Top Ten Films of 2019

10. Knives Out

Though at times a victim of murder mystery cliches, Rian Johnson's unique 21st-century take on the who done it? genre is a welcome addition among the films of 2019, thanks in large part to a terrific ensemble.

9. Avengers: Endgame

A culmination of 19 previous films spamming more than 10 years, Endgame exceeded it's expectations and than some, giving us a satisfying climax to what the MCU has been building up to. With a masterful balance of humor, heart, and the terrific ensemble that the MCU has built over the years.

8. Little Women

While Little Women may not be as impressive as Gerwig's 2017 gem Lady Bird, it's still a fresh and entertaining take on the classic novel is a solid crowd-pleaser that is sure to please both the people who know the source material and the ones who don't.

7. A Beautiful Day in The Neighborhood

Possibly the most moving film of 2019, Tom Hanks embodies Mr. Rodgers and reminds us why we loved him so much, and how we need people like him now more than ever.

6. Ad Astra

One of the best films in recent years about space exploration, Director and Co-Writer James Gray offers a very realistic and at times frightening take on the far reaches of our solar system, with a great leading turn by Brad Pitt.

5. 1917

Director Sam Mendes and legendary DP Roger Deakins have created what is possibly the technical achievement of the year. Edited to appear to be one continuous shot, Mendes and Deakins take us through the brutal trench warfare of WW1 that not just shows the violence and horrors of war, but also the short times of tenderness and beauty, and the heartbreak that comes with the casualties of war.

4. The Irishman

Scorsese brings the gang back together one last time for a masterful gangster epic spanning decades. The Irishman is an engrossing and tragic tale of violence, loyalty, and mortality as if Scorsese along with protagonist Frank Sheeran is looking back on his life and legacy. It very much feels like a swan song for Scorsese and the cast involved, as we may never see a film like this ever again, so make sure to savor every moment of that 3 in a half-hour run time.

3. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Possibly the most fun I had watching a movie all year, Tarintino's passion for the industry is brilliantly shown in this masterful take on the last days of classic Hollywood. The brilliant reimagining of Hollywood Tarintino creates and the steady supply of some of the most memorable sequences of the year make it possibly my favorite Tarintino film ever.

2. Parasite

The great Korean auteur Bong Joon-Ho gives us his best film to date in this masterful story of the haves and the have nots. It balances elements of dark humor and Hitchcock like suspense that will surprise you and keep you guessing constantly. It will also have you contemplating the events that unfold long after you watch it. This is truly the work of a master filmmaker.

1. Marriage Story

Noah Baumbach's saga of a marriage falling apart is truly as heartbreaking as it sounds. With Oscar-worthy turns from both Scarlet Johanson and Adam Driver, Marriage Story is possibly the best depiction of a divorce I have seen in a motion picture. It will leave you emotionally shattered more times than one, and it earns every bit of that.