With the Academy Awards ceremony just moments away, it feels like an appropriate time to finally sound off on my personal faves of the year 2019. And as I reflect on my Top 10 list, I am reminded of all the amazing works of art I was able to witness. More than most other years past, the year's best films truly represented my range of cinematic tastes. Big budget spectacles with even bigger emotions. Passionately acted dramas with scintillating dialog. Jaw-droppingly beautiful period pieces. Hilarious comedies with poignant messages.
Looking towards the 2020 cinematic landscape, I can only hope for another richly satisfying year. Here are my Top 10 Films of 2019:
"A visceral, haunting examination of the inhumanity of the death penalty, elevated by tremendous work from star Alfre Woodard and director Chinonye Chukwu."
"“Les Misérables” potently examines class struggle and social justice through a contemporary lens."
"Unsettling and enthralling in equal measure, "Us' channels class conflict with an ingenious take on the "upstairs, downstairs" trope."
"With an emphatic filmmaking style and heartwrenchingly raw performances, "Waves" is a bold, cathartic piece of cinema."
"As this riveting “ghost love story” unfolds with beautifully poetic visuals and dialogue, “Atlantics” explores human desire at its most elemental — the longing for love, happiness and a better life."
"In one of the year’s most daring directorial achievements, Waititi keeps his distinctive voice intact with “Jojo Rabbit,” a poignant anti-war satire that is also his funniest film to date.
""Little Women" is one of the most entertaining, emotionally affecting and downright gorgeous films of the year."
"The elegant musicality, touching performances and exquisite mise en scene all come together to convey the film's poignant themes."
"Taking place in the apocalyptic aftermath of the "Infinity War", this film brings a level of humanity and humility rarely seen before in the MCU."
"Stunningly portrayed by Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver, this Best Picture Oscar hopeful conveys honest truths about love, marriage and divorce."