My Favorite Films of 2023
Back in the day, I used to get paid to watch movies (as a film buyer for Blockbuster Video’s corporate office). I’m no longer a ‘professional’ movie watcher, but of the 65 films I saw that released in 2023, here were my favorites, starting with some Honorable Mentions (in alphabetical order): The Killer (one of Fincher’s better recent works), Master Gardener (a strong end to Schrader’s ‘Man in a Room’ trilogy), Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1 (the chase in Rome might be my favorite set piece in the franchise), Oppenheimer (2/3rds of a great film), and Past Lives (bittersweet and honest).
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
10) Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Visually imaginative, perhaps even more than the previous film. Ends on a cliffhanger, but hopefully we don’t have to wait long for Part 2. (Currently available to watch on Netflix)
09) Afire
After ‘Transit’ and ‘Undine’, we get another strong character piece from Christian Petzold. Paula Beer shines as usual. (Available on VOD)
08) Barbie
The biggest surprise on my list. It has a lot to say, and somehow embraced the nostalgia while simultaneously poking fun at it. Incredibly funny, perfectly cast, and with a vibrant (and soon to be award-winning) production design. (Available on 4K Blu-ray and Max)
07) Dream Scenario
Uncomfortable at times, but zags in the final act to show it had a bit more on its mind than just cancel culture. Easy comparisons to ‘Being John Malkovich’ can be made, and while this isn’t quite on that level, it’s a great debut from a director worth keeping an eye on. (Available on VOD)
06) The Holdovers
One of my favorite Alexander Payne films (behind ‘Sideways’ and perhaps tied with ‘The Descendants’). Warm and funny while never feeling forced at all. (Available on Peacock)
05) Anatomy of a Fall
A complex look inside a marriage that ends with a death, and all of the ramifications that follow. This won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, and is up for four Golden Globes. (Available on VOD)
04) Godzilla Minus One
What could’ve been a typical Japanese Godzilla film ended up being SO much better, with characters you root for and care about. The fact that this only had a $15m budget is mind-blowing. (only in theaters)
03) Killers of the Flower Moon
Scorcese’s best since Goodfellas? Possibly. Lily Gladstone is amazing, as is the pacing (3.5 hours long and it never drags!). (available on VOD and soon on Apple TV+)
02) Beyond Utopia
A gripping documentary that shows people trying to escape North Korea, and the South Korean pastor doing everything in his power to help. It uses footage filmed on cell phones by the escapees and helpers, and it’s shocking to know how relevant this all is right now. An important film that deserves a wider audience. (Available on VOD)
01) John Wick: Chapter 4
A new high-water mark for American action cinema. I didn’t think they could top Chapter 3, and I was happy to be proven wrong on multiple levels. Buy the 4K, turn out the lights, and enjoy the ride. (available on 4K Blu-ray and Starz)
