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The Top 10 Films of 2017 So Far

 


10.) Baby Driver (15)
A fun and original addition to the car chase genre, with a great soundtrack. The film has its flaws, but a couple of brilliant standout scenes means that this film has snuck into the top ten. I absolutely loved the choreography of the opening credits scene, and Ansel Elgort is definitely someone to keep your eye on.
Read the full review here: http://end-seat.blogspot.co.uk/2017/07/baby-driver-review.html


9.) A Monster Calls (12A)
I absolutely loved this film. It's so captivating and engaging, and evoked a really strong reaction in me. It deals with serious and heartbreaking issues, with imagination and wonderful storytelling, and it packs an emotional punch. I really enjoyed the visuals as well, and the clever mix of everyday, dreary life with the magical escapism of fairytales.
Read the full review here: http://end-seat.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/a-monster-calls-review.html


8.) Spider-Man: Homecoming (12A)
The sixth Spider-Man film in fifteen years, could have meant that this film was going to struggle to bring anything new or interesting to the franchise. However this was not the case, as Spider-Man: Homecoming managed to be fun, fresh and really enjoyable. It is by no means flawless, but it is a great addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with its own distinct character and tone. It's light-hearted and entertaining, and was great to watch on the big screen.
Read the full review here: http://end-seat.blogspot.co.uk/2017/07/spider-man-homecoming-review.html

7.) Manchester By The Sea (15)
A quiet and slow film which deals with heartbreak, loss and the bleaker side of life. Yet, in spite of its dark topics, it is incredibly absorbing with some wonderful, heart-warming scenes. It is so well written, and I loved how it didn't shy away from scenes which dealt with the minutiae of life - the audience are able to witness everything, even if it at first, it doesn't seem interesting. In the screening I went to, everyone was utterly engaged in the film, and the feeling was palpable. There are some wonderful performances as well, especially from Casey Affleck and Lucas Hedges.
Read the full review here: http://end-seat.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/manchester-by-sea-review.html


6.) Lion (PG)
Lion had gone slightly under my radar, and so as such, I had no expectations of it. I ended up thoroughly enjoying it, and was completely engaged in it throughout. Many people criticised its sentimentality, but I thought it was an incredible story which was really well told. There was a particularly stunning performance from Sunny Pawar, even more impressive when you consider that he is only eight years old, and this was his first role. By the time the end credits were rolling, I felt uplifted and inspired.


5.) Hacksaw Ridge (15)
I am not much of a fan of Mel Gibson, but I cant fault his directorial efforts on Hacksaw Ridge. The cinematography was brilliant, and I was surprised at how brutal and graphic the war scenes were. The film has three distinct acts, and this meant that the pacing and tone of the film was really good. I loved Andrew Garfield's performance, and I was incredibly engaged throughout. Although not flawless, Hacksaw Ridge is compelling, gritty and a great addition to the war film genre.


4.) La La Land (12A)
Unfortunately, due to the massive hype surrounding it, a lot of people have now turned on La La Land, heavily criticising it and lambasting the performances. Do not let the naysayers put you off! La La Land is a wonderful film - its nostalgic, romantic and a joy to watch. Damien Chazelle has done an amazing job in the direction of the film, every aspect is carefully thought out - the lighting, colour and cinematography is perfect. I really enjoyed the music and the performances, and it was a brilliant film to watch at the cinema - definitely an experience as well as a film. Watch this film with an open mind, and an open heart, and you will be rewarded.    


3.) Moonlight (15)
This tender, raw and heart-breaking film won Best Picture at The Oscars, and it is thoroughly deserved. The film is told in three distinct acts, which reflect three chapters in lead character Chiron's life. These three distinct acts each have their own tone, but come together beautifully in an incredibly poignant and passionate use of storytelling. The cinematography is superb, and reflects the film's understated tone. A lot of the focus for this film has been about the main character's sexuality, however I strongly feel that Moonlight is not a film about Chiron's sexuality. It is a film about his life, and his struggles. Altogether, not only is Moonlight a beautifully crafted film - with overwhelming artistry and sensitivity, it is also an important film which gives a voice to those not often heard. 


2.) Hidden Figures (PG)
I absolutely loved this film. I had high expectations, and I wasn't disappointed. This is such a feel good film, and I watched it with a massive smile. This was one of the films nominated for Best Picture, and although it may not boast the impressive cinematography or awe inspiring shots that some of the other nominees has, it has just as much going for it. The story shines a light on a little known part of history, and is inspiring and uplifting. Hidden Figures is an uncomplicated, straightforward film, but is immensely likeable and entertaining. Films have the ability to make you feel all sorts of emotions, but isn't it wonderful when they make you feel this good?


1.) Logan (15)
My number one film of the year so far, is Logan. This antihero film, and Wolverine's swansong is absolutely fantastic - packing a punch both visually, and emotionally. Every aspect of it is brilliant - technically, tonally and performance wise. The decision to make the film darker, and grittier, definitely pays off, and fans are rewarded with the Wolverine they always wanted to see. This film is 135 minutes long, but I was so engaged in it, it felt as though I could have kept on watching and watching. One of the things I was most impressed with, was the colour palette - it was used to maximum effect, and was instantly noticeable. Overall, Logan is a genre defining film, and a must watch. It was amazing on the big screen, and is my favourite film of the year so far.










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