The Gold Knight presents our Top 10 films of 2013. Deciding on a single set of 10 films that are the "best" is subjective. Because of this, our correspondents, along with editor James A. Molnar, will present their own lists.
Before the Academy announces its nominations for 2013, it's our turn to honor the best of the year.
The Gold Knight presents our Top 10 films of 2013. Deciding on a single set of 10 films that are the "best" is subjective. Because of this, our correspondents, along with editor James A. Molnar, will present their own lists.
Please share your thoughts on our Top 10 lists by commenting on this post, on Facebook or by interacting with us on Twitter. We would also like to see your Top 10 lists. Share below.
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TGK Correspondent
This list will not include documentaries. I will submit a separate Top 5 soon of just documentaries, like I did in 2011. Until then, here are my favorite movies of the year:
10. "Prince Avalanche"
A simple and charming film, yet one sophisticated enough to keep the focus on the dynamic between the two protagonists. Paul Rudd is especially surprising, turning in a good-natured yet mature performance as an unlucky-in-love blue collar worker spending the painting highway lines with his girlfriend’s brother.
9. "12 Years A Slave"
Director Steve McQueen’s follow-up to 2011’s sex addiction snoozefest "Shame" is everything that that movie was not; mature, brutal, forthright and disquieting. Slavery has never been as honestly examined in the filmic realm as it is here.
8. "Berberian Sound Studio"
Admittedly, "Berberian Sound Studio" is kind of a “critic’s movie.” A working knowledge of Italian giallo films certainly would help to at least appreciate the concepts at play in the film. Otherwise, it may just come off as a pastiche of startling sounds and images. I wouldn’t recommend it to everybody, but for those willing to put in the time and effort, "Berberian Sound Studio" is one of the most gripping and exciting horror movies of the year.
7. "The Wolf of Wall Street"
Can we admire something we despise? I think that’s a question at the heart of Martin Scorsese’s latest film, an exploration into the mechanisms of greed that takes us through the drug- and sex-fueled life of wall-street multi-millionaire stockbroker Jordan Belfort in three licentious hours. Belfort is a despicable human being, but 71-year-old Scorsese can’t help but look somewhat admirably upon his hedonistic lifestyle. Not to say the movie lets Belfort off the hook. It absolutely does not. But Scorsese dares his audience, just as he did with "Goodfellas" and "Gangs of New York" and a number of his other films, to look at the life of Belfort and not say “I wish that was me.”
6. "The Conjuring"
"The Conjuring" is a horror movie in a very traditional sense. It’s a haunted house movie. The jump scares come consistently and are effective almost every time. The film maintains an air of dread even when nothing particularly scary is happening on screen. And even though a lot of what happens in the film (I won’t spoil anything) most definitely wouldn’t make it past the editing room in the ’40s or ’50s, the film is both an homage to and an updated version of the old greats like "House On Haunted Hill" and "The Uninvited."
5. "Frances Ha"
A wispy movie of very humble proportions, "Frances Ha" is carried by the always wonderful Greta Gerwig, here playing the upbeat titular character Frances. Through the meandering plot we see her lose an apartment, deal with relationship issues, fight with her best friend and organize a modest dance recital. The victories in her life are small, but they mean the world to her. Gerwig captures Frances’ happy moments and sad moments with the same ecstasy and agony that can mean the difference between a good performance and a great performance.
4. "Computer Chess"
One of the headiest and most exciting indie films of the year, "Computer Chess" is hilarious, heartfelt, and incredibly strange, usually at the same time. Shot on old-school Sony AVC tube cameras, "Computer Chess" takes us back 30 years to a tournament for chess software programmers. It goes much deeper than that though. The film drifts along, allowing us to get acquainted with its characters and watching them interact through their time at the hotel where they’re all staying. "Computer Chess" becomes something else near the end though, a horror movie of sorts. It’s an unpredictable, yet hilarious movie.
3. "Ain’t Them Bodies Saints"
"Ain’t Them Bodies Saints" is "Bonnie & Clyde" by way of Terence Malick. It’s poetic, serene nature is reminiscent of films like "Days of Heaven" and "Badlands." But it’s its own film. It’s a love story at heart, a tragedy that follows escaped outlaw (Casey Affleck) on a journey around the law to find the woman he loved and the daughter he never met. The woman, Ruth, is played by the fantastic Rooney Mara, who here is more tender and naturalistic than she’s ever been before.
2. "Prisoners"
"Prisoners" is a crime thriller of the highest order; a dark, terrifying film about the disappearance of a young girl and her friend, and the desperate father (Hugh Jackman) who will stop at nothing to find them. The plot takes a number of surprising twists and turns, but at the end of the day it’s the moral complexities that make Prisoners stand out from the pack.
"Gravity" is truly an experience, the kind of movie like "2001: A Space Odyssey" that you must see on the big screen. Of course, it only had a normal run in theaters. If you didn’t see it then, don’t fret. This is a film that will be shown on big screens in film classes and special showings in years to come. Alfonso Cuarón has finally figured out how to use 3-D technology to tell a story, rather than just an exploitative tool to get more money out of moviegoers.
But enough has been said about the technology and effects in "Gravity." What is truly important about the film is the emotional core behind Sandra Bullock’s character. Her performance as Dr. Ryan Stone is one that tells a story of loss, grief, pain and, eventually, rebirth. It is a tour-de-force performance, and easily the best role of Bullock’s career. She, along with George Clooney and, of course, Cuarón turn what could’ve been a gimmicky sci-fi movie into not only the best movie of the year, but one of the best, most affecting sci-fi movies I’ve ever seen.
Honorable Mentions: "American Hustle," "Anchorman 2," "Escape From Tomorrow," "Evil Dead, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," "Side Effects," "This Is Martin Bonner," "Nebraska," "Inside Llewyn Davis" and "Her."
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TGK Correspondent
Looking back at 2013, I actually spent less time in the movie theater than in past years. There are still several movies I need to see — "Her," "Saving Mr. Banks," "American Hustle," "Dallas Buyers Club" and "Blue Jasmine" to name a few. But I still saw a fair number of films that were exciting, thought-provoking and thrilling.
10. "42"
I'm not a huge sports fan, but there are always a couple sports films which just move beyond the sport and make me care about the people.
9. "The Great Gatsby"
The novel was one I studied quite well in high school and it's one of my favorites. All the symbolism was there — the green light and the billboard. The stylized nature of this period piece juxtaposed with the modern day music kept me enthralled. This was also the perfect role for Leonardo DiCaprio, since it seems like he plays himself most of the time.
8. "The Bling Ring"
Sofia Coppola's look into the story of group of fame-obsessed teens who went on a crime spree at celebrity homes was a fun ride. Seeing Emma Watson (aka Hermione Granger) as a ditzy California girl makes the movie worth watching.
7. "August: Osage County"
Powerful performances, but super depressing. Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts are perfect, although this has to be the first time I've heard Roberts drop the F-bomb so much. None of these characters really have redeemable qualities. It's an entire family facing off in the midst of tragedy. There are some pretty hilarious moments mixed in with the uncomfortable ones.
6. "Gravity"
If you're unaware of the science and the technical aspects that work against this film, it's a story that keeps you at the edge of your seat. There was one spot that Sandra Bullock's character got a bit too sappy, but I was thrilled for the most part.
5. "Mud"
One of two Matthew McConaughey movies from 2013 that makes you rethink his persona. He shows real acting chops in this film, which was dark yet hopeful. The two young boys are the real stars of the film though.
4. "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire"
Besides the fact that Jennifer Lawrence is currently one of my favorite actresses, this is one of my favorite book series. The way they tackled this book satisfied the fan in me. The film series has been one of the best cast films comparable to the novels as well.
3. "Lee Daniels' The Butler"
Oprah and Forest Whitaker are fabulous in this movie which really takes you on a journey through the years at the White House. Disregard all the miscast actors as presidents though.
2. "Blackfish"
This is the one movie this year that really made me automatically tweet and update my status to tell people to watch. The movie throws some serious shade at SeaWorld and makes you rethink how you feel about theme parks like this. Even if this movie has a bias, it does bring up legitimate questions about the park's actions.
1. "12 Years a Slave"The most powerful movie I saw in 2013. Very hard to watch at times, but outstanding performances, wonderful cinematography and Steve McQueen's direction made this a must see film.
Honorable Mentions: "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" was a cute story, but the cinematography and settings stole the show. "The Place Beyond the Pines" had some great performances, but the story dragged on. "Monsters University" was super cute. "Thor: The Dark World" might have eclipsed the first film for me.
Worst Films:
"Admission," "Oz the Great and Powerful" and "G.I. Joe: Retaliation"
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TGK Correspondent
9. "Blackfish"
Joining a slew of attacks against the increasingly obvious maltreatment behind marine mammal entertainment venues like SeaWorld, "Blackfish" may not be the transcendent, illuminating documentary you've been hoping for — but its point is a good one to rehash nonetheless. It's hard not to sympathize with everyone but corporate America in this devastating tale of captivity and survival.
8. "To The Wonder"
There may not be much of a story in "To The Wonder," but as usual with Malick that doesn't really matter. He's got bigger things on his mind, like seeking out beauty in a modern world and the restless nature of the human soul. This time he applies the filter of love and relationships, and takes us on a joy ride from the amber waves of Oklahoma all the way to the misty shores of Mont Saint-Michel.
7. "Spring Breakers"
Let there be little debate about Harmony Korine's decision to create "Spring Breakers." He's more than earned the right to create something more ambitious, on a bigger scale with bigger names attached. Korine's story might be a touch contrived, but he has a blast with his talented, ex-teenie bopper cast, all jubilantly enjoying their debauchery in a molly'd-out, neon'd-up version of St. Petersburg that's just as much fun to watch.
6. "The Wolf of Wall Street"
Fans of Scorsese will be elated by "Wolf," which finds the man behind "Hugo" (originally one of Hollywood's most controversial, innovative directors) back at the helm of breakneck insanity à la "Casino" or "Goodfellas." Indeed, DiCaprio shows flashes of Joe Pesci in what is easily the most visceral, dynamic and psychotic performance of his career. Jonah Hill delivers a stellar contribution as well, and steals the show in several scenes.
5. "Blue Jasmine"
Woody Allen will always have a quiet slice of brilliance tucked up his sleeve, and he whips up more of his 'allusive' (plagiaristic?) style with poise and efficiency in "Blue Jasmine." While he's easily the most hilarious man in Hollywood, I think he's even more skilled as a dramatist. Cate Blanchett delivers her best performance in years as she devours her lovingly crafted, fatally-flawed and totally self-destructive titular character.
4. "Inside Llewyn Davis"
I enjoy whenever the Coen brothers take a step back from their zany world of screwball romps and dole out a little ice-cold melancholy. Llewyn Davis's desperate search for any shred of musical employment through the winter sludge of Chicago and Greenwich Village is just that. Of course, quirkiness still abounds and the stylized world of ’60s folk never looked more engaging.
3. "Blue is The Warmest Color"
Undoubtedly the most controversial film of the year, the seemingly endless tête à tête between stars Léa Seydoux, Adèle Exarchopoulos and director Abdellatif Kechiche rolled out with sensational force long before the film hit U.S. theaters (and long after it won the Palme d'Or). New, eyebrow-raising anecdotes from what seemed like a truly uncomfortable set appeared almost daily, and it was hard to keep focus on the expertly crafted masterpiece at the center of it all. Nevertheless the film provided talking points for months, and 2013 was Blue's year, for better or worse (but mostly better).
Steve McQueen has shown himself to be a consistent, scrupulous and talented director who's now rightly achieved his resting place in the mainstream. "12" is the most resonant film on slavery perhaps ever made, thanks largely in part to its unflinching portrayals of the brutality that happened at that time. As a contemporary film it's a thing of restless beauty, with a loving attention to craft from all involved.
1. "Her"
Doesn't Spike Jonze always seem to have his finger perfectly on the fears and fascinations of our current milieu? Each of his films feels so present, and yet so timeless. "Her" might be his best film to date, and it's certainly the best film of 2013. Only Jonze could handle subject matter this persistently topical with such a delicate artistry so as not to make it feel like the future, past or present. At the center of "Her" is a love story, that really feels no more different than any other relationship, and while its motif of digital immersion may become more or less relevant, this movie will nonetheless be a poignant hallmark in an age of radical cultural and social change. Oh, and one last thing: Scarlett Johansson's voice.
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TGK Editor
The past year has been a whirlwind for movies, especially since I have been seeing more movies weekly with my gigs as movie critic for FOX Toledo, WTOL-11 and 1370 WSPD-AM. The major complaint I still have, however, is getting access to the "cool" movies. I don't like to cover movies unless they come to Toledo and some still have yet to made it here, including "Inside Llewyn Davis," as of press time.
Strengths in 2013 at the box office included some excellent science-fiction — from "Oblivion" to "Gravity" — and some impressive performances, from Chiwetel Ejiofor to Judi Dench. With that, here are my Top 10 movies of 2013, all of which I gave five out of five stars. (For the full order of the 64 theatrical releases I saw, check out my list on Letterboxd.)
10. "The Invisible War"
This documentary feature, nominated for the Oscar, is an absolute heartbreaking tale of rape in the military. Men and women who serve our country aren't protected from crimes of sexually misconduct and are even punished for coming forward. Some of the young women feature entered the military with such hope and optimism. Now, they battle depression and thoughts of suicide. While technically released in 2012, I wanted to include on my list because this story must be told and movie must bee seen.
9. "Fruitvale Station"
Powerful, excellent storytelling about a young man who is turning his life around for his family, especially his daughter, only to come up short. Michael B. Jordan gives a breakout performance in this film, based on a true story. Octavia Spencer gives an Oscar-worthy performance as the young man's mother.
8. "Philomena"
Judi Dench gives an Oscar-worthy performance in a phenomenal story, based on true events. This is one of the best movies of the year. Pacing is impeccable with driving music by Alexandre Desplat.
7. "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire"
The girl on fire is back in theaters and this movie is better than the first. The pacing is incredible and the translation from book to big screen is impressively done. Hope versus fear rules this adventure as Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) share the screen as they try to survive again. Great casting also rules this film, with appearances by Stanley Tucci, Elizabeth Banks, Donald Sutherland and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Make sure to see the first film before watching this sequel.
6. "12 Years A Slave"
A fantastic film about a heart-breaking true story of a free man from New York (played stunningly well by Chiwetel Ejiofor) who is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 1840s. This is hard to watch but important to watch. The South is filled with natural beauty where unnatural and inhumane acts were the norm. It is a reminder of how far we have come as a society in the U.S. and everywhere, and how far we have yet to come.
5." Now You See Me"
I realize this movie is love or hate for most. And I loved it. This is a fantastic joyride reminiscent of "Ocean's Eleven" and "National Treasure." It's clever, inventive and has audiences guessing until its last scene. The great cast includes Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Mélanie Laurent and Morgan Freeman. This is a must-see, especially for those who enjoy a little magic.
4. "Her"
A touching and surprisingly personal look at the future of technology and our need for human interaction. There is more philosophy in one minute of this movie than most major movies that came out this year.
3. "Oblivion"
The summer movie season has started early and "Oblivion" knocks it out of the park. A collage of great sci-fi, this thriller starring Tom Cruise is 126 minutes heart-pounding, plot-twisting fun. IMAX screen makes the experience even better. (Read my full review.)
2. "Saving Mr. Banks"
It’s a Disney movie about making a Disney movie. And it’s one of the best movies of the year about the making of one of the best movies of its year. While the corners of the story may have been smoothed out a bit for cinematic sake, what’s left is one of the best movies of the year that leaves audiences feeling a little of that Disney magic — similar to when they first saw that flying nanny. (Read my full review.)
1. "Gravity"Alfonso Cuarón's sci-fi thriller "Gravity" is 90 minutes of perfection, set 600 kilometers above the Earth, with an almost documentary realism. Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki and visual effects supervisor Tim Webber create a beautiful masterpiece that soars off the big screen. This is especially true in IMAX 3-D, where this reviewer screened the movie. With such an immersive experience, the audience is part of the action, which is terrifying at times. (Read my full review.)
Honorable Mentions: "Prisoners," "August: Osage County," "The Session," "Wonder Women!: The Untold Story of American Superheroines," "The Impossible," "Amour" and "Blackfish."
Worst movie of 2013:
"Movie 43"
What should have been an online viral series ended up at the cinema. With such big names and star power, one would think "Movie 43" could provide something other than below-the-belt, scatalogic humor. But no. It gets worse as the 97-minute cacophonic disaster goes on and on. ZERO STARS.
Dishonorable Mentions: "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug," "The Counselor" and "Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues"
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