The list is very unconventional but then again, so is the wide assortment of films 2019 presented. The main theme though is that diversity is being demanded on a greater level than before. With the Oscars being heavily white with its acting nods, this apparently will continue to push many different ideas as to what constitutes fair, impartial choices but as long as the quality doesn't suffer, I think we're in good hands.
And here is the list...
1. PARASITE(directed by Bong Joon-ho):
was there any doubt? You've been hearing for ages now of why Parasite is so stunning and, well, here is my say. Joon-ho defines the social inequality so starkly yet the real sadness is the acceptance of both classes of their roles...both sets being parasitic to each other, in a ruthless way that no one outwardly questions.
2. LITTLE WOMEN (directed by Greta Gerwig):
languishing in movie script hell for year, Gerwig finally gets it done and breathes fresh new life into Alcott's novel. Everything is in its right place with strong performances and a score by Desplat that is heavenly. It's so good that after a while you'll forget that it was Meryl Streep you wanted to see in it.
3. MON MON MON MONSTERS (directed by Giddens Ko):
technically I am cheating with this film but with a US video release coming this year, it's only now most will be hearing of Ko's astonishing and bloody film. A must-see horror film of the last decade.
4. THE IRISHMAN (directed by Martin Scorsese):
yes, it's long and yes, technically we've seen this film from him before (Goodfellas) but it's Scorsese so what is the problem?
5. LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT(directed by Bi Gan):
the quest for a man's great lost love gets twisted the longer it goes on.
6. MARRIAGE STORY (directed by Noah Baumbach):
all the nasty, underbelly of a broken love story presents itself in Baumbach's film but the addition of sly lawyers viewing clients as mere tools is a particular snarky touch. Laura Dern steals the show but don't miss that explosive scene where Driver erupts in broken rage and Johansson matches him.
7. TOY STORY 4 (directed by Josh Cooley):
we're used to this now but it's never dropped the bad and that's saying much.
8. US(directed by Jordan Peele):
lightning strikes twice for Peele in this structurally impressive take on the duality of nature and the darkness lurking inside us all.
9. THE LAST BLACK MAN IN SAN FRANCISCO (directed by Joe Talbot):
the ties of friendships between two black men are wonderfully explored by Talbot and the ever watchful community around them.
10. MIDSOMMAR (directed by Ari Aster):
the sign of a great horror film is its ability to scare you even when its being sanitizing and perfunctory. Aster delivers pristine, baffling scenes but, each lovely shot only brings you closer to unimaginable pain.
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