Ceremony Year (2018)

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.

#BrianWatchesOscarMovies

#2017

Ceremony Year (2018) – Movies Came Out In (2017)