Ratings are the least relevant detail when making my list. Instead, I rely on several other criteria when my heart can’t decide between a few movies: replay value, overall enjoyment, memorability… The answer to "how much do I want to watch this film again?" is, most of the time, the deciding factor when I can't find any other aspect to help me make a final decision. So, don't be surprised if you see a higher-rated movie below a lower-rated one. It's MY list, after all. MY personal preferences concerning genre, entertainment, and quality. My #1 film doesn't necessarily need to be the absolute best movie of the year. It can simply be special to me, and that reason alone is enough to warrant a higher spot on my list than other admittedly "better films."

First, I'll share some honorable mentions (films that almost made it), and then, I'll give my Top15. Every movie contains an available review in the clickable image. Enjoy and remember: I love every single film I address here. A movie being a spot higher than others doesn't mean it's better. Also worth remembering is that despite watching hundreds of films, it’s nearly impossible to literally watch everything, which means I might have missed some gems or even highly-anticipated movies that haven’t come out yet where I live (Past Lives or Anatomy of a Fall, for example).

(clickable links on each image for its respective spoiler-free review)

Honorable Mentions

15. The Super Mario Bros. Movie

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The Super Mario Bros. Movie delivers everything I wanted. Packed with fantastic references that will warm the hearts of those who lived and still live with Nintendo and Mario up close. Along with energetic action, dazzling animation and world-building, and iconic music – Brian Tyler's score goes straight into my Spotify playlist. Mario and Co. marked my childhood, and, still today, continue to offer me wonderful memories for life. As a viewer clearly belonging to the target audience, I couldn't have left the cinema more joyful. Ya-hoo!

14. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is an emotionally powerful, tear-inducing "farewell" to James Gunn and his Guardians characters. Rocket's bittersweet storyline is the soul, heart, and engine running the best MCU film since Spider-Man: No Way Home. It's visually stunning with exceptional VFX work. The score and soundtrack couldn't be more perfectly matched. Superb performances from the compelling protagonists and even the fun cameos. A better comedy-drama balance than its predecessor, while still offering tons of entertaining sequences. A few minor issues hold it back from standing out as "one of the greats", but it was hard to deliver a more satisfying conclusion to this much-beloved trilogy. And also – a final warning to all animal lovers who may find the cruelty displayed on the screen too much for them to enjoy the movie.

13. Society of the Snow

Society of the Snow unquestionably solidifies J. A. Bayona’s status as an absurdly underrated filmmaker. One of the most unbelievable, harrowing survival stories ever brought to life by a truly remarkable ensemble cast, breathtaking cinematography that captures the awe-inspiring yet treacherous landscapes, a deeply stirring score that tugs at the heartstrings, and a plane crash sequence like you’ve never seen before. The convergence of these elements transforms an admittedly predictable survival piece into a visceral, emotionally resonant experience, urging audiences to reflect on the thoughtfully handled themes of human resilience, beliefs, and perseverance. A must-watch, especially on the big screen if possible.

12. Knock at the Cabin

Knock at the Cabin marks the triumphant comeback of M. Night Shyamalan, who possibly delivers his best movie since Signs in 2002. With the help of a superb cast led by the phenomenal Dave Bautista – with a career-best performance – the filmmaker explores the emotional complexity found in the profound moral dilemmas placed upon human beings when faced with life-and-death decisions. With a focus on a single location with persistent cinematography and immersive sound design, generating an atmosphere charged with excruciating tension. Extraordinarily gripping from start to finish. The next cult classic is born.

11. Maestro

Maestro exceeds expectations, certifying Bradley Cooper as a filmmaker with innate talent, just like Leonard Bernstein, who the former portrays brilliantly. An inspirational biopic focused on an exponentially compelling romance elevated by emotionally genuine performances filled with intensely, passionately authentic interactions. Carey Mulligan joins the actor/director in the race for awards with a remarkable, spectacular display that will bring tears to even less sensitive viewers. Technically sublime, the conductor’s music induces many chills in the audience through a story about love, family, artistic passion, and all the obstacles and dilemmas that arise from them.

10. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the epitome of incredibly detailed, gorgeously unique, undeniably epic animation within its medium. Separately from enjoying this movie or not, any or all cinephiles should bow to the ridiculously talented artists and animators behind this pure work of art. The various animation styles are overwhelmingly stunning. Gwen Stacy stands out from the rest of the pack – both the character and Hailee Steinfeld's voice performance – but everyone on screen is impressively captivating. The voice cast is superb all-around. An unfinished story – remember, this is the first of two parts – about what it really means to be a hero. A must-see movie in the cinema! Go support animation.

9. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret

Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret stands out as a triumph in the coming-of-age subgenre. Its refusal to shy away from sensitive subject matters, coupled with brilliant performances from the lead cast, and a meticulously crafted script, results in a story that not only entertains with astute humor but also resonates on a deeply personal level. It's a testament to talented filmmaker Kelly Fremon Craig's commitment to authenticity and storytelling that transcends the boundaries of age and gender. A poignant, relatable portrayal of the complexities of adolescence, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

8. Elemental

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Elemental may be straightforward and predictable, but it's so thematically rich and features such emotionally relatable characters that, by the end, I found myself fighting back tears. It features a visually stunning inter-element love story mixed with a beautiful journey of self-discovery. The outstanding world-building is once again a highlight, as are the numerous exceptionally enlightening visual details about the interaction between the different elements. Emigration, discrimination, and family ideals are some of the many essential topics addressed. I don't understand the criticism surrounding the alleged "fall of Pixar" and this latest movie. I will continue to enjoy these stories, and I highly recommend that viewers try to do the same, without worrying about incessantly comparing to what came before.

7. Godzilla Minus One

Godzilla Minus One strikes an outstanding balance between compelling character building, a thematically rich narrative, and two hours of gargantuan entertainment, ultimately becoming a noteworthy addition to the monster film subgenre. It breaks the formulaic barriers of generic creature flicks by delivering a layered story that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the aftermath of war. The memorable score, powerful sound design, and exquisite visuals contribute to a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. While the lead acting occasionally falters into melodrama, it does little to diminish the overall impact of a movie that has undoubtedly earned its place among the top-tier entries in the Godzilla franchise.

6. Barbie

**© 2023 WARNER BROS. ENT. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.**

Barbie is hilariously meta, containing spectacularly funny musical numbers, and an efficient tonal balance between over-the-top comedy and rich, thought-provoking social commentary. Inevitable awards are on the way for the brightly colored production design, costumes, and makeup. Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach's narrative unapologetically tackles quite serious topics, from sociopolitical matters like patriarchy and sexual harassment to questions about existential crises, personal identity, self-love, and, of course, the roles of women & men in today's society. Margot Robbie was destined to play Barbie just as Ryan Gosling was born with Kenergy in his veins. They're both absolutely fantastic. It's a must-see in a packed theater.

5. The Zone of Interest

The Zone of Interest is one of the most memorable, remarkable films of the last few years. Jonathan Glazer achieves a fascinating dissociation between the general tone of the movie and the mundane actions of the protagonist family, portraying the unbelievably shocking global apathy in the face of the greatest crime in human history. An extremely complicated viewing, excruciatingly frustrating, full of negative emotions, and not very accessible to the general public. The atmospheric, static cinematography, together with the powerful score and especially the background sounds that will haunt any viewer, justify the use of the term “masterpiece” to technically describe the film. But more important than discussing technicalities and the explored themes, is learning from the mistakes of the past that sadly insist on persevering…

4. Killers of the Flower Moon

Killers of the Flower Moon is a remarkable cinematic feat by the master Martin Scorsese, with exceptional contributions from Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, as well as a striking, breakthrough performance by Lily Gladstone. It unveils a harrowing narrative that prompts deep, poignant reflection on the past and present. Technically, all departments shine, but Thelma Schoonmaker’s editing is simply flawless. The commitment to authenticity and the use of the Osage language are commendable additional traits. The final sequence is one of the most powerful conclusions in recent years, a memorable, thought-provoking commentary on the desensitization of modern entertainment. A must-watch!

3. Oppenheimer

Oppenheimer is a true masterclass in how to build extreme tension & suspense through fast, detailed dialogue, an insanely powerful sound production, and an equally explosive score from Ludwig Göransson. Words cannot fully describe Hoyte van Hoytema's gorgeous cinematography. It's a harrowing, disturbing, genuinely frightening story about how one man's compulsion and political power changed the world. Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., and Emily Blunt shouldn't miss any awards ceremonies… they're absolutely superb, as are the rest of the exceptional actors involved in the movie. Pacing, structure, and runtime, in addition to its quasi-documentary style and its narrative complexity, make this a difficult, heavy watch that will, for sure, leave some viewers disappointed, bored, or simply tired. Ultimately, Oppenheimer justifies the use of the expression "not for everyone".

2. The Holdovers

The Holdovers left me in complete disbelief at how complete, thought-provoking, hilarious, and emotionally powerful it becomes with each extraordinarily captivating minute that passes by. A shockingly faultless screenplay from David Hemingson exponentially attacks the viewers’ hearts through a truly profound yet bittersweet study of the vital need for human connection. Protagonists are brilliantly written as real people and superbly portrayed by an award-worthy cast. Add an immaculate tonal balance and outstanding execution by Alexander Payne, and a new Christmas classic is born.

1. Poor Things

**© 2023 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED**

Not only was Poor Things the best movie of the Venice Film Festival, but it also ended up being the best of the year, as well as a new personal favorite of Yorgos Lanthimos’ career. A brilliantly thought-provoking, insanely hilarious story packed with substance, focused on a fascinating self-discovery journey filled with thematically rich layers. Astonishing performances from the entire cast, but Emma Stone is truly impressive as an exceptionally expressive force who should win many awards. A technical masterclass across all filmmaking areas simply puts the icing on top of a near-perfect cake.

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