Out of several okay movies I saw this year, five films stood out as great. Whether they made me laugh, cry, cheer, scream or all of the above, I enjoyed all of these films immensely, and I’m sure a lot of you did, too.
Despite some of its cheap jokes and shortcomings, this movie was still a lot of fun to see. The a cappella music is amazing as always, and the whole movie is worth it just for the riff-off halfway through. Definitely best to watch with a group of friends, PP2 is currently available to rent through Redbox or on DVD everywhere.
I love documentaries, and this one was definitely a great one. I knew nothing about Amy Winehouse outside of her death and rehab stints when I entered the theater, and I walked out wanting to fight whoever said a bad word about her and her angelic voice. Definitely heart wrenching at times, this film paints a beautiful, though truthful, portrait of the life of the jazz singer. Amy is available to rent through Redbox or for purchase on iTunes.
As if this surprises anyone, the new Star Wars is smashing box office records worldwide, and with great reason. With enough nostalgia to make any fan squeal mixed in with the perfect amount of new scenery and characters, The Force Awakens is the most classic, wonderful entry in the Star Wars saga since Return of the Jedi. The Force Awakens is still playing in theaters everywhere, but get your tickets fast!
I’ve seen this movie three times and I have cried every single time. This is obviously Pixar’s best movie since Up with its wonderful characters (not to mention amazing voice acting), tear jerking moments and hilarious jokes about growing up that everyone can relate to. Inside Out is available through Redbox and on DVD everywhere.
While you may not have heard of this one, Room is on the fast track to Oscar nominations and has already been nominated for several Golden Globes and Screen Actor awards. Based on the bestselling novel by Emma Donoghue, Room follows the story of Jack, a five-year-old boy born to his kidnapped mother in a very small space they call Room and how he eventually helps them escape their captor. Brie Larson and the very young Jacob Tremblay deliver the most amazing performances I think I’ve ever seen onscreen, and the movie left me teary-eyed from start to finish. While it’s not available for rent or in wide release yet, I’m sure it will be once Oscar nominations are released.