Compiling a list of the best films of the year is always challenging, and honestly, I hate attempting it. However, as we say goodbye to 2023, I couldn’t resist reflecting on some of the standouts. After all, it was the year of incredible horror movies, Barbenheimer, and Jacob Elordi. So let’s reminisce on a few of my favorites, some of which were pleasant surprises, in no particular order.
Talk to Me
Although I do need to start with my top film of the year. Not only is Talk to Me an effective horror film, but its ingenuity and brilliant lead performance seal the deal.
Grieving the loss of her mother, a teen becomes consumed by a conduit that connects her to the afterlife, not knowing the dangerous door it unlocks. What transpires is something that heightens the concept of “teen supernatural horror” by not being afraid to raise the stakes while beautifully exploring grief against themes of addiction.
May December
Inspired by a real-life tabloid sensation, May December follows an actress (Natalie Portman) as she attempts to connect with the woman (Julianne Moore) she’s set to portray.
Beautifully directed by Todd Haynes, the film is a curious exploration of a disturbing relationship, as well as an artist’s unhealthy fixation on perfecting her craft. While the two veteran actresses are spellbinding, Charles Melton is the one who steals the show with his portrayal of a victim who has been ignored.
Bottoms
When two loser besties make it their mission to lose their virginities to popular cheerleaders, they create a female fight club to get closer to their crushes. Starring Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri, Bottoms is a raunchy yet endearing teen comedy that relishes in its outlandish humor.
There are so many witty lines and comical performances — Marshawn Lynch was a wonderful surprise. And it all culminates in a pretty violent and bloody battle that seals in the hilarity of it all.
Fair Play
A workplace romance is tested when one of them gets a promotion. As tensions rise, jealousy and insecurities come to a head. The feature debut of writer and director Chloe Domont, Fair Play is a seductive thriller that meticulously explores corporate greed and gender politics.
It also offers a smart look into how casual misogyny can impact women in the workplace and their relationships, especially in an industry so male-driven. Domont maneuvers through many uncomfortable scenarios, and for her part, Phoebe Dynevor steers through it all with a precise performance.
Priscilla
Despite being viewed as an iconic couple, the relationship between Elvis and Priscilla Presley had a darker side. Based on her 1985 memoir and starring Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, Priscilla is a fascinating film that gives an honest perspective of her life during this tumultuous period.
Writer and director Sofia Coppola beautifully captures Priscilla in a genuine light with stunning cinematography. Admittedly, as someone who has never been a fan or curious about Presley, it gave me an understanding of her life and experience.
Dream Scenario
Perhaps the most peculiar film on my list, Dream Scenario is a black comedy that follows a boring professor who is part of an unexplained phenomenon where the whole world sees him in their dreams. But when everything spirals, his life becomes a nightmare.
It’s not your average film, and Nicolas Cage is truly in his element with a quirky performance. Its bizarre story and wild direction keep you hooked and guessing, and even with all the ambiguity, it’s a wonderful movie.
Barbie
Of course, the biggest movie of the year would wind up on my list. Directed and co-written by Greta Gerwig, Barbie is a cinematic dreamland of pastel eye candy and immaculate dialog, with a deeply meaningful message.
While there was no doubt they’d nail the look and feel of plastic-fantastic, it wound up conveying a story from a more profound level. It isn’t afraid of calling out the patriarchy and stereotypes but with an immense amount of satirical wit.
Saw X
After nearly 20 years of Saw films, Saw X was a refreshing return to form. Of course, the memorable traps are there with the gruesome practical effects and thrilling suspense. But it feels like this film transcends that.
The film surprisingly has an emotional story that puts Tobin Bell in the spotlight he deserves. There would be no series without Jigsaw, and this film gives the character and Bell the extra moment both warranted.
Evil Dead Rise
Another knockout horror was Evil Dead Rise. The kills are just as brutal and inventive as ever. While sometimes outlandish (in the best way), they often have a twisted humor that feels like such a signature of the franchise.
The film seems focused on taking the series to new heights while embodying what fans love about the original Evil Dead. There’s fun to be had, and nightmares to be seen, and I’m excited to see where the Deadites rise next.
Honorable Mentions
Jordy Reviews It 
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