20-11
20. Rocks dir. Sarah Gavron
Our review: “The cast was found through a number of workshops, with a statement in the credits signalling the collaborative roles the cast played in the production. The impact of this collaboration shines bright as the chemistry between Rocks and her friends feels lively and sincere.” Read more
19. Onward dir. Dan Scanlon
18. Kajillionaire dir. Miranda July
Our review: “Underneath the film’s enigmatic exterior lies a story of real heart, injected with well-balanced dousings of humour, sadness, shock and romance that you can’t help but be suckered in by.” Read more
17. Shirley dir. Josephine Decker
Our review: “This unique take on the biopic, showing a reverie-like snapshot of Jackson’s life, feels apt considering the writer’s predilection for the short story. While Moss’ depiction of the celebrated yet cantankerous writer is very much accurate, her interactions with Rose and Fred are completely imagined, forming something of a biomythography in which the real and surreal cohabit.” Read more
16. Wolfwalkers dir. Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart
15. Waves dir. Trey Edward Shults
Our review: “Though the film’s harrowing first hour casts a large shadow over the rest of the film, by the end it manages to break free of its shackles to create an overwhelming flood of positive emotion, providing catharsis for the events that preceded it.” Read more
14. Les Misérables dir. Ladj Ly
13. Matthias & Maxime dir. Xavier Dolan
12. Palm Springs dir. Max Barbakow
11. I’m Thinking of Ending Things dir. Charlie Kaufman
Our review: “It’s not out of character for Kaufman to lead us down a sodden road of existential strife, before kicking us out of the car and expecting us to just find our own way home. “What,” he seems to chuckle, “were you expecting a return journey, a neat conclusion?” I’m Thinking Of Ending Things requires further watches to spot the clues about how to navigate our way through the snowstorm.” Read more