This year we had a number of exciting films from all sorts of genres to watch. Some hit streaming services first, while others waited a few months after their theatrical release. Here we’ll be diving into what I believe to be the best films of 2022 and why they made my list.
Jackass forever
Jackass forever is fun watch from start to finish, giving new and returning fans of the group the perfect experience. Johnny Knoxville, Steve-o and the rest of the OG members introduce us to the new young members, while putting them through the ringer as they pass the torch. The film really helps bridge the old and new generations of fans. The antics are still crazy funny and over the top like always, leaving us with memorable scenes to always look back on.
The Batman
The batman is an epic story that doesn’t go through the origins of the caped crusader like past reboots have. Instead what we get is by far the best portrayal of a young inexperienced batman on the big screen. Additionally, the film captured more of batman’s detective skills in action, a skill that wasn’t utilized as much in the past. Though the action is a lot more brutal here, as we have a batman who doesn’t know as much restraint.
Everything everywhere all at once
This movie is what marvels doctor strange multiverse of madness wanted to be but couldn’t execute. The best way to describe it is a never-ending roller coaster ride from beginning to end that leaves no room for boredom. Although, to many this movie might have been under the radar as other top mainstream movies were out during this time. If this is you then I’d recommend stopping what you’re doing and give it a watch.
Top Gun: Maverick
Personally I never really enjoyed the first top gun film, yet after much persistence from others to give it a chance I gave in. Although it was just about what I expected it to be, it was far from a bad experience. Just like with Jackass forever, the film does a great job at bringing both the og fans as well as the younger audiences together. The action sequences were amazing and almost had you feeling like you were in the jet too.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Sonic the Hedgehogs second time in the big screen was a blast, especially when adding some of fans favorite characters. Having Idris Elba as Knuckles voice actor was a pleasant surprise too, as well as the voice actor for Tails being the same from the games. Of course seeing the great Jim Carey as eggman again is always awesome to see, since I couldn’t imagine anyone else bringing as much energy as he does to the role.
Barbarian
Barbarian is a movie that is best experienced without knowing much about it. The mysteries it holds right up until the very end is what makes it so good. The tense situations it puts the characters through is enough to keep you on your toes. Each of the 3 characters we follow are thankfully not too dumb and at least a bit realistic. Justin longs character is also quite the comedic relief with how much we would probably relate to him.
Hellraiser
The Hellraiser reboot is by far one of the best in the franchise right under the first one. I’m sure we can agree that most of the past sequels weren’t so great, which helps the film a lot since it didn’t need to do too much. That’s the part where I feel like this movie succeeded, it did just enough by showing plenty of graphic torture from the cenobites, and its characters weren’t completely dumb either which is a big plus. While this movie could be replaced by other top films this year, it was one that I personally enjoyed the most.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
The Black panther sequel was by far one of best phase 4 marvel films this year, especially after the last two left many disappointed. What this film does better than the last two is its narrative and the direction it takes with it. Wakanda Forever doesn’t try to cram in unnecessary details, instead it focuses on the main cast and the development they take throughout the film. Additionally, the antagonists here with Namor and his people of Talokan were amazing to watch in action against the people of wakanda.
Violent Night
David Harbour in Violent Night helps bring in the Christmas spirt, except with a little more action than past Santa’s. After a family gets taken hostage for a heist by some elite mercenaries at their estate, their only hope is for someone to save them but who? Luckily its Christmas eve and Santa is making his rounds around the neighborhood when he happens to find the family. However, these mercenaries aren’t prepared for their gifts tonight as they’ve made Santa’s naughty list. The film is pretty self explanatory, yet its pure enjoyment the entire time.
Avatar: The Way of Water
Finally for what I believe to be by far the best movie of the year, Avatar: The Way of Water. Although it didn’t blow my expectations away, it still kept me interested throughout the entirety of the film. That’s saying a lot since its a good 3 1/2 hours long yet, I didn’t feel bored at any certain part either. The visuals here were even more stunning than ever, with both the action sequences and world landscapes. I wish I got more of the lore over the world, as well as something different in the plot that doesn’t feel too similar.
If your best films this year looked a little different go ahead and leave a comment with your own list as well as why you felt they deserved the spot.