Movies: The Top 10 Films Of A Hectic 2020
2020 has not been kind to the cinematic experience. Still, there have been some amazing films released in this hectic year. Whether you watched streaming in your own home, or in a socially distant movie theater, there really was no shortage of great movies. Here are my top-10 films of 2020.
(This list does not include Oscar frontrunners. Those will be ranked separately closer to Oscar season.)
10. Magic Camp
This Disney Plus original might seem like a children’s film, but it’s so much more. A strong cast led by Adam DeVine and Gillian Jacobs, the message this film leaves you at its conclusion makes it all worthwhile. While the ending can be rather predictable, it was done in such a way that you really didn’t see it coming. It’s not going to be on the best picture list, however, for a Disney Plus original, it’s a must-watch.
9. Arkansas
If you enjoy slow burns, this is the film for you. The directorial debut by Clark Duke (Hot Tub Time Machine, The Office), this movie really engages you as it goes on. It’s not the most exciting, nor the most action-oriented, but it really drew me in. Some will be turned off by the slow pace of the film, however, if you stick with it you’ll be rather pleased that you did.
8. Love and Monsters
A great use of CGI gave this a real blockbuster feel. Dylan O’Brien is such an underrated actor. While this had its moments, something just didn’t hit right. Maybe it was the films pacing, as it never really hit its stride. In terms of feeling like a box office film, this was one of the few that had that mystique behind it. And for that reason, it needs to be on this list.
7. The Boys In the Band
If this wasn’t one of the best cast ensembles of the year I don’t know what is. Such great chemistry between the cast. Jim Parsons steals the show as he almost always does. What made this such a fantastic film is the twisted comedic route it takes. This is a dark film masquerading as a lighthearted comedy.
6. Vast of Night
One of the biggest gems of 2020. Not a lot of hype came from this film at its release. To be honest, there’s still not much talk about this picture. A great sci-fi flick that uses some of the best sound editings to come from a film in decades. You’ll get a real Close Encounters vibe here.
5. Vivarium
I struggled between placing this film ahead of Vast of Night. In the end, the eerie and unpredictable story given to us here is what did the job for me. A real head-scratcher throughout, you’ll never really get a clear sense of what’s going on until the final 2 or 3 minutes. Great performances by Jesse Eisenberg and Imogen Poots, who have really yet to disappoint in any film of their respective careers.
4.The Way Back
The Ben Affleck comeback movie. The parallels between the character in the film and Affleck in real life are quite noticeable. The film itself was good, however, Affleck is what made this such a classic. Despite being nominated for other performances in his past, this might be his best work yet. This is one of the years best.
3. Lovebirds
The theater release turned Netflix film was met with little fanfare. This turned out to be the second-best comedy of the year (more on that later in the list.) Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae deliver breakout roles. The relationship the two have on screen is remarkable. Trailers to this film don’t do it much justice. While a bit predictable, it keeps the laughs going throughout the film.
2. Sonic
The video game adaptation film genre has never been a hit with moviegoers. That changed with Sonic. A great family film that captured the personality and charm of the classic character. Jim Carrey stole the show as the evil Dr. Robotnik, however, the film itself is much fun that you’ll enjoy every minute of it.
1. The Opening Act
Amazing. That’s all I have to say about this. I love the world of standup comedy. This film really gives insight into breaking into the business. Jimmy O. Yang might not be the best actor, however, this role suits him perfectly. The jokes he and the rest of the cast deliver all hit big time. Not only a comedy, this also gives a great message to anyone looking to get that big break. This movie was a real surprise to me. This needs to be seen by all film fans.
Image Source: Paramount Pictures
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
