Staff Picks: The Year’s Best Films
The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas staff and ArtsQuest Cinema Committee have seen a lot of great films and eaten a lot of popcorn over the past year. Hollywood will crown their favorite films in a couple weeks (which you can watch on the big screen at The Red Carpet Party presented by Molly’s Irish Grille).
While there’s a consensus that La La Land and Moonlight are the two best films of the past year, different cinema-goers have different tastes. See our picks below for some predictable picks and some surprise inclusions.
Ryan Hill, Programming Director
1. Moonlight
Expertly written, expertly acted, expertly crafted; Barry Jenkins has a lifelong fan in me.
2. Jackie
Both Natalie Portman and the score of this film specifically stand out, as does the direction of Pablo Larraín. The camera work is stellar, as we get to be closer to Jackie Kennedy than anyone actually was at that time in history. One nitpick: why does Portman own the Jackie accent while Peter Sarsgaard’s Bobby Kennedy sound… not like a Kennedy?
3. Sing Street
Pure, unadulterated fun that is never shlocky.
4. La La Land
I saw this twice: the first screening was unforgettable, as a normally jaded press and industry audience (including myself) gave the film no fewer than four ovations; some of the magic wore off and slight flaws became apparent on a second viewing. Not to take away from an incredible directorial achievement from Damien Chazelle.
5. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
The surprise of 2016 for me. Please excuse the cliché, but fewer films better embody the true spirit of independent cinema than Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
6. The Lobster
The scenes where Colin Farrell’s character is trying to convince his future ‘wife’ that he hates people as much as her – including the one where he kicks a little girl right in the shin – are comedy gold. The final scene is arguably the best of the year.
7. Arrival
Get rid of that goofy Jeremy Renner narration in the 2nd act, and this film had a chance at cracking my top 3. That said, this was an excellent mashup of sci-fi and psychological thriller.
8. Don’t Think Twice
Don’t think that you won’t get this film if you haven’t performed and/or seen improv comedy. It’s not about comedy, it’s about people who happen to perform comedy. That said, if you’ve ever been on an improv team, this film is gonna make you feel some things. The ending is a tiny bit too neat, but there are too many beautiful moments and strong laughs before that to hold it against the film.
9. Hell or High Water
While I’m against Jeff Bridges getting acting nods for his work on this film, as I’m not convinced the dude is actually acting, Hell or High Water did make me appreciate Chris Pine in a way I never expected to (and Ben Foster continues to be a proven workhorse of an actor). I also loved the cinematography; it’s one of the more visually striking modern westerns.
10. Blue Jay
I’m a sucker for the following three things: black and white cinematography, Sarah Paulson, and the screenwriting of Mark Duplass. Blue Jay has all three of these things, though may arguably not be better than the sum of their parts. All the same, it’s worth your time.
Anthony DeSanctis, Cinema Assistant
1. La La Land
La La Land is a reminder of the magic of cinema and why we go to the movies. The ultimate crowd pleaser, this film is a throwback to the Golden Age of musicals, but still feels completely fresh and original. After Whiplash and La La Land, Damien Chazelle is easily one of the best directors working today.
2. Moonlight
They don’t make movies like this very often, but this saga in the life of a young man is a thing of pure beauty. A haunting and powerful tale of self-discovery, I couldn’t stop thinking about this movie for days after it ended.
3. Sing Street
Criminally underrated, I found this to be an inspiring tale of finding your voice. Personal and intimate but so much fun, with one of the best movie soundtracks I’ve heard in years. “Drive it Like You Stole it” should have been the song of the summer!
4. Hacksaw Ridge
A moving character study with some of the most powerful war scenes ever put on film. I have no shame in saying this: Hacksaw Ridge is the best war film since Saving Private Ryan.
5. Hell or High Water
Surprise of the year to me. I didn’t expect much from this film, but I was hooked from the first scene. This is a story that’s been done time and time again, but with it’s contemporary western spin, its brilliant pacing, and its fully fleshed out characters, Hell or High Water is a cut above the rest.
6. Captain America: Civil War
This film is proof that comic book movies can be more than just noise and explosions. With serious dramatic stakes and mind-blowing action scenes with actual purpose, Civil War is not only one of the best films of 2016, it’s without question one of the best superhero movies ever made. And that airport scene…
7. Nocturnal Animals
Tom Ford’s long awaited follow up to his 2009 directorial debut, A Single Man, does not disappoint. Nocturnal Animals is a beautifully crafted multilayered tale of revenge. And as Michael Shannon does so very often, he walks away with this movie.
8. The Edge of Seventeen
When was the last time we got a great 80’s style teen comedy? Hailee Steinfeld and Woody Harrelson play off each other perfectly and give us some of the funniest scenes of the year.
9. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Taika Waititi is one of the best creative forces working in comedy today. Even when the movie is at its funniest, Waiti sprinkles moments of real depth and poignancy to give us one of the most charming films of the year.
10. Arrival
One of the best science fiction movies of the last ten years. Hands down.
Lawrence Milano, Cinema Assistant
Below are my top 10 favorite films from 2016 that are worth mentioning. This was an amazing year for cinema as we saw a terrifying art house horror film get mainstream recognition, an uncomfortable satire on online dating and relationships, farting corpses, and a musical that may be one most delightful films ever made.
La La Land
Sing Street
The Lobster
The Witch
Moonlight
Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Jackie
Swiss Army Man
The Conjuring 2
Nocturnal Animals
Addyson Young, Cinema Assistant
1. Hunt for The Wilderpeople
The scenery is breathtaking, the writing is witty, and it’s brought to you by Taiki Waititi, creator of Flight of the Concords.
2. La La Land
I’m still listening to this soundtrack on repeat. This is a very close second to Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Can it be #1.5?
3. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
This Ravenclaw was very happy with this film. There’s magic in New York in the 1920’s…and Snifter.
4. Jackie
Natalie Portman’s performance in this film is sure to get her an Oscar Nomination.
5. Swiss Army Man
One of the strangest movies I have had the pleasure of viewing. A heartfelt comedy about a farting corpse, what’s not to love?
6. Moonlight
Another drama that will definitely be getting an Oscar nomination.
7. Zootopia
I was really impressed with Disney’s message in this film. It tackles race and diversity in a way that reaches kids and adult alike.
8. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Tina Fey and Martin Freeman, great balance of drama and comedy.
9. Moana
Auli’i Cavalho has an incredible voice. Another fantastic Disney soundtrack.
10. Rogue One
This probably would have gone up higher on the list had someone explained to me before the film that this was NOT the sequel to The Force Awakens…
Robert Kilker, Cinema Committee/host of Tuesday Talkbacks with Bob Kilker
With the opportunity to host a weekly film discussion series, I’ve been fortunate enough to see a lot of films in 2016. However, I haven’t seen everything, so I couldn’t consider certain likely contenders (sorry, Fences!). Although I think many of the positions on my list are easily interchangeable, I feel strongly about Moonlight at number one. No other film this year quite matches its combination of beautiful cinematography, skillful writing, and affecting performances.
1. Moonlight
2. La La Land
3. Sing Street
4. Arrival
5. Manchester by the Sea
6. Hell or High Water
7. The Witch
8. Don’t Think Twice
9. Hidden Figures
10. Jackie
Lauren Tocci, Cinema Committee
In looking back at the year in film there are three films (and one honorable mention) that stand apart: La La Land, Manchester by the Sea, and 10 Cloverfield Lane.
The easiest to jump to of course is La La Land. There is no other way to express it other than to say that film is just a pure delight and a cinephile’s dream. The screening I saw of this was a week after its wide release and the theater erupted in applause. In my experiences, such fervor is saved for midnight showings of fanboy fare; there is something just special about this film.
Although completely different in tone, Manchester by the Sea is a contender right next to La La Land. Someone said to me before I saw it that it’s “just good, solid filmmaking” and that proved true. It is shot beautifully and is anchored in heartbreaking and genuine performances. The melodramatics are avoided in favor of earnest meditations on grief and healing, including the line from a film this year that punched me in the gut (no spoilers here).
The third film I chose might seem like a sharp departure, but was my favorite theater experience this year. 10 Cloverfield Lane is claustrophobic, gripping, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead just rules. John Goodman’s performance per usual is layered and fantastic. It’s a film cliche, but I was quite literally on the edge of my seat.
My honorable mention (because a top four feels awkward) goes to Don’t Think Twice. The film was a total surprise to me. I don’t pretend to know the world of improv and sketch comedy. As all good film does, I was given a glimpse into a world to provide a deeper meaning of something I only knew at the surface. When can I walk away from a film with a little more understanding of someone’s experience, that is a special moment.
Catherine Ford, Cinema Committee
Moonlight is my favorite film of 2016 and La La Land 2nd. The rest are in no particular order of preference or ranking.
Moonlight
Wonderful film making. A rare gem. It touches upon race, bullying, poverty, and sexuality with style and grace that stays with you long after you leave the theatre. Had to see it twice.
La La Land
A musical and so much more. Beautifully acted and tender story that keeps you wanting more. Magical!!
Loving
It plays like a novel as the film shares this true story of true love despite the odds. Strong performances both subtle and impressive.
Jackie
Natalie Portman gives a stellar performance. It gives some insight to a very historic time in our country and most memorable personality of Jackie Kennedy.
Manchester by the Sea
There are many emotions that you experience during this film. Life with highs and very lows is shared by strong performances by Casey Affleck and supporting cast.
Fences
Denzel Washington and Viola Davis give stunning performances in this film that is highly dramatic and moving. Strong screen play that respects the play from which it is based.
Sing Street
Both touching and fun. A delight. Love the music, characters, and 1980’s Dublin.
The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years
The documentary honors the music and offers unfamiliar footage. Not very deep insight, but it’s the Beatles.
Florence Foster Jenkins
Light hearted but tender movie that I found very enjoyable. Meryl Streep is wonderful and Hugh Grant gives a sweet performance as well.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
I found it to be charming and enjoyable. Interesting storyline with references to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which I am a fan and that makes a difference.
Courtney Sposato, Cinema Committee
1. Arrival
As a sci-fi fan and a professional editor, this film blew me away. It was expertly edited, acted, photographed, and directed. I’m still thinking about it months later.
2. Moonlight
Intimate and brilliantly acted, this film really hit me deeply. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite like it.
3. La La Land
The nostalgia of this one really got to me. I’ve been a life-long fan of musicals, and felt completely enthralled the entire time. Yes, they aren’t expert singers, but it was real and raw and I loved that about it.
4. Sing Street
I was so surprised by how much I loved this movie. It made me feel hopeful and inspired, I hope everyone watches this.
5. Don’t Think Twice
There seems to be a theme in most of my favorite movies of the year, and this one is no different. It’s about dreamers not just dreaming, but working really hard to achieve those dreams. As an aspiring director, this movie made me feel jealous that I haven’t yet really put myself out there as an artist.
6. Zootopia
Love the message of this one. Feminist and shining a light on inequality and prejudice.
7. Jackie
Natalie Portman was a powerhouse and I was left reeling from her performance
8. Hell or High Water
I’m a sucker for a neo western or anything about southern families, so this one fit that bill. Really well acted and shot.
9. Noctural Animals
Beautiful to look at, and the story within a story was another neo western which I’m a sucker for.
