It’s that time of the year again, folks. As I did last year, I will be ranking my 5 favourite films of 2019 (in no particular order), just like every other person that calls themselves a ‘film critic’ is doing. This list was a little difficult to make, mainly because I think there are a few films that I would likely put here (such as The Aeronauts or Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Little Women) – except for the fact that none of the cinemas around me are showing them and they’ll probably be released too late into the year to make this list, but nonetheless, this will have to do. (Please note that these are my own opinions!)
5. Burning (dir. Lee Chang-dong)
I’ll be real with you guys for a minute: I only watched this film because it was an adaptation of a Murakami novel. But it’s definitely a lot more than that: it’s a character study, a murder mystery, and a psychological thriller in one. Combined with great performances from all the actors and an equally as great soundtrack by Mowg, this film both meets and subverts expectations. I don’t know if Murakami watches the adaptations of his films, but I think he’d be proud.
4. If Beale Street Could Talk (dir. Barry Jenkins)
It’s rare that I watch a romance film and even rarer that I recommend one, but this is most definitely an exception. Based on a novel of the same name and directed by the acclaimed Barry Jenkins, this story follows New York couple Tish and Fonny, whose lives are flipped upside-down when the former is arrested for a crime his family is certain he didn’t commit. Amidst tested relationship and a chase to prove his innocence is a fantastic love story, punctuated by great drama, heartfelt moments, and superb acting by every cast member (especially Regina King, who won Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars). A must-watch whether you like romance or not.
3. Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel II. lost butterfly (dir. Tomonori Sudou)
Despite the picture you’re seeing right now, lost butterfly is not some typical romance story. It’s not even a romance story.. not really. The second installment in Type-moon and Ufotable’s adaptation of Fate/stay Night’s third route is definitely a spectacle. While the first movie did a great job at establishing the characters and tone of the visual novel’s darkest and bleakest story, lost butterfly builds on that greatness and cranks it up to eleven. Of course, ufotable‘s animation gets better with each passing movie, and the talented voice cast give it their all. Although the Fate franchise is difficult to get into, this movie certainly shows what has the power to be. Perhaps the third and final movie will be on next year’s list?
2. Children of the Sea (dir. Eiko Tanaka)
It’s not an end-of-year list unless it includes two animated movies, is it? Set on one fateful summer vacation, Ruka becomes unexpectedly intertwined in the lives of two boys, Umi and Sora, whose connections to the water contains astonishing secrets. While the three get closer, a strange occurrence is discovered: ocean life is disappearing. With her two new friends in tow, Ruka sets out to fix this problem. Based on a popular manga, this movie is no slacker in adaptation. Consisting of beautiful animation, likeable characters, and a wonderful atmosphere, this is one coming-of-age story I’ll never forget.
1. Avengers: Endgame (dir. Anthony & Joe Russo)
Has it really been more than a year since Infinity War came out? It’s felt like so long since I put it on last year’s list. As it turns out, the hype for this film totally paid off, both literally and figuratively. Despite its moments of comic book silliness and drama, Endgame improves upon its predecessor in almost all aspects, including epicness. Not only is this an entertaining experience for Marvel fans, but for the general public as well – you can’t really say that for a lot of superhero movies. That’s an achievement in and of itself. It’s safe to say that people will still be talking about this spectacle for years to come, mark my words!
The Art Archive 