It’s that time of year again! The end of any calendar year as of late has meant an onslaught of top 10 (or however long) lists where cinephiles subjectively rank the best and worst films they’ve seen over the past year, inevitably causing arguments online about the validity of certain lists and/or whichever list is the best. What does best and worst mean anymore? Why are people so sensitive about other peoples’ opinions? Why can’t we all just get along and let each other like or don’t like whatever we like or don’t like and respect each others’ opinions? One person’s opinion does not invalidate your own. All that being said, it’s time for me to join the fray for better or worse and add to the discourse with my own personal list of the top 10 best and worst films of 2022. There’s a few movies I have yet to watch including a pretty big one that doesn’t need to be named and for those who complain about certain movies being left off my lists, that is probably why.
Top 10 Best Films of 2022:
10. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On
Marcel is the little shell that could. Cuteness factor aside, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, based on the Marcel the Shell short film series, is a stop motion/live action hybrid mockumentary that is sure to hit audiences right in the feels. Short but sweet, Jenny Slate is spectacular as the titular shell as is Isabella Rossellini as his grandma Connie. A film about the power of connection and its role in shaping one’s identity, one can’t help but feel for Marcel who is absolutely lost without his family. The relationship between Marcel and Connie is wholesome and the epitome of cute and the intimate mockumentary style allows audiences to truly hone in on the emotion on a deeper level while the hybrid style takes the story in interesting directions. Though it may be on the predictable side, it is also one that will be hard to forget.
9. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
The second of two long-gestating sequels to be released around Christmas time, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is the sequel to 2011’s Shrek spinoff, Puss in Boots. Despite the 12-year gap, this sequel definitely does not miss a beat. Clearly boasting a different animation style than the original, the biggest takeaway should be its surprisingly contemplative story that saw Puss faced with his own mortality. In what will surely resonate with audiences of all ages, the film is basically the Logan of the Shrek universe but for kids obviously. The animation is on point once again which shouldn’t come as that much of a surprise as far as DreamWorks is concerned. The film is thrilling of course but it is also just as hilarious and emotional for the above. Antonio Banderas, meanwhile, is as great as always as is Salma Hayek as Kitty Softpaws. The new voice cast including a scene-stealing Harvey Guillén, Florence Pugh, and Olivia Colman just to name a few, fit in nicely. With The Bad Guys and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, DreamWorks is back on the map!
8. The Fabelmans
Steven Spielberg is undisputedly one of the greatest directors of all time. Dazzling audiences over the last several decades with classic after classic, his run as of late has arguably not been the greatest but The Fabelmans sees him literally go back to his roots in a way that we haven’t quite seen before. The film sees Spielberg at his most personal as he tells his own life’s story stemming from his relationship with his parents, specifically his mother. This intimate coming-of-age tale harkens back to a simpler time as it follows the exploits of the Fabelman family or an analog for the Spielberg family and Sammy Fabelman or an analog for Spielberg. Finding refuge in film as way to express himself and find understanding in the world in a journey that only Spielberg can bring to life. He paints a beautiful picture that is not only relatable but also appeals to audiences’ sense of wonder which means even more considering the one behind it.
7. Decision to Leave
For those wondering what true chemistry is, they should watch Decision to Leave. This twisty and turny Korean crime thriller is led by the immensely powerful pairing of Park Hae-il and Tang Wei as a detective investigating a mysterious death of a man at the bottom of a mountain who eventually became infatuated with the potential murder victim’s widow. As far as she was concerned, there was a lot more to her than meets the eye but that was only the beginning of the story as it evolves and twists and turns as their relationship became increasingly complicated and some would say problematic as their lives became more intertwined. That being said, it’s hard to not look away as it puts audiences on the edge of their seats. The only question is whether or not they would survive by the end. Though it does get a little convoluted at times along the way, Park and Wei and a sharp script more than make up for it.
6. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
The original Knives Out was a game-changer following its release back in 2019, putting the whodunnit subgenre back on the map. An all-star cast guided by Rian Johnson’s Oscar-nominated screenplay and direction, made for an absolute blast of a mystery that introduced the world to Daniel Craig’s detective Benoit Blanc and his wonderful Southern accent. Based on the success of that film, a sequel was inevitable. Through an interesting turn of events, Netflix is in control of the franchise and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is a fantastic sequel that ups the ante in just about every way despite the unnecessary subtitle. Offering a much different mystery and a much wider scope than the original as well as an even more hilarious script make for as big of a blast. While the first film was more of an ensemble piece, this sequel saw some separation as the chemistry between Craig and Janelle Monáe was a standout while the film also served as a real showcase of the latter. Still no spoilers though.
5. Good Luck to You, Leo Grande
One of the many surprises of the 2022 virtual Sundance Film Festival was Sophie Hyde’s Good Luck to You, Leo Grande. This simple yet powerful two-parter character study could essentially be staged as a stage play but at the end of the day, works thanks to the fantastic chemistry between Emma Thompson and Daryl McCormack. The film pretty much consists of just them as they appear in almost every scene together therefore they have nowhere to hide which only worked to its benefit. Mostly taking place in a hotel room, the level of intimacy pulls audiences in to this story that in the end, was about a pair of flawed people yearning for connection. In spite of the setting, the film was truly an emotional roller coaster brought to life by a sharp script and the sensational performances of Thompson and McCormack. Thompson put herself out there, showing a level of vulnerability in a way unlike we have seen before while McCormack is an absolute star with charm and charisma beyond his years.
4. Cha Cha Real Smooth
Cooper Raiff just knows how to make grounded character-driven films and Cha Cha Real Smooth is simply another example. Writing, producing, directing, and starring in yet another film could be seen as overkill and perhaps a little pretentious but he gets by once again as he delivers another relatable and heartwarming story that a lot of young adult audiences will surely see themselves in. For a tale about growing up, Raiff has definitely been doing some growing up behind the camera as a writer and director and in front of it, delivering a career-best performance albeit as another flawed yet lovable loser who once again has to reform his act. Meanwhile, Dakota Johnson shines in another delightful performance full of charm, making her dynamic with Raiff one of the strongest of the year. However, the real highlight of the film was the writing and deep characters that helped make the story hit harder.
3. GDT’s Pinocchio
The second of two Pinocchio films to be released in 2022 following the panned Pinocchio, the stop motion incarnation from famed director Guillermo del Toro is certainly one to remember. For a take that seen countless incarnations across film and television across countless decades, GDT’s Pinocchio just hits different in a way that only del Toro can. This darker telling offers a more character-centric story that allows audiences to truly hone in on the relationship of Pinocchio and Geppetto in a way not often seen in a version of Pinocchio while bringing plenty of spectacle that will appeal to one’s sense of wonder. This character study sees both coming-of-age at obviously different stages in their lives as they deal with such themes as grief and finding one’s true identity as the two characters have to discover or rediscover themselves through their shared adversity in a journey that is just as exciting as it is emotional. In a miraculous turn of events, one doesn’t have to be what society deems what we should be but rather strive to be ourselves. While Pinocchio learned how to be a real boy, Geppetto had to learn how to be a father. The film also features one of the best scores of the year.
2. The Whale
Brendan Fraser has been out of the spotlight for far too long though for unfortunate reasons that were not of his doing. Appearing in smaller films and some television following his heyday in the early 2000s, he just needed another big break and The Whale is arguably that break. Fat suit aside, Fraser gives the best performance of the year as a reclusive English teacher who ate his grief over the loss of his boyfriend who then attempts to reconnect with his daughter Ellie, play beautifully by Sadie Sink. Despite his circumstances, the film can get dark at times but there is still a ray of hope that shines through. While it may not be easy to watch at times, a story about an incredibly flawed man who regains his faith in humanity thanks to his equally flawed daughter who gave him something to fight for. An emotional watch for sure, the film ends with a shot that will be hard to forget. Rounding out the award-worthy cast is Hong Chau as a nurse that ties it all together.
1. Everything Everywhere All At Once
What more can be said about Everything Everywhere All At Once? For one thing, the title certainly delivers in what has to be one of the most original films in a long time. Mashing up countless genres and styles is a hard thing to do for any film but especially one with a much lower budget. That being said, anyone watching the film won’t notice that this is essentially an indie film that gets quite a lot done in spite of that lower budget. Though the sheer creativity on display in bringing all of its worlds and styles to life is a sight to behold and an assault on the senses, there is still plenty of substance beneath all that style. This genre mashup is grounded by a compelling story about a dysfunctional Asian-American family and the attempts of its matriarch to keep it all together. When it seemed like it was falling apart, the Wangs are taken on a ridiculous adventure across the multiverse. Wild, wacky, weird, hilarious, heartfelt, emotional, and a bunch of other things, Michelle Yeoh carries all that weight effortlessly while Ke Huy Quan shines as the emotional center. Great films create great moments and this one for sure is that.
Top 10 Worst Films of 2022:
10. Morbius
After inundating the internet with so many memes, gifs, and other humor, it’s easy to forget that Morbius was actually a film that was released in 2022. The latest in Sony’s Spider-Man universe (or SSU), it is yet another example of Sony fumbling the universe as they try to beat its IP to death by forcing out mediocre film after mediocre film. While a large contingent of audiences see this as one of those films that are so bad that they’re good. As far as I’m concerned, this one leans more towards the former but there are still some fun bad moments hence it just making my list. The film is as ridiculous as it is silly as a result of countless reshoots and reworkings as a result of countless delays. After removing several key scenes from the trailers, it’s hard to see where the studio and filmmakers were going this one. Ultimately, it probably doesn’t matter. Jared Leto was lifeless which is only fitting and Matt Smith’s dancing was definitely the highlight.
9. Don’t Worry Darling
Speaking of troubled productions, Don’t Worry Darling definitely takes the cake. Appearing on so many most anticipated films of 2022 lists prior to 2022, it’s easy to see why at least on paper. It has all the pieces of a successful film, however, they never quite came together here. After learning about all the behind-the-scenes drama, it’s easy to see why. While it certainly looked the part and one can’t accuse Florence Pugh of not trying, she carries this half-baked mess. Other than Pugh, the film ultimately has nothing as it squanders a spectacular performance from her with a cheesy psychological thriller that simply crumbled under the weight of its overambition. Bringing plenty of heavy themes to the table, the film does next to nothing with them as it builds up to a predictable twist that it also does next to nothing with while keeping audiences at arm’s length while foreshadowing to something more but never seemed interested to go any further with it. Meanwhile, there’s a great cast here, Harry Styles excluded. However, Pugh single-handedly outshines them all.
8. Me Time
Anyone who had the misfortune of watching any of the trailers or promotional spots for Me Time can pretty much figure out why the film finds itself on my list. It never truly had a shot of finding itself anywhere else. Another stupid Kevin Hart comedy in a line of many stupid Kevin Hart comedies sees Hart as the straight man alongside a ridiculous Mark Wahlberg, and his character was pretty ridiculous too as the film was merely a series of increasingly ridiculous situations, so not unchartered territory by any means. Unfunny and predictable to a tee, it is just a painful watch from top to bottom, especially for Regina Hall who found herself in this one for whatever reason. There are so many better ways to spend one’s me time.
7. Sharp Stick
Sharp Stick is a ridiculous and unfunny mess from top to bottom with absolutely no redeeming qualities whatsoever. This coming-of-age story is gratuitously weird for the sake of it. Opting for a quirky vibe, the film comes off as incredibly obnoxious and is more likely to get on the nerves of audiences rather than entertain. Considering the decent cast assembled here, it’s just sad more than anything else. While relatively short, it is certainly going to feel a lot longer. This odd, sexually-themed coming-of-age story attempts to find humor within its ridiculous characters but those attempts are cringeworthy at best and often hard to watch and hence, hard to care about any of it. That being said, the bad writing and direction also didn’t do anyone any favors either. There are a lot of better and more empowering sexual coming-of-age stories out there.
6. Amsterdam
An epic fail on just about every conceivable level, Amsterdam was perhaps the biggest disappointment of 2022 which arguably did not come as much of a surprise either. Assembling one of the best casts in recent memory, the trailers and promotional material never made it clear as to what the film was really about and after having watched it, it’s still a mystery. A poorly-paced and convoluted mess that just got messier the longer it went, its biggest crime is wasting its all-star cast who just looked lost to the point that they felt like they were all in different movies. While the performances were bad across the board, that may not have necessarily been the fault of the actors as the script is just awful and the direction was just as awful and borderline careless. Also a misfire technically, the film not only looked bad, it also sounded bad, and was edited badly. Basically, this one had no chance to succeed whatsoever. In the end, many often say that fans of a film’s cast may enjoy a film regardless of its faults but this is definitely not the case here.
5. Senior Year
Another film with no chance to succeed, Senior Year never seemed to overcome the creepiness of its premise. Not the first and certainly not the last film to shine a mirror on today’s generation, comedies keep tapping that well and the more they do it, the less funny and the more obnoxious they are. Trying to play it straight instead of fully embracing its premise, the film seemed unsure of what it truly wanted to be and running at nearly 2 hours, this made for a tiresome watch as it refuses to pick a side while beating audiences over the head with stale and unfunny humor. A middle-aged woman in high school surrounded by highschoolers may be awkward on paper but it also was in reality here. Adding in present day subplots to further time period contrasts only made things more confusing. Though the film is predictable to a tee, it sure takes a long time to get there. And an incredibly irritating lead performance from Rebel Wilson works against itself.
4. Texas Chainsaw Massacre
There are already so many Texas Chainsaw Massacre films so why not make another one? Nothing is safe from the remake or reboot treatment and that franchise is no different. A sequel to the original 1974 film set decades later, Texas Chainsaw Massacre is as brutal as it is frustratingly stupid. When it seemed like we had moved on from the schtick of old school horror films being driven by stupid and/or questionable decisions, this film harkens back to those films of yesteryear. Other than the blood or whatever other bodily fluids left from the bodies in its wake, the film offers little to no substance whatsoever. Beyond the utterly stupid and unlikable not to mention paper thin characters, there is no story to be had as the unsubtle jabs at today’s society within the film’s utterly horrendous script are just painful to watch. While watching stupid characters get their comeuppance has the potential to be satisfying, it also finds a way to make even that less fun as they were merely fodder. Trying to retcon this film with the original film in order to force some sort of franchise beyond this film, it also fumbles that. At least it looked good.
3. The Bubble
If anything, the COVID-19 pandemic that has plagued the world for the last several years has forced films to be creative both practically and narratively. The aptly-titled The Bubble is a little bit of column A and column B. A film shot during the pandemic where the pandemic also plays a prominent role in the plot felt dated before it was ever released (April 1st on Netflix FYI). Call it fatigue with the pandemic or just call it painfully unfunny satire of the ridiculousness of the time but none of it worked which is really a shame about the people involved both in front of and behind the camera. It’s only purpose appeared to only be its unsubtle and lazy commentary about that time, basically amounting to an obnoxious and irritating aimless exercise that is way longer than it had any right to be. Be it a mere paycheck film or simply boredom on the part of the cast, they looked disinterested as they sleepwalked through this one. The fact that the characters were insufferable didn’t help its case either. Though there was potential here, perhaps audiences did not want to be reminded of what they’ve been through. To its credit, what the film achieves technically in the midst of the pandemic is kind of impressive. Still a disappointment that could have been so much better.
2. Father Stu
Mark Wahlberg needs to maybe reevaluate some of his recent choices because Father Stu was definitely a baffling one. Like it or not, having religious themes is a plus in the eyes of a lot of audiences and perhaps this was the film’s ultimate saving grace but its trying too hard to be the next big inspirational drama was clear to see. Based on a true story, another perceived plus, its extremely derivative story is undercut by a just as unlikeable main character. Checking boxes as it runs through plot beats and manipulating emotions while sprinkling in plenty of melodrama along the way, audiences are more likely to roll their eyes than actually be inspired. The film wants audiences to be invested in its story but its irritating main character makes it nearly impossible to do thus making it that much harder to watch or even care. Though the script didn’t do them any favors, the performance didn’t do much to inspire any excitement as the cast are just going through the motions, led by Wahlberg as a character he’s played countless times before except less interested this time for whatever reason. If they don’t care, why should we?
1. After Ever Happy
The After franchise is a well-oiled machine that consistently plops out movie after movie on a seemingly annual basis. Based on a popular book series, its fans have continued to support it because it’s hard to believe that anyone else is hence they keep getting made regardless if they are good or not. Why should After Ever Happy be any different? The saga of Tessa and Hardin rages on with its most insufferable outing so far. At this point, the film has essentially become a shell of its former self as it devolves to pure melodrama to get by while never trying to be anything more than that. In the end, it could be summed up as a series of meaningless melodramatic scenes tied together by the thinnest of stories. Being subjected to the same plot beats being recycled time after time, audiences will find themselves spinning in circles trying to keep up. It’s just so tiring at this point, the cringeworthy writing doesn’t help but one would think Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin would have chemistry at this point. However, this was still not the case as they are merely accepting their paychecks and moving on probably to more films in the franchise unfortunately as a cliffhanger ending sets up another sequel. Suffice it to say that it’s going to feel longer than its 90+ minute running time. In terms of trashy romance films, there are so many better options.
So that closes the book on 2022. As the world comes out of the pandemic that has plagued much of the world the last few years, this past year was almost a back to normal of sorts but as the landscape has changed perhaps permanently, there is still some work left to be done but nevertheless, 2023 looks to be a promising year with several big releases as the industry hopefully finishes to adjust after the schedule reshuffling of the past few years. For our interactive 2023 theatrical release calendar, click here.
still courtesy of Elevation Pictures
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The EIC of the coincidentally-named keithlovesmovies.com. A Canadian who prefers to get out of the cold and into the warmth of a movie theatre.
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