of the Mexican drug trade. It’s had my attention and excitement ever since it first premiered to rave reviews over at Cannes Film Festievial, all the way back in May of this year, and the rave reviews only expanded when it also premiered at TIFF a few weeks back.

Sicario stars an impressive ensemble cast with, Emily Blunt (Edge of Tomorrow, The Devil Wears Prada), Benicio Del Toro (Traffic, Savages), Josh Brolin (No Country for Old Men, Milk), Jon Bernthal (The Walking Dead, The Wolf of Wall Street), Victor Gruber (Titanic, Argo), and Daniel Kaluuya (Kick-Ass 2).

The plot centers around dedicated, idealistic FBI agent, Kate Macer (Emily Blunt), who after one of her assignments goes terribly wrong, is quickly tasked by a government official, Matt Garver (Josh Brolin), along with the mysterious Aljeandro (Benicio Del Toro) to investigate the borders of the Mexician drug trade, and ultimately lead them to finding an unknown Drug Lord. Through series of events, Kate finds herself in way over her head, beginning to question what side of the law is she really fighting for. Who can she really trust?

With his previous films (Prisoners especially), Villeneuve has shown a special talent when it comes to slowly building gripping suspense, and after experiencing “Sicario”, I can’t think of too many directors working today that can craft this kind of relentless suspense any better. A mesmerizing, intense opening sequence really does a impeccable job in setting up a bleak, somber tone, and had me already completely wrapped up in this film, on the edge of my seat from the moment it gets going. A lot of people will be comparing this movie to Steven Soderbergh’s “Traffic”, but for me it actually reminded me a lot more of “No Country for Old Men”, and “Zero Dark Thirty”, in regards to tone, and direction. It is a slow burn that takes its time, but it is one that will get under your skin, whether it’s the brutality of the violence it displays, or the ugly realistic journey into the world of the war on drugs it explores , and demands your attention with one expertly well crafted set-piece after another. Even in small portions where the film would begin to slow down a bit in a more subtle scene, Villeneuve would quickly make sure you’re not feeling too relaxed for very long, with yet another pulse pounding, incredibly tense scene with hyper realistic violence. It says a lot when a movie can have me feeling so unsettled, nearly sweating a few times from pure intensity, and Villeneuve does that so well here like an experienced pro, with a plot that takes numerous of unexpected turns, particularly in maybe the most riveting climax of any movie this year. This isn’t a movie that is exactly meant for the faint of heart, it’s brutal, dark, gritty stuff with always a feeling of such dread, and it works for all the more effective.

The remarkable, Emily Blunt, has been on a pretty remarkable career roll as of late, with her wonderful turn in last year’s sc-fi flick “Edge of Tomorrow”, and with yet another great great performance here, she continues to prove herself to be one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses. Kate Macer as a character is seemingly a bit of a walking cliché, we’ve seen the tough, idealistic by the books agent who’s in way over their head many times before, but Blunt brings that understated humanity, and vulnerability in her performance needed for the audience to sympathize, and get engrossed in Kate’s story, in what might be the finest performance of her career yet. The script, written by Taylor Sheridan does a smart job in making the audience feel as clueless, and in the dark to just what exactly Kate has gotten herself into as Kate is herself, rather than spoon feeding everything to us. Kate goes through a fairly complex arc, and questions what side is she really fighting for, something Blunt emotionally displays beautifully. It’s an incredibly early race, but Blunt deserves to be a candidate for a Best Actress nod this year. Josh Brolin, is also terrific in one of his best performances in a while, bringing the gravitas and occasionally even comedic relief to hot headed, Matt Garver. Strong work also from Daniel Kaluuya, Victor Gruber, and Jon Bernthal in a extended cameo all round up a great supporting cast. But, as truly outstanding as Blunt is, as well as everyone else, it is Benicio Del Toro who walks away stealing “Sicario”. Del Toro won an Academy Award back in 2001 for his amazing work in “Traffic”, and I’m tempted to say, his work as the mysterious Alejandro is perhaps even better. Del Toro already has the physical presence to be utterly menacing, but he also just brings layers of nuances to his role. You can sympathize with Alejandro as you sense there’s a tragic from his past, but you also get the feeling the guy can totally turn the tables within a split second, and it’s simply impossible to not focus on Del Toro as he just owns the screen, with his character having the most engrossing arc, and most fascinating to watch unfold. As of now in my own eyes, in a early race, Del Toro should be a locked candidate in this year’s Supporting Actor race.

After their collaboration worked to great results with “Prisoners”, Denis Villeneuve teams up again with cinematographer, Roger Deakins, and it is a remarkable combo. This is a stunningly beautiful picture to feast your eyes on, as expected always from Deakins, with some actually very impressive imagery, and the detail provided to set locations is some masterful accomplished work, to the point where the actual scenery starts to feel like it’s almost becoming its own character in the movie itself, a nearly impossible feat for most movies to pull off. Composer, Johann Johannsson provides a bleak, riveting score, providing a beautiful fit to the film’s overall bleak tone, and some dark themes. The screenplay, written by first time screenwriter, Taylor Sheridan, is nothing short of sharpness with, well executed, twist and turns throughout. It’s a rare success, when a movie can basically take a shift in tone in its final act, and do it effectively, not causing the audience to feel like they’re watching two different movies disguised as one.

Undoubtedly one of the most intense films you’ll experience this year, “Sicario” isn’t maybe one I’d exactly recommended to the faint of heart, or those who want to see a movie with at least a shred of “hope”, and a clear definitive line of what is “good” or “evil”. That’s not to be found here (as it really isn’t with any of Villeneuve’s previous films), which only ends up adding to the realism, and the moral conflict these characters are put through. But, it is a must recommendation for anyone looking for a riveting crime thriller with wonderful craftsmanship, superb performances, engrossing story, complex characters, and some of the most exhilarating set-pieces, I can ensure that you’ll see from any movie this year. By the end of it, once it concludes with a unforgettable final scene, I felt like I needed to take a really deep gigantic breath, something probably only five other movies have ever done to me in the past. That’s a testament to Denis Villeneuve as a filmmaker, who’s quickly become for me one of the most exciting directors working today, and I will sure be first in line for whatever he has next.

Final Rating: A

The 10 Movies I'm Most Looking Forward to in Summer 2015

Summer 2015

The summer movies season is underway, and it's undeniably my favorite time of the year, as it's always usually filled with the movies I'm most excited for. And there's TONS to look forward to this summer, so here's the 10 I'm most excited for.

Honorable Mentions (in no order)

Aloha

Minions

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

Pitch Perfect 2 (I don't care)

Trainwreck

Spy

Slow West

Entourage

#10-San Andreas

Here's a rare disaster genre movie that I'm surprisingly quite excited for. The disaster genre is a hit and miss one for sure, in fact a lot of times they tend to kind of suck, but San Andreas is a promising one. Dwayne Johnson is perhaps the best action star we have working today, so whenever his name is attached to a project like this, I'm always intrigued, and there's a solid supporting cast here to go along with that name. But, what has actually impressed me with the trailers for this so far, is not only the insane looking action, but also the global feel that they've shown, like this actually looks like a realistic way how something like this would go down in the real world something a lot of these movies lack, and I think this is just going to be one of the more entertaining and hopefully surprising movies of the summer.

#9-Fantastic Four

A reboot I'm actually quite looking forward to. A lot of drama has definitely surrounded this new film, I won't lie thanks to the rumored production issues, I definitely have my concerns for this new FF, but I also can't lie that besides those rumors, I'm really liking everything I've seen from this project. Unlike a lot of people, I actually really like the cast of these classic characters consisting of Michael B. Jordan, Miles Teller, Kate Mara, and Jamie Bell, I was a big fan of Josh Trank's debut film Chronicle from 2012, and the trailers so far have been fantastic (pun intended). I think the costumes look, the effects mostly looks great, and after the disaster of the last two Fantastic Four movies that we got back in the 2000s, I am all in for the darker and more serious tone the trailers have definitely be showing. And FOX, like Marvel Studios, have been on quite a roll as of late. Regardless, whatever we get, HAS to be better than the previous two FF films.

#8-Ant-Man

A lot of drama has been surrounding this new original Marvel project that has been in development for like a good 10 years now. I was definitely among the many who was completely upset when it was announced that director Edgar Wright, was leaving the project due to creative differences with Marvel, not even a full year ago. But, slowly after that announcement, particularly after Comic Con last year, I've definitely gotten confidence back into this film, and Marvel proved last year after what they did with Guardians of the Galaxy, they always deserve a benefit of the doubt. I was a little disappointed with the first trailer that debut back in January, but I dug the trailer they released a few weeks ago, as it seems like this movie will have a great balance of both humor and action which Marvel has always handled so well. On top of that you're given a terrific cast, Paul Rudd seems perfectly cast in this lead role, and can't really go with Michael Douglass, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Pena, Cory Stroll and others as supporting players. My concerns are still there, but so is my faith. 

#7-Straight Outta Compton

My most anticipated non blockbuster of the summer. Bio pics of musicians are definitely a tough subject to bring to the big screen, and sometimes they can be very hit or miss, but Straight Outta Compton is shaping up to be one of the best ones in a while. I've been a big fan of NWA, as well as Ice Cube and Dr. Dre themselves, for a very long time, and I think this will definitely hit home for any fans, but looks to still be a fascinating film on its own. I'm glad that Dr. Dre and Ice Cube are playing a huge part in the making of this film, and everyone in the cast seem like they'll perfectly capture the real person they're portraying.

#6-Tomorrowland

Up until about a week ago, I'd say I was definitely very intrigued, and somewhat excited for Disney's Tomorrowland, but when that new trailer hit about a week ago, was when I realized how excited I was for this. Usually the summer season is filled with non-stop sequels, reboots or remakes whatever, but something that makes me excited for this film, is that it's one of the more big original films that we'll be seeing this summer. It's got a great concept that if executed well could make for some amazing storytelling, a rock solid cast, and I think the trailers have done a nice job of not really giving a whole lot of the story away. But, Brad Bird's name being attached as the director is probably the biggest reason why I'm really looking forward to this one, I've been a fan of his for a very long time, and he hasn't directed a film yet that I didn't like.

#5-Jurassic World

I feel like I'm in the minority, but I'm actually really anticipating this new Jurassic Park sequel. The original Jurassic Park is amongst one of my favorite films of all-time, and I really hope and think this new installment can bring excitement back into a franchise that needs it after some disappointing sequels. I've actually really liked mostly all of the footage we've seen from this movie (although the first clip wasn't great), the action and dinosaur sequences themselves look insane and a ton of fun, and  they certainly have gotten the right cast to go along with this new movie, I've grown to be a big fan of Chris Pratt over the last few years. I really liked Collin Trevorrow's first feature film, and even though, the story here may not seem like anything new, I do like the direction they seem to be taking this franchise. This won't be the Citizen Kane of dinosaur movies, but I think it'll be one of the more entertaining movies of the summer.

#4-Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation

Similar to the Fast & Furious franchise, the Mission Impossible movies have basically only gotten better as it continues. Ghost Protocol was my favorite one of the series yet, and while I was disappointed that Brad Bird who helmed Protocol wasn't returning for this one, Rogue Nation looks to continue the over the top action and the team dynamic that made that film so much fun. I liked director's Christopher McQuarrie previous work on Jack Reacher, it wasn't the best movie, but I thought he handle the action sequences well, so I'm interested to see what he brings to the tables with this new installment.

#3-Inside Out

Pixar Studios for a long time, was widely considered to be perhaps the best movie studio working today, but in the last 4 years or so, they've been in a little bit of a downslide. I did enjoy Monsters University, their last flick from 2013, but Inside Out looks like it'll be their true return to glory. It's the studio going back to creating an unique and original premise, which they've proven time and time again to be able to execute to perfection, and the wonderful trailers have done a fabulous job not giving a whole lot of the story away. On top of the original premise they're tackling with this, dealing with the different emotions that go around in our head, they've got a pitch perfect voice cast to go along, with the likes of Amy Poehler, and Lewis Black.

#2-Mad Max: Fury Road

This looks like it'll be one INSANE ride and one of the most entertaining movies of the year. I actually haven't seen any of the original Mad Max films with Mel Gibson, but this looks fantastic and I've loved all of the footage I've seen. Tom Hardy, is quickly becoming one of my favorite character actors working today, and this seems look like the perfect role for him, as I'm still waiting for him to explode into stardom status. The action sequences look amazing and CRAZY, the cinematography actually looks beautiful, and the cast all around is impressive with a still looking smoking hot as a bald Charlize Theron starring alongside Hardy.

#1-Avengers: Age of Ultron

My most anticipated movie of the summer is my #2 most anticipated movie of all 2015. Marvel has been on a roll as of late, and Age of Ultron looks like it could be one of their best flicks yet. The first Avengers, which was an event film, is not only one of my favorite comic book movies of all-time, but it's in my personal Top 100 as well (went back and saw it four times in just two weekends), and Ultron looks like it will be not only upping the antes, but also darker, and really sets up the stages for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I've loved all of the trailers they've released, and from what I'm hearing, this is a much different film than the first which actually makes me even more excited. I'm excited to see the gang all back together, as well as the new additions, but easily what I'm most excited for is the addition of the incredible James Spader voicing the role of the main villain himself, Ultron. Marvel has been very hit and miss with their villains, but Ultron looks like one of their best if not their best yet and most menacing.