2019: A Year of Film in Review
Every year, it seems that film becomes bigger and better. Boundaries are pushed, universes are expanded, and more and more important stories are told. This year is no exception. We’ve seen unexpected performances in Uncut Gems and The Lighthouse. We’ve seen new stories get told through The Last Black Man in San Francisco and Waves, and we’ve seen new takes on old stories through Joker and The Lion King. So, to wrap up the year, here is a review of some of my favorite and most memorable movies from the end of the decade (however, I find it important to note that I have not seen Little Women or Parasite yet. I’m on it though).
The Irishman
I know, I know. You have probably seen a million things about this film, and I am here to re enforce that you need to see it. The Irishman follows Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) as he becomes involved in organized crime in 1950s Philadelphia. The movie is intense, epic, and an overall amazing mob film. With Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, how could you go wrong?
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Something important to know about me is that I adore Mr. Rogers. I also happen to love Tom Hanks, so along with its message of grace and kindness, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood checks all the boxes for me. The movie follows the developing friendship with Mr. Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. What amazes me the most about the film is not the practically saintly way that Mr. Rogers carries himself, but more the focus on how kindness is something that is real and tangible. We can always use a lot more of it. :)
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
I am about to say something that some might deem controversial, but I need to get it off of my chest:
Brad Pitt >>>>>> Leonardo Dicaprio.
I know. It sounds almost blasphemous coming from me. However, Pitt’s performance in this movie seals the deal for me. The film follows Rick Dalton (Leo) as he struggles to find exciting and impactful work as an actor. He spends most of his time with his best friend and stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad), and acquires a new neighbor, Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). Set in Hollywood in the 60s with an amazing soundtrack, this movie is simply good fun.
Toy Story 4
When I saw this movie this summer, I sat in the back of my friends car and cried. To me, Toy Story 4 was not exceptional or anything to that extent, but it was one of those movies that hits you right in the heart. At its core, the film is about growing up, going on new adventures, and leaving old ones behind. I feel like I have grown up with Buzz and Woody, and this was the perfect start to my senior year of highschool. It reminds us that we can always keep those that we love with us, even as we set out on our own.
Wine Country
Following a group of women who go to Napa for a friend’s 50th birthday, this movie is pretty cheesy, but it is filled with heart and tons of laughter. The cast is filled with SNL greats: Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, Maya Rudolph, and makes the perfect movie to watch with a group of your friends and enjoy yourselves. I feel like so many “big” movies today are dramas and actions, but one of the most important things of all to do is simply laugh.
Midsommar
Set in rural Sweden, the disturbing Midsommar follows a couple attending a famous midsummer festival held once every ninety years. The protagonist, Dani, is recovering from a horrific tragedy, while she joins her boyfriend, Chris, and his friends on the holiday. However, the film and the festival soon take a dark turn. Midsommar stood out to be because there are few films as thrilling and simply horrifying as it is that can also act as a depiction of grief and relationship struggles. Following Hereditary, this movie sets the stage for A24’s dominance of the thriller genre, and soon the whole film industry itself.
Fyre
I am sure many of you remember the memes that surfaced following the disastrous Fyre festival. This documentary follows the festival from its creation to its ultimate downfall, and proves to be a fascinating story. The documentary also offers insightful commentary on social media, business, and “influencers” in this day and age, and skillfully warns us that we need to take everything in this digital world with a careful mind.
Booksmart
I have talked about this movie before, and I am not completely sure when I will stop. The film follows Molly and Amy as they go on a crazy adventure the night before graduation. This is one of the first movies that truly made me feel seen. I worry that I am not having enough fun in highschool, I worried about getting into the college that was right for me, and I was constantly insecure about my “coolness”. Aside from my personal connection, the movie perfectly captures what it is like to be a teenager in this day and age, and will make you laugh the whole way through.
2019 was a year of great many films and stories, and I hope that yours was a great one too.
