10) M3GAN
Universal were once the kings of horror and suspense cinema. This is an original and entertaining technological thriller, showing that Universal may be reclaiming that title in the coming years.
9) Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Another animated tour de force from Sony/Columbia, this movie puts to shame every live-action Marvel-based film released in 2023, leaving audiences pumped up for the story’s inevitable finale.
8) Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One
This is that rare action franchise that has gotten better with each installment, and may be Tom Cruise’s best performance as Ethan Hunt yet. Bring on Part Two!
7) Spinning Gold
I love a good music biopic. Neil Bogart of Casablanca Records is one of the unsung heroes of the music world, and this movie beautifully sheds like on this man, his contributions to the music world, and the careers he helped to launch, prior to his far too premature death of cancer.
6) Dumb Money
Sometimes the stories that are true yet somehow stranger than fiction make for the most interesting films. This story about GameStop stock spiraling out of control to the point that it attracts the Congress of the United States must be seen to be believed.
5) Are You There, God? It’s Me Margaret.
Based on the seminal Judy Blume novel, this one features a career-defining performance from Abby Ryder Fortson, who I hope gets to go on to be a successful leading lady in the coming years. A great supporting cast and the period-accurate look and soundtrack further elevate it.
4) The Super Mario Bros. Movie
For years, video game-based movies have been terrible. But in recent years, that finally seems to be changing. This release, based on everyone’s favorite Brooklyn plumber turned Mushroom Kingdom hero, is the best so far. The filmmakers clearly understand and appreciate the source material. Fans won’t be let down!
3) Air
Everyone knows what Nike and Air Jordan are. But it’s easy to forget there was an era when these weren’t household names! Directed by Ben Affleck and starring Matt Damon, it’s a fantastic look into this story that changed the world of athletics and endorsement deals forever.
2) Napoleon
Historical epics always seem like an inevitability come Oscar season, so it was no surprise to see one come out from Ridley Scott, who’s continuing a lengthy and celebrated film career. Fortunately, the movie is no slouch, with amazing world building, performances, and a narrative that rarely stumbles.
1) The Iron Claw
Given the popularity of professional wrestling, it’s surprising there aren’t more movies about it. This film follows the Von Erich family and their wrestling dynasty, as well as the triumphs and defeats both in and out of the ring. It’s the greatest movie ever made about professional wrestling, showing the sport from every conceivable angle.
And there you have it! 2024 is on the horizon, and another year’s worth of films will soon be upon us. What was your favorite movie of the year? Likewise, what are your predictions just around the corner? Bring on the new year and more movies!