2022 has shown a glimmer of hope in the movie landscape with some worthy watches and interesting takes.
This is not an extensive list but it has movies worth your time. Multiple watches await those who enjoy a good movie.
1. The Menu
Satire. Thriller. Dark Comedy.
2. The Northman
Epic. Unrestrained. Raw. Legendary
Fighting to the death at the base of a volcano. This scene and more epic imagery await you in this movie. It is inspired by the tale of Amleth, the medieval Scandinavian legend that inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
A true epic arising from the emotional and singular determination of our protagonist, with insight into Northman culture and the harsh valour of the times – made me feel embarrassed by the boring softness of modern city life and kind of wishing I was there fighting for personal honour or death.
Indulge in gritty escapism while the imperfect realities that ruin the epic hero’s journey are welcomed troubles to a master tale.
3. NOPE
Spectacle. Thriller. Sci-fi. Horror.
A unique “sci-fi” utilization. Anyone fascinated by animal behaviour and human psychology can appreciate the film from this perspective.
The movie’s application of predatory behaviour and its observational response capable by humans overarches how horse wranglers familiar with animal behaviour can use experiential knowledge to attempt to make sense of the unknown.
A Possible criticism of the film industry, human exploitation for ‘spectacle’ and the opening quote fits right into this angle.
The attention to detail is highly appreciated. Please note the homage to the shining with its very own set of blood stairs scene.
4. The Batman
Action. Gritty. Atmospheric. Angsty.
Angsty, imperfect and a juvenile batman. The character profile of batman is refreshing with imperfection.
The cinematography is beautiful. The villain could be cliche but still works even though he is steeped in a social pariah psyche of the current zeitgeist.
The threading in bruce’s mask, the soft leather of his worn boots, the truly dingy ‘batcave’. Again, the imperfection. The failed landings, the very real pain of hitting concrete and sheet metal.
Finally, gorgeous still shots. Batman 2022 takes you in a movie world that is unrefined realism depicting true darkness, filth and callousness found in the dim streets of Gotham at night.
5. X
Horror. Slasher. Nuanced Classic. Terrifying Villain.
This movie is awesome.
Great cast, was happy to see Jenna Ortega from Netflix’s Wednesday, as well as a surprise entry from Kid Cudi. Not over the top with the gore, but enough squinting and squirming to be defined as such.
The villain’s compulsions, psychology and demographic is so well constructed. The build up and timing is well done that you still clutch your pearls despite knowing what’s coming.
Watching the prequel ‘Pearl’ is a definite yes.
6. The Good Nurse
7. The Banshees of Inisherin
Honorable Mentions
8. Triangle of Sadness
9. Everything Everywhere All At Once
10. Top Gun Maverick
Arts . Culture . Ideas 