Top 10 Films Of 2020
Written By Alex Greenbaum
10. "Beanpole"
"Beanpole" is a haunting, often exquisite portrayal of two women dealing with PTSD. It's also a devastating character analysis that succeeds through its eye-popping set design and distinct subject matter, along with two lead performances that bring its improvisational script to life.
9. "Soul"
Pixar's "Soul" is an insightful, funny, and deeply thoughtful animated film. Its numerous thematic layers and spot-on voice acting by Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey add to its emotional weight. An instant classic that ranks as one of Pixar's great achievements.
8. "Never Rarely Sometimes Always"
Moved by its sensitive topic and complicated dilemmas, "Never Rarely Sometimes Always" aims to showcase the struggle of a young girl looking to receive an abortion. No question difficult to watch, but necessary for its grand message to be executed with authenticity, I couldn't help but be blown away by a story that needed to be told. Director/ writer Eliza Hittman has created a new standard for narrative storytelling.
7. "I'm Thinking Of Ending Things"
Charlie Kaufman's third feature film just might be his best. As the mystery begins to take hold, so does Kaufman's poetic writing. Enthralling and thought-provoking, "I'm Thinking Of Ending Things" is a sublime piece of filmmaking.
6. "Boys State"
Hopeful, exhilarating, and sometimes sad, "Boys State" encapsulates the hypocrisy of political leanings with charm and wit. One of the most gorgeously filmed documentaries in years and captures some of the most entertaining bunch of adolescent teens fighting for what they believe in.
5. "Small Axe: Red, White, And Blue
There's no doubt, director/writer Steve McQueen is a consummate genius. His "Small Axe" film anthology about the West Indian community dealing with racism in London is a fantastic history lesson. But the third entry, "Red, White, And Blue" is a masterful standout, that is more significant due to its relevance to modern-day systemic racism.
4. Les Misérables
The feature debut for french filmmaker Ladj Ly is a heart-pounding examination of how stereotypes and discrimination form. Impacted by some expert filmmaking and a mind-altering ending, Les Misérables is a resounding success.
3. "Premature"
"Premature" is a quietly devastating drama, that holds nothing back. The physicality and beauty of discovering one's body and mind are utilized with incredible force; the sex, chemistry and highlighted critcism of modern-day love and culture provide a refreshing realism. Along with a soundtrack that adds a liveliness and charm to its already excellent narrative, "Premature" is one of the best coming of age stories in decades.
2. "Sound Of Metal"
"Sound Of Metal" is an extraordinary film. It's sometimes bleak and true to nature delivery is sure to turn off individuals seeking a mindless escape, but they will be sorely missing out on a truly special film with a profound message. Between Riz Ahmed's career-altering performance and Darius Marder's spectacular directorial debut, "Sound Of Metal" is awe-inspiring.
1. "Portrait Of A Lady On Fire"
"Portrait Of A Lady On Fire" is a stunning piece of artwork. The production reflects an earlier era, yet its subject matter is modern and relevant. Director/writer Céline Sciamma has concocted a classic romantic tale for the ages. With an intelligent script and one of the more touching love stories you'll see, we have our first big winner of the new decade.
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