Top 5 Movies of 2022

Admittedly, I did not have as much time this year to see movies or even review all of the ones I saw. It was a busy year, and yet there were multiple phenomenal films to see this year. As the pandemic hopefully starts to close out, and more of the films we were promised earlier and beginning to be release it was a true joy to finally see some of these come to the big screen. Given the fact I wasn’t able to review this much, I have stuck with five films that I think are truly exceptional. This list is completely subjective and based on my own feelings, thoughts, and opinions. My full review is attached to each pick.

5. Avatar: The Way of Water

Avatar: The Way of Water Review

This may be a controversial pick but I cannot deny how much I enjoyed watching this film. I saw it three times in theaters and each time I was blown away by the visual masterpiece that was on display. Sure, it isn’t revolutionary in its story telling, but giving the characters some more personality even if it is derivative, was a welcome change to help flesh out this universe. Seeing this in IMAX 3D was one of the most memorable theatrical experiences of my lifetime. The film leaves off on some intriguing questions that I am ecstatic to see further explored in the years to come.

4. Top Gun: Maverick

Top Gun: Maverick Review

This film had no right to be this good, and yet the simple story of an underdog mission paired against a surrogate father made for an exciting, action-packed, and thrilling experience. The film is only bolstered by the fact that they used real practical effects and actual fighter jets for the filming, giving a true authenticity to the experience. Movies are rarely this bold and this exciting, making for one of the best experiences of the year. I’ve watched it four times, and always am on the edge of my seat for that last mission.

3. The Batman

The Batman Review

Batman has been rebooted many times, and following up on Christopher Nolan’s trilogy was a daunting feat. Matt Reaves decision to focus on a younger Batman at the beginning of his career fused with a thematic and gritty feeling of Seven was an excellent choice to make this standpoint. The film deconstructs expectations many had about the character, opting for a slower, more investigative feeling instead of pulling out all the action. The result leaves a deep exploration of Gotham as a central character and evolution of how Batman will become what the city needs. A fantastic exploration that I hope is continued in the coming years.

2. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Review

Rian Johnson delivered a knockout sequel that is bigger, bolder, funnier, and contains high rewatchability. The central mystery is one that is densely layered as its title aptly implies but also highly original with a multitude of subtle social commentary that has a point. The cast is having so much fun together and Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc has solidified himself as one of the best cinematic detectives of all time. Rewatching the film adds more to the experience and allows it to be remembered for years to come. I cannot wait to see more from Rian Johnson as these mysteries never grow stale.

1. Everything Everywhere All at Once

Everything Everywhere All At Once Review

This is the kind of film we need more of. Highly original, unwittingly imaginative, gut-busting comedy, thought-provoking ideas, and action-packed all in one tight package. It’s a film with many different themes that all land successfully and deliver a memorable experience both in visual and thematically. The core family dynamic coupled with the imaginative use of the multiverse deftly makes this my favorite move of the year, one that I will show my friends for the years to come. I am sad that I didn’t get a chance to review until recently but it doesn’t negate the wonder this film provides.

Check out more of my reviews below: