2023 was an interesting year for moviegoers. Overall not the best slate of films. However, the ones that did standout were some of the very best films of any year in recent memory. My list of Top 10 is an eclectic one for sure. It is filled with surprises (even to me) and some nostalgia. Let’s take a peek behind the curtain at the years best…
10. DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES
The first surprise was this comedy adventure film based on the popular role playing game. In the past, such films were disappointing. D&D with its fun cast led by Chris Pine deliver this fantasy inspired world with wit and humor. Yes it’s silly but it’s also smart and well plotted. What I appreciate most is that it appeals to not only those who are familar with the game but those (like myself) who are not. That’s a win in my book.
9. BARBIE
Another surprise entry is this visually dazzling film based on the iconic doll of the same name. Director Greta Gerwig delivers a smart and empowering film. The naysayers will call it anti-male. I didn’t see it that way. While it’s core audience will be female, If you take an honest step back, the social commentary becomes clearer. Margot Robbie will most likely get a Oscar nod for her wonderful performance in the title role. Not to be forgotten was a hilarious performance by Ryan Gosling as Ken.
8. INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY
My nostalgic pick. This final installment of the Indiana Jones franchise is no where near the quality of Raiders of the Lost Ark. Let’s just get that out of the way. It is however, a genuine reminder of how good Harrison Ford is as Indy. I think it’s made for people my age who remember the summer of ’81 and seeing Raiders for the first time. As we age, we all cling to what was and reflect on what is. We all seek one more adventure and Indiana Jones is no different. It’s not without its flaws. But then again, aren’t we all.
7. THE HAUNTED MANSION
The biggest surprise is how poorly this film did in the box office. Perhaps its Disney fatigue or the anti-Disney movement that seems to be happening of late. Regardless of the reasons, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Superior in my mind to the Eddie Murphy version of a few years back. Love the Easter eggs that pay homage to both the Disneyland and Disney World rides that the movie is inspired by. Mansion has an enjoyable cast that included LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson and Owen Wilson. You’ll be grinning too after seeing this.
6. SOUND OF FREEDOM
Not sure where to begin with this one. Sound of Freedom is inspired by true events that made me literlly sick to my stomach. But that was its intention. Jim Caviezel gives a tour de force performance that should not be overlooked at Oscar time. Child trafficking should make any human being uneasy. Some critics call it ‘over the top’ with its disturbing images and scenes. All I know and all that I will say is if you’re a parent in paricular, hug your children a little tighter. Do not take the time you spend with them for granted. And above all, never let anyone make you question how overprotective you may be when it comes to their safety and well-being.
5. NO HARD FEELINGS
You can’t get any different between my number six pick and my my number five. No Hard Feelings stars Jennifer Lawrence in a raunchy comedy that is reminsent of the John Hughes coming of age films of the 80’s. That is a high compliment. Jennifer is excellent. We know she can do action and intense dramas. What we find out here is that she can do comedy. The film is very funny, entertaining and it does not take itself seriously. If you need a good laugh and remember fondly old Hughes teen-centric films, this one will fit that bill.
4. SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE
Easily the most visually stunning film of the year. The eye popping special effects of a comic book animated film just leaps across and grabs you. A roller-coaster ride in the very best sense of the word. A sequel to the surprise hit Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a must see for Spidey fans. Already looking forward to its final installment Beyond the Spider-Verse due out this year.
3. MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE
The Mission: Impossible film franchise may be my favorite of all time. It gets better with each installment. I can’t say the same for the MCU or the Fast and the Furious. Although each one of those is still a lot of fun to sit through with a bucket of popcorn. You don’t watch these films for its “reality”. These are purely visual delights that defy such reality. And that’s ok. There are enough things going on in the world that provide a realistic point of view. I want an escape and Dead Reckoning is such an escape. Tom Cruise whether you like him or not has a way of entertaining his audience that so few actors can. As the title suggests, this is Part One. I for one can’t wait to see what spectacular hi jinx is in store for us.
2. OPPENHEIMER
Up until the final weeks of 2023, this was my clear number one. The only reason why it’s not is because I have grown to expect such cinematic brilliance from director Christopher Nolan. Oppenheimer is an engrossing achievement with stunning visuals. Cillian Murphy should be a shoe in for Best Actor. He is beyond brilliant in the title role. Much like Sound of Freedom, the subject is both intense and will make you feel uneasy. But unlike Freedom, that intense uneasy feeling doesn’t fully hit home until the films defining moments and the detonation of the atomic bomb. The ramifications of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s creation is still being felt today. Oppenheimer is as relevant now as it ever has. A must see for everyone.
1. GODZILLA MINUS 1
The biggest (literally) surprise pick for number one film is this extraordinary film from Japan. It took to this writing to decide on which film was number two and which would end up being number one. Oppenheimer was amazing on so many levels. You expect nothing less from Christopher Nolan. I honestly didn’t know what to expect from Godzilla Minus 1. I found myself as interested in the human story as I was in waiting to see the monster. It’s an epic film, beautifully shot and wonderfully acted. I can’t recommend this film enough. Go see it on the biggest screen you can find. You won’t be disappointed.
That wraps up another year in movies. Would love to know what you think of my list compared to yours. Until next time. Happy New Year and see you all at the movies.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
