I used to dread making these lists, I would think about how people would judge me or my taste and I would be conscious about how it would match up with other lists but I guess thats just my anxiety eating me up.
It really can’t be helped and I should probably just consider it as part of my occupation of writing reviews, take a note of my choice of word, “occupation” and not job, as its definition, according to www.dictionary.com also includes “any activity in which a person is engaged.” -and not necessarily their source of income.
Tried to watch as much movies as I can but alas, work and life happens, but I did send representatives on behalf of the Team PCheng page, so that our followers would still be updated on the latest movie releases.
Honestly, I’m just grateful that I still get to do this, since I started blogging back ini 2012 and I just want to thank you for being part of that journey, you have to pardon me, I am still filled with all the sentimentality of the last year and the hopefulness of a new one, its a deadly combination.
So without further adieu, here is my 2019 Year Ender List, in no particular oder.
*Take note that the list is based on 2019 releases in the Philippines.
BUMBLEBEE
Who thought that our generation would get to see a good live action Transformers movie?! It happened! Many thanks to Director Travis Knight, who managed to do what Michael Bay can’t in five Transformer films-give it heart!
READY OR NOT
I’m not always the biggest fans of escape/slasher thrillers but there was something that was not only thrilling but engaging with READY OR NOT. Can I also say that I loved how Grace’s (Samara Weaving) wedding dress transformed and with it, her character arc as well. Wedding dress (check), Chucks (check), Shotgun (check).
KNIVES OUT
If you thought that every rendition of a “whuddunit” had already been done, you’d be surprised at how refreshing Rian Johnson created “Knives Out” and also effectively directing an all star cast.
CRAWL
Creature Feature, Disaster Film, what’s not to love? But honestly, Crawl was a pleasant surprise and if you came in to expect to scream your head of in the cinema then you would not be disappointed.
JOKER
Wow. Wow. Nuff said.
But seriously, people will be talking about “JOKER” for a long time. The film follows the steps of ‘Logan’ which continues to push the envelope and raise the bar for (super) hero/anti-hero films. That was a once-in-a-lifetime performance from Joaquin Phoenix.
FORD V FERRARI
An incredible true story, one which not too many people may be aware o, coupled with award worthy performances from Matt Damon and Christian Bale, make for a must watch movie.
AVENGERS: ENDGAME
Truly, a movie event unlike any other. The culmination of the Infinity Saga which started back in 2008. Everybody went to the movies to see this. Its success and the fact that it is loved by generations will ensure the staying power of the Marvel Cinematic Universe for years to come.
EDGE OF SEVENTEEN
Although released in 2016, it became available for streaming on Netflix last 2019. I know because I write these things on my planner. This coming-of-age comedy-drama film, anchored by a wonderfully authentic performance from Hailey Steinfeld will earn your love and respect.
THE FAVOURITE
The deceit and politics in court has never been so fashionably and brazenly depicted as in “The Favourite” – from sweeping camera angles to detailed costumes and a trifecta of acting prowess from its leads, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz and Olivia Cole will have you shouting for more!
KLAUS Best Animated Film
Decided to give “The Best Animated Film” to Klaus. I applaud the production’s decision to stick to 2D Animation, this is of course in the midst of all the 3D Animation and CGI used today. I enjoyed the story, I loved that it kept me guessing as to how the plot was going to unfold. It was a very good and heartfelt origin story for Santa Claus.
Best Series: The Umbrella Academy
There are a number of “super hero” families in Pop Culture but “Umbrella Academy” succeeds in looking into the dysfunction of it all and how despite the hurt, anger and difference, family is still family. Extra points to music choices and numbers in the series. (Tiffany’s “I Think We’re Alone Now” and Toploader’s “Dancing in the Moonlight”).
I haven’t seen “Parasite” yet or “Marriage Story” -schedule has not aligned to see “Parasite” I’ve been skipping on “Marriage Story” because I know its going to be the tear-out-your-heart kind of hurt and drama.
Much thanks for another year of writing about Pop Culture, can’t wait for the new releases and events for 2020!