Max Hechtman's Top 10 Films of 2023
The full list of Max Hechtman’s Top 10 Movies of 2023.
Happy New Year everyone! And as my last post of the year, here's my list of the top 10 films of 2023. What were some of your favorites from this year? See you in 2024.
1 - Oppenheimer
Directed by Christopher Nolan
This better be the film that takes Best Picture at the Oscars this year. Christopher Nolan's latest magnum opus about the man that changed the world forever when he helped invent the atomic bomb is a cinematic experience no one can forget from this year, complete with a magnetic performance from Cillian Murphy in the titular role.
2 - Past Lives
Directed by Celine Song
The directorial debut of Celine Song is a triumph with an emotionally moving and relatable story and a beautiful visual style complimented by awards-nomination worthy performances from its cast.
3 - The Creator
Directed by Gareth Edwards
Gareth Edwards' sci-fi epic about a war between the human race and the forces of AI could not have come at a better time. ILM's visual effects were on full display and the incredible cinematography by Grieg Fraser and Oren Soffer brings us into this film's world in a spectacular way.
4 - Killers of the Flower Moon
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Martin Scorsese's most heart-breaking film to date is also one of the most thought-provoking, with Leo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone giving two of the best performances of the year. This film is going to be analyzed and talked about by critics, historians and in film schools for a very long time, despite its very lengthy 3+ hour runtime.
5 - Et Tu
Directed by Max Tzannes
One of the best surprises of the year was this indie comedy thriller which premiered at the Heartland Film Festival. Lou Diamond Phillips and Malcolm McDowell lead an ensemble cast in this wickedly dark tale that I can not wait for everyone to see once the filmmakers behind this find a distributor.
6 - Barbie
Directed by Greta Gerwig
Greta Gerwig has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with as a filmmaker with her creative and fresh take on the beloved dolls. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling make the ultimate Barbie and Ken as the former goes on an adventure that's funny and at times, gets very deep with its portrayal of the theme of existentialism. Oh, and the soundtrack rocks.
7 - The Color Purple
Directed by Blitz Bazawule
The stage musical version of Alice Walker's beloved novel brings the classic story to a new generation that largely succeeds thanks to its performances (particularly from Fantasia, Danielle Brooks and Taraji P. Henson), beautiful cinematography and uplifting song-and-dance sequences.
8 - Elemental
Directed by Peter Sohn
Pixar really needs to get its act together to tell good stories again, but I'm generous enough to let this slip into the list thanks to its creative approach to worldbuilding and eye-popping animation that's still beautiful to look at.
9 - Eileen
Directed by William Oldroyd
While it will definitely be overlooked and not as well remembered after the year is over, it's worth commending Anne Hathaway and Thomasin McKenzie for their magnetic leading performances in this dark and moody thriller. And I'm very proud of a friend of mine for getting the opportunity to act alongside Hathaway during a pivotal scene.
10 - Theater Camp
Directed by Nick Lieberman & Molly Gordon
A future cult classic for theater kids, people within the Broadway community and the fanbase of Ben Platt, this entertaining mockumentary is worth the time if you're in need of a laugh.
