Just when you think things canât get better, this year has brought tons of innovative, diverse films that had me crying, laughing, and reminiscing. Some of these Iâve seen, some of them I havenât had the chance to yet, and some arenât even out, but this list is carefully calculated from my own opinions, the opinions of film critics, and of the general public (and by that, I mean film Twitter). So, in no particular order, here are the best ten movies of 2019.
- âThe Farewellâ by Lulu Wang
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Based on an actual lie that Wangâs own family told, this film follows Billi (beautifully portrayed by the multifaceted Awkwafina) as she returns to China to visit her sick grandmother (Zhao Shuzhen) under the guise of a wedding. It is the perfect balance of drama and comedy that strikes a chord in your heart. And I should know; I spent a few minutes crying to Lulu Wang, unable to get my words out. Thatâs how beautiful it is.
- âBooksmartâ by Olivia Wilde
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When you think of the quintessential high school coming-of-age movie, most people think of The Breakfast Club or Mean Girls. But up until now, there hasnât been a film to define this decade as well as Wildeâs directorial debut does. Booksmart follows academic overachievers Molly (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) as they let loose on their final day as high schoolers. Feldstein and Dever create the ultimate female duo with their raunchy, witty charm (and awkwardness) and heartfelt friendship. This film embraces our generation, which not many films get right. Read more about how I feel about this film here.
- âParasiteâ by Bong Joon-ho
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There arenât many perfect movies in my book, but Parasite is definitely at the top of the list. This dark comedy thriller (honestly, you canât place this film in just one genre) follows the Kim family as they climb the ranks from their dilapidated basement to the Park familyâs mansion on top of a hill. It is a heart-wrenching, thought-provoking story on societal class division that goes beyond all language barriers. Parasite will probably be your favorite film of the year â it definitely was mine.
- âUsâ by Jordan Peele
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Yes, this film came out a while ago in comparison to the others on the list, but we canât forget about it! Peeleâs sophomore film after the wildly popular Get Out lived up to expectations. The film follows the Wilson family as they spend their summer vacation escaping from their evil doppelgangers. Horrifying, I know. Every red jumpsuit you see or every time you hear âI Got 5 On It,â you may be a bit psychologically traumatized, but itâs definitely worth it.
- Â âMidsommarâ by Ari Aster
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In this folk horror film, a group of friends travel to Sweden for what they think is a midsummer celebration that only occurs every ninety years, but in actuality, they are being dragged into a pagan cult. Florence Pugh delivers a breakout performance and cements herself as a rising star. Itâs violent and bizarre, but you need to watch for yourself to uncover all of the wonderful weirdness.
- âPortrait of a Lady on Fireâ by CĂ©line Sciamma
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While this film has yet to premiere worldwide, what Iâve heard and what Iâve seen about this film was enough to secure a spot. Winning best screenplay and the Queer Palm at the Cannes Film Festival, this French historical drama tells the story of a female painter who is commissioned to paint a wedding portrait of a young woman who does not want to get married at all. They begin to develop a mutual attraction, which might derail everyoneâs plans.
- âLittle Womenâ by Greta Gerwig
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Greta Gerwig, TimothĂ©e Chalamet, and Saoirse Ronan? Sign me up! Opening in theaters on Christmas day, Gerwig puts a modern spin on this classic tale. Based on her debut film Lady Bird, her goal is to put women at the forefront, which the film industry has been missing for the longest time. The March sisters return with their own individual, electric personalities and stories which I hope donât get lost.Â
- âJojo Rabbitâ by Taika Waititi
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Waititiâs filmmaking style is odd, fun, and definitely unlike anything youâve seen before, but thatâs what makes it so amazing. In this historical satire, Jojo, a member of the Hitler Youth, discovers a Jewish girl in his attic. He must fight between his blind nationalism and his imaginary friend Adolf Hitler. Sounds bizarre, but donât knock it until you try it.
- âWavesâ by Trey Shults
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From what Iâve seen, âWavesâ is beautiful, raw, and brutally honest. It is a domestic melodrama following the Williams family as they navigate through hardship and come together at a time when they need to the most.
- âUncut Gemsâ by Josh and Benny Safdie
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More commonly known as the Safdie brothers, these Boston University alum are about to premiere their biggest film yet. Starring Adam Sandler as Howard Ratner, a jewelry store owner and compulsive gambler, this film gives him the chance to prove one and for all that he isnât just a comedian. Â
As we say goodbye to the decade, letâs be thankful for the wonderfully diverse human experiences that these films capture and be hopeful for what the coming years have to offer.
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