Film critics have been concerned in recent years that the industry was dying, thanks to the market being inundated with sequels and superhero movie after superhero movie. However, it seems they have overlooked some absolutely ground-breaking films that have not only been hugely entertaining but also surprisingly astute. And so, today we are going to be celebrating the achievements of modern cinema by looking at some of the best movies that have been released in the past five years. Keep reading to see if any of your favourites made our list.
Get Out
Get Out (2017) was the directorial debut of Jordan Peele, who was better known for his comedic work on television before writing this horror/comedy that serves as a sharp social commentary on the segregation of African Americans. Peele has since been named one of the best storytellers of our generation. Get Out was acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, generating more than $255 million against its $4.5 million budget.
Uncut Gems
Uncut Gems (2019) was also met with critical acclaim. Unfortunately, it was snubbed at the Oscars last year, much to the outrage of film fanatics across the globe. This gritty and grimy crime-thriller stars Adam Sandler, venturing outside of his slapstick typecast to portray a Jewish-American jeweller who loves to gamble (similar to what you can do on this site). The role is considered a career highlight for Sandler. He makes Uncut Gems the anxiety-inducing, high-stakes rollercoaster that it is.
Inside Out
Moving on to something lighter, we have Inside Out (2015) – the smash-hit from Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures. This children’s film peers into the mind of an eleven-year-old girl, uncovering her complex thoughts and feelings. It has become essential viewing for adults and kids alike, teaching them the importance of staying in touch with one’s emotions. Inside Out was showered with accolades upon its release, with praise aimed at its concept, subject matter and heart-felt screenplay.
Parasite
We can’t discuss the best movies of the past five years without mentioning Parasite (2019). Directed and co-written by Bong Joon-ho – who has a decorated history in the film-making industry – this black comedy thriller is one of a kind. Not only does it contain one of the best plot twists of the decade, but also its commentary on social inequality and class conflict is staggeringly powerful. Being so richly conceived, you can watch Parasite several times over and still not pick up on all the small details.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Though we have seen this comic-book hero rendered hundreds of times before, nobody has ever done it like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018). Winning the Academy Award for the best-animated feature, this innovative flick uses several different animation styles to tell a multi-layered story. The movie acknowledges that we have seen this all before and spins something entirely new using its meta-commentary.
These are our top picks for the best films that have been released over the past five years.
