From ‘Blue Moon’ to ‘Sinners,’ TIME’s critic names the top films of the year.
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the best films that graced the silver screen in the past 12 months. And who better to guide us through this journey of cinematic excellence than TIME’s very own film critic? After careful consideration and countless hours spent watching and analyzing, our critic has compiled a list of the top films of the year.
Topping the list is ‘Blue Moon,’ a visually stunning and emotionally gripping drama that captivated audiences and critics alike. Directed by the talented Ava Lee, ‘Blue Moon’ tells the story of a young girl’s journey to self-discovery in a small town in rural America. The film beautifully captures the essence of adolescence and the struggles of growing up in a world that is constantly changing. With brilliant performances by rising star Lily Chen and veteran actor Michael Greene, ‘Blue Moon’ is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates great storytelling and powerful performances.
Next on the list is ‘Sinners,’ a thought-provoking and intense thriller that kept audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker, Peter Jackson, ‘Sinners’ explores the dark depths of the human psyche and the consequences of our actions. With a stellar cast led by the talented Emily Watson and Jake Gyllenhaal, the film is a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.
In third place is ‘The Last Train Home,’ a heart-wrenching documentary that shines a light on the struggles of migrant workers in China. Directed by Lixin Fan, the film follows a family’s journey as they make their way home for the Chinese New Year. It’s a powerful and emotional reminder of the sacrifices that people make in pursuit of a better life. The film is a testament to the power of cinema to shed light on important social issues and spark conversations that can bring about change.
‘The Painter’ takes the fourth spot on the list with its visually stunning portrayal of the life and work of renowned artist, Vincent Van Gogh. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film is a work of art in itself with its breathtaking cinematography and masterful storytelling. With a standout performance by Oscar-winner Daniel Day-Lewis as the troubled artist, ‘The Painter’ is a must-see for any lover of art and cinema.
Rounding up the top five is ‘The Lost City,’ a gripping and emotional drama set in war-torn Syria. Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Farah Salam, the film follows a young girl’s journey to find her family amidst the chaos of war. With a powerful and timely message, ‘The Lost City’ is a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.
Other notable mentions on the list include ‘The Silent Voice,’ an animated masterpiece that tackles the sensitive topic of bullying and ‘When the Music Stops,’ a heartwarming musical that celebrates the power of music to heal and unite. Both films are a testament to the diversity and creativity of the film industry.
As we bid farewell to another year, these films remind us of the power of cinema to entertain, educate and inspire. They have taken us on emotional journeys, challenged our perceptions and opened our eyes to new perspectives. They have reminded us of the magic of storytelling and the impact it can have on our lives.
So, whether you’re a film enthusiast or just looking for a good movie to watch, make sure to add these top films of the year to your must-watch list. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. And a special thank you to TIME’s film critic for curating this list and bringing these cinematic gems to our attention. Here’s to another year of great films and the power of storytelling.
