Top 5 Best Films of 2022
While the theaters are not back into full swing post pandemic, they have still delivered some excellent films. This list will cover some of the best films of 2022.
The Menu
By far the best film of the year. Like most of this list, it is an original story, but more than that, it is a work of art. The film uses food and high dining experiences as a way to move the story forward, as well as a beautiful score. The Menu sets itself apart through its beautiful imagery, dynamic performances courtesy of Anya Taylor-Joy and Ralph Fiennes, and its ability to build suspense from start to finish through waiting. The suspenseful moments are not rushed from one scene to the next. They wait so that the audience can feel the anticipation in every breath and morsel.
2. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
Sequel to the 2019 hit Knives Out, this film follows Benoit Blanc to a private island in Greece as solves yet another mysterious death. While set in the same cinematic universe, Glass Onion is an original story, not connected to the 2019 film. Rian Johnson, the films’ director, is clearly building his own cinematic universe, similar to how Agatha Christie created her own in the Hercule Poirot books. The sets are beautiful, the cast of characters are colorful and unique, and the mystery keeps you guessing till the end.
3. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
In the age of dramas, this film is a fresh comedy that has not been seen in years. The film follows the fictional life of Nick Cage, played by Nic Cage, and how he goes from struggling actor, to spy, to successful film actor. The plot is absolutely ridiculous in it feels well constructed, but also a stream of conscious film, as if the actors are making it up as they go along. While this may be a turn off for some viewers, it does in fact build an absurdity to the film that let’s the audience in on the joke. The film quickly becomes a buddy movie with one Javi Gutierrez, played by Pedro Pascal. Cage’s aloof and self involved persona matches perfectly with Javi’s earnest energy. The film is not only a laughter inducer from start to finish, but also highlights Pascal’s comedic potential.
4. The Batman
Everyone knows the tragic story or Bruce Wayne, the alleyway and gunman are in every film adaptation, but most films don’t focus on the early days of Batman. The Batman follows Batman in his first few years as the caped crusader, and focuses more on the detective skills he is known for, rather than the fights that most films focus on, which is quite refreshing. Most films feature Batman in his prime, while this film allows audiences to watch as Bruce Wayne learns how to be Batman, makes mistakes, and hones his legendary detective skills. Robert Pattison as Bruce Wayne is the perfect performance to show how he is no longer the teen from the Twilight franchise, but a serious actor with an impressive acting range. The film takes on a grittier Gotham that feels unique. While other films see more of daylight Gotham, The Batman, focuses on the night time escapades, and what really comes out of the gutters of Gotham at night.
5. Top Gun: Maverick
Sequel to the 1986 film, Top Gun: Maverick, is a classic summer blockbuster. High action, excellent sets, and not too much depth of story. What sets this apart from other summer films is its ability to connect with a large audience. The film achieves this through its themes of spirit, ingenuity, and American stubbornness coupled with an amazing soundtrack. Almost 40 years later, Tom Cruise is still able to bring to life the character of Maverick. Miles Teller, as Rooster, is a welcome addition to the film as he honors the legacy of his on screen father, Goose.