Close-up Culture’s James Prestridge names his 10 favourite films of 2019. Please note that this list doesn’t include Parasite as the film’s UK release date is in 2020.
10. Ready Or Not
Samara Weaving did a tremendous job of leading this comedy-horror. One of the most surprisingly entertaining films of the year.
9. Sorry We Missed You
Ken Loach’s film cuttingly looks at the treatment of self-employed workers in the UK. Authentic performances and honest storytelling make this a shattering experience.
8. Joker
Joaquin Phoenix’s performance alone bumps this film onto the list. Todd Phillips’ origin story for the Joker is a welcome mix of entertaining, unnerving and thought-provoking.
7. Once Upon A Time In Hollywood
Tarantino’s ninth film did not disappoint. A tremendous soundtrack, wildly entertaining performances and trademark excessive violence made this another classic to add to the collection.
6. Eighth Grade
Eighth Grade glows with truth and authenticity. There’s no doubting this is the best film to date at capturing the experience of being young in an age of smartphones and YouTube.
5. The Farewell
Grief and culture clashes are observed tenderly in Lulu Wang’s family drama. An outstanding performance by Awkawfina helps bring these themes together into a bundle of humour and poignancy.
4. Midsommar
Ari Aster’s follow up to Hereditary is a unique daylight horror filled with dread and unforgettable images. Florence Pugh’s transformative central performance is worthy of the highest praise.
3. Booksmart
Olivia Wilde’s comedy was a breath of fresh air this year. Lots of outrageous laughs and two loveable lead performances make this one of the best comedies of the decade.
2. Little Women
With a stellar cast and stunning cinematography, Greta Gerwig has given us an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel to love and cherish.
1. Marriage Story
Noah Baumbach’s finest work to date is a perfectly weighted story about divorce. This brilliantly structured story gives space for Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver to give perhaps the best performances of their careers so far.
I haven’t seen many on this list, and do hope to see Ready or Not and Little Women soon. Marriage Story and Midsommar certainly deserve top spots. Merry Christmas!
Hope you enjoy those two as much as I did… Ready Or Not was a real surprise treat. Merry Christmas! Have a wonderful day 🙂