Film Review: Oscar Nominees 2017 - Part II

Film Review: Oscar Nominees 2017 - Part II

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In just a few hours, the film industries finest will be taking their seats inside Hollywood's Dolby Theatre for the 89th Academy Awards. Of course, I will be watching eagerly but thought I'd share my final thoughts and predictions with Part II of my Oscars 2017 rundown...

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Arrival (Denis Villeneuve, 2016) - Nominations (8) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Achievement in Directing (Denis Villeneuve), Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay, Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Film Editing, Best Achievement in Sound Mixing, Best Achievement in Sound Editing, Best Achievement in Production Design.

Plot: Louise Banks (Amy Adams), is a linguistics professor who leads an elite team of investigators when mysterious spaceships settle on Earth. With the United Nations concerned for their safety and on the verge of declaring global war, Louise and her crew must work against the clock to find why the extraterrestrial visitors are here. 

Predictions: Arrival received mixed reviews from movie-goers in 2016 but, personally, I believe it to be an incredibly smart and beautifully directed narrative. A fresh take on the sci-fi genre, the film defies conventions and will leave you guessing throughout. It grips you not with jump scares or CGI, but with the strength of its execution. Whilst I unfortunately cannot see it picking up Best Picture, I do believe it may have a strong chance of winning for Editing and Production Design. Again, however, I do believe this to be another underdog that had it not been up against such films as La La Land or Manchester By The Sea, could have won otherwise.

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Fences (Denzel Washington, 2016) - Nominations (4) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Denzel Washington), Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Viola Davis), Best Adapted Screenplay (August Wilson).

Plot: Troy Maxson (Denzel Washington) is an ageing sanitation worker living in Pittsburgh, who once dreamed of a baseball career. Despite his efforts to be a good husband and father, his lost dream of glory eats at him - causing a bad decision which tears his marriage apart.

Predictions: Adapted for the screen by playwright, August Wilson, you feel very much as if you are watching a performance on a stage. Comprised of a simple set of Troy's home and garden, Fences is an extraordinary film centred purely on character development and script. This makes way for booming performances from both Washington and Viola Davis who are truly outstanding - delivering each line with depth and heart.

Up until seeing Fences, I was convinced that Casey Affleck had Best Actor in the bag but I know believe that there is a tiny chance Denzel could just steal it away. If I know the Academy though, Viola Davis will have the golden statue in the bag although it would be fantastic to see it win Best Adapted Screenplay also.

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Hidden Figures (Theodore Melfi, 2016) - Nominations (3) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Octavia Spencer), Best Adapted Screenplay.

Plot: Behind one of the greatest operations in history, three African-American women at NASA -- Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) serve as the brains behind the launch of NASA astronaut, John Glenn (Glen Powell), into orbit.

Predictions: Fighting adversity as both women and African Americans, Hidden Figures is a powerful, and previously untold story, of three extraordinary women who went unrecognised at a time of racial divide. With an all-star cast, this one has Oscars written all over it and so it is surprising to see that it only has three nominations. Though not entirely without flaws (there are some scenes of sketchy editing and inconsistencies), Hidden Figures is undoubtably an emotional and empowering rollercoaster executed brilliantly. Unfortunately, however, the competition this year seems too great for it to take home any awards *sad face*.

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Captain Fantastic (Matt Ross, 2016) - Nominations (1) - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role.

Plot: Ben Cash (Viggo Mortensen) lives with his wife, Leslie (Trin Miller) and their six children outside society, in the wilderness of Washington state. Having devoted their lives to raising their kids, Ben and Leslie teach them to think critically, to be physically fit and to understand the beauty of co-existing with nature. However, when Leslie dies suddenly, Ben must take his sheltered offspring into the outside world for the first time and fight against her family who refuse to accept his life choices.

Predictions: I was genuinely both surprised and super pleased to see Viggo Mortensen nominated since films such as this tend to go completely unrecognised by the Academy. Besides being beautifully shot, Captain Fantastic offers a strikingly original and unpredictable character narrative about a group of colourful outsiders, with a statement about the current society we live in. As such, it's so unfortunate that it is likely to home empty handed though I'm so happy to see it nominated. It's most definitely worth the watch.

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Moana (John Musker, Ron Clements, 2016) - Nominations (2) - Best Animated Feature Film of the Year, Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song)

Plot: A Disney adventure following the story of Moana Waialiki (Auli’i Cravalho) - the teenage daughter of a chief on the small Polynesian island of Motunui. With the island's resources running out, Moana embarks on a seemingly impossible mission across the sea to find demigod, Maui (Dwayne Johnson), and return the heart to the goddess Te Fiti. In doing so, she proves herself a master wayfinder and fulfils the unfinished quest of her ancestors. 

Predictions: Moana is a rare and much needed celebration of Polynesian culture and there are so many factors which make it groundbreaking. Firstly, Moana is not a Disney princess - she is a daughter of a chief and, as such, is expected to lead her people. She does not have a love interest, nor does she need a male role to save her - she is entirely her own person. If you want to dig a little further, you may also find some very interesting feminist theories surrounding the role of the goddess Te Fiti. Throw in some incredibly catchy songs written by Broadway legend Lin Manuel Miranda; stunning visuals, a talented cast of Polynesian/Hawaiian actors, excellent writers (including Taika Waititi) - you've got yourself one incredible Disney classic and a stand out film of 2016.

Personally, I would absolutely love to see Moana take home both awards but unfortunately I do believe these are already taken by Justin Hurwitz for La La Land and Kubo and the Two Strings for animation.

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The Lobster (Yorgos Lanthimos, 2015) - Nominations (1) - Best Original Screenplay

Plot: David (Colin Farrell) finds himself single when he is unexpectedly dumped by his wife. However, the breakup is made all the worse by the fact that he has 45 days to find true love, or else they are turned into the animal. Arriving at a mysterious hotel in the middle of nowhere, David begins his search for a new partner but after several failed romantic encounters, he makes a daring escape. Now on the run from society, David joins rebel group, 'The Loners' - a group founded on a complete rejection of romance and who live in the woods. However, it is here that David meets an enigmatic stranger (Rachel Weiss) with whom he falls in love.

Predictions: Colin Farrell delivers a fantastic performance within this beautiful yet bizarre film. Undoubtably, it is one of the most unique screenplays and narratives I've seen in a longtime. It's fantastic to see The Lobster nominated at this year's Academy Awards as, much like Captain Fantastic, it is outside the usual Oscar conventions. Again, I'm not sure if The Lobster has enough hype surrounding it to encourage a golden statue but it's worth the watch all the while. 

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Loving (Jeff Nichols, 2016) - Nominations (1) - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (Ruth Negga).

Plot: Based on true events, Richard (Joel Edgerton) and Mildred Loving (Ruth Negga) are an interracial couple who marry in Central Point, Virginia in 1958. Despite living in one of the more integrated areas of the State, the couple are faced with extreme prejudice and are jailed and banished having refused to end their marriage. Once freed, Richard and Mildred are forced to relocate with their children but decide to return to Virginia - leading to a powerful legal battle which would make history within the US Supreme Court. 

Predictions: From the trailer, you might expect Loving to be a civil rights drama much like that of A United Kingdom (Amma Asante, 2016) but in fact, it is actually more of an intimate and hard-hitting portrait of a marriage suffering unimaginable stress. Its phenomenal narrative approach and career-best performances from Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton make this one of the most underrated films at this year's Oscars. I do, however, think this is fantastic opportunity for Ruth Negga who shines in every performance she has given so far (especially if you've seen her in TV series, Preacher). I can't wait to see her career grow off the back of this nomination though sadly, I feel that the Oscar already has Viola Davis written on it. 

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13th (Ava DuVernay, 2016) - Nominations (1) - Best Documentary Feature

Plot: Filmmaker Ava DuVernay (director of Selma, 2014) writes and directs a documentary which explores the history of racial inequality in the United States. Providing a previously unseen look in to the legal system, the film is an in-depth look into why the nation's prisons are disproportionately filled with African-Americans through a series of footage and interviews. 

Predictions: Personally, I think it's wonderful to see a Netflix Original nominated for an Oscar and so rightfully so with 13th. A few years ago, DuVernay turns heads at the Academy with Selma, a film about Martin Luther King Jr. which had prominent themes which were just as relevant in modern society. It comes at no surprise then that 13th is even more sobering and powerful as it holds up a mirror the current US prison system and it's comparisons to modern slavery. I'm pretty sure it has a firm chance of taking home Best Documentary Feature and have got my fingers and toes crossed for it's success.  

Well, that's it for Part II of my Oscars rundown and predictions. Will you be watching this evening? Who are you rooting for to win? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. You can also check out Part I here. 

Until next time film fans,

Film Review: Oscar Nominees 2017 - Part I

Film Review: Oscar Nominees 2017 - Part I

Academy Awards arrival hacksaw ridge hell or high water film jackie film review la la land review lion film manchester by the sea. Oscars oscars 2017

Oscar season is officially upon us again and that means it's been a busy few weeks for me. After many an evening and weekend spent in the cinema to pack in as many Academy nominated films as possible, here's Part I of my run down of this year's contenders...

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Manchester By The Sea (Kenneth Lonergan, 2016) - Nominations (6): Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Casey Affleck), Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Lucas Hedges), Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Michelle Williams), Best Achievement in Directing (Kenneth Lonergan), Best Original Screenplay (Kenneth Lonergan)

Plot: Chandler (Casey Affleck) is an irritable loner working as a handyman in Boston. Having learnt of his brother's passing, he returns to his hometown of Manchester where he has unexpectedly been named guardian to his 16-year-old nephew. Having lost his only sibling and unwillingly inherited a child, Lee is forced to confront his tragic past and the demons which haunt him.

Predictions: As a beautifully told narrative with so many stunning performances, it's no surprise that this film has six nominations under its belt. Very much what you would expect from an Academy recognised film, it is a character piece which features a great deal of heart and depth which is sure to stir up some emotion. For me, the most powerful and pivotal moment is the unveiling of Chandler's ordeal and Affleck's performance is outstanding from start to finish. Personally, I'd love to see Manchester By The Sea take home Best Leading Actor, Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

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La La Land (Damien Chazelle, 2016) - Nominations (14) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Ryan Gosling), Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (Emma Stone), Best Achievement in Directing (Damien Chazelle), Best Original Screenplay (Damien Chazelle), Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Film Editing, Best Achievement in Costume Design, Best Original Score, Best Achievement in Sound Mixing, Best Achievement in Sound Editing, Best Original Song (twice nominated), Best Achievement in Production Design. 

Plot: Mia (Emma Stone), is waitress and aspiring but struggling young actress in modern day Los Angeles. Having met Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a dedicated yet conflicted jazz musician, the pair set out to pursue their dreams in a city where not everyone can make it. Presented as an all singing, all dancing musical, the pair must choose between a lifetime love or the glowing spotlight.

Predictions: At a record-breaking 14 nominations, the odds are high for La La Land to clean up at the 2017 Academy Awards. Written and directed by Damien Chazelle of Whiplash (2013) fame, La La Land is oozes nostalgia, classical Hollywood references and stunning cinematography. Each scene is a picture book of emotions and engaging performances from both Stone and Gosling. My initial response was that of uncertainty at a somewhat tear-jerking sad finale but I am still swooning over the phenomenal soundtrack from this modern day musical dubbed the "musical for people who don't like musicals". It's astonishing when you think that the majority of this was shot in one take within such a short time frame and the efforts the actors went to learn instruments and routines.

Sadly for Gosling, it's a rare win for a Leading Actor in a comedy/musical role and so I feel this may not be his year. Furthermore, I also believe that he has been in far more powerful and unrecognised roles. I do think, however, that this could well see Emma Stone take home Best Leading Actress alongside Best Score, Best Original Song and Best Motion Picture and Best Director. 

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Hell or High Water (David Mackenzie, 2016) - Nominations (4) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Jeff Bridges), Best Writing, Original Screenplay, Best Achievement in Film Editing

Plot: Toby (Chris Pine), a struggling single father, and his ex-convict brother, Tanner (Ben Foster), plan a series of heists against the bank that's about to foreclose on their ranch in a bid to protect the future of their family. However, it is not long before they raise the suspicions of Marcus (Jeff Bridges), an ageing Texas Ranger looking to go out in a blaze of glory. As the pair prepare for their final robbery, they brace themselves for a showdown.

Predictions: Directed by David Mackenzie, Hell or High Water is a crime thriller steeped in nostalgia and melancholia. Besides some excellent performances from Bridges and Pine, it's made all the more enjoyable with beautiful cinematography; stunning shots of big, empty skies and horizontal landscapes. Whilst Bridges is undeniably one of the greatest living actors in existence, the competition this year may sadly be too great to see him pick up, what would be, his second golden statue. Hell or High Water is certainly an underdog in this year's awards but I fear it may walk home empty handed - a shame given it was easily one of the greatest films of 2016. 

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Jackie (Pablo Larraín, 2016) - Nominations (3) - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (Natalie Portman), Best Achievement in Costume Design, Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Score.

Plot: In this intimate portrait of one of the most infamous events in American history, Jackie Kennedy (Natalie Portman) sits down with a journalist (Billy Crudup) to discuss the assassination of her husband, John F. Kennedy. Iconic for her extraordinary dignity and poise, Jackie presents a heart-wrenching psychological portrayal of the First Lady, as seen through her own eyes. Struggling to privately come to terms with her grief, she must also fight to maintain her husband's legacy in the build up to his funeral and following his death. 

Predictions: Regardless of how much you know about the Kennedy family or American history, you leave Jackie feeling as though you knew her. On paper, it is the ultimate in Academy recognised biopics; complete with an incredible performance from a fantastic cast, raw emotion and visually stunning cinematography and direction. It can often be tricky with biopics as we think we can predict the narrative. However, Jackie beautifully takes us on an untold portrait in this heart wrenching story of a wife and mother coming to terms with the death of her husband, regardless of who he was to the world. 

Natalie Portman delivers an outstanding performance as Jackie - truly worthy of an Oscar but, sadly, I think that this may go unrewarded given the hype of some other nominated actresses who (whilst also deserving) may steal the spotlight. Portman has obviously had previous nominations for a Leading Role and won in the past and so I can't help but feel that this sometimes gets taken in to consideration when picking a winner. 

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Nocturnal Animals (Tom Ford, 2016) - Nominations (1) - Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Michael Shannon).

Plot: Susan (Amy Adams) is a successful art-gallery owner living in Los Angeles who is disturbed by the arrival of a manuscript written by her first husband (Jake Gyllenhaal). Telling the brutal story of one family's nightmarish road trip and a father's quest for revenge, the manuscript forces Susan to confront some dark truths.

Predictions: With fashion designer Tom Ford as director, at the very least we had expected stunning visuals and at no point does Nocturnal Animals disappoint. It's been another glorious year for Adams who shines alongside a mesmerising Jake Gyllenhaal (where was his nomination?!) and the ever-talented and deserving nominee, Michael Shannon. Though this features some truly disturbing scenes, they are each executed with precision by Ford. Artfully composed, Nocturnal Animals oozes style - steeped in noir whilst maintaining a well-balanced narrative pace. Personally I feel that the Academy missed a trick by snubbing Gyllenhaal - not to mention Ford for his directorial and writing skills. Another which I believe will unfortunately go home empty handed but I'd love to be proved wrong. 

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Lion (Gareth Davis, 2016) - Nominations (6) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Dev Patel), Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role

(Nicole Kidman),  Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay, Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Score.

Plot: Based on true events, Saroo (Sunny Pawar) is a five year old boy who finds himself lost on a train having taken him thousands of miles across India. Having been separated from his brother and mother, Saroo is forced to survive homeless and alone in Kolkata before being adopted by a loving Australian couple. Twenty five years later, Saroo (now played by Dev Patel) is unable to shake the memories of his biological family and is consumed by thoughts that they may still be looking for him. Through sheer determination, the support of his adoptive mother (Nicole Kidman) and Google Earth, he sets out to find his lost family and finally return to his home in India.

Predictions: On paper, Lion has everything which qualifies an Academy nominated film. Whilst it is undeniably moving and features some fantastic performances from both Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman, I couldn't help but leave the theatre feeling rather underwhelmed. If the BAFTAs is anything to go by, I do believe Lion will receive some form of recognition at this year's award although it has some huge boots to fill alongside the other nominees.

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Hacksaw Ridge (Mel Gibson, 2016) - Nominations (6) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, Best Achievement in Directing (Mel Gibson), Best Achievement in Film Editing, Best Achievement in Sound Mixing, Best Achievement in Sound Editing.

Plot: Based on the true events of WWII, Hacksaw Ridge follows the story of Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield) who successfully saved 75 men during the bloody battle at Okinawa - without firing a single bullet. As an objector to the war, Doss served as a medic but refused to fire arms. As such, he was the only American soldier in WWII to fight on the front line without a single weapon. Despite the means to defend himself, the film follows his journey as he evacuates the wounded behind enemy lines and is rewarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Predictions: As fantastic as it is to see Mel Gibson return to the director's chair, there's something that just didn't sit right with me about Hacksaw Ridge. Whilst it tries it' is successful in the emotion and depth it's trying so hard to push, there is a consistent layer of overpowering cheese which is too thick to penetrate to reach a substantial narrative. As someone who is particularly fond of the war genre as a whole, this just didn't quite live up to the hype. Undeniably, however, we cannot fault the mise-en-scene and cinematography throughout the film - nor Garfield's commendable efforts as a leading man.

Hacksaw Ridge was naturally going to turn the heads of the Academy due to the patriotism and the ideals of the All-American hero but it is the prominent themes of humanism which are the most powerful. Personally, I do believe Hacksaw Ridge stands the best chance of picking up Best Sound Mixing and Sound Editing but may be another to go home empty handed.

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Moonlight (Barry Jenkins, 2016) - Nominations (8) - Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Mahershala Ali), Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Naomie Harris), Best Achievement in Directing (Barry Jenkins), Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Film Editing, Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Score), Best Adapted Screenplay.

Plot: Chiron (Alex Hibbert) is a shy and reserved young man forced to deal with relentless bullying at school and a dysfunctional home life with a drug addicted mother. Told via three defining chapters of his life (child, teen and adult), Chiron experiences a rollercoaster of joy, pain, and the beauty of falling in love - whilst also coming to terms with his own sexuality within a black, working class community.

Predictions: A coming age story of human self-discovery, Moonlight is an incredibly powerful and unique narrative - the first of it's kind to explore such a subject matter. In terms of direction and cinematography, it is near-on flawless. All actors involved deliver stunning and sometimes sobering performances which only add to the success of this outstanding piece of cinema. I truly hope to see Moonlight scope up several awards at this year's ceremony and my suspensions tell me it has the biggest chance for taking home Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Achievement in Cinematography and maybe even Best Director if they can steal it away from Damien Chazelle (fingers crossed).

Well, that's it for Part I of my Oscars 2017 rundown. Who are you excited to see pick up an award at this year's Academy Awards? Which of the films above were your favourite? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. Part II to follow very shortly! Don't forget that the Academy Awards take place this Sunday - I'll be watching and up all night so please do say "hi" on social media if you're watching too! 

Until next time film fans, 

Film Review: Gold (Stephen Gaghan, 2017) ★★★½

Film Review: Gold (Stephen Gaghan, 2017) ★★★½

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Kenny Wells (Matthew McConaughey) is a prospector down on his luck. Having teamed up with a similarly eager geologist (Edgar Ramírez), the pair travel to the uncharted jungle of Indonesia in search of gold. However, keeping hold of their winnings proves to be difficult when they find themselves battling the boardrooms of Wall Street.

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Having earned himself an Oscar for Dallas Buyer’s Club (Jean-Marc Vallée, 2013) and delved in to strong character pieces; McConaughey has hit a fair few home-runs in recent years. Gold sees him star in yet another biopic which, he claims, is his most favourite role to date. Directed by Stephen Gaghan, Gold presents McConaughey in one of his most extreme character transformations to date; complete with comb over, fake teeth and belly. Loosely inspired by the true events of David Walsh and the Bre-X scandal, the film follows a third generation prospector in the 1980s who dreams of finding gold in the jungles of Indonesia. Having staked his last dollar on tracking down Michael Acosta (Ramirez) and assembling a work force to dig, we follow the pair’s rollercoaster journey from rags to riches; to Wall Street and scandal. 

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On paper, Gold has all the foundations and the performances which should have encouraged awards attention yet somehow it falls short. Despite a perfectly reasonable narrative and structure, there are times when the story feels restricted. Whilst there are unexpected twists and turns, it is somewhat of a slow burner to reach them. As spectators, our commitment is invested instead towards McConaughey’s believable portrayal of Kenny - a mesmerising performance as an erratic “drunk racoon”. Although sometimes a dislikeable character, he is relatable and holds our attention. He is the glue which holds the film together. 

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Presented as a tale of the all American Dream, the Wall Street corporate bankers are the antagonists – stomping on Kenny’s aspirations. While Kenny seeks their acceptance and is reliant on the investment from Brian (Corey Stoll of House of Cards), behind his back they mock him. Kenny’s wife, Kay (Bryce Dallas Howard, is quick to pick up on this and is unable to cope with strain in the new world she and her husband have found themselves in. This ultimately presents the depth in this narrative alongside Kenny’s determination throughout his setbacks. Having imagined gold in his whiskey-soaked dreams, Kenny and Mike are the real heroes as they attempt to make their own mark on the world. Later on in the film, Kenny mentioned that he was never in it for the money – he just “loved the chase”. 

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As it to be one big middle finger to capitalism, Gold brings to mind such films as The Big Short (Adam McKay, 2015) in that it presents a story, based on actual events, with a message of corporate greed - whilst also making you laugh. Unfortunately, Gold is not quite worthy of any golden statues but it is certainly worth the watch and undoubtedly entertaining. McConaughey yet again shows his diversity and delivers a stellar performance alongside Bryce Dallas Howard, in this sometimes witty drama with soul.  Gold gets a Sophie star rating of 3.5 stars - please do see it if you get the chance. 

Gold is in cinemas from the 3rd February 2017 - will you be giving it a watch? What do you make of it? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones below. Big thanks to The Weinstein Company for allowing me to see this great film ahead of release. 

Until next time movie lovers,

Film Review: Top 20 Films 2016 (10 - 1)

Film Review: Top 20 Films 2016 (10 - 1)

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When I started putting my Top 20 Films of 2016 together, I was convinced that this year had been a tough one for cinema. However, as I enter in to my final 10, I realised that maybe it had some real gems afterall - even if it took some digging. After some thought, here's the final countdown of my Top Films of 2016 from 10 to 1*.  

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10. Free State of Jones (Gary Ross, 2016) - Based on true events in Mississippi 1862, a farmer and medic for the Confederate Army, Newton Knight (Matthew McConaughey), flees his position - branding him an enemy of the State. Opposed to racism, slavery and having witnessed the horrors of war, Newt returns home to Jones County - leading an almighty rebellion of slaves and the working class which will go down in history.

Equipped with all the tools for Oscar recognition, Free State of Jones is an incredibly moving, all-guns-blazing portrayal of a man who brought down the State. McConaughey delivers another stellar performance in this hugely political statement on America’s violent past, with whom the values stand just as strong today.

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9. A United Kingdom (Amma Asante, 2016) - A true-life romance in which Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike), an English office clerk, falls in love with an African gentleman (David Oyelowo) at a time of civil rights hostility in 1940's Britain. Unaware that he is Prince Seretse Khama of Botswana, the couple shocks the world when they marry and start a family but upon return to Seretse's country, their relationship faces even greater prejudice.

Amma Asante shows again her talents to seamlessly blend a personal narrative with a hugely political one. Much like with Belle (Asante, 2013), she is able to take a cinematic platform, shoot it beautifully and still showcase it as a film with real purpose. To be expected, Oyelowo (perhaps best known for his role as Martin Luther King. Jr in Selma, 2014) and Pike deliver stunning performances which adds only to this already powerful story. A United Kingdom will leave you with goosebumps.

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8. The Hateful Eight (Quentin Tarantino, 2015) - In the dead of a Wyoming winter, a bounty hunter, John "The Hangman" Ruth (Kurt Russell) and his prisoner, Daisy (Jennifer Jason Leigh) find shelter from a blizzard. The cabin is inhabited by a collection of nefarious characters including a fellow bounty hunter (Samuel L. Jackson) and a man who claims to be a sheriff. Greeted by four other strangers, and with a high bounty on Daisy's head, the eight travellers soon learn that they may not make it to their destination alive.

Having had the chance to see this projected in 70mm, it's safe to say that The Hateful Eight is one of the most visually stunning of 2016 and Tarantino films to date. Whilst a western is far different from any genre he's explored previously, The Hateful Eight is pure Tarantino - through and through. Jam-packed with an all star cast (some familiar and some new), it makes for an all guns-blazing, thrilling addition to Tarantino's budding CV. 

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7. Room (Lenny Abrahamson, 2015) - Five year old Jack (Jacob Tremblay), knows life only inside the four walls of Room - a squalid shed he shares with his mother, Joy (Brie Larson). Unaware they are captive, when the pair are suddenly freed, he is forced to discover a strange new world outside of the one he has become accustom while Joy struggles to adjust to her old life.

Frank (2013) director, Lenny Abrahamson, returns with yet another skilful masterpiece but with a far darker narrative. Whilst it is ultimately a fantastic film, it's not one you might wish to watch again and again. Told through the eyes of a child who is the result of his mother's rape, at times Room can be both heartbreaking and up-lifting through Jack's ability to find joy in the smallest of things. Of all the nominees for Best Actress at the Oscars this year, Brie Larson was by far the most deserving to win. Along side an incredibly talented young Tremblay, she shines and displays such diversity in her abilities. With a fantastic cast and wonderfully adapted screenplay, Room is as harrowing as it is beautiful and well deserving of a spot on the Top 10 films of 2016.  

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6. Moana (John Musker, Ron Clements, 2016) - A Disney adventure following the story of Moana Waialiki (Auli’i Cravalho) - the teenage daughter of a chief on the small Polynesian island of Motunui. With the island's resources running out, Moana embarks on a seemingly impossible mission across the sea to find demigod, Maui (Dwayne Johnson), and return the heart to the goddess Te Fiti. In doing so, she proves herself a master wayfinder and fulfils the unfinished quest of her ancestors. 

Moana is a rare and much needed celebration of Polynesian culture and there are so many factors which make it groundbreaking. Firstly, Moana is not a Disney princess - she is a daughter of a chief and, as such, is expected to lead her people. She does not have a love interest, nor does she need a male role to save her - she is entirely her own person. If you want to dig a little further, you may also find some very interesting feminist theories surrounding the role of the goddess Te Fiti. Throw in some incredibly catchy songs written by Broadway legend Lin Manuel Miranda; stunning visuals, a talented cast of Polynesian/Hawaiian actors, excellent writers (including Taika Waititi) - you've got yourself one incredible Disney classic and a stand out film of 2016. Watch out for those Disney easter eggs while you're at it. 

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5. Hell or High Water (David Mackenzie, 2016) - Toby (Chris Pine), a struggling single father, and his ex-convict brother, Tanner (Ben Foster), plan a series of heists against the bank that's about to foreclose on their ranch in a bid to protect the future of their family. However, it is not long before they raise the suspicions of Marcus (Jeff Bridges), an ageing Texas Ranger looking to go out in a blaze of glory. As the pair prepare for their final robbery, they brace themselves for a showdown.

This is not your average bank robbers and cowboy movie. Directed by David Mackenzie, Hell or High Water is a crime thriller steeped in nostalgia and melancholia. Besides some excellent performances from Bridges and Pine, it's made all the more enjoyable with beautiful cinematography; stunning shots of big, empty skies and horizontal landscapes. Bound to be picked up at the 2017 Oscars, Hell or High Water is a must-see film of the year. 

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4. Nocturnal Animals (Tom Ford, 2016) Susan (Amy Adams) is a successful art-gallery owner living in Los Angeles who is disturbed by the arrival of a manuscript written by her first husband (Jake Gyllenhaal). Telling the brutal story of one family's nightmarish road trip and a father's quest for revenge, the manuscript forces Susan to confront some dark truths.

With fashion designer Tom Ford as director, at the very least we expect stunning visuals and at no point does Nocturnal Animals disappoint. It's been another glorious year for Adams who shines alongside a mesmerising Jake Gyllenhaal and the ever-talented, Michael Shannon. Though this features some truly disturbing scenes, they are each executed with precision by Ford. Artfully composed, Nocturnal Animals oozes style - steeped in noir whilst maintaining a well-balanced narrative pace. I'll be surprised if this isn't picked up by the Academy in 2017, even if it's just for cinematography but Nocturnal Animals is not one to be missed. 

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3. The Revenant (Alejandro González Iñárritu, 2015) - In 1823, legendary fur trapper, Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), aids an expedition in the uncharted American wilderness. Having  survived a vicious bear attack, Glass is abandoned by his hunting team and believed dead. Broken but fuelled by vengeance, he treks through the wintry, harsh terrain trailing John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy), the former confidant who betrayed him.

It's hardly surprising that this film was rewarded twelve Oscar nominations. Considered primarily as an art-house film for the masses, shot by shot The Revenant is beautiful whilst the cast are what makes it truly believable and hard-hitting. Criticised for being style over substance, I do not believe that a narrative has to be overly complicated in order to be a good one. True, it is a story of a man looking for redemption whilst battling the terrain, but it's the journey which makes it truly spectacular. Though not entirely without its flaws (being nearly 3 hours long it did feel it could lose perhaps lose fifteen minutes or so from the running time), it had to be on the Top end of my list. Read my full film review here. 

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2. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (Gareth Edwards, 2016) - Led by ex-convict, Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones), a group of rebels band together to plot and execute a dangerous mission which involves stealing the plans for the Empire's weapon known as a Death Star in a bid to save countless lives.

It had to be on there, didn't it? If you prepared yourself for an imitation of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, you will be sadly disappointed. Rogue One is a prequel to A New Hope (George Lucas, 1977) and in true styling of the 70's classic, it is a far darker narrative but with that added Star Wars charm. Arguably, Rogue One's actual story and character development is brushed over in comparison to Force Awakens. Instead, a great deal of he backstory runs on assumed knowledge from the spectator although that is not to say you have to be a Star Wars face to enjoy it. But it does make the Easter eggs all the sweeter if you do. Felicity Jones delivers an acceptable performance but it is the fantastic story and stunning visuals which make this truly fantastic - including the striking resurrection of actor legend, Peter Cushing. Focussing far more heavily on action scenes, is arguably the ultimate Star Wars fan film and a triumphant standalone.

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1. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (Taika Waititi, 2016) - Having moved out of the city, a young reprobate by the name of Ricky Baker (Julian Dennison) and his reluctant foster father, Hec (Sam Neill), finds themselves at the centre of a ruthless manhunt after they get stranded in the New Zealand wilderness. 

Did you guess it? Hunt for the Wilderpeople stood out to me as a truly remarkable film of 2016. Whilst it was primarily sold as a comedy, there is also a great deal of heart and depth to this refreshing narrative. Based on the book by Barry Crump, the film's tone of voice differs greatly from any of Waititi's previous works but there are constant reminders of his auteurism. We see the return of many familiar faces including Rhys Darby and, of course, the man himself as a church minister (in possibly one of the most amusing scenes in the entire film). With a stunning cast, excellent script and cinematography, it's no surprise to me that Hunt for the Wilderpeople is the most successful film to come out of New Zealand to date. It is officially my number 1 film of 2016 - another genuinely enjoyable, stunning triumph for indie director, Taika Waititi. Read my full review of Hunt for the Wilderpeople here. 

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That's it for my Top 20 Films of 2016 - where did the year go? So with another year of film having passed us by, tell me - what were your favourite films of the year? Do you agree with my list? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. Didn't see the first part of my Top 20? Click to view 20-11 here. 

Until next time movie-goers, a very Happy New Year to you all, 

*This list is based on films released in the UK from January 1st to December 31st.