Burning

Drama/Mystery ‧ 2h 28m

Going into “Burning,” one thing that I valued while watching it was barely knowing anything about it going in. All you really need to know is that our main character’s friend comes back from Africa with a mysterious figure. As the film progresses the movie begins to toy with its audience. The last act of “Burning” makes you question everything you know about these characters, which rarely happens in film. “Burning” is definitely not for everyone, but if you’re into mind-boggling mysteries, you’ll probably love this as much as I did.

Roma

Drama ‧ 2h 15m

Even with the movie limiting itself to only two colors, “Roma” is the most gorgeous film of the year. Every shot is practically perfect and often leaves the audience wondering how they pulled off such amazing cinematography. The first hour and a half is a beautiful and unpredictable drama about a maid working for a middle-class family. A big chunk of “Roma” is setting up events for the last 40 minutes. Let me tell you, it does not disappoint. A plethora of tear jerking scenes occur back to back, hardly giving the viewer time to breathe. “Roma” is a near perfect movie that is currently streaming on Netflix, so try to watch it as soon as possible.

Suspiria (2018)

Supernatural horror film/Fantasy ‧ 2h 32m

From the director of Call Me By Your Name comes a “remake” of a cult classic horror movie. I say remake very loosely as there are few similarities between the old and new “Suspiria” besides the concept. I’d say that works in favor of 2018’s variation of the story because it allows it to be unique. Now this new “Suspiria” isn’t a conventional movie. It’s a very love it or hate it type of film. Everything is done in an odd way but at the very least you’ll be watching a movie that’s like no other.

The Favourite

Drama/Comedy-drama ‧ 2h 1m

Even if it’s a departure from director Yorgos Lanthimos’ regular style, he succeeds in his comedic period piece. “The Favourite” is about two women psychologically battling each other to become the queen’s closet ally. “The Favourite” pulls off the near impossible task of being simultaneously hilarious and having rich drama. It boasts fantastic performances from every actor but a standout is definitely Olivia Colman. When you hear all about “The Favourite” during awards season, do yourself a favour by checking it out.

Museo

Drama/Mystery ‧ 2h 8m

Setting my favoritism for heist movies aside, “Museo” is masterful. Rather than focusing on the characters planning out the heist and the actual robbery, the movie spends most of the time on how these characters change and how their everyday lives shift. It’s a very unique way of telling this type of story, which is worth seeing for that reason alone.

The Sisters Brothers

Drama/Crime ‧ 2h 1m

Once every blue moon, a great western comes along. This year we’re treated to the drama heavy “The Sisters Brothers.” The movie dedicates its runtime to developing the changing chemistry between our two leads. The story is point A to point B but in between every beautiful location we learn a little bit more about why these brothers need each other. “The Sisters Brothers” is a very dark but touching tale that deserves to be watched at least once.

Hereditary

Drama/Thriller ‧ 2h 7m

“Hereditary” is one of the most effective horror films of the decade due to the overall uncomfortableness of the movie. The movie’s sequences often have you wanting to look away, but instead you can’t help but watch the horrors that are presented. Ari Aster’s directorial debut delivers a brilliantly atmospheric flick that will be remembered for years to come.

Eighth Grade

Drama/Comedy ‧ 1h 34m

“Eighth Grade” is an emotional experience that appeals to all ages because of its relatability. It never feels unbelievable or outlandish, which is very important in this type of story. The movie covers anxiety extremely well and has a fantastic moral without hammering it on your head. “Eighth Grade” is a clever comedy that captures the  emotional horrors of middle school expertly.

Spider-Man: Enter the Spider-Verse

Fantasy/Science Fiction ‧ 1h 56m

“Spider-Verse” blew everyone’s expectations out of the water. It’s without a doubt the best superhero movie and animated movie of the year. It’s hilarious, heartfelt and riveting, which accomplishes more than most superhero movies this year.

Paddington 2

Fantasy/Adventure ‧ 1h 44m

“Paddington 2” so far has been snubbed from so many awards. Not even one Golden Globe nomination. It should be a major contender for Best Supporting Actor, Best Picture and Best Visual Effects. The movie is hilarious, adorable and heart-warming. Live action animal hybrid movies have had a spotty track record to say the least, but trust me when I say that this movie is a treat. It doesn’t matter which day, month or year it is, it’s always to right time to watch “Paddington 2.”

Vox Lux

Drama/Musical ‧ 1h 54m

“Vox Lux” is a depressing yet effective tale of a pop star. The first half of the movie starts out with our main character, Celeste, young and filled with ambition. The movie gets very interesting when we fast forward 17 years later to see an older Celeste (played by Natalie Portman) that’s corrupt and manipulative. That’s what makes “Vox Lux” click. Watching our lead character change so drastically makes for an experience that is  simultaneously engaging and unnerving.