Now that 2015 is nearly over and 2016 is just around the corner, I’ve looked back at this year in film and created a list that in my opinion showcases the top 10 most well-made and entertaining films of the year. The list includes a great mix of both mega blockbusters as well as smaller indie films that many of you may not have had a chance to see.
10. Ex Machina
This indie sci-fi thriller has an immensely talented cast and a suspenseful, thought-provoking story that will leave you on the edge of your seat and thinking twice about asking Siri for directions to the nearest restaurant any time soon.
9. Kingsman: The Secret Service
Out of the four comic book films released this year and six major spy films, Kingsman: The Secret Service tops both categories. Taron Egerton is the breakout star in this action packed spy film and who knew Colin Firth could kick so much ass?
I LIVE. I DIE. I LIVE AGAIN. Mad Max: Fury Road is probably the best action film this year and is up there as one of the best action films ever created. The use of practical stunts and subtle CGI makes for an exhilarating ride that will leave you quite frankly exhausted after watching the film. But man, is it ever worth it.
7. Dope
Dope is a coming of age film that is bottom line, just simply a fun film. The three geeky leads are funny, charismatic, likeable and most importantly relatable. Dope explores today’s youth and the pop culture of yesterday and today in a fun and entertaining way. It’s a shame it didn’t get a wide release.
6. Spotlight
Spotlight is a difficult film to watch, simply because of the subject matter it explores. Regardless, it’s an expertly crafted film with incredible performances and a story that will leave you rather uncomfortable after leaving the theatre.
5. Creed
Creed, much like Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, is the seventh installment in a beloved franchise and successfully combines new and old elements into their films to make something spectacular. The action, the acting and the story are all astounding. I really hope Sly gets a nomination for his role in this, because this is the best we’ve ever seen from the man.
4. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
There’s not much to say about Star Wars: The Force Awakens other than it pretty much knocked it out of the park. Star Wars is back baby.
3. The Big Short
The Big Short is a film that requires immense concentration and focus to watch because the plot points are so complicated to understand. This is a film that takes the complex concept of the American financial market and its crash in 2008 and helps explain it in an entertaining way. Despite being focusing on the horrid actions by the major American banks and their role in the recession, director Adam McKay manages to make an incredibly funny and emotionally infuriating movie.
2. Me and Earl and The Dying Girl
This film is one that polarized critics with many not liking it and many absolutely loving it. I absolutely loved this film. Combining a hilariously dry main character that I could personally connect with, and compelling supporting characters, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is one of the most emotional and funny films of the year that will leave you crying with both happiness and sadness.
1. Room
Room is undoubtedly the greatest film that I have seen this year. The film tackles issues that are incredibly sensitive to audiences with an intriguing and gripping story while also churning out a huge breakout performance by young star Jacob Tremblay and another Oscar worthy appearance by Brie Larson.
Honourable Mentions: Mission Impossible Rogue Nation, Amy, Inside Out, The Martian, The Hateful Eight and the Revenant which I have not had the chance to see yet.
