2018 In Review - Films (Part 2)

Carrying on from where we left off last time, here are the films that make my top of the year list. It was a strong year this year and it was a tough list to narrow down so you’ll get a few of the “bubbling under” contenders at the end. Also, some of these I have written about already (naturally) so I won't give you much on those, just a link to the longer review.

Top Films Of 2018
Black Panther
In terms of big bang spectacle, Infinity War was the one that delivered from this year’s Marvel films but I went in expecting that and got what I thought I would. Black Panther was the surprise this year as my expectations were low (as with Doctor Strange and Ant-Man) but I got a compelling, James Bond-style action film with a compelling villain for once. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

The Death Of Stalin
I’ve always been a big fan of Armando Iannucci and this continued the trend for me. Extremely funny (and worryingly timely in the current climate) while not glossing over the more horrific aspects of the period with a superb cast all bringing their best to the table (none more so than Jason Isaacs who seems to be having the time of his life).

Isle Of Dogs
Another top notch stop-motion animation from Wes Anderson. More detail here.

You Were Never Really Here
Joaquin Phoenix is compelling as the enforcer who rescues young girls forced into slavery. It’s a grim film but a fascinating portrayal of a complicated character. 

Leave No Trace
There were a number of films this year with strong teenage female protagonists but this was the standout for me (although Eighth Grade is a very close second), telling the story of a young girl and her former military father suffering from PTSD as they attempt to live off the grid in the forests of America.

Phantom Thread
Daniel Day-Lewis’ final film and a compelling study of an odd character. More detail here.

The Breaker-Upperers
Definitely my comedy of the year, this one. More detail here.

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
A film that avoids narratively cliched decisions at every turn and deserves the accolades it received. More detail here.

Mandy
Peak mental Nicolas Cage. More detail here.

An Evening With Beverley Luff Linn
Not for everyone but definitely ticked my boxes. More detail here.

The Favourite
I enjoy Yorgos Lanthimos’ films but they’re definitely an acquired taste. This is definitely his most mainstream film but still keeps enough of the odd and absurd touches from films like The Lobster to make it something different from your standard period drama. Plus Olivia Colman is brilliant in it (of course).

Bubbling Under
Avengers: Infinity War; A Quiet Place; Sorry To Bother You; Eighth Grade; Deadpool 2; Annihilation; Three Identical Strangers; Happy New Year, Colin Burstead

Alright, that’s films, what’s next? Only one way to find out...