Top 15 Films of 2016!

The year is finally coming to an end and with that, critics, bloggers and movie fans have been posting their lists for their top movies of the year. As the year is now over, here is my own personal list of the top 15 movies of 2016. There were many films I could have put on this list as I seen 130 films this year at the cinema- of course not all were good but the worst list will come later. These are the top 20 films that have resonated most with me this year so either I've rated them highly, thoroughly enjoyed them or feel that they will stick with me for a long time. In some cases, they will cover more than one or all of those points. These films are based on what was released in the UK during 2016, so if you're looking for the likes of 'La La Land' or others, they aren't out here yet, unfortunately. So now let's get into my top 15 movies of 2016.

As everyone knows, making this list is extremely hard as there have been so many great films in 2016. Narrowing it down to 15 was very hard and meant that there were some films that just missed the cut. So with that in mind, here are some honourable mentions:

Eye In The Sky

The Nice Guys

Deepwater Horizon

Swiss Army Man

The Neon Demon

Moana

10 Cloverfield Lane

The Conjuring 2

& The Light Between Oceans

15. Deadpool

Starting off the list is Rated R superhero that surprised us all, Deadpool. When looking back at the year, nobody expected this film to be as good as it was. 2016 will be remembered as the year Rated R superhero films were born, whether that turns out to be a good thing or not. 'Deadpool' however was hilarious with great action scenes, as Ryan Reynolds made up for 'X-Men: Origins Wolverine'. The film was everything you wanted from it as its simple story worked very effectively.

14. Star Trek Beyond

Next up is the only blockbuster this summer that fully delivered. 'Beyond' was incredibly entertaining with great action scenes as the rebooted Star Trek franchise continues to grow. It is a real shame that this didn't make much money at the box office as this was the blockbuster that we needed when so many were failing us. The performances were all great especially Chris Pine and Sofia Boutella who really shined in this film. It's a real shame that we won't see Anton Yelchin as Pavel Chekov again as he will be sorely missed after his tragic passing.

13. The Witch

I went into 2016 as quite a sceptic when it came to horror films. After 2016, I have been transformed into quite a fan, with 'The Witch' being a big reason to why. 'The Witch' was a unique, slow burn, eery film that was very effective that really shocked me. I didn't expect to love this film as much as I did but the film is beautiful and extremely well acted. 'The Witch' is the best horror movie this year and one that you must check out.

12. Spotlight

The Oscar Best Picture winner comes in at number 12 for me as 'Spotlight' was fantastic. The story was very interesting but also very shocking due to the subject matter. The performances really help make this film and I am still not over the fact that Mark Ruffalo didn't win Best Supporting Actor for his efforts in this film. Not the most rewatchable film but powerful nonetheless and well worth your time.

11. Hunt For The Wilderpeople

Taika Waititi burst onto the scene in 2014 with 'What We Do In The Shadows'. Two years later, he has returned with yet another New Zealand comedy and to the same effect. 'Hunt For The Wilderpeople' is a delightful small comedy starring Sam Neill as a grumpy old man who has to look after an adopted child. The pair gets lost in the outback in New Zealand and the antics that ensue are achingly funny. One of the year's best comedies as this comedy was a real breath of fresh air.

10. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

If the year has a 'Star Wars' movie that I really enjoy, you can guarantee that it will be on my list for my top movies. 'Rogue One' brought us a new story and a new look at the Star Wars universe like never before as it focussed on the actual war between the Rebellion and The Empire. As far as third acts go, you'll struggle to find many better than 'Rogue One's. Had the film been as strong throughout the whole film, it probably would've been higher up. The film, though, was full of great moments that will have fans feeling like kids once again.

9. Zootropolis/Zootopia

Disney's 'Zootropolis' was my favourite animated movie of the year as the world inhabited by animals was highly entertaining as well as fairly deep. The characters were fun and enjoyable for kids and adults alike as Jason Bateman was a perfect casting as Nick Wilde. The film is so incredible as its world building is second to none with clever humour throughout the whole film. The film handles serious issues very well, giving equal enjoyment to adults as well as for younger children.

8. Arrival

Denis Villeneuve further cemented himself as one of Film's best talents with his great sci-fi 'Arrival'. The film isn't your typical alien invasion story but its approach to the genre is equally as effective. The film is very clever and will really make you think during the film and will leave its mark on you once you leave the theatre. A clever twist makes rewatching this film feel like something new as you see it from a different perspective and can pick up new things. Amy Adams is incredible in her role and should get plenty of recognition during award season. If you haven't done so already, make sure you give this film a watch.

7. Captain America: Civil War

In a year where superhero films felt very fatigued, Marvel continued to show how great they can be with 'Captain America: Civil War'. The film does a great job at moulding a story around the tension amongst the Avengers, pitting favourites Iron Man and Captain America against each other. Again, I'm a huge fan of this franchise which has made this resonate with me a lot more than some of these other films. The action in this is unmatched as 'Civil War' makes sure that all of its characters have their special moments, from Giant Man to the introduction of Spider-Man. Entertaining from start to finish, 'Civil War' fully delivered for me.

6. Nocturnal Animals

I'm surprised that this did not crack my top 5 but in at number 6 is Tom Ford's second film 'Nocturnal Animals'. This unique film handles two stories that intertwine very well, creating a very intriguing and emotional film. The performances in this film are incredible with Jake Gyllenhaal and Aaron Taylor-Johnson standing out. I really hope the pair are recognised at the Oscar's, especially for Taylor-Johnson. A very stylish film that has a very well crafted story, Tom Ford certainly did a great job in his return to film.

5. Creed

Going way back to the start of the UK cinema year for this one. 'Creed' continued the 'Rocky' legacy incredibly well as Michael B Jordon starred as Donny Creed. Sylvester Stallone brought one of his best performances to the table but this time as a trainer rather than as a competitor. 'Creed' is a great sports film that hits all the emotional spots whilst providing the best boxing footage ever in a film. Director Ryan Coogler and Michael B Jordan were unlucky to miss out on Oscar nominations for 'Creed' as this film showed how continuing a franchise can be done.

4. Hell Or High Water

This modern western film was one of the biggest surprises of the year for me. I'd heard great things about the film but I never expected it to be as good as it was. The film focuses on two bank robbers as well as on the Sherriff who is trying to catch them before he retires. The cast of Chris Pine, Ben Foster and Jeff Bridges is one of the best this year with all giving incredible performances that could all gain nominations during award season. The slow burn cat and mouse chase is very entertaining and tense at moments. An example of how the smaller films outshone the big budget films this year as 'Hell Or High Water' came out shortly after a very poor summer. 

3. The Edge Of Seventeen

You wouldn't have thought that we'd see a film like this ever again after John Hughes tragically passed away in 2009. However, newcomer Kelly Fremon Craig burst onto the scene with 'The Edge of Seventeen' which she both directed and wrote. This modern coming of age film related with me so much which was very surprising considering it is about a 17-year-old girl. This had great humour, performances and emotional moments as this instantly became one of my favourite movies of the year. Hailee Steinfeld and Woody Harrelson are excellent in this great movie that will stick with me for many years to come.

2. Room

I caught 'Room' on the last day that it was in UK cinemas and I am so glad that I did. I have never had such an emotional experience watching a film in the cinema before. This film had me hooked from start to finish in this emotional rollercoaster of a movie. Brie Larson fully deserved her Oscar for her performance and Jacob Tremblay is one to look out for in the future. An extremely powerful film that deserves a lot more recognition. This film will definitely affect you when watching this, a truly fantastic piece of film.

1. Sing Street

When I saw the trailer for 'Sing Street', I really didn't expect much. After I saw the film, I was in love with it. I was stunned by how good this small Irish film was. The film is perfect as it is charming, funny, emotional with a great message. The music is also phenomenal as this talented cast produced great original work as well as great hits from the past. 'Sing Street' is the most fun I have had the cinema this year and is what I'll remember 2016 for. The perfect feel good film that I will rewatch for years to come. 'Sing Street' is the reason why I go to the cinema and I urge you to see this one if you haven't done so yet. I haven't recommended a film more this year as I truly loved 'Sing Street'. Due to this, 'Sing Street' is undoubtedly my top film of 2016!

So that rounds up my list of the top 15 films of 2016! I now want to know what films made your list! Make sure to come back for my Top 10 list of the Worst films in 2016, that will be a fun one. Once again, thank you for taking the time to read my blog, it is much appreciated. And all the best for 2017!

By Angus McGregor

The Movie Year So Far: Surprises

Since we've had a slightly negative look at the year so far, it is only fair to look at some of the highlights. I've decided to leave my list for the best/my favourite films until the end of the year so had to come up with something different but still interesting. So I thought it would be good to look at the films that really surprised me this year with just how good they were. There have been some shocks this year that I would've laughed at if you said that these would be some of my favourite movies of the year. Thankfully these films have been just a few of the highlights of the year and are ones that I didn't expect to have as big an impact on myself. 

5. Room

I actually saw 'Room' the morning after Brie Larson won her Oscar for her magnificent performance in this film. Due to that I expected the film to be at a very high standard and to deliver a satisfying viewing. I didn't expect this film to have nearly as much of the impact it had on me. I didn't think this would end up being one of my favourite movies of the year but the emotion in this film really struck me. The story based off of Emma Donoghue's novel with incredible performances from Brie Larson and child actor Jacob Tremblay. I've never ever been so affected by the emotion in a film before and 'Room' is incredibly heart-breaking at times yet heart-warming at others. One of the most powerful movies of the year which surprised me in just how much I enjoyed it.

4. Zootropolis (Zootopia)

Again, like Room, I did expect 'Zootropolis' to be of a good standard. Coming from animation giants Disney, you always have a high hope that they will produce something fantastic. Despite this, I would say Zootropolis is more like a Pixar film not only in the style of animation but also with what the film is like. By taking creatures that cannot talk in reality and having it from their perspective- a la Finding Nemo- like Pixar usually do, they were able to create a fantastic story to how this was able to be possible with all of the different kinds coming together in harmony. 'Zootropolis' also managed to create a much deeper meaning by tackling issues like discrimination and racism. What's even more impressive is that they were able to do so whilst creating a thoroughly enjoyable and hilarious movie that is Disney's best film in over 20 years. I didn't expect 'Zootropolis' to be nearly as good as it was and I will be very surprised if this doesn't end up in my best of the year list.

3. 10 Cloverfield Lane

A film that was a surprise to people just in the fact that it was being made. When it came out, audiences were mainly thrilled, including myself. I enjoyed the original 'Cloverfield' but didn't have a great love towards it. '10 Cloverfield Lane' outclasses the original in every way as it takes a look at the disaster in a very different way. Gone is the found footage style and the outside world. Trapped inside the confines of a bomb shelter we are for the majority of the run time as 10CL brings one of the most tense thrillers of the year. Great performances from the cast especially from John Goodman made this film a lot better than I expected it to be. A great thriller that had you continuously guessing what was really happening, '10 Cloverfield Lane' really surprised me on just how great it was.

2. The Conjuring 2

The newest film on this list came from the great mind of James Wan. I'm not the biggest fan of the horror genre but that didn't stop me from thoroughly enjoying 'Th Conjuring 2'. James Wan's genius shows in this film as it is incredibly well crafted and really delivers. The performances within the film are also fantastic with Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga combining fantastically well with some child actors. I never thought for one second that this film would have been one of my favourites of the year but I cannot stop raving about this film and am eagerly anticipating seeing it for a second time. Frightening, well acted and crafted, 'The Conjuring 2' is one of my favourites so far this year which I didn't expect at all.

1. Sing Street

I seen the trailer for 'Sing Street' a number of times in my visits to the cinema and I thought that it looked alright. In fact the part that excited me most was that it was featuring music from so many great bands. When I went to see it, I didn't expect that this film would be one of the most entertaining movies of the year. The film shocked me in just how good it was with great comedy and music as well as some more deeper moments. The music is incredibly catchy and it is great fun to watch this group of Irish misfits jam together and then bring their art to life in form of their music videos. I went and saw this for a second time and loved it just as much. This seems to be a certainty for even the top 5 of the year for me as I had such an amazing time watching this film and cannot wait for the Blu-Ray release to watch it again and again.

So that concludes my list of the movies that have surprised me positively so far this year. I'd like to know what films have surprised you so far and what your thoughts are on the films that I have listed. Once again thank you for reading my blog, it is much appreciated! 

By Angus McGregor

Month in the Movies: May

May is the last stop before summer movie season arrives and the blockbusters flow out into theatres. This month I was lucky enough to catch 12 films this month with a wide range of genres within the list.  If you aren't sure what this post is about, each month I look back at the movies I seen in that month and rank them based on a combination of how good the movie was and how much I enjoyed it.  So lets get started with number 12!

12. Warcraft

The adaptation from a highly successful video game series contained bland characters and a messy story. The search for a good video game movie continues as Warcraft was a huge disappointment. Fans of the franchise may enjoy it but not one for the casual audience.

Final Verdict = D

Check out my review for Warcraft here

11. Bad Neighbours 2

I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this film. Many have enjoyed it but it just didn't connect with me. The rivalry wasn't close to that of the first one and due to that the comedy never quite hit with me. I really struggled with this film and it wasn't a pleasant viewing for me.

Final Verdict = D

Check out my review for Bad Neighbours 2 here

10. Alice Through The Looking Glass

The new film in Underland was better than the first but that isn't saying much. The film is visually beautiful but has some terrible performances and a messy story that heavily hinder it. An opportunity missed to get the franchise back on track which was missed.

Final Verdict = C-

Check out my review for Alice Through The Looking Glass here

9. Our Kind Of Traitor

A spy thriller that seemed to lack both the spy and thriller parts. An average film which gets fairly boring at times due to it being pretty uneventful. Some decent performances help the film as well as some great cinematography.

Final Verdict = C

Check out my review for Our Kind Of Traitor here

8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows

Another film that is better than the first instalment but again mainly due to the lack of quality in the first one. However the film does build on things it desperately needed to to make the franchise better overall. It does let itself down by rehashing parts of the first film and with some of its human characters too.

Final Verdict = C

Check out my review for TMNT: Out of the Shadows here

7. Demolition

Jake Gyllenhaal tries his best within this film but it doesn't reach the standard of his latest films. Some plot points shoved in for extra unnecessary drama with an ending that seems pretty odd. An enjoyable watch though with some good comedy within it.

Final Verdict = C+

Check out my review of Demolition here

6. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot

Tina Fey and Martin Freeman shine in this comedy set in Afghanistan. The two create a very enjoyable viewing with some truly funny moments. The film struggles at times to follow a clear story which does hinder it.

Final Verdict = C+

Check out my review for Whiskey Tango Foxtrot here

'Sing Street' Review

What would you do to try and win the heart of your desired crush? For Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) he has to quickly assemble a band after offering model Raphina (Lucy Boynton) to appear in a music video.  He also has to deal with his family falling apart in front of him. Luckily for him- and the audience- Conor's passion for music leads him through this tough time in his life.

Director John Carney is back again creating yet another small musical drama with comedy being a big feature within the film similar to the likes of 'Once' and 'Begin Again'. Carney clearly has a knack for this genre as he combines the elements of the three genres fantastically well. 

'Sing Street' is one of the biggest surprises of the year for sure. A truly charming and fun film throughout that sadly doesn't seem to be doing too great at the box office. Hopefully when it is officially released worldwide, it will sky rocket. If you get the chance to, go and see this film!

For a film to be a musical, it is a no brainer that the music has to be up to standard. 'Sing Street' exceeds this with phenomenal tracks from the likes of The Jam and The Cure. Amongst these are some fantastic original pieces of music that will be stuck in your head for days. The song 'Drive It Like You Stole It' from the band's performance is great and will be one you'll be adding to your playlists very soon. The music in the film is also spread out very well. As the band progresses and get more experience playing together, the music does improve. You can see a growth in the talents of the band from this and is done very well so it is not like they have always just been fantastic and don't improve.

The music is a huge part of the film obviously due to being the main part of the story. Not only is the actual music in the film very good but the film also shows the effect of music incredibly well. The likes of how a new kid at school can instantly make friends due to having the same passion for an art. Also how someone may be down on their luck and not have much going for them, they are style kept happy in life by their favourite records. The film shows that music is great for people and how to some, it really means a lot more to them than anything else.

The film is also delightfully funny throughout the whole film. The young cast deserves credit for this as they pull off the jokes very well with great comedic timing. The film also uses a good combination of visual jokes along with verbal throughout the film to keep it fresh. A lot of the enjoyment for me personally with the humour came from the band's first attempts of making a music video as they all show up in different gear, all fitting to the setting of the 80's. One of the funniest films of the year although it isn't a complete comedy.

'Sing Street' carries quite a bit drama throughout the film as well, all working to great effect. Scenes where certain characters have trouble dealing with situations are pulled off by good work from the cast and also due to how the story makes you care for the characters. The dramatic scenes don't seem forced and have good effect on the film showing that not everything in life is going to be as perfect as you think and how things may not go to plan. 

At times throughout the film, things do move a lot quicker than it realistically would. This happens in a few situations throughout the film but it really isn't a big problem to the film. This is the only problem I had at times with the film but it does not affect the viewing experience at all.

Final Verdict = 

A great musical drama with great moments of comedy throughout. You'll love the soundtrack as well as the characters in this one. I highly recommend you checking 'Sing Street' out!

So have you seen 'Sing Street'? If so what did you think of it? If you are planning on seeing this film, I hope this review helped make your decision. Once again thank you for reading, it is much appreciated!

By Angus McGregor