After Watching dozens of Films on Big Screens, These Stand Out as Top Picks This Year

The year was marked by a record-breaking cinema attendance, with 70 films watched in theaters, covering major film festivals like Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto International Film Festival. Despite missing some titles, the extensive viewing allowed for a considered selection of the year’s finest films.

Hollywood continued to rely heavily on established intellectual properties, with 23 of the top 25 box office hits being franchise-based. Yet, outside this blockbuster trend, a variety of remarkable films showcased originality and depth, offering a rewarding experience for those seeking more than mainstream fare.

Top 10 Notable Films

1. Sirat – This Spanish post-apocalyptic survival film set in the Sahara Desert begins with a rave and concludes with explosive action. It explores themes of chosen family and loss with striking visuals, winning a Jury Prize at Cannes due to its intense and tragic scenes.

2. Nouvelle Vague – Directed by Richard Linklater, this film is an entertaining tribute to French New Wave cinema. It recreates Jean-Luc Godard’s classic “Breathless” with a hip Parisian ensemble, accessible even without deep knowledge of film history.

3. Andre Is an Idiot – A documentary celebrating San Francisco icon Andre, who passed from colon cancer. The film combines morose themes with an uplifting tribute, earning critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of a life well-lived.

4. Case 137 – A French procedural drama addressing police brutality during the 2018 yellow vest protests. Léa Drucker’s performance as a police investigator stands out in this stark and realistic exploration of accountability.

5. Lurker – A social media thriller by debut director Alex Russell that examines the dark side of parasocial relationships. The plot follows a musician whose awkward fan’s obsession turns chilling, maintaining a lasting impact on viewers.

6. If I Had Legs I’d Kick You – This film portrays a therapist coping with motherhood challenges, led by a powerful performance from Rose Byrne. The intense narrative, produced by Josh Safdie, includes unique supporting roles and is recommended with caution to parents.

7. Sinners – Directed by Ryan Coogler, this surreal horror combines vampire lore with musical and siege elements. It features two Michael B. Jordans and is noted for its success outside typical franchise formulas.

8. Sentimental Value – A slow-burning family drama by Joachim Trier centers on an estranged actress and her filmmaker father reuniting after a matriarch’s death. The film delves into themes of family, art, and reconciliation with quiet intensity.

9. One Battle After Another – Paul Thomas Anderson’s multiple-genre film mixes action, politics, and comedy with a stellar cast including Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn. Its visual spectacle and memorable car chase scenes complement a politically resonant storyline.

10. Honorable Mentions – Many other films contributed to the year’s rich cinematic landscape, reinforcing the diversity and quality available beyond blockbuster dominance.

The cinematic offerings of the year demonstrated a significant range of storytelling, from intimate dramas to innovative genre-blending films. Despite the industry’s financial challenges, these movies provide substantial reasons for continued interest in theater experiences.