Film Roll Call 2023

By Parker Fields

In a year where the big screen served as a canvas for atomic secrets, pink hued adventures, and spine-chilling horror, 2023 has submitted itself as a kaleidoscope in cinema. From the regrets of Oppenheimer to Barbie’s pastel world, each film served as a testament to the diverse storytelling tactics and diverse stories that were treated with the utmost love and care in front of and behind the camera. Each of these films conveys different themes and emotions to the audience in a way that had yet to be done. No sequels, no franchises, no prior knowledge. Just sit down, grab some popcorn, and watch the film unfold.

Oppenheimer

It’s hard to say what hasn’t already been said about Christopher Nolan’s exploration of the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer. This biopic stands as a cinematic achievement that transcends the conventional boundaries of storytelling. From the captivating visual poetry to the narrative prowess, Nolan masterfully lures millions of viewers into the complex world of scientific discovery. A testament to his ability to maintain engagement over a three hour runtime. 

Beyond Nolan’s unwavering commitment, the film delves into a facet of history often overshadowed: the creation of the atomic bomb. The movie invites the audience to contemplate the morality of a man whose creation inadvertently led to the loss of at least 140,000 bystanders. Nolan skillfully walks the line between heroism and villainy, presenting Oppenheimer as a character riddled with internal conflicts as well as external struggles.

 However, this couldn’t have been pulled off without the once-in-a-lifetime portrayal by Cillian Murphy. His performance of the titular character is nothing short of extraordinary, bringing depth and nuance to the trials and tribulations of Oppenheimer. Murphy’s compelling performance elevated the film, making it a standout in the biopic genre.

The sound design, an often overlooked aspect in mainstream cinema, emerges as a silent force, seamlessly blending moments of quiet contemplation and thunderous roars from the Manhattan Project. The balance in the silence and intensity enhances the emotional impact of the narrative, showcasing the filmmakers’ attention to detail.

As the film builds towards its life-questioning final statement, Christopher Nolan solidifies Oppenheimer as a masterclass in filmmaking that holds its place as one of the most important films of the past 20 years.

Barbie

If the year had to be encapsulated by one movie, it would be the record breaking live-action adaptation of a doll that has transcended decades. Barbie was praised by critics and fans alike, becoming a cultural phenomenon. With its achievements in many areas, it’s not difficult to pinpoint why it was such a success. 

Renowned for her directorial debut in the critically exclaimed independent film Lady Bird, Greta Gerwig was able to skillfully navigate a larger budget and an iconic doll to craft the highest grossing film of 2023.

 Gerwig’s background in independent filmmaking is evident by her prioritization of thematic depth and storytelling over the mere capitalization of a renowned brand. The film’s success is not merely a result of word of mouth or its inherent quality, but by its meticulously orchestrated marketing campaign. 

Contributing to the film’s charm are some of the standout original songs of the year, including Billie Eillish’s “What Was I Made For?” and Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night." 

Another major strength of the film lies in the meticulous attention to detail in the production design. “Barbie Land,'' with its vibrant pink and artificial glory, immerses the audience in a world in which you are watching dolls maneuver through dollhouses. 

The ensemble cast features esteemed actors such as Kate McKinnon and Micheal Cera, but is highlighted by the magnificent duo of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Their performances as naive dolls reinforced the film's position as a showcase for some of the most profound talents of our generation.

Under the direction of Gerwig, Barbie transcends its toy-inspiring origins to become a grand cinematic experience. Balancing thematic depth and true love for the film, leaves this as worthy of becoming the first billion dollar film directed by a woman.

The Holdovers

Every year, streaming services are overrun with cheap, generic Hallmark Christmas movies that are void of any genuine character development or artistic effort. However, amid the sea of mediocrity, rare gems have a chance at emerging. Some even become Christmas movies that capture audiences and become household staples every December. 

Alexander Paine's The Holdovers stands as a potential addition to this exclusive category, and for good reason. As the vintage Universal logo graces the opening credits, Paine’s deliberate homage to 1970s cinema is evident, threading a sense of nostalgia throughout the film.

Diverging from the conventional family Christmas movie formula, The Holdovers distinguishes itself by having more subtle comedic elements. While incorporating moments of levity, the film's primary focus lies on the intricacies of its dynamic and multifaceted characters, who all undertake personal struggles and grief. The Holdovers cements itself as a heart-warming character study, portraying individuals whose experiences will resonate universally.

The Holdovers’ comprehensive exploration of every facet of the holiday season transcends the typical emphasis on positivity. It presents a panoramic view of the holidays from diverse perspectives, whether one is surrounded by a loving family, distanced from familial bonds, or bearing the season alone. It captures the complexity of the human experience during a time that can be both rewarding and heartbreaking. 

In the hands of Alexander Paine, The Holdovers goes beyond the trappings of typical Christmas fare, emerging as a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the holiday season. Earning its place among the classics that grace our screens every December.

Talk To Me

Following the renowned success of the horror genre in 2022, expectations ran high among enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the new wave of horror. While the year consisted of other notable titles such as Five Nights and Freddy´s and Thanksgiving, one standout emerged to captivate critics and audiences: The Philippou brothers’ debut film Talk To Me. 

Originating as content creators on YouTube, they honed their skills through the creation of short films and were able to successfully transition to the big screen. The film's extraordinary camera movements and meticulously crafted scenes of terror showcase the Philippou’s journey to perfecting their art.

Within the modern trend of elevated horror, The Philippou’s craftily weave metaphors exploring themes such as childhood drug use, familial relationships, and the ethics of putting someone out of their misery. The film excels not only in its narrative depth but also in its visual storytelling, with numerous shots riddled with rich symbolism that build upon its thematic layers.

At the core of Talk To Me lies a profound exploration of contemporary teenage experiences, particularly the pervasive influence of social media. The narrative focuses on teens who willingly invite demons into their bodies, parallel to drug use themes. The film's opening scene masterfully introduces the social media element, highlighting a stark societal shift where, instead of intervening to aid someone so clearly in distress, they choose to prioritize capturing this spectacle on their phones. 

The Philippou Brothers’ debut feature not only cements their status as formidable horror directors, but also serves as thought provoking commentary on modern teen culture.

No Hard Feelings

In the landscape of 2023's comedic offerings, No Hard Feelings emerges as an unparalleled standout, securing its position as the pinnacle of humor for the year. Jennifer Lawrence's return to the big screen adds an extra layer of allure to this already exceptional comedy. Her comeback, not only to the film in question but to the silver screen in general, showcases the actress's undeniable talent and serves as a triumphant return for one of Hollywood's most celebrated performers.

Directed with finesse and comedic precision, No Hard Feelings thrives on the brilliance of its humor, solidifying its status as the comedy of the year. The film expertly navigates the delicate balance of wit, charm, and unexpected twists that characterize the best comedies. Jennifer Lawrence, in her return to the comedic genre, delivers a performance that is not only a testament to her comedic prowess but also a reminder of her ability to command the screen with charisma and impeccable timing.

At the thematic core of No Hard Feelings lies a nuanced exploration of the complexities surrounding the facade of love. The film delves into the intricacies of faking affection, a theme that takes center stage in a memorable scene where a lead character, against the backdrop of a piano, delivers a poignant rendition of "Maneater." This moment becomes a symbolic centerpiece, unraveling the layers of deceit and artificiality within relationships, underscored by the choice of song and the character's soulful performance.

The film not only secures its place as the standout comedy of the year but also serves as a compelling showcase for Lawrence's versatility as an actress. With laughter-inducing brilliance and thematic depth, No Hard Feelings proves to be a triumphant cinematic experience, leaving an indelible mark on the comedic landscape of 2023.