Steve Jobs
An impressive script combined with skillful acting performances throughout help create a unique biopic that does more to explore the character of Steve Jobs than to give a summary of his life or to pass judgement on the man who made Apple what it is today.
tick, tick… BOOM!
tick, tick… BOOM! is one of the best films from 2021 thanks to a strong leading performance from Andrew Garfield as Jonathan Larson, very fun and catchy musical numbers, and a heartfelt story about human connection.
Men in Black
Charismatic leads and a host of well-crafted entertainment factors define Men in Black, making it not only one of the best sci-fi films ever but one of the greatest films ever.
Black Orpheus
Dance numbers with purpose, intentional cinematography, and innovative developments of a classic myth help make Black Orpheus a Great Film.
Beasts of the Southern Wild
The uniqueness of the setting combined with skillfully designed and portrayed character development and compelling thematic elements help make Beasts of the Southern Wilds a rewarding watch.
Footlight Parade
Some of the best musical choreography ever put on screen combined with mostly well-aged comedy and impressive acting performances help make Footlight Parade one of the greatest films of all time.
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind succeeds as a film thanks to its resonant and well-communicated theming and its beautiful art style that is played out in its unique postapocalyptic setting.
Finding Dory
Finding Dory may not be the most mature or perfectly crafted of Pixar’s films, but its loyalty to its brand of comedy, interesting setting, and relatable themes help make it a film worth watching.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire overcomes its formulaic roots through powerful acting from its lead and supporting actors and the introduction of themes that are applicable to all audiences.
The Lunchbox
Comedy, unique storytelling, and solid side characters build The Lunchbox into a great film, worth watching despite its lack of conclusive ending and its potentially problematic central relationship.
The Master
The Master’s visuals, acting, and the symbiosis of its leading performances make it worth watching.
Remember the Night
Decent comedy and an original story help the holiday romance of Remember the Night elevate itself above some other romantic comedies; however, the problematic issues that arise from its 1940s-era politics and social commentary are difficult to ignore.
Road to Perdition
Suspending disbelief about Tom Hanks’s ability to be a violent killer is necessary to fully enjoy Road to Perdition, but the film’s strong relational commentaries and juxtapositions and its well-crafted conflict reward viewers.
Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
Good supporting performances and compelling ethical questions help elevate Murder on the Orient Express above its annoying protagonist and relatively methodical mystery story.
The Hate U Give
The Hate U Give does its best to present an honest picture of modern issues for modern audiences, featuring solid performances as it does so.
Imitation of Life (1959)
Imitation of Life’s positive notes might not be enough to vault it onto everyone’s must-watch list, but the performances of its supporting actresses keep it in the list of Greatest Films of All Time.
Now Voyager
Strong female performances, relatable family issues, and a positive portrayal of female independence help this film overcome certain problematic norms and confusing storytelling to make it on the list of Greatest Films.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
With well-written, if dated, songs and dance numbers, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers manages to entertain despite some questionable choices.
