10 Must-Watch Movies of 2023
2023 was a year of captivating storytelling, groundbreaking visuals, and unforgettable performances in cinema. This year's films have left an unforgettable mark on cinema, from heartwarming dramas to edge-of-your-seat thrillers. As we explore the diverse realms of storytelling, I have compiled a list of the top 10 must-see movies of the year. Grab your popcorn, settle into your seat, and get ready to be immersed in the magic of the must-see films of 2023.
Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse
The second installment of the Spider-Verse series charms audiences with stunning animation, a diverse cast of heroes, and a touching narrative. Building on the success of its predecessor, this sequel takes viewers on a visually stunning and narratively complex journey through the Spider-Verse. What truly sets this film apart is its ability to balance jaw-dropping action sequences with genuine emotional depth. Miles Morales grapples with the responsibility of being Spider-Man and the complexities of relationships across dimensions. It's a must-watch for Spider-Man enthusiasts, animation fans, and anyone seeking a thrilling ride through the ever-expanding Spider-Verse.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3
The film reunites audiences with the group of misfits — Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and the scene-stealing Baby Groot — as they navigate the cosmos, facing new threats and old adversaries for one last time. What sets this installment apart is its exploration of deeper emotional layers, delving into the characters' pasts and forging stronger connections among the Guardians. One of the best Marvel films since the Avengers: Endgame, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 delivers the right balance of spectacle and substance, offering a thrilling ride for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part I
Superstar Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt, the unstoppable agent whose dedication to the mission is only matched by his ability to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles. What makes "Dead Reckoning Part I" unique is its carefully crafted narrative, as Director McQuarrie expertly weaves a complex web of mystery that keeps the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats right from the start. The movie's plot is full of unexpected changes and surprises, leaving the viewers in suspense until the end credits. This sets up a great anticipation for the second part. The film has a good balance of suspenseful and light-hearted moments, making it an engaging and entertaining cinematic experience.
John Wick: Chapter 4
The Legendary Hitman, portrayed by the man known as "The Internet's Boyfriend," returns to the screen to deliver one of the best modern action movies, blending art and carnage. Recognizing the cultural significance of the previous three John Wick movies is important, which justifies a lengthy sequel. This includes extended action scenes, more complex storylines, and better-developed characters. Reeves, who is in his late 50s, continues to showcase why he is a global superstar with his never-ending work ethic. His screen presence, catchphrases, and ability to do most of his stunts keep you on the edges of your seats. Then, he shares the screen against Eastern Action Icon Donnie Yen — a treat for fans worldwide.
Barbie
Filled with vibrant colors, catchy music, and a charming storyline, Barbie offers a delightful and enchanting cinematic experience that caters to audiences of all ages. Barbie embarks on a new adventure that entertains and promotes positive values such as individuality, perseverance, and self-acceptance. The movie features diverse characters, each with unique traits, which helps promote inclusivity and acceptance. The stunning visuals and musical score perfectly complement the narrative, creating a captivating experience.
Jawan
Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan returns to the screen in 2023 with the action thriller Jawan (Soldier in English) after delivering the commercially successful film Pathan earlier that year. The film is about a man who seeks to right societal wrongs and fulfill a promise while battling a ruthless outlaw who has caused immense suffering. The action sequences, songs, background score, visuals, and performances are the essence of Indian cinema.
The Boy and The Heron
It is a stunning cinematic masterpiece that beautifully captures the wonder of childhood and the bond between humans and nature. The film portrays a touching relationship between a young boy and a majestic heron, directed with grace and sensitivity. The breathtaking cinematography captures nature's beauty, intensifying the story's emotional impact. The storyline gracefully explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the delicate balance between humanity and the environment. The Boy and the Heron is a cinematic triumph that entertains and imparts valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of all living things, leaving a lasting impression on the audience's heart and soul.
Godzilla Minus One
To put it briefly, this movie is a return to the classic Godzilla formula, and it does justice to the themes explored in the original film. Godzilla was created as a metaphor for nuclear weapons. Godzilla became more of an anti-hero as the franchise grew, defending humanity against other monstrous threats. However, Godzilla Minus One brings the Kaiju King back to its original role of a destructive force that brings Japan's economic status, which was already at zero after World War II, to "Minus One." The film's unique premise provides a fresh perspective, creating the perfect balance of Godzilla's colossal presence and richly written human characters during Godzilla's screen absence — something fans have been dreaming of seeing for decades. Considered one of the best films in world cinema, the movie generates Oscar buzz and is a must-see for movie fans.
Killers of Flower Moon
Based on the non-fiction book "Killers of the Flower Moon"
by American journalist David Grann, the film revolves around a series of Oklahoma murders in the Osage Nation during the 1920s, committed after oil was discovered on tribal land. Oscar-winning actors Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio play an uncle/nephew duo who do everything they can to scheme wealthy Osage people until they finally resort to violence and killing. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese, this movie feels like pages of a lost history book coming to life and giving the audience a taste of the horror and violence Native American tribes have faced in their land throughout history. It's infrequent when a movie made with great actors and a big budget is so excellent but gut-wrenching it can serve as a history lesson. This movie is one of them.
Oppenheimer
Directed by Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer offers a fascinating exploration of the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, a renowned physicist who is widely recognized as the "father of the atomic bomb." Through this movie, viewers learn about Oppenheimer's significant scientific achievements, complicated personal relationships, and the profound ethical challenges that marked his legacy. It is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of a scientific genius whose contributions shaped history. The film features an outstanding lead performance, a well-crafted narrative, and poignant cinematography, which successfully brings to light the brilliance, contradictions, and ethical struggles of J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Honorable Mentions
Concrete Utopia
Sisu
Thanksgiving
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Leo: Bloody Sweet
Checkout my Must-watch movies list of 2022:
