Top Film Picks Of 2017: A Look Back
Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best films of 2017. It was a killer year for cinema, serving up everything from superhero blockbusters to indie darlings that tugged at our heartstrings. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into the movies that made 2017 a truly unforgettable year for film buffs. This list isn't just a random selection; it's a curated collection of movies that resonated with audiences and critics alike, showcasing the diverse storytelling and incredible talent that the year had to offer.
Why 2017 Was a Great Year for Movies
2017, guys, was like, seriously awesome for movies. We saw a fantastic blend of genres, from superhero flicks that redefined the game to indie gems that explored the depths of human emotion. What made it so special? Well, for starters, the storytelling was on point. Directors and writers weren't afraid to take risks, pushing boundaries and delivering narratives that kept us on the edge of our seats. Think about it – we had groundbreaking superhero movies, thought-provoking dramas, and comedies that actually made us laugh out loud. Plus, the performances were outstanding. Actors and actresses brought their A-game, embodying their characters so convincingly that we forgot we were watching a movie. The technical aspects, like cinematography and sound design, were also top-notch, creating immersive experiences that transported us to different worlds. And let's not forget the cultural impact. Many of these films sparked conversations, challenged norms, and left a lasting impression on society. Simply put, 2017 gave us a cinematic buffet that catered to all tastes, making it a year to remember for movie lovers everywhere. It was a year where creativity thrived, and the results were truly spectacular. From the big-budget blockbusters to the smaller, independent films, there was something for everyone to enjoy. This diversity is what made 2017 stand out, proving that the film industry was alive and well, ready to surprise and delight audiences with its endless possibilities. So, as we look back, it's clear that 2017 set a high bar for cinematic excellence, and its influence can still be felt today.
Top Films of 2017: The List
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here's a rundown of some of the top films of 2017, the ones that really stood out. Remember, this isn't just about box office numbers; it's about the movies that left a lasting impact on us.
1. Get Out
Jordan Peele's directorial debut, Get Out, wasn't just a horror movie; it was a social commentary wrapped in a suspenseful thriller. The film follows Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), a young African American man who visits his white girlfriend's family estate. What starts as an awkward weekend quickly spirals into a terrifying nightmare as Chris uncovers a dark secret lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly progressive facade. Get Out is a masterclass in suspense, using horror tropes to explore themes of racism, cultural appropriation, and the insidious nature of prejudice. Peele's clever writing and directing kept audiences on the edge of their seats, while the film's underlying message resonated deeply, sparking important conversations about race relations in America. The performances were stellar, with Kaluuya delivering a nuanced and emotionally charged portrayal of Chris, and the supporting cast adding layers of creepiness and ambiguity to the story. Get Out wasn't just a commercial success; it was a critical darling, earning Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Its impact on the horror genre is undeniable, paving the way for more socially conscious and thought-provoking films. Get Out remains a relevant and powerful film that continues to captivate and disturb audiences, solidifying its place as a modern classic. The brilliance of Get Out lies in its ability to entertain while simultaneously challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and privilege. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and discussion. For these reasons, Get Out is undoubtedly one of the best films of 2017.
2. Lady Bird
Greta Gerwig's Lady Bird is a coming-of-age story that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Set in Sacramento, California, in 2002, the film follows Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), a rebellious and independent-minded teenager navigating the challenges of high school, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Lady Bird captures the awkwardness, humor, and heartache of adolescence with authenticity and wit. Gerwig's screenplay is sharp and insightful, filled with memorable lines and relatable situations. Ronan delivers a captivating performance as Lady Bird, portraying her character's vulnerability, ambition, and inner turmoil with remarkable depth. The supporting cast, including Laurie Metcalf as Lady Bird's mother, Tracy Letts as her father, and Lucas Hedges and Timothée Chalamet as her love interests, are equally brilliant, adding layers of complexity to the story. Lady Bird is more than just a coming-of-age film; it's a love letter to family, friendship, and the places that shape us. It's a film that reminds us of the joys and struggles of growing up, and the importance of finding our own voice. Gerwig's direction is confident and assured, creating a film that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Lady Bird resonated with audiences of all ages, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director at the Academy Awards. Its impact on the coming-of-age genre is significant, inspiring other filmmakers to tell authentic and personal stories about adolescence. Lady Bird is a film that stays with you long after you've seen it, reminding you of the universal experiences that connect us all. The film's honest portrayal of the mother-daughter relationship is particularly poignant, capturing the complexities of love, conflict, and understanding. Lady Bird is a testament to Gerwig's talent as a filmmaker and a celebration of the human spirit.
3. Dunkirk
Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk is a visceral and immersive war film that plunges viewers into the heart of the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940. The film tells the story from three perspectives: land, sea, and air, interweaving these narratives to create a gripping and suspenseful account of the desperate effort to rescue Allied soldiers trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk. Dunkirk is a cinematic masterpiece, showcasing Nolan's mastery of visual storytelling and technical filmmaking. The film's breathtaking cinematography, haunting score by Hans Zimmer, and realistic sound design create an overwhelming sense of realism and tension. The performances are understated yet powerful, with a cast that includes Fionn Whitehead, Tom Hardy, Kenneth Branagh, and Harry Styles. Dunkirk is not a traditional war film filled with heroic battles and triumphant victories. Instead, it focuses on the human cost of war, portraying the fear, desperation, and resilience of the soldiers and civilians involved in the evacuation. Nolan's direction is masterful, creating a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Dunkirk earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Best Film Editing, Best Sound Editing, and Best Sound Mixing at the Academy Awards. Its impact on the war film genre is significant, setting a new standard for realism and immersion. Dunkirk is a film that stays with you long after you've seen it, reminding you of the sacrifices made during World War II and the importance of human compassion in the face of adversity. The film's minimalist dialogue and emphasis on visual storytelling make it a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. Dunkirk is a testament to Nolan's vision as a filmmaker and a powerful tribute to the heroes of Dunkirk. This film deserved its spot on the best of 2017.
4. The Shape of Water
Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water is a dark fantasy romance that tells the story of Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins), a mute cleaning lady working in a high-security government laboratory in 1962. Elisa's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers an amphibious creature being held captive in the lab. As Elisa forms a connection with the creature, she becomes determined to help him escape from the clutches of the government. The Shape of Water is a visually stunning and emotionally captivating film that blends elements of fantasy, romance, and social commentary. Del Toro's direction is masterful, creating a world that is both beautiful and grotesque, magical and realistic. Hawkins delivers a brilliant and nuanced performance as Elisa, conveying her character's emotions and desires through her expressive eyes and body language. The supporting cast, including Michael Shannon, Octavia Spencer, and Richard Jenkins, are equally outstanding, adding depth and complexity to the story. The Shape of Water is more than just a love story; it's a celebration of otherness, acceptance, and the power of connection. It's a film that reminds us to look beyond appearances and embrace the beauty in the unexpected. The Shape of Water earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Best Picture and Best Director at the Academy Awards. Its impact on the fantasy genre is significant, proving that genre films can be both entertaining and thought-provoking. The Shape of Water is a film that stays with you long after you've seen it, reminding you of the importance of empathy and the transformative power of love. The film is a testament to del Toro's vision as a filmmaker and a celebration of the human imagination.
5. Call Me by Your Name
Luca Guadagnino's Call Me by Your Name is a coming-of-age romantic drama set in the summer of 1983 in northern Italy. The film follows Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet), a 17-year-old Jewish boy, and Oliver (Armie Hammer), a 24-year-old American graduate student who comes to stay with Elio's family for the summer. As Elio and Oliver spend time together, they develop a deep and passionate connection that transcends age and cultural differences. Call Me by Your Name is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant film that captures the intensity and beauty of first love. Guadagnino's direction is sensual and evocative, creating a world that is both idyllic and melancholic. Chalamet delivers a breakout performance as Elio, portraying his character's vulnerability, curiosity, and burgeoning sexuality with remarkable sensitivity. Hammer is equally compelling as Oliver, conveying his character's charm, intelligence, and inner conflict. Call Me by Your Name is more than just a romance; it's an exploration of identity, desire, and the transformative power of human connection. It's a film that reminds us of the fleeting nature of time and the enduring impact of our first loves. Call Me by Your Name earned critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Chalamet at the Academy Awards. Its impact on the LGBTQ+ cinema is significant, paving the way for more nuanced and authentic portrayals of same-sex relationships. Call Me by Your Name is a film that stays with you long after you've seen it, reminding you of the beauty and complexity of the human heart. This film stands out as one of the best.
Honorable Mentions
Okay, so 2017 was packed with awesome movies, and it's tough to narrow it down to just a few. Here are some honorable mentions that deserve a shout-out:
- Baby Driver
- Blade Runner 2049
- The Post
- Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
- I, Tonya
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best films of 2017. It was a year of incredible storytelling, outstanding performances, and groundbreaking filmmaking. These movies not only entertained us but also challenged us, made us think, and left a lasting impact on our hearts and minds. Whether you're a fan of superhero blockbusters, indie dramas, or anything in between, 2017 had something for everyone. So, next time you're looking for a movie to watch, why not revisit one of these gems? You might just discover a new favorite! And that's a wrap! What were your favorite films from 2017? Let me know in the comments below!
