As we enter a new decade, it’s only natural to reflect on the past ten years and all the incredible films that have graced our screens. From blockbusters to indie darlings, the 2010s have been a decade of cinematic excellence. As a self-proclaimed movie critic, I’ve compiled a list of the best films of the 2010s that you need to watch ASAP.
1. The Social Network (2010)
Directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin, The Social Network tells the story of the creation of Facebook and the legal battles that followed. Jesse Eisenberg delivers a career-defining performance as Mark Zuckerberg, the socially awkward genius behind the social media giant. The film is a sharp commentary on the rise of technology and the impact it has on our social lives. With a gripping script and stunning visuals, The Social Network is a must-watch film that perfectly captures the zeitgeist of the 2010s.
2. Moonlight (2016)
Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight is a powerful coming-of-age story that follows the life of a young black man named Chiron as he navigates his way through poverty, sexuality, and identity. The film is divided into three chapters, each one depicting a different stage in Chiron’s life. The performances from the cast, particularly Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris, are outstanding. Moonlight is a poignant and intimate film that explores themes of masculinity, race, and sexuality with sensitivity and nuance.
3. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road is a high-octane action film that takes place in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The film follows Max (Tom Hardy) and Furiosa (Charlize Theron) as they attempt to escape the clutches of a tyrannical ruler. The film is a masterclass in visual storytelling, with breathtaking practical effects and stunning cinematography. Fury Road is a feminist triumph, with Theron’s Furiosa serving as a strong and complex female protagonist. The film is a thrilling ride from start to finish and is a must-watch for action fans.
4. Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is a genre-defying masterpiece that defies classification. The film tells the story of a poor family who infiltrates the lives of a wealthy family, leading to unexpected consequences. Parasite is a biting commentary on class inequality and the lengths people will go to in order to survive. The film is expertly crafted, with stunning cinematography and a tight script. Parasite is a film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
5. La La Land (2016)
Damien Chazelle’s La La Land is a modern musical that pays homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood. The film follows the love story between Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress, and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz pianist. The film is a visual feast, with vibrant colors and stunning choreography. The performances from Stone and Gosling are electric, and the film’s soundtrack is a standout. La La Land is a film that celebrates the magic of cinema and the power of dreams.
6. Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a horror film that tackles issues of race and identity. The film follows Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) as he visits his girlfriend’s family for the weekend, only to discover a sinister plot at play. Get Out is a smart and thrilling film that subverts genre expectations. The film’s commentary on race is handled with nuance and intelligence, and Kaluuya delivers a standout performance. Get Out is a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you thinking long after it’s over.
7. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel is a whimsical and charming film that takes place in a fictional European country in the 1930s. The film follows the adventures of Gustave H (Ralph Fiennes), a legendary concierge, and his lobby boy Zero (Tony Revolori). The film is a visual delight, with Anderson’s signature style on full display. The performances from the cast, particularly Fiennes, are excellent. The Grand Budapest Hotel is a film that celebrates the power of storytelling and the magic of friendship.
8. Call Me By Your Name (2017)
Luca Guadagnino’s Call Me By Your Name is a beautiful and tender love story that takes place in the summer of 1983. The film follows the romance between Elio (Timothée Chalamet), a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver (Armie Hammer), a graduate student who comes to stay with Elio’s family. Call Me By Your Name is a film that captures the intensity and passion of first love. The performances from Chalamet and Hammer are outstanding, and the film’s setting in the Italian countryside is breathtaking. Call Me By Your Name is a film that will stay with you long after it’s over.
9. Boyhood (2014)
Richard Linklater’s Boyhood is a groundbreaking film that was shot over the course of 12 years. The film follows the life of Mason (Ellar Coltrane) from the age of 6 to 18. Boyhood is a film that captures the nuances of growing up, with all its joys and sorrows. The film’s use of time is masterful, and the performances from the cast, particularly Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke, are excellent. Boyhood is a film that celebrates the beauty and complexity of life.
10. The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro’s The Shape of Water is a fairy tale for adults. The film follows the romance between Elisa (Sally Hawkins), a mute woman who works as a janitor at a top-secret government facility, and a mysterious amphibian creature (Doug Jones). The Shape of Water is a visually stunning film, with del Toro’s signature style on full display. The performances from the cast, particularly Hawkins and Jones, are outstanding. The Shape of Water is a film that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of difference.
In conclusion, the 2010s have been a decade of cinematic excellence, with films that have challenged, entertained, and moved us. From The Social Network to The Shape of Water, these films represent the best of what cinema has to offer. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these must-watch films ASAP.
