Welcome back to the blog readers. Well, it is about that time again. Another year ended and another to look forward to. This post is meant to celebrate the best films of 2023 with some honorable mentions. 2023 was a fantastic year for films (and I know I missed a lot of films that I will get to this year, I promise), and I want to talk about my 20 favorite ones last time. And if you want to read the full review for each film here, this post will have all of them. So, on to it then. Which film would take my crown for top film of the year? If you know me, you know. If not, stick around to find out.
NOTE: I cannot promise that I will not use spoilers on this list, so read this post at your own peril. This is your official spoiler warning; you have been warned. Also, there will be no Taylor Swift on this list. Although I saw the Eras Tour film, it does not qualify for this list due to its status as a concert film.
Honorable Mentions
Somewhere in Queens
The directorial debut of actor Ray Romano, who also cowrote, coproduced, and starred in this film, was marketed as a comedy-drama, but works better as a drama than it does as a comedy (although the one joke that made me smile just so happened to involve meatballs; even though I don't eat them, I could appreciate the joke being Italian myself). That is what eventually led me to leave it off the main list, but strong performances from Romano, Laurie Metcalf, Jacob Ward, and Sadie Stanley make for an intriguing watch nonetheless. Check it out if you want a good time.
Zoey 102
A film I bet none of you expected to be anywhere near a list like this. Zoey 102 is the spiritual successor to the Nick series Zoey 101 and I would expect only fans of the series would be tuning in to this film. I was not the biggest fan of the show but I could appreciate it for what it was. This film is everything I could have wanted for what it is. Zoey 102 brings back the nostalgia of the series while reinventing it with fun performances from Jamie Lynn Spears and Sean Flynn.
With these honorable mentions out of the way, here is my official list for the top 20 films of 2023.
20. 80 for Brady
Honestly, I was only seated for this film to see Tom Brady (and his former Patriots teammates Danny Amendola, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski so I could relive the glory days). But what I got was a very warm comedy that prioritizes its leads and emphasis on friendship and makes for a damn delightful watch.
The chemistry between the four leads (Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field) is unmatchable as the industry vets shine in a more lighthearted film than they are normally known for. Playing four lifelong friends that decide to go to Houston to see the Patriots play in the Super Bowl, the four leads are magnetic as ever. I have to single out Tomlin though for being the emotional pole for the film, and her arc is genuinely one of the best of 2023.
The comedy is actually pretty funny, the guest stars (Billy Porter, Guy Fieri, Alex Moffat, Marshawn Lynch, and Patton Oswalt) are awesome, and the heart and soul are there for the taking. If you are looking for a good little flick to watch when you're alone, this is the one for you.
19. Knock at the Cabin
As you may have seen in the past year, I have had a love-hate relationship with horror films. Some are good, some are bad, and some are Halloween Ends (2022). But that is not the point here. The point is that the man Shamhammer came back with another film in 2023, this time a film adaptation of the Paul G. Tremblay novel The Cabin at the End of the World. And although it is marketed as an apocalyptic psychological horror film, it acted as more of a thriller, and I think it made the film better.
Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge play a married couple who vacation at a cabin with their daughter when they are approached by four strangers (Dave Bautista, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rupert Grint, and Abby Quinn) to sacrifice one of them to prevent the end of the world. And I have to argue here that this film gives the best performance of Bautista's Hollywood career and the breakout vehicle for Rupert Grint (so everyone can stop seeing him as Ron Weasley; although he was the first to die).
Fortunately, I was able to look past the religious allegories littered throughout the film and see it for what it is: a story about the power of love and what one is willing to do to keep it. That is how I see the film, and if you give it a chance, this may be a message that you get in your experience.
18. The Marvels
There is a lot of turmoil going on right now in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). From the negative reception to a lot of the projects released since the COVID-19 pandemic started, to the firing of Bob Chapek and the rehiring of Bob Iger, to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, to the (partial) conviction and firing of Jonathan Majors, Marvel has been in a tailspin since Iron Man sacrificed himself to save the universe.
The Marvels kind of suffers from the same mediocrity disease that has been plaguing the MCU as of late, but the film is anchored by the unwavering performances of the three leads (Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, and Iman Vellani) and their chemistry together. I loved each of the three individually in the past, but bringing them together was the best thing Marvel could have done. If not for this, I doubt this film would even be on this list.
I did have some issues with the film, which prevented it from going higher on this list. There were some pacing issues (I think we could have gone like 10-15 minutes longer) and Marvel once again suffers from bad villain syndrome with one of their worst in Dar-Benn. With the fallout of the strikes and the leadership change, I think we will be back on the right track (we got Echo, Agatha: Darkhold Diaries, and Deadpool 3 this year so I think we are on the up and up).
17. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
One of my favorite franchises has always been the Transformers franchise. I remember seeing the first film in 2007 when I was 9 years old, and it changed the course of my life. I have honestly found redeeming qualities in every film that has released since (despite what all you haters might think), and it led me to this film, which I had a good time with.
The Transformers films have the same issue that the Legendary Godzilla films have, and that is the lack of depth in human characters. In Rise of the Beasts, you are invested in the story of Anthony Ramos's character from the start, and he even gives a great performance on top of it. I even enjoyed the rest of the human characters, especially Dominique Fishback. The voice acting is on point as well (especially Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, and Colman Domingo as Unicron).
For a Transformers film, this was an enjoyable one. Between the performances, the music, and the ending, However, I do have questions about the future of the franchise, especially after they teased the long-rumored crossover between G.I. Joe and Transformers. It certainly will be an interesting road ahead for our favorite alien robots.
16. Creed III
One of the biggest surprises I have ever had as a film fan was how damn good Creed (2015) was. This was the film (and NOT FANT4STIC (2015)) that put Michael B. Jordan on my radar. Now in a third outing, B. Jordan sees himself in the director's chair for the first time to deliver a knockout performance for the ages joined by another high profile star.
The intrigue of Creed III falls solely on the performances of B. Jordan and Jonathan Majors, who are like dynamite when they are together. B. Jordan as Donnie Creed delivers possibly his best performance yet, pulling from a place I have not seen from him to this point. On the other side, Damian Anderson is the most intriguing villain in the Rocky/Creed franchise because there is so much meat to the character, and because there is so much future potential. Majors absolutely steals the show in this role. Also rest in peace to Phylicia Rashad's character Mary-Anne.
With electric fighting, music, and performances, Creed III absolutely was a step in the right direction for the franchise. Based on everything that has happened with Majors, I am upset we most likely will not see him in future installments because e was a breath of fresh air. I definitely would be seated for Creed IV, I just hope it comes.
15. The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Just as a disclaimer, this is one of the only two animated films to be on either list this time around. Now I want to preface this by saying I was never the biggest Mario fan in the world, although I did play some of the games in my past. All I can really say is that this was a good, not great, film with some obvious flaws. Now please don't get on my ass about my opinion, it is just that. An opinion. We are all entitled to our own.
I do have to commend the voice acting, especially Chris Pratt (who y'all clowned on for the voice by the way), Anya Taylor-Joy, and Jack Black, who was inspired casting to play Bowser, by the way. If there was a voice acting award, fuck The Boy and the Heron (2023), because I'm giving it to Black. I do think what they did with the characters of Mario and Luigi was good, and not just because I am from Brooklyn, but because they are human characters brought to a world with which they are unfamiliar.
The big issues I have with this film, and the reason that this film is not higher, is the fact that the story is paper-thin with nothing eye-opening or world-changing. The other big issue I have is that a good and compelling story was traded in for nostalgia bits, with every scene and every action involving something from the franchises' past. I caught on quickly and that kind of took me out of it. But the film is a good time for kids and adults all the same.
14. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
The Ant-Man films have always been a breath of fresh air in my eyes, and I think this was a role that Paul Rudd was born to play. Before I saw this film though, I did see the negativity this film was getting and I honestly got a little nervous, because I love this franchise. I even ventured out to see this film despite getting injured in a car accident the day prior. Now that is dedication.
I wound up quite enjoying the film despite all things considered regarding the press surrounding it, and I still think Paul Rudd was born to play this role. Was it as memorable as past MCU films? Not at all, but I do not compare films based on previous installments or any preconceived notions. It was a fun little science-fiction film with some good performances (especially from the aforementioned Rudd, Kathryn Newton, and Jonathan Majors).
My issue is that it was not as memorable as other MCU films, but that is to be expected when conventional is thrown out the window. If you are able to overlook the fact it is a black sheep in the wider world and the script may not be all there, you can get a fun little science-fiction film that does what another film released in 2023 (and yes, I am talking to you Snyder) does not, and that is just be fun.
13. Thanksgiving
What do you associate with the holiday of Thanksgiving? Could it be the turkey or the other food? What about the time spent with your family? Could it possibly be the parades? Or maybe you fancy watching the Lions or Cowboys on Thanksgiving? What about preparing for the Black Friday deals? Or maybe could it be the murder in cold blood, orchestrated by a psycho serial killer donning a John Carver mask? Yeah, that's it. Or that's at least what I will be associating with Thanksgiving after this awesome slasher!
Thanksgiving is honestly my biggest surprise of the year, because going in I had no idea what to think. When the Black Friday massacre happened at the beginning, I was locked in and ready to be wowed. The performances, while admittedly can get a little cheesy (especially from Addison Rae of all people), are charming enough to get you on board. Patrick Dempsey is the clear highlight of this film, and the reveal that he is John Carver honestly had me shook.
The violence is on another level too. One of the goriest and most brutal films of the year (second only to the next entry) while also being light-hearted enough and funny, this film was bloody fun, and I truly cannot wait to be seated for the inevitable sequel we will be getting. One of the best horror films of the year.
12. Evil Dead Rise
To be honest with you guys, I am an Evil Dead rookie. I had not seen an Evil Dead film in my life, so I guess I went into this film unprepared. I was under the assumption that we would be getting a lowkey psychological horror film, but boy was I "dead" wrong. This film is a masterclass in show, not tell and the violence and gore spread throughout led me to the creepiest film I have seen this year.
One of the best performances in my mind this year has to go to Alyssa Sutherland. The power that she has to tap in to in order to deliver a performance so bone-chilling and terrifying is a testament to how good of an actor she is. Lily Sullivan delivers a performance just as good as Sutherland's, and hers is one of the most believable of the year. The children also give stellar performances, especially Nell Fisher, who gives the best child performance of the year.
Like I said, I should have been prepared for what was to come, but the fact that I was not I think only adds to the experience. I remember not being able to collect my thoughts shortly after the watch, and now I can say that I think this film is a masterpiece in horror after
looking back and doing some soul-searching.
11. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
This is only the second animated film on either list. I remember being hesitant to see Into the Spider-Verse (2018) because I did not think I would enjoy myself in that film. Well I was wrong, because I had a hell of a time with that film, and I was actually looking forward to the sequel, knowing it would be a two-part story. You guys need to watch this film because it honestly is the best animated film of the year (barring the fact that I only saw 2 of them).
The voice acting is magnificent here, with everybody stepping up their game and the newcomers shining and showing out. Shameik Moore was on fire as Miles Morales, Hailee Steinfeld is a charm to see as Gwen, and Bryan Tyree Henry is just as good as Jefferson Davis. And man, the newcomers. Jason Schwartzman is fantastic as the Spot, and his performance makes for one of the best villains of the year. Daniel Kaluuya rocks as Hobie Brown, a character that also rocks. Issa Rae stunned me with a great voice performance as Jessica Drew. But Oscar Isaac, man. As Miguel O'Hara, Isaac gives another inspired performance that had me rooting for his character.
I was also a big fan of the story and the themes of this film as well, with messages regarding guilt, regret, and loss acting as big themes. I love how the other versions of Spider-Man are not used as a joke, but instead as vehicles for the story to progress. And the twist at the end, holy shit. They hint at it before it happens, but I did not catch on to it. That I think made it more effective, and more excited to see Beyond the Spider-Verse (TBA).
10. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
One of the franchises that I had from my childhood was the Indiana Jones franchise. I have loved these films for a long time, even having an appreciation for Temple of Doom (1984) despite all the violence, and I found some redeeming qualities in Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008) before I grew older. There was a lot that excited me about Dial of Destiny, and I was right to be excited.
Harrison Ford gives possibly his best performance as Indy, along with a show-stealing performance from Phoebe Waller-Bridge. And when the two of them are together on screen, there's some magic that happens. MAGIC (If you know where that is from, you win the raffle that may or may not exist). And Mads Mikkelsen is wonderful as always as the villain of the film. The other performances were fun as well, so do not count out people like Boyd Holbrook, John Rhys-Davies, and Antonio Banderas.
Although there were some pacing issues I had, the story was fantastic. They do not shy away from Indy's age, and make for a fitting conclusion that had me choked up in spots. I would have loved the decision for Indy to stay in Syracuse and hang out with Archimedes, but the ending we got where he reunites with his Marion is just as fucking bittersweet. Goodbye Indy, we will certainly miss you.
9. Scream VI
If you recall my ranking from last year, you would see that I definitely enjoyed Scream (2022) for being my entry point into the franchise by placing it 13th on that list. Scream VI is a hell of a lot better and a hell of a lot more fun if I will be honest. And there are definitely a lot of things that it does better than Scream 2022.
First and foremost, the performances are awesome. Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega definitely have the acting chops, and the two of them delivered a story about trauma and the toxicity of social media to the forefront in a stellar way. And the trio of Jack Champion, Liana Liberato, and Dermot Mulroney are thrilling and entertaining as the eventually-revealed Ghostfaces of New York looking for revenge.
The violence is right up there with the previous installment (if you cannot tell, I love these kinds of films right now). That twist of the three not only being a family, but responsible for the events in the film is one that took a lot of digging and manpower for us to get, but I was definitely shocked. One of the best elements of these films is the "whodunit" aspect of them. And I definitely love playing along. Sucks that the next installment was uprooted of its leads (due to scheduling conflicts and unnecessary firings) and director (probably linked to that).
8. M3GAN
Without a doubt the biggest surprise of the year for me. I truly was not prepared for what I was about to see heading into it, though I heard the word of mouth. Coming off a year where most of the horror films that came out (except Scream and Smile (2022)) all sucked, I was definitely nervous, especially knowing this film was releasing in January, also known as the death pit for films.
I loved every second of this film unapologetically, and I could care less what anyone else thinks. M3GAN is the best horror film of 2023, and it isn't even a full-fledged horror film. The corniness makes it awesome, and the anchors are the performances of Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, and Amie Donald as the physical portrayal of M3GAN (and Jenna Davis as her voice). To tell the kind of story that was told with the level of campiness that was gained is a crowning achievement.
Besides my next entry, the hardest I laughed in a film this year was when this fucking doll started singing "Titanium" by David Guetta and Sia. That moment right there made me realize that this shit was an event, and one I wanted to be seated for. We are already getting a sequel slated for a 2025 release, so expect me to be seated there and for any other related project in this universe.
7. Joy Ride
Another film where I did not know what to expect going in. What drove me to this film was the reception. Once people started coming out and saying they really liked the film and then when critics said it too, I knew I had to be there. And I am so glad I listened to the word of mouth, because this is probably the funniest film I have seen in a long time. I am dead serious here.
The strength of this film is twofold: the first is the performances of the leads (Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, Stephanie Hsu, and Sabrina Wu) and their unmatchable chemistry. When the four of them are on screen together, it is a damn riot to watch, and I am so glad it is these four women in this role. I cannot imagine anyone else coming in and elevating the material the way these four ladies were able to.
The second strength is the comedy. The comedy was fresh, genuine and relevant, and I loved pretty much every joke even though I am aware that I am not the target demographic. Ever other minute I was belly-laughing in the absolute best way, and the jokes never got old, even if they got preeeeeeetty raunchy. And believe me when I tell you, the jokes are very raunchy. Definitely wait until your kids are at least 18 to show them this film. But for anyone else, watch it for a hell of a time with hilarious yet raunchy comedy, great performances, and a genuinely heartfelt story.
6. The Flash
I want to preface this part of the review with a note. I in no way am condoning Ezra Miller for their actions, and I am actually glad that they will not be returning to DC even though I love them as Barry Allen. And despite all the mixed reception to the film, I actually walked away very delighted and very disheartened that we would not be seeing these iterations of these characters anymore.
Speaking of Miller, they give a dynamic and memorable dual performance as two versions of Barry Allen (technically three if you count "Dark Flash"), with the actor being able to bring such a nuance to each version of the character that even though they are the same person, Miller makes it so they aren't. I also loved the performances of Sasha Calle in her film debut, Ron Livingston, and Michael Keaton all give great performances as well.
I also really love this adaptation of the Flashpoint storyline from the comics, after the CW Flash series tried it to a lesser extent. The fact that alternate timelines come into play as well makes for a compelling story about guilt and loss, and one that will be remembered for a long time. Forget the mixed reception and the antics of its lead actor, and you have not just a great superhero film, you have a great film.
5. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One
How do you follow up one of the best and most successful action films ever made in Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018)? Make a film that is even better, and does everything better in the process. Better acting, better action, better stakes, holy fuck guys. What is there not to love? At this rate, give me 10 more of these and I'll be happy. I'm just grateful I was able to cover this film while we were in the infancy of the SAG-AFTRA strike.
Tom Cruise is 60 years old, but you would never know it because of how dedicated he is. I mean, he will be shooting a film in space in the near future. Is that secretly Mission: Impossible 8 (2025)? Shit. Hayley Atwell is a force of nature in this film, rest in peace to Rebecca Ferguson's character (who was awesome), and Esai Morales shines as the villain who acts as the liaison to the villainous rogue AI.
I do love the story that was told regarding the rise of artificial intelligence, especially since it is a hot-button issue at the moment with the real life rise of it. The action is incredible, with the parachute stunt being the most note-worthy thing in film not named "Barbenheimer" or the strikes to happen this year. My excitement for the follow-up sequel is through the roof right now. Why can't it be 2025 already? Actually, never mind.
4. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
The Guardians of the Galaxy films (2014-2023) have been some of my favorite in the MCU, and Vol. 3 is a prime example of why. Not only is it undoubtedly the best superhero film of 2023 by a longshot, in my opinion, it is the best superhero film since Avengers: Endgame. And I ranked Spider-Man: No Way Home and Zack Snyder's Justice League (both 2021) at second and first on my list. What a satisfying end to the trilogy.
The main Guardians (Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, and Pom Klementieff) all give their best performances as their characters, and I especially want to highlight Pratt and Cooper's voice role. Both of them made you believers in their characters and their work in this film proves that they can go. I also cannot get enough of Chukwudi Iwuji as the villain the High Evolutionary. Coming off Peacemaker (2022-present), he was absolutely fantastic and one of my favorite MCU villains.
The theme of family is absolutely prevalent throughout the film, as evidenced by Gamora's relationship with the Ravagers, the Guardians and their familial ties, Rocket with this chosen family in the heartbreaking flashbacks, and Peter Quill's decision to reunite with his grandfather after the events of the film. If this is the last time we see any of the Guardians, it will be saddening, but James Gunn left us with some great memories. Good luck over at DC my man.
3. John Wick: Chapter 4
For about four months, this was my favorite film of the year. Like why wouldn't it be? As a big fan of the franchise (Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019) was ranked as my eleventh favorite film of that year, although I might have to update that), I can admit it is one of those franchises where the films keep getting better and better. This film is no exception, as everything is fantastic.
Keanu Reeves gives possibly the best performance of his career as John Wick. Donnie Yen is electric in his role. It is always a delight to see Laurence Fishburne and Ian McShane doing their thing. Rest in peace Lance Reddick, and I cannot wait to see you one final time in Ballerina (2024). Bill Skarsgård is gripping as the villain, with Clancy Brown awesome as ever as the Harbinger. Even Rina Sawayama was awesome in her limited role.
For only featuring 3 action set-pieces in a 2:50 runtime, the pacing was brilliant and the action was some of the best I have ever seen (that top-down shot in the building was absolutely fucking insane), and the score by Tyler Bates is everything I could have wanted. I really do not care at this point. Give me 15 more films in this universe and I will be satisfied. Chad Stahelski has delivered us a new awesome action franchise.
2. Godzilla Minus One (ゴジラマイナスワン)
Truth be told, watching films in other languages is tough for me because I tend to focus more on the subtitles than what is actually happening on screen (and nothing else, you dog-whistling assholes). And I love these kaiju films because they tend to be different. I was excited to see this after the positive word of mouth and boy was I shocked. I would call this the biggest surprise of the year for me, but I was prepared for this unlike M3GAN. This film is absolutely brilliant.
I love basically everything about this film, especially the performance of lead Ryunosuke Kamiki, who gives one of the most raw and believable performances I have seen in a long time (and one that I would honestly give an Oscar nomination to). Minami Hamabe plays the love interest and gives an equally fantastic performance. The rest of the performances are heightened by the two leads. But the main performance to note is of the big guy himself. He is not the same Godzilla that we see in the MonsterVerse (2014-present), plus he is an allegory for more than just destruction.
I could go on and on about the score, the action, the costumes, whatever. But the true charm of this film is the story and the themes. As someone who has struggled with their mental health, this is a story that spoke to me on a level unforeseen. How mental health is treated honestly surprised me, and it is a beautiful message. Especially when Godzilla is used for more than just box office, he is used as an allegory for mental health and post-traumatic stress. If you have not seen this film, put your feelings aside and witness something that is going to change the game.
1. Sound of Freedom
Ha, got you guys again! I would be caught dead before seeing a film like this. Before I move on though, I do have something important to say on the issue of this film. The issue of child trafficking is a serious one, and I do agree that it is something we all should be dedicated to eliminating, but I refused to watch this film because it is basically a dog-whistle for QAnon and their conspiracy theories. When you have the director and lead actor going on press junkets and pedaling these conspiracy theories, it hurts the momentum of the film, and everyone who sees or supports it accuses anyone who hasn't seen it or won't support it of supporting the same thing this film is "against." Please guys, do not let hate into your heart and do not see this film. Also, since it kind of is on brand right now, make sure you vote blue in 2024 to prevent Trump and his cronies from destroying our country.
Sorry for the pep talk and the swerve, but here is my actual favorite film of the year. And if you know me at all, you would know that this selection is of no surprise to you.
1. Oppenheimer
I find it rare when a film that I had set some high expectations for meets those expectations, but I find it even rarer when a film that I set my expectations extremely (probably unnecessarily) high for completely exceeds those expectations. The latter is the case for Christopher Nolan's latest film. A masterpiece of a film that explores the beauty and tragedy of one of the most fascinating men to ever live in America. One of the greatest films I have ever seen.
Cillian Murphy gives a tour-de-force performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer, making you root for the man who spent the latter years of his life a tormented one due to his actions. This performance has already earned him a Golden Globe, and I predict more accolades in the near future. Emily Blunt is daring and courageous as Kitty Oppenheimer. Matt Damon is powerful as Leslie Groves. But I would argue the best performance of not only the film, but of the year, is Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss. Downey Jr. acted his ass off in this film, and gave the most epic performance I have seen from him so far. He deserved that damn Golden Globe. Also have to praise that scene for its tension and ability to grip you, the masterful score by Ludwig Göransson, and the cinematography by Hoyte van Hoytema
Oppenheimer's main question is the possibility of nuclear war, and it is a relevant topic, since this is a threat we live with even to this day. And that point is hammered home with the most bone-chilling scene of the year. And all I will tell you about what I am trying to say is "I believe we did." Give Chris Nolan all the fucking awards because this film is an absolute triumph for cinema.
And now we have reached the end of our list. The difference between this year's list and last year's is that I don't also have to give a mini-review of each film since you cannot see the review for those films. But I thank you guys as always for sticking with me until the end. I have my rankings of the 15 worst films of 2023, plus what I am looking forward to seeing in 2024 and reviews for Wonka and The Iron Claw. Thank you all again, and I will see you for the next one.
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