My friend Daniel and I studiously track every movie we see and need to see every year which is how I know that, as of yesterday, I am now ready to watch the Oscars. Since I have officially seen every movie (except the international ones that we can’t seem to find) that might possibly come up (and, unfortunately, Avatar), I can confidently tell you what to do.
Without further ado, here are the best movies of 2022.
The Fabelmans
This will probably win Best Picture because Spielberg and it was good, but it was not great, and it was too long.
Athena
Not enough people are talking about this movie. It’s smart, different, and pretty epic for a Netflix flick.
Argentina, 1985
I knew nothing about this bit of history and this tight legal drama made me want to learn a lot more.
RRR
S.S. Rajamouli makes the best action movies in the world and RRR is the best of his best.
The Outfit
No one is talking about this movie and no one will and that’s a damn shame because it’s fricking brilliant.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande
Same note as The Outfit
Living
I was convinced during Sundance that this movie would be one of the ignored greats of the year but I was wrong and I am glad about it.
Elvis
If you’re not a Bazhead I don’t know what to tell you. This movie was his magnum opus and I will fight anyone who says otherwise.
The Woman King
This movie won’t win anything except perhaps a token Best Costume but it was wonderful and brave and beautiful and I am grateful that it exists.
Banshees of Inisherin
The acting, the writing, the donkey. Chef’s kiss.
Tar
This is basically a tie with #1, the only difference being that #1 brought me more joy. But in a year of acting legends finally getting the movie that showcases their considerable talents (see #s 8,7,6, and 1), this was Cate Blanchett’s moment and when Cate is having a moment no one can touch her.
Everything Everywhere All At Once
Joyful, profound, hilarious, moving, and marvelously kind. The movie would have been incredible no matter who was in it but with Michelle Yeoh finally finally getting her moment and Ke Huy Quan getting the comeback he deserves, this film is a joy both on and off the screen. Easily the best of the year.
Honorable mentions: Leonore Will Never Die, Babylon (I don’t care what anyone says, Bablyon was great), The Whale, Triangle of Sadness, The Menu, Top Gun: Maverick (but it’s a blockbuster, it doesn’t deserve a fricking Oscar), The Wonder, Emily The Criminal.
*I’ve just been informed that Women Talking is Oscar eligible, I’ll watch it and make a note if it should be added.
WORST MOVIES OF THE YEAR
Armageddon Time
Empire of Light
Avatar 2
There you have it. Watch, enjoy, report back.