Top 10 of 2017

Top Movies of 2017

10. Split

For me, M. Night Shyamalan movies are like an ex-girlfriend. There is a comfortable familiarity about being in their presence, and that tempts to invite you back.  It stirs up some good memories and perhaps some butterflies, but it also, almost always, comes with feelings of disgust and disappointment. There is always a hesitation when planning on getting together with an ex, much like there is a hesitation when planning on watching a new M. Night movie. While watching Split, I really couldn't decide if it was a terrible movie or a really good one. Did I only like it because I got those M Night feels, the same ones I got from previous movies? I wasn't sure. I let it resonate for a while, until I stopped thinking about it, then I watched it again. Although it has it's flaws, it is a fine flick. At first watch, I was very thrown off-guard by the ending, not the ending-ending, but the ending that I'll describe as: how Jame's Mcavoy's character ended up. I wondered if it was just silly and out of no where. However, after second view, the movie does spend a good amount of time on droping hints and building the platform for the ending to be, reasonable, I guess is the word I'm looking for. What really holds the movie together are the flashbacks and backstory of the lead acctress. In typical M Night fashion, the resolution may be a bit too simple, but it worked for me. So if you've only seen it once, see it again. One more thing, how about the ending-ending? Only M Night can yet again, invent another way to add a twist.

9. Logan

Finally, a good standalone Wolverine movie! Good is actually a grave understatement, but that is all this movie had to be to be above and beyond those other ones. I told you all last year that Deadpool re-invented the comic book movie genre (or at least turned it on it's head), and Logan is a direct influence of that. The R rating, the necessary grittiness and violence is all completely warranted and needed in a movie with this much weight. I think it's something that everyone would enjoy, even if they aren't into comic book stuff, much like myself these days.

8. Mother

Much like M Night, Darren Aronofsky is very hit or miss. He's an incredible director and visionary, but he does get in his own way sometimes. At times, that's a bad thing (Noah), and at times thats a good thing (Mother). He's been vocal and upfront about what the movie is about, and it's purely a representation of his thoughts on society, nature, religion, politics and probably everything else there is to have thoughts on. And although it's self-aggrandizing and in your face, I'd rather such a movie be that, rather than sneaky or send hidden messages. Unlike the Florida Project, also on this list, this movie hits you over the head with it's agenda and I'm okay with that, because the fact is, it's done very well. The film, for me, is all about the feel. The feel of the house, the feel of the relationship between the two main characters, the way Jennifer Lawrence feels, the increasing tension all the way to the over the top conclusion and the feeling your left with when the movie ends. It's a very similar build and finale to that of The Fountain, one of my favorites of all time. Most people will think this is pretentious, and it might be, but that doesn't mean it's not a beautiful film.

7. War of the Planet of the Apes

Although I'm going to mostly be negative in this synopsis, don't get me wrong, this is a very good movie and a fitting end to the series (I assume it's ending?). This series did an excellent job of creating an attachment to all the CG characters that most movies can't even do with real people. It sets a new standard for the limitations of these types of characters, and that standard is, no limitations. With that said, there a few problems that I have with it. First, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, was so great, and more so, unexpected, that expectations for this film were super high, at least for me. Secondly, and more importantly, most of the movie feels like a detour. The beginning and end do a good job at rounding out Caesar's arc and story, but the middle, the very long middle portion, feels stuck. It feels like a movie you have seen a dozen times already without doing anything new. But, because I cared for Caesar and his crew as much as I did, it is a movie worth watching but only if you've watched the first two. And if you haven't, it's worth watching all 3.

6. Dunkirk

Not your typical war movie, but does Nolan ever do anything typical? It's tense and nerve racking without overloading on blood or limbs. There is no real "story" or main character in this. It's about the evacuation of solders from a beach through a couple different view points without much dialogue or backstory. It's a different take on war and it's what I appreciated about Dunkirk, although what other people may not. In War, from what I would assume, there isn't much time for greetings and small talk. Something happens, you look at the guy next to you and you make a decision without speaking a word, and that is how most of Dunkirk plays out. It's all pretty intriguing. The only negative side effect to this, is that you don't feel as invested in the characters as let's say, Saving Private Ryan. There isn't time to chat about wives and family back home, or previous careers. The medic dying in SPR would not be one of the saddest scenes of all time without the exposition given in the movie. So its a give and take, but I'll take them both!

5. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Martin McDounagh, is not near the level of Villeneuve or Sheridan (mentioned below), but he did write and direct both In Bruges (which gets better and funnier, every single time I watch it) and Seven Psychopaths ( a very underrated movie that you should check out). This movie, although quirky and black-comedy-esque at times, is definitely more serious and dramatic than his past 2 movies. It's being advertised, or at least reviewed, as a dark comedy, but I don't think it's funny enough to be in that category. It feels more like some kind of zany drama. Although categorizing this movie is difficult, it does do a good job of being what it is throughout...whatever that may be. I think one of the things I love most about the movie is that it is completely unpredictable which is extremely rare these days. It's gotten some bad press, mainly because Sam Rockwell won for best supporting actor. The character he plays in the movie is racist but the movie isn't racist, at least in my opinion. So I think the problem is that some viewers tend to think his character is, in the end at least, the protagonist. I mean, although I do think his character goes through a great character arc, I wouldn't say he's a hero by any means. There have been much worse characters that have had more positive arcs in movies, Hannibal Lecter in Silence of the Lambs, Ben Wade in 3:10 to Yuma (both versions), Jordan Belefort in Wolf of Wall Street, just to name a few. And although those characters weren't racist, they were murderers, thieves, cannibals,etc, which is worse, right? Maybe I'm wrong, but in Three Billboards, the black man that Sam Rockwell's character abuses, handles their next confrontation with dignity and proves that violence isn't necessary. Isn't that what we all want?

4. The Florida Project

I can't say I know much about the themes and environment that The Florida Project represents, but it all feels pretty damn real. This is a low budget, indie to the core, movie. Aside from William Dafoe, the cast consists of first time children and adult actors. If the main actress in this film, was a "real actress", I would say she's guaranteed an Oscar, but I don't think she's acting...So that's the kind of movie this is. Real people, acting in a movie, in roles and situations that are probably real to them. As I said, it feel real, so real that you cringe, you feel bad, you feel sad and feel anger, and all at the same time. It's also quite unpredictable and subverts expectations. Although, at times it's tough to digest, it doesn't go overboard or hits you over the head (like Mother). It has a ton of heart, even though a lot of that is heartbreak. 

I'm sure you haven't heard of it, outside William Dafoe's nomination so I thought of a dead on sales pitch for the movie: "What happens behind Dinsey World stays behind Disney World". If you love Disney, this movie takes a look at the other side of things. 

3. Molly's Game

I bet you knew that Aaron Sorkin wrote the West Wing, Moneyball and the Social Network., but did you know he also wrote A Few Good Men and The American President? I didn't, I just learned that and I'm disappointed in myself. Anyway, why do I bring that up, well he wrote this too, sooooo, stop reading this and go watch Molly's Game already. I can watch Moneyball anytime it's on, the dialogue alone makes for continuous enjoyment, such as with Molly Game...the two movies have a lot in common. Jessica Chastain is always great, and how she isn't nominated for an Oscar is mind blowing. I've seen all the nominated movies for best actress, and in my mind, I believe she has given us the best performance of 2017. Much like Moneyball, the movie does an amazing job at character development and exposition that there isn't need to tack on any romantic interest just to add weight to the story. The entire story is weight. It's a 2 hr 15min+  movie, but it flies by, even though it frequently jumps back and forth and through time. If I have one criticism it is that, again, much like Moneyball, it doesn't paint the full "true story". From my research, it is actually pretty spot on when it comes to the truth, except for one added detail, which the movie really focuses on and makes a point to repeat. This added detail is completely fabricated and what makes it worse is that it is completely unnecessary. It's there to tie things together, but they could have gone in many different ways which would have worked just as well. Either way, it's a movie and not a documentary, and the movie hooked me from the opening scene all the way to the end.

2. Wind River

Taylor Sheridan, who wrote Sicario (my favorite movie in 2016) and Hell or High Water (my favorite movie in 2017), wrote and directed Wind River. Suffice to say, I really don't need to say much more, but I will. It's dripping with suspense and tension throughout the unfolding story. It's rare, for me at least, to actually feel apart of a "murder mystery". Plot points and character arcs are generally paint by numbers, but not here. The movie doesn't rely on twists to create tension, rather, it's more about the story telling and history of the characters and the land in which the film exists. Acted incredibly well, by the usually mundane Jeremy Renner, the main protagonist is tough, cool, smart, determined and all in a non-over the top James bond way. Wind River has a few standout scenes, but one in particular, gave me an incredible amount of chills. It's up there with the Dennis Hopper/Christopher Walken Scene, the Bar Basement Scene in Inglorious Bastards, the Car Kidnap scene in Nocturnal Animals. And even though it's just one scene, Jon Burnthal steals the show. It's excellent and might be my number 1 when I get around to ranking them.

1. Blade Runner 2049

I'm not a big fan of the original, in fact, it's quite boring, and if 2049 movie hadn't been directed by Denise Villeneuve (Sicario, Arrival, Enemy, Incindies), I don't think I would have gambled with the, almost 3 hour, run-time. However, I'd watch anything that he puts his name on, and it doesn't hurt that my by RG is in it. It's an extremely well made movie. From the story & character arcs all the way to the set design, costumes and general mood. Personally, I believe it's a hell of a lot better than the original, even though it is heavily influenced and connected (at least by environment and feel) to it. It's not a movie for everyone, and although I thought the pacing is perfect, it is slow. The movie spends a lot of time on world building, much like the original, and impatient viewers might not appreciate it. There is a story here, a real plot, which I feel is missing from the first one, but again, it's a slow build. This is a movie you need to put your phone away for, turn down the lights, be well caffeinated and fully immerse yourself. If you do, you should have a wonderful experience. 

Hostiles

The Best Shows on TV

The golden age of television is upon us. More and more A-list actors, directors and producers are getting involved with Television series. This is a brief list of my favorite TV shows currently on the air, or at least stream-able.

The Deuce (1 Season, HBO)

Possibly the best show on TV right now. Characters, characters and more characters. The time the show takes to develop each, is almost mind blowing, especially given that episodes are only an hour long (except the pilot which clocks in at 1.5) and the story progresses at a pretty rapid pace. James Franco plays twin brothers, and although that sounds like a negative thing (at least, it did to me originally), it's not. It's not saying a lot, but it's the best he's ever been and he holds his own amongst a great cast of familiar faces and new ones. Watch the first episode and if you aren't hooked, I'd be surprised, but at least you'll know the show isn't for you, because it's more of the same.

Search Party (2 Seasons, TBS)

First season does a good job of setting the tone but Season 2 is leaps and bounds better than the first. It's a show about millennials for non-millennials. In honesty, the characters are frustrating and borderline annoying, but that is the idea the show is going for. I don't think I've laughed out loud from a show this much in a while. It can be streamed on TBS on demand and their app. It's a 30 minute show, and is very binge-able. 

Man Seeking Woman (FXX, 3 Seasons)

Sadly, from what I read, the show has been cancelled. However, if you can catch this show before it disappears forever, it's one of my favorite shows of all time. On the surface it seems very crass and uneducated but that is the genius of the show. Although I don't think Jay Baruchel floats anyone's boat, the greatness of the show comes from the writing and not any one role/character. 

You're the Worst (FX, 3 Seasons)

Unlike most sitcoms about relationship, You're the Worst feels pretty real. Hooking up, breaking up, arguing, getting back together, breaking up again. It's fun to witness what most of us have been through from a far. It's cynical, mean and at times, just what you need to laugh. Signed on for one more final season.

Black Mirror (Netflix, 4 Seasons)

Think of the Twilight Zone with technology. That pretty much sums up Black Mirror. Episodes do not relate to one another, in any way, which is why I absolutely recommend watching season 3 and 4 first. Each episode plays out like a movie, is at times is movie length and usually ends with an unexpected twist. If you're non-committal, and don't want to get stuck in a bad, or even good, TV show loop, then Black Mirror is for you. Treat each episode and it's own movie.

Bojack Horseman (netflix 3 Seasons)

If you're not already into Bojack, I doubt I can change your mind. But I'll try. No, it's not like the Simpsons or Family Guy. It's much more real world based and depressing. A while ago, about the time Robin Williams killed himself, I wrote blurb about Bojack and how depression usually follows comedy, and vise versa. Skim back through this blog to find it and read more about my thoughts on Bojack. Keep in mind, those thoughts were based solely on season 1, and the show has only gotten better.

The Good Place (NBC, 2 Seasons)

Not your typical NBC Monday night show. It's very confusing, very surreal, and very unique, to say the least. I am very shocked that it's being as well received as it is. Generally if I like it, it's on the verge of getting cancelled. At about 24 minutes an episode, and with NBC on-demand, you can catch up in a handful of lazy hours.

Mr. Robot (USA, 3 Seasons)

I lied when I said The Deuce is possibly the best show on TV, because Mr. Robot definitely is. I'll admit, it does cheat by way of having a very inconsistent and untrustworthy narrator, however, it really works within the world that has been created. It's beautifully shot and designed and dripping with style. It's completely different than anything else on TV right now, and maybe ever. It's dark and dreary yet at times, very fun, even when it shouldn't be. Every single episode begs for a re-watch, either because of a twist or a great scene, or just because it's confusing as hell. Get on board and catch up before it ends. Shouldn't be longer than another season or two. 

If you want a one and done, limited run show:

Waco (6 Episodes)

Although it's only a few episodes into its limited (1 season) run, it's extremely well put together. The story of Waco Texas has always intrigued me and this does it justice. The acting is top notch, and there is tension from the opening scene throughout. I'm excited to see how the rest of the story, and the show unfolds.

The Sinner

Jessica Biel stars in this pretty dark thriller. Even though it's only a handful of episodes, it does drag out a bit. However, if you dont know what the plot of the series is, the first episode will absolutly shock you. The beginning and the end are very strong and Biel is really good. It tries to hard to confuse you more than it's needed and that's where it's biggest flaw is. It's a genuinely interesting idea, there was no need to make it as mysterious as they did. With all that said it's worth sitting through a meaningless episode or two to get the full effect of the show. It's pretty dark.

Godless (Netflix, 1 season)

If you're not into Westerns, then this is going to be a tediously slow moving show. It takes it's time to build it's characters as the story isn't anything groundbreaking. However, if you are a fan of the old school Westerns, then this is the show for you. It's methodical, beautiful and powerful. It goes on tangents at times, but it's full of everything you come to expect from a legit cowboy movie.

Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FXX)

Hands down, the greatest show of all time. Not joking.