The Best Movies of 2018

Black PantherOne of the best films of 2018, and one of the best Marvel movies ever, "Black Panther" was the first movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to feature a mainly African-American cast. It alludes themes about the unbreakable strength of a community and loyalty to one’s country. The movie consists of constant action, thrill, adventure, drama and comedy, and provides an exciting movie-going experience for viewers of all ages. The wardrobe, acting and cultural traditions throughout the film deftly reinforce to the unity of the Wakandan people.  Incredibles 214 years in the making, “Incredibles 2” highlights Elastigirl as she spearheads the movement to give superheroes a positive name in society. At the same time, Mr. Incredible becomes a stay-at-home dad and cares for the kids. This was a great movie because it made viewers nostalgic and continued the story of such an incredible family as they embark on their incredible adventure (while resolving the cliffhanger of the first film: the attack of the villainous Underminer). “Incredibles 2” addresses the shifting domestic gender roles in society and grows upon the idea that women are gaining a more prominent place in the modern world.  Ocean’s 8“Ocean’s 8” is the fourth film in the “Ocean's” series and is arguably made up of one of the best casts EVER! Sandra Bullock leads a crew of crooks, including Rihanna, Awkwafina and Helena Bonham Carter to steal one of the most valued necklaces in the world. This movie values women empowerment and keeps the audience intrigued with humor, thrill and adventure throughout. Director Gary Ross did not disappoint.  Mamma Mia: Here We Go AgainAlso another long-awaited sequel of 2018 was “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.” Now that protagonist Sophie is an adult and inherited ownership of the new hotel on the island from her mother, she learns that she is in the same situation her mom Donna was in: pregnant and expecting a child. The electrifying soundtrack led viewers to their feet in the theaters as the audience was full of singing and dance. With a musical like “Mamma Mia”, the viewer participation heightens the movie and entertains even more. Bohemian Rhapsody“Bohemian Rhapsody” is about Queen and focuses on Freddy Murphy’s life when he left the group and later, his return. This movie is full of exciting music that keeps the audience intrigued and engaged. The movie also incorporates elements of the history and treatment of the LGBTQ community when the film was set. Such characteristic makes it appropriate for the world’s current status with the LGBTQ community and growing push to decrease the discrimination against the group. This flash to the past of a time during the rising popularity of Queen will lead to a greater appreciation of their greatest hits and successful songs.  A Quiet PlaceAmerican actor and director, and popular character on “The Office”, John Krasinski directed a masterpiece with “A Quiet Place.” This movie has a constant element of suspense. Krasinski develops the intense plot by keeping more than half of the movie without dialogue. Although the movie is sci-fi, it was constructed in a way that makes it seem like the post-apocalyptic story could actually be possible. Beautiful BoyViewers were initially drawn to “Beautiful Boy” by actor Timothée Chalamet, but the enticing plot led them to stay. The film, based on memoirs by father and son David and Nicholas Sheff, chronicles the family dynamics of meth-addict teen Nic. The movie addresses the growing problem of addiction and relapse in our society, especially among youth. It draws awareness to the fact that one’s life can change instantaneously. Overall, the movie is heavy and sticks to the heart. Just as viewers expected, Chalamet did his character justice and was successful in realistically relaying the story with his costars. Mid90s“Mid90s” tracks the summer of typical ‘90s thirteen-year old, Stevie. He escaped his unstable domestic environment by seeking new friendships and relationships with other local teens. Director Jonah Hill’s coming-of-age movie shows how Stevie befriends a group students who used to bully him, which later leads him to become more adventurous and rebellious. Many teens and high school students can relate to Stevie’s story.  Crazy Rich Asians“Crazy Rich Asians” plots the relationship between Chinese-American Rachel Chu and her boyfriend Ethan Young as they travel to Singapore where Chu will meet Young’s traditional, and wealthy, family for the first time. Chu must then prove herself to her boyfriend’s family, especially his mother, in order to be with Young.The film is absolutely hilarious; actors Constance Wu and Awkwafina portray entertaining characters and truly take the movie to the next level. The movie has a futuristic feel, with Singapore lit by city lights and bright, colorful cinematography. BlacKkKlansman“BlacKkKlansman” tracks the story of the first African American detective in the Colorado Springs police department. His mission is set in the 1970s and is associated with exposing the local Ku Klux Klan in Colorado. Director Spike Lee dramatizes a disappointing and dark period in America’s history when people were attacked and harassed for their race and beliefs. The film combines comedy with a compelling true story through its powerful writing, pristine cinematography and authentic acting.  Eighth Grade“Eighth Grade” is one of the rare films that has gotten a 99 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. It highlights the misgivings of adolescence, the problems and fears teens overcome as they grow older. Unlike many other films in this genre, it is more relatable because of it simplicity and lack of over dramatization. The movie shows the truths of middle school in America and the struggles that teens face nationwide. Such relatable quality takes the movie to the next level and makes it surpass the typical coming of age movie.  I, Tonya“I, Tonya” is about the unforgiving life of olympic figure skater Tonya Harding. The movie exposes her brutal and abusive childhood and marriage, depicting scenes from her life that made her stronger and shaped her personality. Viewers experience her ups, like being the first woman to land a triple axel in an American competition in 1991, and her downs, like her disqualification when competitor Nancy Kerrigan was attacked by individuals associated with Harding in 1994, a day before the U.S. Skating Championship. "I, Tonya" exemplifies exceeding the standards and pushing the limits to fulfill a life goal. Unlike most skating movies, it is painstakingly accurate in depicting the technicalities of the sport, and taps deep into viewers’ emotions. Green BookAs black pianist Dr. Don Shinley travels on tour starting in Manhattan and ending in the deep south during a time of segregation and racial discrimination, he seeks the protection of white club bouncer Tony Lip. They gain a strong relationship and unbreakable bond as Shinley faces hate from society during his performances in jazz clubs. The powerful message of the movie was a highpoint and emphasizes how people can find commonalities no matter their background or position in society, both racially and financially (economically). These two disparate individuals put their differences aside in order to stay alive and fulfill Shinley’s musical career. In addition to the poignant and understated plot, the acting and soundtrack are superb. A Star is Born“A Star is Born” features Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, two aspiring musicians. Bradley Cooper’s character Jackson Maine becomes famous once he starts performing music by song writer Ally, Lady Gaga. Maine pushes Ally out of her shell and promotes her to start performing, but once his career is at risk, he becomes jealous of her growing popularity. The movie includes gender conflicts where Maine tries to hold back Ally from following her dream when his own fame is at risk, but her strong characteristics lead her to success. It also highlights that though the life of fame is luxurious, there are often struggles under the surface. Additionally, the soundtrack of the movie is phenomenal and has even received Golden Globe nominations.