Movies Came Out In (2017)
Winner:
The Shape Of Water – Every review that I saw about this movie (around Oscar time) said that usually people either loved it or hated it, no in-between. And to be honest, I didn’t read any synopsis of the movie, so I went in somewhat “blind”. I actually liked it, I didn’t love/hate it. It was pretty interesting in the story line, the scenery, and the way it was filmed (looked like an attraction at a Universal theme park, in my opinion). It was quirky and weird for sure, but it definitely wasn’t boring or ordinary. Give it a chance, if you hate it, oh well.
Call Me by Your Name – This was an interesting film. I had no idea what to expect, and I certainly was a little shocked. I wasn’t put off by the subject matter, but honestly, I didn’t find it very compelling either. I could take it or leave it. I saw that they’re doing a sequel, so I’ll be curious as to what happens in that film. It did seem a little strange that the man was clearly so much older than the teenage boy and the parents seemingly had no issue with that, but to each his own I suppose. And is Michael Stuhlbarg in literally every movie these days, guys in everything it seems!
The Darkest Hour – I enjoyed this film. Very interesting to see the portrayal of Churchill by Oldman, as compared to other Churchills in other series (i.e. The Crown).
Dunkirk – Saw this in the theater, and really enjoyed it. Had the luck of reading a review which explained Dunkirk before I saw the film, which helped me understand it better. Watched it on DVD, and really enjoyed it more because I had seen a few documentaries on Dunkirk in between my initial viewing.
Get Out – A suspenseful thriller that I rather enjoyed, if not a tiny bit predictable. Totally worth watching.
Lady Bird – A very enjoyable film. I honestly had no idea what to expect (I thought it was maybe about LBJ’s wife [it was not], no joke). I really liked it. It reminded me of films like Breakfast Club, Garden State, and a show like “My So Called Life”.
Phantom Thread – What a snooze fest. I found unbearably boring. A dress maker, who’s a complete jerk, falls “in love” with a younger woman. I could barely make it through this movie, I would not recommend watching it.
The Post – This movie was slow moving, didn’t pick up until the final 30 minutes or so. My daughter was bored to tears. I don’t know how anyone would know what was going on unless you were familiar with the historical players (McNamara, Nixon, Kissinger, etc…) before watching the movie. The acting was fine (Hanks/Streep), but honestly it was too much of a bore for me.
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri – Really enjoyed this film. Very interesting plot and some great acting performances. The language is not for the faint of heart, but it doesn’t bother me. I highly recommend watching this movie.
Brian’s Winner:
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, followed closely by Dunkirk. Both were unique and enjoyable, but I give the edge slightly to Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.
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#2017
Ceremony Year (2018) – Movies Came Out In (2017)