1. Everything Everywhere All at Once
This movie was a whole multiverse snack. It seriously dropped jaws with its wild visuals and somehow made us feel everything — immigrant struggles, family drama, and just existing in general. It’s like, when you think about representation and storytelling that actually hits, this one served. It's not just a film; it's a whole experience, proving that maximalism can totally be profound.
2. Parasite
Bong Joon-ho just snapped with this one. It's not just a thriller; it’s a masterclass in showing how deep class divides run without ever being preachy. The tension was *chef's kiss*, and the way it made you question everything about wealth and privilege? Iconic. This movie proved that global cinema isn't playing, and the commentary still lives rent-free in our heads.
3. Get Out
Jordan Peele said, "Let me introduce you to modern horror," and then delivered *this*. It’s a complete mind-bender that uses scares to talk about race in America, like, so smartly. The Sunken Place isn't just a metaphor; it's a whole vibe. It reshaped what a horror movie could even *be*, making it a crucial piece of social commentary in pop culture.
4. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Okay, animation leveled up with this one. The visuals are just *insane*, a whole new aesthetic that broke the internet. But beyond the cool art, it's the story of Miles Morales, a Black-Latino Spidey, that truly understood the assignment. It's about finding your own path, being unique, and the power of representation. A true cinematic flex.
5. CODA
This film just hits different. It's about a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) finding her voice, literally. It’s a beautiful, authentic look into a family navigating life and dreams, showing the deaf community in a way that felt real and respectful. The performances were raw, and it proved that sometimes the quietest stories shout the loudest. Super wholesome, honestly.
6. Lady Bird
Greta Gerwig just gets it. This movie is a coming-of-age masterpiece that feels so real, it’s almost uncomfortable. It's about figuring yourself out, messy family stuff, and that intense bond with your mom. Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf? Their dynamic was everything. It captured that specific era of being a teenager in a way that was both specific and universally relatable.
7. Portrait of a Lady on Fire
This movie is pure art, honestly. The gaze here is so intentional, exploring love and desire between women with such tenderness and power. Every shot is a painting, and the silence speaks volumes. It’s a slow burn that utterly captivates, showing how stories of queer love can be told with breathtaking beauty and profound emotional depth. A true masterpiece.
8. Knives Out
Whodunits got a fresh coat of paint with this one. It’s witty, stylish, and just a blast to watch. The cast is stacked, and the twists keep you guessing until the very end. But also, it low-key drops some social commentary about privilege without getting too heavy. A perfect popcorn flick that's also kinda smart? Yes, please.
9. Nomadland
Chloé Zhao delivered a quiet storm with this film. It’s a raw, almost documentary-style look at people living on the fringes, finding community and dignity in their transient lives. Frances McDormand is just incredible. It's a powerful statement on modern society, economic shifts, and what 'home' really means, all wrapped in breathtaking American landscapes.
10. Minari
This movie is a whole warm hug, but also real. It tells the story of a Korean-American family chasing the American Dream in rural Arkansas. It’s about identity, resilience, and sticking together, even when things are tough. The performances, especially Yuh-jung Youn, were so genuine. It's a beautiful, tender look at immigrant experiences that just resonates.
