To be clear, these lists include every movie that I've watched this year, whether the movie came out in 2024 or not. My list would be much smaller if that was a limitation. My film total this year was just about 200 but there are a good number of re-watches in that count. I'm about to list just about every new to me movie I've watched lately.
Two movies which would probably be considered classics that I finally watched:
My Cousin Vinny and Point Break
I liked Vinny much more than Break. Vinny is a courtroom comedy that didn't make me laugh out loud very much but I was having fun. Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei work well together. Joe Pesci is a treasure.
Point Break hurt my ears and my eyes. There were long scenes of soft rock playing against the waves. Fade ins and outs, one or two good scenes but the whole thing felt like a slog. Neither Patrick, nor Keanu impressed me.
One movie I didn't know what to make of was The Exorcist: Believer.
It was both worse and different than I thought it was going to be.
It was neat that they brought Linda Blair back. I think it suffers from that worst thing you can say... it's boring. Watching horror movies for the first time can sometimes take you on rides into the subconscious in order to distract you from what you are actually watching.
And the award for the most average movie I've watched this year: Uncharted
The action was decent in my opinion. The two leads were likable but didn't have much chemistry. The dialogue is not as over the top as some of the other movies on my worst list. But really it's just a silly stupid video game movie. It also didn't pain me like the bottom ten did but was nowhere near a good movie.
Other one-offs
Thanksgiving - The opening Black Friday scene is far more terrifying than any serial killer the rest of the movie has to offer.
Birdbox - Not a survival horror fan, and the gimmicks don't help. You can't look around in this movie but in The Quiet Place you couldn't make a sound. Just waiting for the can't eat movie or the can't smell movie. Better than something like The Road but doesn't hold a candle to say I Am Legend.
All Quiet on the Western Front - Probably too long, I cared nothing for the characters. Never watched the original so I don't know if that was any better or if this was a shot for shot remake. I kept thinking about how better 1912 was while watching it. I might have rather watched a WW1 documentary but it did get my interest in WW1.
Godzilla Minus One - Our relationship started as overhyped to me. I was told how amazing it was and while it was different (and better than the 1998 one), it also didn't sweep me off my theoretical feet.
Fear Street Trilogy - I probably waited too long between numbers one and two. I was probably not sober enough for part two but the whole thing came together in part three. I wouldn't recommend this to just anyone but if you want a modern horror trilogy that bounces around it's actors and timelines, you probably can't do better.
My Worst of the Year Honorable Mentions:
Mother May I
- Some possession and character study with a couple in a bottle movie. Slow pacing and low payoff. Predictable and otherwise forgettable.
Morbius
- Lowered expectations do really help the sonyverse. Is the whole thing sad...yeah but it also has meme dancing. I think everyone's in on the joke except Leto. Haven't watched Kraven or Madame Web yet, but it's at least worse than the Venom installments.
Project Power - I think I might have watched this twice, and I couldn't give you very much positivity. Jamie Fox is in it...There. It's an unique premise, exploring a world where a pill grants temporary superpowers. While the action is intense at times, the film's uneven pacing and underdeveloped characters hinder its potential to fully captivate.
Snow White and the Huntsman - Dark take on the fairy tale. The film's atmosphere and action sequences shine, its uneven pacing and muddled plot detract from the overall experience. Did I hate almost all the characters? Yes. Did it bother me to watch it? Yes. Were there worse movies witnessed by me this year? Yes.
We Have a Ghost - Occasionally struggles to find a balance between its lighthearted tone and emotional depth. Not what I was expecting. I was assuming A Haunted House by the Wayans Brothers type. This movie was mostly serious. David Harbour stood out but wouldn't re-watch it.
My Worst Ten Movies I Watched This Year.
10. Battleship
- Alien invasion action movie taking place on the water. We learn practically nothing about said aliens. Taylor Kitsch, Liam Neeson and Rihanna for some reason team up with some actual WW2 veterans to play a Milton Bradley board game. An over-the-top, action-packed spectacle that blends naval warfare with an alien invasion, offering plenty of explosive thrills. Despite some eye-popping visuals, the film's predictable plot and shallow character development make it more of a mindless blockbuster than a memorable cinematic experience.
9. Teacher of the Year
- I watched it just for Keegan-Michael Key but he couldn't save it with what little he did. I never became a fan of the documentary style the film took. A lighthearted comedy that offers a humorous take on the challenges and rewards of teaching, anchored by solid performances from its cast. While it delivers few laughs, the film's predictable plot and lack of depth prevent it from fully exploring its potential. It was like a really bad episode of The Office.
8. Red Dawn
- Maybe if I watched it in the 80s as a teenager I might have some nostalgia towards it but it's both unrealistic and boring. It has a spot on cast straight from Dirty Dancing and Ferris Bueller. A thrilling Cold War-era action film that imagines a small American town fighting back against a Soviet invasion. Its tone and premise are dated and heavy-handed. I was bored and unhappy watching this. What I wanted it to be was an over the top action slight to heavy comedy. I think that as a theme with people in America fending off an invasion and focusing on highschoolers is an awesome idea.
7. Snowpiercer
- I think it's also a show so it clearly has some kind of following but this movie just didn't work for me. The premise is beyond over the top - the entire world's population being trapped on a train less they freeze to death. They might as well be in a Chronicles of Narnia magical land meets The Road (Yeah I fucking hate The Road). Another deep cast. It does try to raise some questions about responsibility, leadership, oppression. Every single thing that happened in this movie was boring or it pissed me off.
6. He's All That
- A lighthearted teen rom-com that reimagines the classic "She's All That," with a modern twist and a social media-savvy protagonist. While it offers some fun and charming moments, the film's predictable plot and lack of depth make it a forgettable entry. I might not have watched this if not for Cobra Kai and Tanner, but I definitely wouldn't have watched it if I hadn't seen the original. Guys can't quite get a makeover like girls do. The girl lost her ponytail and glasses and became beautiful. With a guy, uhh maybe a haircut and better clothes and now he doesn't look like a nerd.
5. Unfrosted
- Who would’ve thought a movie about Pop Tarts and Jerry Seinfeld would be so damn unfunny. It kept me entertained only for about an hour. It was sillier than I could have expected. A quirky and entertaining comedy that dives into the absurd origins of the Pop-Tart, blending humor with historical satire. While its lighthearted take on corporate rivalries and innovation provides laughs, the film constantly struggles to find a clear direction amid its comedic chaos.
4. The Adam Project
- A heartwarming sci-fi adventure that blends time travel with family drama, anchored by performances from Ryan Reynolds and a child actor. While the film delivers plenty of action and emotional moments, its predictable storyline and reliance on familiar tropes prevent it from reaching its full potential. Four flirting with A list actors taking a payday for what is a flawed execution of a movie. It doesn't really challenge anything or provide anything new or interesting.
3. 65
- Uggh where to begin. Sci-fi thriller adventure that blends survival moments with prehistoric dangers, as Adam Driver faces off against dinosaurs after crash-landing on a mysterious planet. While the premise is intriguing, the film completely struggles with pacing and character development, leaving its potential for emotional depth unexplored. Yeah again, when I first heard of the premise, I thought it could have potential. But not like this.
2. Red Notice
- A high-energy, globetrotting heist film featuring a star-studded cast of Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds, trying to produce action and humor. While the dialogue between the leads is cringe worthy and boring, the film's formulaic plot and lack of depth leave it feeling more like a flashy cash in spectacle than a truly memorable experience. Predictable storyline and the movie relied too much on the celebrity appeal of its cast rather than on strong character development or an engaging script. I want to go Jay and Silent Bob on whoever made this.
1. Rebel Moon (BOTH)
- An epic sci-fi adventure with stunning visuals and an immersive world, directed by Zack Snyder. While its grand scale and ambitious storytelling promise a thrilling ride, the film's pacing and character development feel overshadowed by its visual spectacle. Part two tries to do better with some/any character arcs and more intense action sequences but it's even worse. Its complex narrative and heavy reliance on spectacle may overwhelm. Charlie Hunnam was the best character and <SPOILER> he died 50 minutes into the 4 hour and 15 minute crapfest. Surely you can do better Netflix and Snyder. I loved the Snyder cut of Justice League, but this was closer to Sucker Punch or a worse Army of the Dead. 300, Dawn of the Dead, Man of Steel, Watchmen... these are all awesome. But then he has these complete stinkers. Don't fucking watch this haha.
My Best of the Year Honorable Mentions:
Oblivion
- Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Jack Harper, a drone repairman, discovers a long-buried secret that challenges everything he believes about the Earth’s destruction and his mission. As he unravels the truth, Jack must confront powerful forces and make difficult choices about loyalty, identity, and humanity's survival. Has both visually stunning cinematography and strong performances. Plot has a good twist ending that I sure didn't see coming, but also wouldn't ruin it on further rewatches ala Matrix. It's more Sixth Sense than The Village. It's no Top Gun Maverick or Edge of Tomorrow but it's Knight and Day better than The Mummy.
Venom: The Last Dance
- I enjoyed it but the tone was all over the place. Your main characters were making Prometheus character level intelligence decisions. The movie starts off with the biggest baddie this side of Thanos and Galactus but then you would get 10 minutes of hippies singing followed by a 10 minute car chase followed by dancing. As far as being a third movie in a trilogy, which are usually by far the worst, it holds up quite well. I think it stands up to the previous two in that I could make a debate for each being the best or worst.
2 Guns
- Fast-paced thriller that pairs Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington in a dynamic and entertaining buddy cop duo. While the plot is filled with twists and turns, the film's humor and chemistry between the leads make it an enjoyable ride. I enjoy both of those main actors. It had a number of decent action scenes. More importantly didn't make me cringe unlike that Red Notice and Adam Project shit above.
Damsel
- Dragon sacrifice sort of survival revenge tale. It was like a long GOT episode, but very predictable and also finished to a satisfying ending. Millie Bobby Brown comes through strong here. I think she would be cool in a Alien/Predator/Terminator kind of ending lady. It has a unique twist on traditional tropes. You would have to be in the mood for that kind of thing.
Inside Man
- Bank heist thriller. I already want to rewatch it, not because of how awesome it was but because I don't really remember how it ended other than their being an inside 'man'. It has a smart, clever and intricate plot. The film features standout performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster. Each actor brings depth to their role, with Washington's portrayal of a determined detective and Owen's as a charismatic, enigmatic criminal adding tension and intrigue throughout the film.
Men
- Deeper meaning movie similar to Annihilation or Mother. Not what I expected but in a good way. A haunting psychological horror film that explores grief and trauma through a disturbing and surreal lens. While its unsettling imagery and thought-provoking themes leave a lasting impression, the film might be too ambitious of a narrative and has a slow pace.
Old Dads
- A raunchy comedy that takes a humorous look at the challenges of middle age and fatherhood through the lens of three friends. While it offers plenty of laughs and sharp wit, it relies on crude humor and predictable gags. I enjoyed it for the most part and it hit home to me for obvious reasons. A couple scenes I had to show others. It probably won't be looked at as a classic, but there is at least a non zero chance of that being a possibility. This was the scene that hooked me.
Support the Girls
- I had a real good time with this. A heartfelt and understated comedy-drama that offers a realistic look at the lives of women working in a sports bar. Led by a standout performance from Regina Hall, the film explores themes of camaraderie, resilience, and the daily struggles of its relatable characters with warmth and authenticity. It truly feels like a spiritual successor to Clerks. It doesn't go to the level of Waiting in terms of ridiculousness.
The Harder They Fall
- A stylish and action-packed western with a standout ensemble cast. With its bold visual flair and gripping story, the film expertly blends revenge, spectacle, and a memorable soundtrack, though its pacing can occasionally feel uneven. Not Tombstone tier but a solid western entry. The trailer intrigued me and it met my expectations.
The Hunt
- A satirical thriller that blends dark humor and political commentary, delivering a brutal and provocative look at social divisions. While its violence and over-the-top premise may be polarizing, the film's sharp dialogue and timely themes make for an entertaining, if controversial, watch. 3/4ths of the movie feels like standard fare given the situation and what you might expect out of that. Only the end does the movie have anything interesting to say. Hilary freakin Swank.
The King of Staten Island
- A surprisingly heartfelt dramedy, with Pete Davidson delivering a standout performance as a troubled young man finding his way. Balancing humor and emotional depth, the film explores themes of grief, maturity, and self-discovery in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. I love that it ended with one of my favorite songs of all time that I've never heard in a movie before. Another Bill Burr movie but he's much more toned down here. It didn't tip far enough down the Adam Sandler sandbox for me to truly enjoy it.
The Pope's Exorcist
- A chilling horror film that blends supernatural suspense with religious themes, anchored by a gripping, enjoyable performance from Russell Crowe. While it delivers on scares and atmosphere, its predictable plot and reliance on genre tropes keep it from standing out in the crowded exorcism subgenre.
Vengeance
- A sharp and darkly comedic thriller that explores the complexities of modern relationships and media culture through a murder mystery. With a strong performance by B.J. Novak, the film mixes suspense with insightful commentary, though its pacing can occasionally feel uneven. Didn't expect Ashton Kutcher here to bring it. The ending was surprising but also worth the ride.
4. The Green Knight
- A visually stunning and thought-provoking fantasy that reimagines the Arthurian legend with a unique, surreal approach. Dev Patel delivers a captivating performance as Sir Gawain, navigating a journey of self discovery filled with symbolism and existential depth. Dev Patel's portrayal of Sir Gawain brings depth and vulnerability to the character. The film's exploration of themes like bravery, honor, mortality, and the internal struggle for meaning adds layers of complexity, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience. It has breathtaking cinematography, capturing both the eerie and mystical atmosphere of the medieval world. Cinematography has rich, vibrant colors and creative framing to immerse viewers in a fantastical landscape, making the film a visual masterpiece.
3. RRR
- An epic and electrifying action spectacle that blends historical fiction with high-octane drama, showcasing unforgettable performances. With its larger-than-life action sequences, emotional depth, and powerful storytelling, the film delivers a cinematic experience that’s both thrilling and heart pounding. Story was not particularly new. It kept me entertained for 3 hours and even the dancing was great. The action was creative. It also didn’t feel like it was three hours but you have to give it a minute if you are going in completely blind.
2. Alien: Romulus
- "Get Away From Her You Bitch!" A prequel sequel that takes place after the original Alien. It has many easter eggs to just above every single movie in the series. Just like Alien Resurrection, there is an Alien/Human hybrid. Although this time it's an Engineer/Alien hybrid cause guess what, the black goo is back. Androids are rampant in the movie. One of the two lead characters is an android. There is also an Ash android that plays the dual villain just like the original. Biggest negative I can think of is the plot holes which are rampant. It sounds like the director did his best to stick to cannon. We have a sort of shift from Cameron's Aliens back to the Prometheus mindset. No Queen or hive here, just the creation of the perfect species which is what we find out the Weyland Corp is trying to do. The other lead is Rain, a female who works for Weyland-Yutani and lost her parents to disease from working in the ore mine. Her parents gave her Andy, the android who has to follow his prime directives to a T. Rain and Andy join a group that wants to escape the sunless planet. They tracked the station Romulus above their plant, but apparently no one else did or cared. So they go up to gather fuel for cryopods, but in doing so trigger some of David's facehuggers to dethaw and start recking shit. "You have my sympathies."
Two movies which would probably be considered classics that I finally watched:
My Cousin Vinny and Point Break
I liked Vinny much more than Break. Vinny is a courtroom comedy that didn't make me laugh out loud very much but I was having fun. Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei work well together. Joe Pesci is a treasure.
Point Break hurt my ears and my eyes. There were long scenes of soft rock playing against the waves. Fade ins and outs, one or two good scenes but the whole thing felt like a slog. Neither Patrick, nor Keanu impressed me.
One movie I didn't know what to make of was The Exorcist: Believer.
It was both worse and different than I thought it was going to be.
It was neat that they brought Linda Blair back. I think it suffers from that worst thing you can say... it's boring. Watching horror movies for the first time can sometimes take you on rides into the subconscious in order to distract you from what you are actually watching.
And the award for the most average movie I've watched this year: Uncharted
The action was decent in my opinion. The two leads were likable but didn't have much chemistry. The dialogue is not as over the top as some of the other movies on my worst list. But really it's just a silly stupid video game movie. It also didn't pain me like the bottom ten did but was nowhere near a good movie.
Other one-offs
Thanksgiving - The opening Black Friday scene is far more terrifying than any serial killer the rest of the movie has to offer.
Birdbox - Not a survival horror fan, and the gimmicks don't help. You can't look around in this movie but in The Quiet Place you couldn't make a sound. Just waiting for the can't eat movie or the can't smell movie. Better than something like The Road but doesn't hold a candle to say I Am Legend.
All Quiet on the Western Front - Probably too long, I cared nothing for the characters. Never watched the original so I don't know if that was any better or if this was a shot for shot remake. I kept thinking about how better 1912 was while watching it. I might have rather watched a WW1 documentary but it did get my interest in WW1.
Godzilla Minus One - Our relationship started as overhyped to me. I was told how amazing it was and while it was different (and better than the 1998 one), it also didn't sweep me off my theoretical feet.
Fear Street Trilogy - I probably waited too long between numbers one and two. I was probably not sober enough for part two but the whole thing came together in part three. I wouldn't recommend this to just anyone but if you want a modern horror trilogy that bounces around it's actors and timelines, you probably can't do better.
My Worst of the Year Honorable Mentions:
Mother May I
- Some possession and character study with a couple in a bottle movie. Slow pacing and low payoff. Predictable and otherwise forgettable.
Morbius
- Lowered expectations do really help the sonyverse. Is the whole thing sad...yeah but it also has meme dancing. I think everyone's in on the joke except Leto. Haven't watched Kraven or Madame Web yet, but it's at least worse than the Venom installments.
Project Power - I think I might have watched this twice, and I couldn't give you very much positivity. Jamie Fox is in it...There. It's an unique premise, exploring a world where a pill grants temporary superpowers. While the action is intense at times, the film's uneven pacing and underdeveloped characters hinder its potential to fully captivate.
Snow White and the Huntsman - Dark take on the fairy tale. The film's atmosphere and action sequences shine, its uneven pacing and muddled plot detract from the overall experience. Did I hate almost all the characters? Yes. Did it bother me to watch it? Yes. Were there worse movies witnessed by me this year? Yes.
We Have a Ghost - Occasionally struggles to find a balance between its lighthearted tone and emotional depth. Not what I was expecting. I was assuming A Haunted House by the Wayans Brothers type. This movie was mostly serious. David Harbour stood out but wouldn't re-watch it.
My Worst Ten Movies I Watched This Year.
10. Battleship
- Alien invasion action movie taking place on the water. We learn practically nothing about said aliens. Taylor Kitsch, Liam Neeson and Rihanna for some reason team up with some actual WW2 veterans to play a Milton Bradley board game. An over-the-top, action-packed spectacle that blends naval warfare with an alien invasion, offering plenty of explosive thrills. Despite some eye-popping visuals, the film's predictable plot and shallow character development make it more of a mindless blockbuster than a memorable cinematic experience.
9. Teacher of the Year
- I watched it just for Keegan-Michael Key but he couldn't save it with what little he did. I never became a fan of the documentary style the film took. A lighthearted comedy that offers a humorous take on the challenges and rewards of teaching, anchored by solid performances from its cast. While it delivers few laughs, the film's predictable plot and lack of depth prevent it from fully exploring its potential. It was like a really bad episode of The Office.
8. Red Dawn
- Maybe if I watched it in the 80s as a teenager I might have some nostalgia towards it but it's both unrealistic and boring. It has a spot on cast straight from Dirty Dancing and Ferris Bueller. A thrilling Cold War-era action film that imagines a small American town fighting back against a Soviet invasion. Its tone and premise are dated and heavy-handed. I was bored and unhappy watching this. What I wanted it to be was an over the top action slight to heavy comedy. I think that as a theme with people in America fending off an invasion and focusing on highschoolers is an awesome idea.
7. Snowpiercer
- I think it's also a show so it clearly has some kind of following but this movie just didn't work for me. The premise is beyond over the top - the entire world's population being trapped on a train less they freeze to death. They might as well be in a Chronicles of Narnia magical land meets The Road (Yeah I fucking hate The Road). Another deep cast. It does try to raise some questions about responsibility, leadership, oppression. Every single thing that happened in this movie was boring or it pissed me off.
6. He's All That
- A lighthearted teen rom-com that reimagines the classic "She's All That," with a modern twist and a social media-savvy protagonist. While it offers some fun and charming moments, the film's predictable plot and lack of depth make it a forgettable entry. I might not have watched this if not for Cobra Kai and Tanner, but I definitely wouldn't have watched it if I hadn't seen the original. Guys can't quite get a makeover like girls do. The girl lost her ponytail and glasses and became beautiful. With a guy, uhh maybe a haircut and better clothes and now he doesn't look like a nerd.
5. Unfrosted
- Who would’ve thought a movie about Pop Tarts and Jerry Seinfeld would be so damn unfunny. It kept me entertained only for about an hour. It was sillier than I could have expected. A quirky and entertaining comedy that dives into the absurd origins of the Pop-Tart, blending humor with historical satire. While its lighthearted take on corporate rivalries and innovation provides laughs, the film constantly struggles to find a clear direction amid its comedic chaos.
4. The Adam Project
- A heartwarming sci-fi adventure that blends time travel with family drama, anchored by performances from Ryan Reynolds and a child actor. While the film delivers plenty of action and emotional moments, its predictable storyline and reliance on familiar tropes prevent it from reaching its full potential. Four flirting with A list actors taking a payday for what is a flawed execution of a movie. It doesn't really challenge anything or provide anything new or interesting.
3. 65
- Uggh where to begin. Sci-fi thriller adventure that blends survival moments with prehistoric dangers, as Adam Driver faces off against dinosaurs after crash-landing on a mysterious planet. While the premise is intriguing, the film completely struggles with pacing and character development, leaving its potential for emotional depth unexplored. Yeah again, when I first heard of the premise, I thought it could have potential. But not like this.
2. Red Notice
- A high-energy, globetrotting heist film featuring a star-studded cast of Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds, trying to produce action and humor. While the dialogue between the leads is cringe worthy and boring, the film's formulaic plot and lack of depth leave it feeling more like a flashy cash in spectacle than a truly memorable experience. Predictable storyline and the movie relied too much on the celebrity appeal of its cast rather than on strong character development or an engaging script. I want to go Jay and Silent Bob on whoever made this.
1. Rebel Moon (BOTH)
- An epic sci-fi adventure with stunning visuals and an immersive world, directed by Zack Snyder. While its grand scale and ambitious storytelling promise a thrilling ride, the film's pacing and character development feel overshadowed by its visual spectacle. Part two tries to do better with some/any character arcs and more intense action sequences but it's even worse. Its complex narrative and heavy reliance on spectacle may overwhelm. Charlie Hunnam was the best character and <SPOILER> he died 50 minutes into the 4 hour and 15 minute crapfest. Surely you can do better Netflix and Snyder. I loved the Snyder cut of Justice League, but this was closer to Sucker Punch or a worse Army of the Dead. 300, Dawn of the Dead, Man of Steel, Watchmen... these are all awesome. But then he has these complete stinkers. Don't fucking watch this haha.
My Best of the Year Honorable Mentions:
Oblivion
- Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Jack Harper, a drone repairman, discovers a long-buried secret that challenges everything he believes about the Earth’s destruction and his mission. As he unravels the truth, Jack must confront powerful forces and make difficult choices about loyalty, identity, and humanity's survival. Has both visually stunning cinematography and strong performances. Plot has a good twist ending that I sure didn't see coming, but also wouldn't ruin it on further rewatches ala Matrix. It's more Sixth Sense than The Village. It's no Top Gun Maverick or Edge of Tomorrow but it's Knight and Day better than The Mummy.
Venom: The Last Dance
- I enjoyed it but the tone was all over the place. Your main characters were making Prometheus character level intelligence decisions. The movie starts off with the biggest baddie this side of Thanos and Galactus but then you would get 10 minutes of hippies singing followed by a 10 minute car chase followed by dancing. As far as being a third movie in a trilogy, which are usually by far the worst, it holds up quite well. I think it stands up to the previous two in that I could make a debate for each being the best or worst.
2 Guns
- Fast-paced thriller that pairs Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington in a dynamic and entertaining buddy cop duo. While the plot is filled with twists and turns, the film's humor and chemistry between the leads make it an enjoyable ride. I enjoy both of those main actors. It had a number of decent action scenes. More importantly didn't make me cringe unlike that Red Notice and Adam Project shit above.
Damsel
- Dragon sacrifice sort of survival revenge tale. It was like a long GOT episode, but very predictable and also finished to a satisfying ending. Millie Bobby Brown comes through strong here. I think she would be cool in a Alien/Predator/Terminator kind of ending lady. It has a unique twist on traditional tropes. You would have to be in the mood for that kind of thing.
Inside Man
- Bank heist thriller. I already want to rewatch it, not because of how awesome it was but because I don't really remember how it ended other than their being an inside 'man'. It has a smart, clever and intricate plot. The film features standout performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster. Each actor brings depth to their role, with Washington's portrayal of a determined detective and Owen's as a charismatic, enigmatic criminal adding tension and intrigue throughout the film.
Men
- Deeper meaning movie similar to Annihilation or Mother. Not what I expected but in a good way. A haunting psychological horror film that explores grief and trauma through a disturbing and surreal lens. While its unsettling imagery and thought-provoking themes leave a lasting impression, the film might be too ambitious of a narrative and has a slow pace.
Old Dads
- A raunchy comedy that takes a humorous look at the challenges of middle age and fatherhood through the lens of three friends. While it offers plenty of laughs and sharp wit, it relies on crude humor and predictable gags. I enjoyed it for the most part and it hit home to me for obvious reasons. A couple scenes I had to show others. It probably won't be looked at as a classic, but there is at least a non zero chance of that being a possibility. This was the scene that hooked me.
Support the Girls
- I had a real good time with this. A heartfelt and understated comedy-drama that offers a realistic look at the lives of women working in a sports bar. Led by a standout performance from Regina Hall, the film explores themes of camaraderie, resilience, and the daily struggles of its relatable characters with warmth and authenticity. It truly feels like a spiritual successor to Clerks. It doesn't go to the level of Waiting in terms of ridiculousness.
The Harder They Fall
- A stylish and action-packed western with a standout ensemble cast. With its bold visual flair and gripping story, the film expertly blends revenge, spectacle, and a memorable soundtrack, though its pacing can occasionally feel uneven. Not Tombstone tier but a solid western entry. The trailer intrigued me and it met my expectations.
The Hunt
- A satirical thriller that blends dark humor and political commentary, delivering a brutal and provocative look at social divisions. While its violence and over-the-top premise may be polarizing, the film's sharp dialogue and timely themes make for an entertaining, if controversial, watch. 3/4ths of the movie feels like standard fare given the situation and what you might expect out of that. Only the end does the movie have anything interesting to say. Hilary freakin Swank.
The King of Staten Island
- A surprisingly heartfelt dramedy, with Pete Davidson delivering a standout performance as a troubled young man finding his way. Balancing humor and emotional depth, the film explores themes of grief, maturity, and self-discovery in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. I love that it ended with one of my favorite songs of all time that I've never heard in a movie before. Another Bill Burr movie but he's much more toned down here. It didn't tip far enough down the Adam Sandler sandbox for me to truly enjoy it.
The Pope's Exorcist
- A chilling horror film that blends supernatural suspense with religious themes, anchored by a gripping, enjoyable performance from Russell Crowe. While it delivers on scares and atmosphere, its predictable plot and reliance on genre tropes keep it from standing out in the crowded exorcism subgenre.
Vengeance
- A sharp and darkly comedic thriller that explores the complexities of modern relationships and media culture through a murder mystery. With a strong performance by B.J. Novak, the film mixes suspense with insightful commentary, though its pacing can occasionally feel uneven. Didn't expect Ashton Kutcher here to bring it. The ending was surprising but also worth the ride.
No Time to Die
- My full review still to come on this. It probably would have ended up at around #8 on my list but then I watched #2 on my list below and I needed to make a cut. Daniel Craig delivers an emotionally compelling and powerful performance in his final appearance as James Bond. His portrayal of a more vulnerable, introspective Bond added depth to the character. It provides a satisfying conclusion to his 15-year run in the role. The film boasts breathtaking cinematography, particularly in the locations.
My Top Ten Movies I Watched This Year.
10. Infinity Pool
- A unique thought provoking concept. The film features standout performances, especially from Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård. Mia Goth, known for her work in horror, delivers a captivating and intense portrayal, while Skarsgård effectively captures the emotional and psychological unraveling of his character, enhancing the overall atmosphere of tension and intrigue in the film. I had no idea what I was walking into and I had to decipher what I just watched. I googled the ending and some of the meanings. But these non-linear stories can be my favorite kinds of movies, assuming they are done well and interesting. Under the Skin for example tried to do this but wasn't interesting enough to me.
9. The Power of the Dog
- Outstanding performances by Jesse Plemons and Benedict Cumberbatch. A slow-burning tension and a deep exploration of complex themes like masculinity, power, and repressed emotions. Cumberbatch was really creepy the whole time and I loved Kirsten Dunst but the ending was disappointing. I didn't know what I was really witnessing until it was mostly over. I had to google what I watched (notice a theme) which is a testament that I cared but also a big misfire for what this could have been ultimately.
8. The Woman King
- I had to rewind the Star Wars opening crawl a couple times to get all the names down, but it was a good time. Almost didn't make the cut several times but its empowering and inspiring narrative was too much to ignore. The beginning was much better than the second half. Went in blind as I do on occasion and wasn't disappointed. The performances were powerful. One part Apocalypto, One part 12 Years a Slave, One part Lion King, One part Black Panther.
7. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
- Probably too high of a ranking and nostalgia is winning over but I did enjoy watching it for the almost entirety. I wasn't a huge fan of some of the wasted characters or the ending. It feels like there were too many scripts in there but it really made me smile. The important cast members are back as is Tim Burton's unique style. Too many repeated jokes though like the shrunken head people and soul trains.
6. Birth of the Dragon
- The film features impressive martial arts choreography, particularly in the iconic fight between Bruce Lee and Wong Jack Man. These action sequences are well-executed. The movies in this universe do start to blend together, for a minute I wasn't sure that the part I really liked (the ending) was even this movie or if Dave Bautista was in it (he isn't, that is Master Z). It offers an interesting look at Bruce Lee's formative years in the US, focusing on his rise as a martial artist. The film provides insights into Lee's struggle to establish himself and the cultural tensions he faced.
5. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
- The film delivers a smart and intricate mystery that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. With its twisty plot and surprising turns, Glass Onion builds upon the success of its predecessor, Knives Out, while offering a fresh and entertaining take. Fun cast with good chemistry, Norton and Craig bring it and it offers good entertainment. I think I like it better than the original and Craig has more to do here while the whole cast kind of shines. It kept me at the edge of my seat for the entire runtime.
- My full review still to come on this. It probably would have ended up at around #8 on my list but then I watched #2 on my list below and I needed to make a cut. Daniel Craig delivers an emotionally compelling and powerful performance in his final appearance as James Bond. His portrayal of a more vulnerable, introspective Bond added depth to the character. It provides a satisfying conclusion to his 15-year run in the role. The film boasts breathtaking cinematography, particularly in the locations.
My Top Ten Movies I Watched This Year.
10. Infinity Pool
- A unique thought provoking concept. The film features standout performances, especially from Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård. Mia Goth, known for her work in horror, delivers a captivating and intense portrayal, while Skarsgård effectively captures the emotional and psychological unraveling of his character, enhancing the overall atmosphere of tension and intrigue in the film. I had no idea what I was walking into and I had to decipher what I just watched. I googled the ending and some of the meanings. But these non-linear stories can be my favorite kinds of movies, assuming they are done well and interesting. Under the Skin for example tried to do this but wasn't interesting enough to me.
9. The Power of the Dog
- Outstanding performances by Jesse Plemons and Benedict Cumberbatch. A slow-burning tension and a deep exploration of complex themes like masculinity, power, and repressed emotions. Cumberbatch was really creepy the whole time and I loved Kirsten Dunst but the ending was disappointing. I didn't know what I was really witnessing until it was mostly over. I had to google what I watched (notice a theme) which is a testament that I cared but also a big misfire for what this could have been ultimately.
8. The Woman King
- I had to rewind the Star Wars opening crawl a couple times to get all the names down, but it was a good time. Almost didn't make the cut several times but its empowering and inspiring narrative was too much to ignore. The beginning was much better than the second half. Went in blind as I do on occasion and wasn't disappointed. The performances were powerful. One part Apocalypto, One part 12 Years a Slave, One part Lion King, One part Black Panther.
7. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
- Probably too high of a ranking and nostalgia is winning over but I did enjoy watching it for the almost entirety. I wasn't a huge fan of some of the wasted characters or the ending. It feels like there were too many scripts in there but it really made me smile. The important cast members are back as is Tim Burton's unique style. Too many repeated jokes though like the shrunken head people and soul trains.
6. Birth of the Dragon
- The film features impressive martial arts choreography, particularly in the iconic fight between Bruce Lee and Wong Jack Man. These action sequences are well-executed. The movies in this universe do start to blend together, for a minute I wasn't sure that the part I really liked (the ending) was even this movie or if Dave Bautista was in it (he isn't, that is Master Z). It offers an interesting look at Bruce Lee's formative years in the US, focusing on his rise as a martial artist. The film provides insights into Lee's struggle to establish himself and the cultural tensions he faced.
5. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
- The film delivers a smart and intricate mystery that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. With its twisty plot and surprising turns, Glass Onion builds upon the success of its predecessor, Knives Out, while offering a fresh and entertaining take. Fun cast with good chemistry, Norton and Craig bring it and it offers good entertainment. I think I like it better than the original and Craig has more to do here while the whole cast kind of shines. It kept me at the edge of my seat for the entire runtime.
4. The Green Knight
- A visually stunning and thought-provoking fantasy that reimagines the Arthurian legend with a unique, surreal approach. Dev Patel delivers a captivating performance as Sir Gawain, navigating a journey of self discovery filled with symbolism and existential depth. Dev Patel's portrayal of Sir Gawain brings depth and vulnerability to the character. The film's exploration of themes like bravery, honor, mortality, and the internal struggle for meaning adds layers of complexity, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience. It has breathtaking cinematography, capturing both the eerie and mystical atmosphere of the medieval world. Cinematography has rich, vibrant colors and creative framing to immerse viewers in a fantastical landscape, making the film a visual masterpiece.
3. RRR
- An epic and electrifying action spectacle that blends historical fiction with high-octane drama, showcasing unforgettable performances. With its larger-than-life action sequences, emotional depth, and powerful storytelling, the film delivers a cinematic experience that’s both thrilling and heart pounding. Story was not particularly new. It kept me entertained for 3 hours and even the dancing was great. The action was creative. It also didn’t feel like it was three hours but you have to give it a minute if you are going in completely blind.
- "Get Away From Her You Bitch!" A prequel sequel that takes place after the original Alien. It has many easter eggs to just above every single movie in the series. Just like Alien Resurrection, there is an Alien/Human hybrid. Although this time it's an Engineer/Alien hybrid cause guess what, the black goo is back. Androids are rampant in the movie. One of the two lead characters is an android. There is also an Ash android that plays the dual villain just like the original. Biggest negative I can think of is the plot holes which are rampant. It sounds like the director did his best to stick to cannon. We have a sort of shift from Cameron's Aliens back to the Prometheus mindset. No Queen or hive here, just the creation of the perfect species which is what we find out the Weyland Corp is trying to do. The other lead is Rain, a female who works for Weyland-Yutani and lost her parents to disease from working in the ore mine. Her parents gave her Andy, the android who has to follow his prime directives to a T. Rain and Andy join a group that wants to escape the sunless planet. They tracked the station Romulus above their plant, but apparently no one else did or cared. So they go up to gather fuel for cryopods, but in doing so trigger some of David's facehuggers to dethaw and start recking shit. "You have my sympathies."
1. Deadpool & Wolverine (BOTH)
- Truly the MCU coming together. It's not as important of a movie as say Avengers Endgame. I called Spider-Man No Way Home was going to happen years before they did and I knew they'd be "sitting on a goldmine Trebek". In no world could I have guessed Hugh freaking Jackman would reprise his role again. And he outshines Reynold's Deadpool here. The car scene is my favorite in the whole movie. The beginning is really funny and the ending delivers on the one thing I've always wanted since they started the X-Men movie. Then references galore throughout. You would have to be well versed in both leads filmography, Marvel both in and out of the MCU as well as other blockbusters to get all the references. I know I missed some.
- Truly the MCU coming together. It's not as important of a movie as say Avengers Endgame. I called Spider-Man No Way Home was going to happen years before they did and I knew they'd be "sitting on a goldmine Trebek". In no world could I have guessed Hugh freaking Jackman would reprise his role again. And he outshines Reynold's Deadpool here. The car scene is my favorite in the whole movie. The beginning is really funny and the ending delivers on the one thing I've always wanted since they started the X-Men movie. Then references galore throughout. You would have to be well versed in both leads filmography, Marvel both in and out of the MCU as well as other blockbusters to get all the references. I know I missed some.
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