2018 Cinema & Stadium Film Year-in-Review
I am always excited for this annual opportunity to look back at the previous calendar year in film. Writing this post makes me experience these movies again - not just by looking back at my review from the first time around, but trying to call back the way I felt when I saw them. The passage of time often results in surprises in what stands out in my memory, and I usually have at least a small shift in my overall opinion. I smashed my personal record for movies seen in the theater this year, so there will be a lot to remember. Glancing at the list, it looks like it was another strong year overall - as usual, most of what I saw was in either the action/adventure or drama genres, although I saw more comedies this year than last.
As a reminder, I count only films that were released in theaters near me (i.e., rural area) in 2018 so you'll find some films here that were in last year's Oscars. The format of my year-in-review is the same as always, celebrating the good, the bad, and everything in between:
- Top 10 films of the year
- Most underrated/overrated films
- Most surprising/disappointing films
- Worst film of the year
- Second chance: films I saw on Netflix
- List of other films I saw and reviewed
Please do also check out my Oscar-style awards for 2018 post here, and all of the films listed below are linked so you can jump to my full reviews if/when you're interested. Enjoy!
Top 10 Films of 2018
10 (tie). The Post (Directed by Steven Spielberg; starring Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, Bob Odenkirk)
The Post's trio of Spielberg-Streep-Hanks is a movie lover's dream, and it is indeed a great one, even if it doesn't quite meet my (very) lofty expectations. This is the story of the Post's decision whether to publish the classified Pentagon Papers, containing explosive revelations on the Vietnam War. The paper fights a classic underdog battle, and wisely focuses not on Hanks's grizzled, confrontational editor but on Streep's underestimated owner. She is the film's heart and soul, creating a vivid, complex character with both courage and insecurities. The Post doesn't dig as deep or hit as hard as its cousin, Spotlight, but it's still an entertaining and important film.
10 (tie). Widows (Directed by Steve McQueen; starring Viola Davis, Elizabeth Debicki, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Rodriguez)
With all due respect to the fun-as-hell Ocean's franchise, this is about as good a heist film as I've ever seen. Largely, that's because the heist aspect is essentially a vehicle for fascinating explorations of women bursting out of their husbands' shadows and bleak but illuminating political machinations. Viola Davis leads the charge, devastated by her husband's sudden death but immediately forced to fight for survival. She soon rounds up her fellow widows, mutually suspicious but capable of more than they imagine. Meanwhile, Farrell haunts as a dynasty heir in an unforgettable city tracking shot while his disadvantaged rivals turn ruthless. Add the heist itself, and it truly hits the jackpot.
With all due respect to the fun-as-hell Ocean's franchise, this is about as good a heist film as I've ever seen. Largely, that's because the heist aspect is essentially a vehicle for fascinating explorations of women bursting out of their husbands' shadows and bleak but illuminating political machinations. Viola Davis leads the charge, devastated by her husband's sudden death but immediately forced to fight for survival. She soon rounds up her fellow widows, mutually suspicious but capable of more than they imagine. Meanwhile, Farrell haunts as a dynasty heir in an unforgettable city tracking shot while his disadvantaged rivals turn ruthless. Add the heist itself, and it truly hits the jackpot.
9. Vice (Directed by Adam McKay; starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carell)
I'm not afraid to confront the obvious political stigma it bears in my choice: regardless of all that, it's a cleverly constructed story fronted by outstanding performances. Christian Bale is the latest in a line of top-flight actors (Oyelowo, Oldman, etc.) to slip into a historical icon's skin and soul; physical transformation and mannerisms amazing, subtle inner life just as good. Adams and Carell as wife Lynne and Rumsfeld, respectively, are also to be praised as they show the nuanced, complex ways their relationships shaped Dick. It's well-written, a thorough but well-paced journey to the crucial 9/11 pivot point, after which it allows itself a full-throated condemnation.
I'm not afraid to confront the obvious political stigma it bears in my choice: regardless of all that, it's a cleverly constructed story fronted by outstanding performances. Christian Bale is the latest in a line of top-flight actors (Oyelowo, Oldman, etc.) to slip into a historical icon's skin and soul; physical transformation and mannerisms amazing, subtle inner life just as good. Adams and Carell as wife Lynne and Rumsfeld, respectively, are also to be praised as they show the nuanced, complex ways their relationships shaped Dick. It's well-written, a thorough but well-paced journey to the crucial 9/11 pivot point, after which it allows itself a full-throated condemnation.
8. Game Night (Directed by John Francis Daley; starring Jason Bateman, Rachel McAdams, Kyle Chandler)
One of the funniest comedies I've seen in years, I'm kicking myself that I didn't see this in the theater. Just about everything in it is unexpected, from an odd assortment of actors to a tone that somehow careens from goofy to straight to dark without feeling out of place. Bateman as usual is a superb comic lead, and helps the less humor-centric players like McAdams and Chandler hit their stride; though it's little-known Jesse Plemons who is the so-bizarre-he's-hilarious scene stealer. It has some genuine spooks, but it knows just how to play the horror and other genre bits for maximum humor. Very well-written and never predictable, this Game Night is worthy of an encore.
7. Roma (Directed by Alfonso Cuaron; starring Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira)
I'm usually not on the lookout for deliberately-paced foreign language films, but this Netflix original from one of Hollywood's best directors is entertaining and moving to go with its artsiness. Based on Cuaron's childhood, the focus is the family's maid who is played brilliantly by the acting novice Aparicio. Filmed in black and white, it really does feel like a memory playing out. The first half sets the stage, most often simply following quiet Cleo around the home as she washes the floors or looks after the children. Well done, but frankly a bit slow with little narrative so breaking it into multiple viewings is recommended. By the end, however, the investment pays off as the story picks up.
One of the funniest comedies I've seen in years, I'm kicking myself that I didn't see this in the theater. Just about everything in it is unexpected, from an odd assortment of actors to a tone that somehow careens from goofy to straight to dark without feeling out of place. Bateman as usual is a superb comic lead, and helps the less humor-centric players like McAdams and Chandler hit their stride; though it's little-known Jesse Plemons who is the so-bizarre-he's-hilarious scene stealer. It has some genuine spooks, but it knows just how to play the horror and other genre bits for maximum humor. Very well-written and never predictable, this Game Night is worthy of an encore.
7. Roma (Directed by Alfonso Cuaron; starring Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira)
I'm usually not on the lookout for deliberately-paced foreign language films, but this Netflix original from one of Hollywood's best directors is entertaining and moving to go with its artsiness. Based on Cuaron's childhood, the focus is the family's maid who is played brilliantly by the acting novice Aparicio. Filmed in black and white, it really does feel like a memory playing out. The first half sets the stage, most often simply following quiet Cleo around the home as she washes the floors or looks after the children. Well done, but frankly a bit slow with little narrative so breaking it into multiple viewings is recommended. By the end, however, the investment pays off as the story picks up.
6. First Man (Directed by Damien Chazelle; starring Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy, Kyle Chandler)
Much of this fascinating Neil Armstrong biopic is about its subject's inner, suppressed tempest, but it also thrills when it shows that man bring the chaos of space to heel - by the thinnest of margins. Gosling, rejoining La La Land's Chazelle, is far more reserved yet focused this time. First Man explores him - how personal trauma drove professional brilliance and landed back in the home again - more so than the moon landing itself. While his colleagues become like family, the strain with his real one culminates in a wrenching pre-launch farewell. And in several space scenes, you're placed right in the cramped, rattling pods, hanging on for dear life. An adventure, inside and out.
5. Mission Impossible: Fallout (Directed by Christopher McQuarrie; starring Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Rebecca Ferguson)
Typically, by the time an action franchise reaches its sixth film - and its star's 56th birthday - you don't expect much that is either new or better than what you've seen before. Well, Cruise and Co. turned all that on its head with the latest Mission Impossible. Previous entries have seen one death-defying practical stunt each; this one has at least three, and they're all jaw dropping. Most impressive are the ludicrously long car- and motorcycle chase through Paris, and the helicopter finale. There are also some great fight scenes, and the humor is even more a relief here to catch your breath. Bonus intrigue for those who saw the previous one, but if you didn't catch this in the theater, you missed out.
4. Can You Ever Forgive Me? (Directed by Marielle Heller; starring Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant)
This little biopic defies just about every rule in Hollywood in quietly becoming one of the best dramas of the year. Melissa McCarthy, hilarious but also a tremendously talented (if underestimated) overall actor, delivers a brilliant performance. Lee Israel, a failed writer who turns to literary forgery to get by - and also to give her peers the finger - is a peevish misanthrope. Yet McCarthy is so devoted, and the screenplay helps give her such depth, that she is sympathetic nonetheless. Grant's street scoundrel is a perfect foil and the story itself is fascinating: Lee's actions may be criminal, but there's plenty of shadiness to be found elsewhere, too. See it at home when you can.
This little biopic defies just about every rule in Hollywood in quietly becoming one of the best dramas of the year. Melissa McCarthy, hilarious but also a tremendously talented (if underestimated) overall actor, delivers a brilliant performance. Lee Israel, a failed writer who turns to literary forgery to get by - and also to give her peers the finger - is a peevish misanthrope. Yet McCarthy is so devoted, and the screenplay helps give her such depth, that she is sympathetic nonetheless. Grant's street scoundrel is a perfect foil and the story itself is fascinating: Lee's actions may be criminal, but there's plenty of shadiness to be found elsewhere, too. See it at home when you can.
3. Black Panther (Directed by Ryan Coogler; starring Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, et. al.)
Among the first superhero films to court major awards buzz, Black Panther is not only a top-tier example of its genre but it also creates a rich fictional world that has plenty to say about our own. At its center is the fantasy country of Wakanda, a striking inverse of historical pattern: using powerful alien material, it has become by far the most advanced culture in the world, but hides and isolates itself. The production design is dazzling and immersive, from gleaming cities and industry to vibrant fashion and customs. Boseman quietly bears the weight of the world is on his shoulders: newly crowned, he confronts both his nation's tradition as well as a fierce and charismatic rival. And the complex female roles steal the show on top of it all. A landmark film in many ways.
2. Molly's Game (Directed by Aaron Sorkin; starring Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba)
Aaron Sorkin's incredible writing finds a perfect muse in Jessica Chastain - whose acting is strong enough to shoulder the technical demands but also to give it a warm, beating heart. Based on a true story, Molly's life as an Olympic skier turned underground poker manager is so full of complex, amazing detail that only Sorkin's vibrant, rapid-fire yet comprehensible writing could capture it. Chastain is a chameleon on screen, but playing a bold, determined heroine is her sweet spot and she just cranks this part out of the park. Elba and Costner provide some emotional fireworks, but it's Chastain who does the heavy lifting, often without even speaking - a true trick from Sorkin. From its incredibly entertaining and moving story to the crackling writing to Chastain, you can't miss it.
Among the first superhero films to court major awards buzz, Black Panther is not only a top-tier example of its genre but it also creates a rich fictional world that has plenty to say about our own. At its center is the fantasy country of Wakanda, a striking inverse of historical pattern: using powerful alien material, it has become by far the most advanced culture in the world, but hides and isolates itself. The production design is dazzling and immersive, from gleaming cities and industry to vibrant fashion and customs. Boseman quietly bears the weight of the world is on his shoulders: newly crowned, he confronts both his nation's tradition as well as a fierce and charismatic rival. And the complex female roles steal the show on top of it all. A landmark film in many ways.
2. Molly's Game (Directed by Aaron Sorkin; starring Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba)
Aaron Sorkin's incredible writing finds a perfect muse in Jessica Chastain - whose acting is strong enough to shoulder the technical demands but also to give it a warm, beating heart. Based on a true story, Molly's life as an Olympic skier turned underground poker manager is so full of complex, amazing detail that only Sorkin's vibrant, rapid-fire yet comprehensible writing could capture it. Chastain is a chameleon on screen, but playing a bold, determined heroine is her sweet spot and she just cranks this part out of the park. Elba and Costner provide some emotional fireworks, but it's Chastain who does the heavy lifting, often without even speaking - a true trick from Sorkin. From its incredibly entertaining and moving story to the crackling writing to Chastain, you can't miss it.
1. Avengers: Infinity War (Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo; starring Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Josh Brolin, et. al.)
In case you hadn't noticed, I'm a bit of a fan of the Marvel superhero movies. It's not everyone's thing and frankly, even most people who do enjoy these films wouldn't put Infinity War at the top of their list for 2018. But damn it, I've enjoyed the MCU ever since Iron Man back in 2008 and have only enjoyed and respected it more since then. For fans like me, Infinity War is an immensely gratifying culmination of a ten-year saga, filled with both exhilarating joy and gripping suspense. Quite often, my top movie of the year is one I consider to have had a high degree of difficulty in achieving any kind of success, let alone mastery. Infinity War most definitely qualifies: not only does it have an insane number of characters to juggle (well over 30 make at least an appearance), but it's only part one of two of a saga finale without peer (in its overall scope) in film history. It handles these challenges gracefully, thanks to the dynamic creative duo of Anthony and Joe Russo (who also helmed MCU standouts Captain America: Winter Soldier and CA: Civil War). There's plenty of exposition and character meetings, which typically are murder for a film's pacing (not least one that's 2.5 hours) - so they amp up the humor and energy as high as possible, made possible by the extraordinary casting and chemistry among the heroes built up over the years. On top of this rock solid frame is laid plentiful action, which is spread out, varied and then escalated appropriately so that by the end rather than exhausted, you are charged for the conclusion - a cliffhanger that leaves you hanging in all (and the best possible) ways.
Do I recommend this to simply anyone? No. But for those of us who have followed and enjoyed the Marvel superhero films of the past decade, there was simply no greater experience to be had at the movie theater in 2018.
In case you hadn't noticed, I'm a bit of a fan of the Marvel superhero movies. It's not everyone's thing and frankly, even most people who do enjoy these films wouldn't put Infinity War at the top of their list for 2018. But damn it, I've enjoyed the MCU ever since Iron Man back in 2008 and have only enjoyed and respected it more since then. For fans like me, Infinity War is an immensely gratifying culmination of a ten-year saga, filled with both exhilarating joy and gripping suspense. Quite often, my top movie of the year is one I consider to have had a high degree of difficulty in achieving any kind of success, let alone mastery. Infinity War most definitely qualifies: not only does it have an insane number of characters to juggle (well over 30 make at least an appearance), but it's only part one of two of a saga finale without peer (in its overall scope) in film history. It handles these challenges gracefully, thanks to the dynamic creative duo of Anthony and Joe Russo (who also helmed MCU standouts Captain America: Winter Soldier and CA: Civil War). There's plenty of exposition and character meetings, which typically are murder for a film's pacing (not least one that's 2.5 hours) - so they amp up the humor and energy as high as possible, made possible by the extraordinary casting and chemistry among the heroes built up over the years. On top of this rock solid frame is laid plentiful action, which is spread out, varied and then escalated appropriately so that by the end rather than exhausted, you are charged for the conclusion - a cliffhanger that leaves you hanging in all (and the best possible) ways.
Do I recommend this to simply anyone? No. But for those of us who have followed and enjoyed the Marvel superhero films of the past decade, there was simply no greater experience to be had at the movie theater in 2018.
Honorable mentions: The Old Man & the Gun; BlackKklansman; Tag; Solo: A Star Wars Story
Miscellaneous Awards:
Most Overrated Film of the Year: Bohemian Rhapsody (runner-up: Deadpool 2)
I enjoyed the first Deadpool a lot: its irreverent tone, even how it sends up my favorite genre. But this sequel makes the whole vibe already feel tired. There's just more of everything, but nothing is better (although the jump scene with X-Force was hilarious). There may still be life in this mini-franchise, but they need to pull back a lot and not just throw everything at the wall.
Bohemian Rhapsody actually does not have a great Rotten Tomatoes score, at 61%. But it has a Best Picture nomination at the Oscars and won at the Golden Globes. How either of these things happened, I have no idea. Yes, Malek is good, and some of the show scenes are well done. But it's such a cliched rock biopic movie, and the band's history is exaggerated if not entirely altered whenever needed to fit the desired narrative arc. It's not bad, but not at all worthy of the awards attention it's received.
Most Underrated Film of the Year: Solo: A Star Wars Story (runner-up: Tag)
Critics weren't game for Tag, giving it just a 56%; though it opened to a soft $15 million, word-of-mouth got it to a respectable $56 million total. This is not the smartest comedy in the world. But once you get past that, the sheer nuttiness of the premise and willingness of the cast sweeps you up. Give this a try, and before long you'll be looking to tag others to its charms.
Solo got a decent critical reception, at 70%, but audiences abandoned it: after the previous three SW films broke box office records, this one got a "paltry" $213 million. Maybe it was due to coming so soon after Episode VIII - which itself was controversial among the diehards. Personally, I enjoyed this one more than the other offshoot film, Rogue One. Ehrenreich makes a perfectly good Han, and its gritty, Indiana Jones-like vibe is a welcome change up. Give it a chance.
Most Disappointing Film of the Year: A Wrinkle in Time (runner-up: Jurassic World 2)
I probably shouldn't be surprised (and therefore, disappointed) that Jurassic World 2 wasn't very good. The series "reboot" in 2015 was very entertaining but also a broad, dumbed-down product that happened to be executed quite well. Sure, there are some exciting scenes here, but we're now quite far from the masterful original. Good for the (older) kiddies, otherwise skip.
I read the classic children's book years ago in school, so I re-read it right before it came to theaters. I'm glad I did read it again, because it's a great book, but the film is a flimsy adaptation, with shockingly little genuine wonder or resonance. Granted, it is a titanic challenge, and the story demands so much from the reader's imagination that one film couldn't hope to satisfy everyone. My advice: just stick to the book.
Most Surprisingly Good Film of the Year: Crazy Rich Asians (runner-up: Tomb Raider)
Movies based on video games likely have the worst reputation in Hollywood, and deservedly so. But I just had a feeling about this one, and was glad that I tried it. Oscar winner Alicia Vikander carries it, a sympathetic street urchin early and then quite a believable action star - less fighting, and more thrilling stunts that you can almost feel yourself. Try it when you need solid, fun adventure.
Rom-com is only slightly ahead of horror for me in the genres I am likely to see (in other words - few and far between). But with so much hype, and an intriguing premise, I decided to give it a try. Not earth-shattering, but it's quite entertaining, and quietly revolutionary in some ways. The leads are charismatic, and there are a number of good supporting players (particularly Awkwafina and Nico Santos). A feel-good celebration, even for non-rom-com fans.
Worst Film of the Year: The Spy Who Dumped Me (runner-up: Life of the Party)
Melissa McCarthy has several times lifted up poor material into decent films. No such luck with this loser about a mom going back to college with her daughter (it has every single horrible cliche and bashes your skull in with them). It's especially shocking to see this in the same year that she was so good in Can You Ever Forgive Me? For the love of God, someone please find a half-decent comedy writer for Melissa!!!
The premise for this - the girlfriend (and her girlfriend) of a spy going on a deadly mission, featuring a talented lead duo - was too much to resist. Rotten Tomatoes tried to warn me (I think it was around 35% when it came out; somehow it's now up to 49%?!?). This movie starts bad, and if anything only gets worse. The filmmakers should probably be put on suspension - awful writing and directing. Kate McKinnon improvises like crazy - whether because they asked her to or she just dumped the script, who knows - but even she comes up flailing. It's pretty obvious this is a date movie, but anyone who took their loved one to see this is probably now single.
Netflix Summary:
- BlackKklansman (A-): Not sure why/how I didn't see this in theaters. Based on an incredible true story of a black detective infiltrating the KKK - with his Jewish partner - it has good humor and unforced significance. Highly recommended.
- Tully (B+): Theron is great as a mom at - and beyond - her breaking point. It effectively shows real pain and struggles, though I'm iffy on the twist at the end.
- Eighth Grade (B+): Yet another coming-of-age story, this one distinguishes itself by the young actor's skill and almost painful realism. Doesn't have a lot going for it otherwise, but decent.
- The Death of Stalin (B): If you're a fan of a certain kind of satire, you'll love this. I'm not, so while I respect some of the cleverness and acting, it got old for me pretty quickly.
- A Quiet Place (B): I don't get the hype on this one. It's fine, and Blunt is great, but it seems pretty standard sci-fi/horror fare to me. Plus, the ending is kind of lame.
- Blockers (B-): Solid premise, but the execution is mediocre. It struggles to create consistent laughs, and goes overly crude at times while overly hesitant at others.
- Annihilation (B-): I should probably just stop seeing this kind of weird sci-fi film. I respect the tone and imagery, and it's quite spooky, but it's just too weird for me, especially Natalie Portman wrestle her alien doppelganger.
Other Films I Saw in Theaters in 2018 (click for full reviews):
- The Shape of Water (A-)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (B+)
- Incredibles 2 (B+)
- Ready Player One (B+)
- Overlord (B+)
- Night School (B)
- Bad Times at the El Royale (B)
- Isle of Dogs (B)
- Ocean's 8 (B)
- Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald (B-)
- Aquaman (B-)
- Pacific Rim: Uprising (C+)
- The Predator (C)
I hope you enjoyed reading some or all of this year-in-review (and come back later if you're in need of movie night suggestions)! I'm looking forward to some more great times at the theater in 2019 - I am counting down the days until two series finales in particular in Avengers: Endgame and Star Wars Episode IX. I'm sure there will be plenty more worth seeing on the big screen, known hits and pleasant surprises alike. Enjoy!!
* Image source: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4154756/mediaviewer/rm1947159040
