Best Films of 2016 (So Far…)
Now that we’ve reached the halfway point of the year, it’s time to discuss some of the great films that have been released thus far.
5) Midnight Special- This science fiction spectacle is both epic and intimate. Director Jeff Nichols crafted a delicate drama about faith and family which lies within a thrilling tale of lies and deceit. The performance from Michael Shannon as a devoted father to a gifted son, is nothing short of remarkable. Shannon uses silence as a weapon, and his long, wordless gazes cut deeper than any words can. “Midnight Special” is Spielberg-esque in it’s use of visual storytelling, and Nichols has proven he is one of the most talented directors in the industry today.
4) The Witch- This haunting film tells the story of a puritan family who has been banished from their village, and must live on the edge of the ominous woods. If I had a vote for the Academy Awards, I would cast my vote for Robert Eggers as the best director of the year. He has crafted a horror film that can stand up to “Halloween,” “Jaws,” and even “The Exorcist.” The cinematography is gorgeous, and Ralph Ineson has given the best performance of the year thus far.
3) The Lobster- This is by far one of the most bizarre films I’ve ever seen. In a not-so-distant future, single people are sent to a resort where they must find a mate within 45 days, or be turned into the animal of their choosing. This astute social satire speaks volumes about society’s obsession with finding their soul mate, as well as their inexplicable distaste for being alone. The performances all around are brilliantly droll, especially Colin Farrell. “The Lobster” is a beautiful, strange, and oftentimes euphoric film experience.
2) Captain America: Civil War- This is one of the greatest comic book films of all time. Period. This is the film “Avengers: Age of Ultron” should have been; a film with deeply interesting characters, political allegories, and sharp, exhilarating action. The direction from Anthony and Joe Russo is flawless, and Robert Downey, Jr. gives his greatest performance as Tony Stark, yet.
1) Everybody Wants Some!!- This spiritual sequel to the classic “Dazed and Confused” transports you back to the 1980s, where a college freshman baseball player navigates his way through college life the weekend before classes begin. What makes this film so special is its richly drawn characters, each with their own distinct personality. Every performance from top to bottom is perfect; not to mention it’s equal parts hilarious and filled with emotional depth.
