There is a fact that should be noted when compiling my annual shortlist of best films as Barcelona Metropolitan’s film critic: many of the year’s favourites are released between November and December in their home countries but often hit our shores in between January and March. That said, I rummaged through our past reviews, a ton of screenings and plenty of files to pull together our annual list:
Top 15 Films of 2017
1. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Words that spring to mind when critiquing this film are poignant, thought-provoking and visceral. This film attempts to cover that ‘forgotten American’—the Trump-voter setting—by giving the audience a film that remains with you for days. Any award that Frances McDormand will receive for this film is much deserved.
2. The Shape of Water
Guillermo del Toro’s new fantasy film is creepy but astounding.
3. Lady Bird
The beauty that is Greta Gerwig’s directorial debut cannot be overstated. Kudos to the actresses!
4. Get Out
This is an excellent watch following the story of interracial couple Chris and Rose. It rightly generated lots of buzz with its 100% approval rating from critics upon release.
5. Call Me By Your Name
Premiering in Spain on September 22nd last year, this film details a truth that goes beyond questions of sexuality.
6. Beauty and the Beast
Disney continues their exquisite live-action remakes of cartoon classics.
7. Coco
Wow! Pixar aptly celebrates the beauty of that other North American country, Mexico.
8. Their Finest
Gemma Arterton is a thing of wonder in this historical chronicle that plays with many life questions.
9. Wonder Woman
Director Patty Jenkins choreographs the beauty that is Gal Gadot in a worthy Best Picture comic.
10. Dunkirk
Honestly, Christopher Nolan has redeemed himself with this Second World War opus starring a former member of One Direction.
11. Churchill
Brian Cox embodies the praised British Prime Minister in a film that poses many important questions.
12. Marjorie Prime
Also heralded at Sitges, not only is this an outstanding fantasy film, it is therapy.
13. Okja
Premiering at Sitges Fantasy Film Festival in October last year, this oddball fantasy film deserves all due credit; it took my breath away!
14. Trainspotting 2
Danny Boyle’s sequel two decades later made the cut this year; may his reign in the director’s chair be long lived.
15. The Eavesdropper (La Mécanique de l’ombre)
Impeccably cast French thriller starring Francois Cluster.
Most of these films are in cinemas, on video on demand or opening very soon! Take a moment to relax into a cine seat and check out some of this year’s cinematic best.