1. Parasite
Okay, but the way Bong Joon-ho flipped the script on class disparity? Chef's kiss. It started as one thing, then just kept swerving into absolute chaos, exposing the rot beneath. And, like, the peach allergy? Iconic. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a whole mood board of societal critique wrapped in a flawless, nail-biting package. Seriously, it's a masterclass in making you feel uncomfortable yet utterly mesmerized by the injustice. The global impact speaks for itself, too.
2. Get Out
Jordan Peele walked so many others could run into elevated horror, and honestly, we're still trying to catch up. This film took the subtle anxieties of being Black in America and turned them into a terrifying, unforgettable experience. The 'Sunken Place' became instantly legendary, a visual metaphor that hit too close to home for so many. It’s smart, it's scary, and it never lets you off the hook. This movie wasn't just good; it changed the game for real.
3. Portrait of a Lady on Fire
The sheer artistry in this film? Unmatched. It’s a slow burn, yeah, but every frame is a painting, every glance between Marianne and Héloïse is an entire novel. This movie understood the power of the female gaze before it was even a trending hashtag. The way it explores desire, connection, and creation, all without cheap theatrics, is just *chef's kiss*. And that final scene? Left us all speechless and emotionally wrecked, in the best way possible.
4. Everything Everywhere All at Once
This movie is basically a fever dream in the best possible way. It’s a wild, multiversal ride that somehow manages to be deeply personal and universally relatable. Like, who knew googly eyes and hot dog fingers could make you cry about family trauma? It's proof that genre-bending storytelling, especially with immigrant narratives, can be both incredibly silly and profoundly moving. Plus, Michelle Yeoh absolutely crushed it. No notes.
5. CODA
Okay, but the realness of this story? It hits different. Seeing a deaf family navigate the fishing industry, with their hearing daughter as their bridge to the world, was just beautiful. It’s a coming-of-age story that’s also about family, sacrifice, and finding your own voice – literally and figuratively. The representation was handled with such care and authenticity, making it a genuinely heartwarming and inspiring watch. Also, that final performance? Instant tears.
6. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
This movie wasn't just animation; it was a whole cultural reset. The style, the humor, the heart, and finally, a Miles Morales we could all root for. It redefined what a superhero movie could be, blending comic book aesthetics with a genuinely moving story about identity and belonging. The way it celebrated different art styles and multiple Spider-People? Revolutionary. And the soundtrack? A whole vibe. We needed this, and it delivered beyond expectations.
7. Nomadland
Chloé Zhao has this way of capturing raw human experience, and 'Nomadland' is peak. It’s a quiet, reflective road trip through America's forgotten corners, showing the resilience and quiet dignity of people living on the fringes. Frances McDormand is incredible, obviously, but it’s the real nomads who truly make this film sing. It’s a stark, beautiful look at grief, community, and finding freedom in unconventional spaces. A real gut punch, but in the most poetic way.
8. Lady Bird
Greta Gerwig just *gets* it. This movie perfectly nails the awkward, intense, and deeply loving chaos of being a teenage girl and having a complicated relationship with your mom. Set in Sacramento, it's so specific yet so universal in its portrayal of coming-of-age angst and the yearning for something more. Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf are an iconic duo. It's funny, it's poignant, and it felt like watching our own messy teenage years unfold.
9. Minari
This film is a quiet masterpiece about the immigrant experience, family, and chasing the American Dream. It's rooted in such specific cultural details, yet its themes of hope, struggle, and finding your place resonate with everyone. The performances, especially from Youn Yuh-jung, are just incredible, bringing so much warmth and authenticity. It’s a beautiful, tender story that reminds you of the strength in vulnerability and the meaning of home.
10. Booksmart
Finally, a teen comedy that actually felt real and hilarious without being cringe! Olivia Wilde absolutely nailed the female friendship dynamic—the ride-or-die bond between Amy and Molly was the heart of this movie. It was smart, progressive, and genuinely funny, subverting all those tired high school tropes. It truly understood the assignment of celebrating intelligent, ambitious young women who also know how to party. We stan a woke comedy queen.
