Top Ten Films of 2018

10. First Man

Damien Chazelle's take on the almost decade long mission to get to the moon is surprisingly grounded. Going for a more human and realistic approach and wisely staying away from emotional fireworks. Some amazing space and launch sequences also help drive First Man into a technical marvel.

9. Boy Erased

Writer Director and and co star Joel Edgerton crafts a heartbreaking and sometimes horrifying film that is hard to watch, but feels necessary, especially for parents.

8. Widows

A tale of crime and corruption and featuring a beautifully shot city of Chicago, Widows is able to juggle a surprising amount exceptionally well. thanks in large part to an outstanding ensemble.

7. Green Book

While telling a rather basic tale of two men looking past there ethical and personal differences, Green Book rises above it's simple structure with great turns from Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali, and a great sense of humor and heart.

6. The Favorite

A creative and bizarre take on the madness of Queen Anne that pays of in a big way. Lead by a terrific trio of actresses, The favorite is strange, funny, and tragic tale that demands to be approached with an open mind.

5. If Beale Street Could Talk

A beautiful film both in terms of look and story, as well as emotionally devastating. Barry Jenkins adaption of the classic James Baldwin novel may not quiet reach the height of Moonlight, but still tells a powerful story of love, tragedy, and injustice.

4. Vice

McKay's unique and engaging take on Dick Cheney's life from a Wyoming wandering drunk to puppet master of George W. Bush. Vice rises to the challenge with a terrific cast lead by another amazing transformation by Christian Bale.

3. BlacKkKlansman

A terrific return to form for writer-director Spike Lee. A highly stylized film that isn't afraid to look at modern day problems from more then 1 perspective. Right up there with Lee's best work like Do The Right Thing and Malcolm X.

2. Roma

Beutifully shot in black and white and a perfect example of a director's version. Alfonso Cuaron directorial achievement centering around a simple slice in the life of a Mexican family and their maid in the early 70s that features their highs and lows is a sight to behold.

1. Annihilation

One of the most criminally overlooked films of the year is also it's best. An engaging science fiction tale that had me fascinated and pondering long after the credits rolled and the drive home from the theater. A film that demands multiple views which I happily welcome.