My Top 10 Films of 2023

Hello there movie buffs and casual viewers alike! Yes, I know 2023 ended several months ago and the Oscars beat me to the punch this year, but let's take a moment to rewind the clock and revisit the gems that made 2023 a year to remember in film. From edge-of-your-seat thrillers to heartwarming comedies and everything in between, 2023 delivered a cinematic buffet that left us craving more. So grab your popcorn and join us on a nostalgic journey as we shine a spotlight on the standout movies that stole the show and captured our hearts last year. As always this is just my favorites of the year and not necessarily the best as I haven’t seen every movie released.

2023 was chock full of comic book movies, but we’re past the glory days of a few years ago, and honestly, only a few of them were standouts and those two are on my list. In addition to those, my honorable mentions that didn’t quite make my top ten are Rebel Moon Part 1, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Napoleon, Ferrari, and The Creator.

10. “Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning” Dir. Christopher McQuarrie

• Securing the number 10 spot on my list is none other than 'Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning,' the latest installment in the iconic action franchise. With heart-pounding stunts, clever espionage, and Tom Cruise being his usual crazy film-loving self, this film continues to redefine the spy genre with its relentless thrills and jaw-dropping spectacle. As Ethan Hunt faces his most impossible mission yet against a malevolent AI, audiences are treated to a rollercoaster of adrenaline-fueled excitement that never lets up. While ‘Fallout’ was one of my favorite action films of all time, 'Dead Reckoning' didn’t quite exceed my expectations, but it still proves once again that the 'Mission Impossible' series is unstoppable in delivering edge-of-your-seat entertainment that leaves you craving for more.

9. “John Wick Ch. 4” Dir. Chad Stahelski

• Sliding into the number 9 spot is "John Wick: Chapter 4," a relentless adrenaline rush that continues to expand the thrilling universe of everyone's favorite Baba Yaga. With Keanu Reeves reprising his iconic role as the legendary hitman, this installment promises even more high-octane action, intricate world-building, and stylishly choreographed fight sequences that have become the hallmark of the franchise. The overhead video game style fight particularly impressed me as well as the climactic fight up then fall down the stairs. As John Wick navigates through a perilous underworld teeming with assassins and intrigue, audiences are treated to a symphony of bullets and bloodshed that never fails to leave us on the edge of our seats. "Chapter 4" cements John Wick's status as one of the most captivating action heroes of our time, solidifying its well-deserved place on my top 10 list.

8. “Barbie” Dir. Greta Gerwig

• Taking the number 8 spot is Greta Gerwig's much-anticipated Barbie film, a delightful romp into the whimsical world of Barbieland that's as enchanting as it is empowering. Led by Margot Robbie's charismatic portrayal of the iconic doll, the film proved to be a celebration of individuality and friendship. But it's not just Barbie stealing the show; Ryan Gosling's portrayal of Ken, accompanied by his now-iconic tune "I'm Just Ken," adds an extra layer of charm and humor to the mix. With Gerwig's visionary direction and a cast that shines as bright as the plastic paradise they inhabit, the film invites audiences into a world where imagination knows no bounds, reminiscent of the creativity and heartwarming spirit of the Lego Movie.

7. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” Dir. James Gunn

• Securing the number 7 spot is James Gunn's triumphant finale of the franchise that put him on the map with "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3." This latest installment in the beloved franchise delivers everything fans have come to expect and more, blending Gunn's signature wit with heart-wrenching moments and visually spectacular action sequences. As Star-Lord, Rocket, and the gang embark on another intergalactic adventure, audiences are treated to a rollercoaster ride of laughter, tears, and awe-inspiring visuals as they fight the fanatical High Evolutionary and finally learn Rocket’s tragic backstory. Gunn's knack for balancing humor and heart shines through once again, reaffirming the Guardians' status as one of Marvel's most endearing ensembles. With its irresistible charm and boundless imagination, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" not only surpasses expectations but also leaves us eagerly anticipating Gunn's upcoming Superman reboot, hinting at another thrilling chapter in the director's illustrious career as well as hope that his control over the DCU will be as strong as that franchise deserves it to be.

6. “The Iron Claw” Dir. Sean Durkin

• In the number 6 spot, "The Iron Claw" emerges as a devastating wrestling drama that intricately weaves a tale of familial turmoil and shattered dreams. Centered around a family ensnared in the grip of their emotionally abusive father's relentless pursuit of success, the film meticulously builds tension and tragedy with each passing moment. As the weight of unfulfilled aspirations and fractured relationships intensifies, the performances, particularly Zac Efron's poignant portrayal, amplify the emotional depth of the narrative. However, it's in the tear-inducing final scene where "The Iron Claw" truly leaves its mark, as the culmination of heartache and tragedy unfolds, evoking a flood of emotions that reverberate long after the credits roll. With its gripping storytelling and powerhouse performances, "The Iron Claw" stands tall as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of familial bonds and the price of chasing unattainable dreams.

5. “Killers of the Flower Moon” Dir. Martin Scorsese

• Claiming the number 5 spot is Martin Scorsese's masterful epic, "Killers of the Flower Moon." Despite its substantial runtime, this gripping drama navigates the haunting events surrounding the killings of Native Americans in the Osage Nation for oil rights, and the subsequent FBI investigation, with unparalleled depth and nuance. Scorsese's directorial prowess shines brightly once again, guiding audiences through a harrowing tale of greed, corruption, and justice deferred. At the heart of the film lies Lily Gladstone's mesmerizing performance, which captivates with its raw emotional intensity and profound vulnerability. As Scorsese expertly weaves together a tapestry of tragedy and resilience, "Killers of the Flower Moon" emerges as a poignant exploration of America's dark past and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. With its meticulous attention to detail and thematic richness, this film marks a significant improvement over Scorsese's previous work, "The Irishman," which I found to be more tedious until the final act.
  

4. “Godzilla Minus One” Dir. Takashi Yamazaki

• Coming in at number 4 is "Godzilla Minus One," a captivating epic that transcends genres to deliver a poignant tale of resilience and recovery in post-World War II Japan. Seamlessly blending the awe-inspiring spectacle of a Godzilla film with the emotional depth of a historical drama, this cinematic gem immerses audiences in a world grappling with the aftermath of devastation. With breathtaking visual effects that bring Godzilla to life in stunning detail, the film rightfully earned its Oscar win for visual effects, showcasing the pinnacle of cinematic craftsmanship. As the Japanese people strive to rebuild amidst the looming specter of destruction, "Godzilla Minus One" serves as a powerful metaphor for the indomitable spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. With its seamless fusion of spectacle and substance, this film stands as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to inspire, uplift, and awe.

3. “The Holdovers” Dir. Alexander Payne

• 2023’s bronze medal goes to Alexander Payne's "The Holdovers," a heartwarming tale that earns its place among the ranks of Christmas classics. With cranky teacher Paul Giamatti stranded with a student during the holiday break, this cinematic gem weaves a poignant narrative of found family and human connection, reminiscent of a bygone era of filmmaking. Led by a stellar ensemble cast, including Da'Vine Joy Randolph's Oscar-winning performance, the film resonates with authenticity and depth, drawing viewers into a world where laughter and heartfelt moments abound. With its timeless charm and evocative storytelling, "The Holdovers" feels like a rediscovered relic from the 70s, transporting audiences to a simpler yet no less profound time in cinema.

2. “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” Dir. Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson

• Taking the silver medal is "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," an animated triumph that surpasses its predecessor in every conceivable way. Bursting with creativity and innovation, this cinematic masterpiece introduces audiences to a vastly expanded cast making up the massive Spider Society led by the strong presence of Oscar Isaac's Spider-Man 2099. As a devout fan of the comics, I really enjoyed Spider-Gwen's enhanced role, particularly her prologue, and hope that could lead to her getting a spin-off film. Beyond its stellar cast, "Across the Spider-Verse" blew me away with its frenetic score by Daniel Pemberton, which heightens every emotional beat and electrifying action sequence with several tracks I’ve listened to countless times. From its heartrending emotional moments to its pulse-pounding finale and tantalizing cliffhanger, this film delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience that leaves audiences clamoring for more. With its boundless imagination and infectious energy, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" swings effortlessly into the pantheon of animated classics, cementing its status as a true marvel of modern filmmaking.

1. “Oppenheimer” Dir. Christopher Nolan

• Unsurprisingly to anyone that knows me, the gold medal of 2023, of course, goes to Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer." As a longtime admirer of Nolan's unparalleled cinematic prowess, it was a thrill to witness him reach new heights with this magnum opus. Drawing upon his extensive filmography and narrative ingenuity, Nolan crafted a mesmerizing masterpiece that transcends conventional storytelling. Robert Downey Jr. and Cillian Murphy deliver tour-de-force performances, earning them well-deserved accolades, while Ludwig Goransson's haunting score further elevates the film to cinematic greatness. Nolan's masterful use of nonlinear storytelling intertwines the riveting drama of Lewis Strauss's hearing with Oppenheimer's pivotal role in the Manhattan Project, culminating in a breathtaking final scene that resonates with profound emotional depth and existential terror. With "Oppenheimer," Nolan not only secures his long-awaited Oscar but also cements his status as one of the greatest visionaries in contemporary cinema.