As we reach the end of 2023, its time to reflect on the most memorable movies that made history this year. We have selected movies from every genre, including epic, historical, comedy, and drama, and of course, we cannot forget the action-packed superhero Marvel and DC movies.
Since the introduction of streaming services, we have have more options than ever, catering to all types of movie lover.
So, buckle up as we journey through the most impactful movies of 2023 that etched their names in cinematic history.
Epic Blockbusters
The epic blockbusters of 2023 challenged our thinking and how we viewed ourselves with movies like Barbie. It brought history to life with movies like Oppenheimer and Napoleon. And, we saw stars like Brendan Fraser return to the big screen with The Whale.
Movie enthusiasts gauge the success of epic blockbusters on their storyline, actor performances, costume design and special effects. Once in a while, we have a movie like Disney’s Wish that tugs at our heartstrings.
2023 movies and the stars are on fire as is!
2023 Movies That Made Cinematic History
The movie industry was on fire in 2023, just like the popular slot Fire Joker, producing the following films that challenged our thinking, made us question societal norms, and touched our hearts.
Oppenheimer
The movie year began with the blockbuster Oppenheimer, which to date has won a total of 87 movie awards and 163 nominations worldwide. It tells the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life, the man known as the “father of the atomic bomb”. Cillian Murphy delivers an outstanding performance as Oppenheimer, carefully portraying the flaws of the famous physicist. Emily Blunt plays his wife, Katherine.
Just 10 weeks after its release Oppenheimer had earned almost $1 billion at the boxoffice.
Napoleon
As seen through the eyes of famed director Ridley Scott, Napoleon tells the story of Napoleon Bonaparte. Following his masterful performance as the Joker, Joaquin Phoenix is once again at his best as Napoleon. The movie portrays Napoleon’s rise to power and his relationship with Empress Josephine, played by Vanessa Kirby. In true Ridley Scott fashion, you will find stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and a gripping storyline.
Maestro
2023 is the year for biographical movies with Maestro, depicting the life of musician Leonard Bernstein. The movie has Martin Scorsese, Stephen Speilberg and Bradley Copper as directors and Bradley Cooper in the starring role. Cooper is also responsible for co-writing the script with Josh Singer.
Maestro is due for release on Netflix on the 20th of December. The National Board of Review and National Film Institute are already naming it as one of the hit movies of 2023.
Are You There, God? It’s me, Margaret.
When Judy Blume published her coming-of-age novel Are You There, God? It’s me, Margeret; in the 1970s, it received rave reviews. Now it has reached the silver screen. The story revolves around a young girl, Margaret, played by Abby Ryder Fortson, who moves to a new home with her family. She records her adventures as a teenager and coping with a new school, puberty and adolescence. She converses with God in her diary, beginning each new entry with, Are you there, God? It’s me, Margaret.
The movie stars Rachel McAdams as Margaret’s mother. Kathy Bates once again gives us a stellar performance as Margaret’s grandmother.
Barbie Movie
Greta Gerwig produced this live-action movie with Robbie Brenner and David Heyman. Starring Margot Robbie as the lovable Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie’s friend, Ken, it covers Barbie’s soul-searching journey.
Barbie leaves us with a profound message about women’s empowerment, but doesn’t ignore male struggles.
Barbie has grossed almost $1.4 billion at the Box office.
Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves
Dungeons and Dragons, the movie, is as exciting as the game. You will find yourself on a roller coaster adventure featuring fantasy and magic, fighting alongside the main characters as they battle against time to find lost treasure.
The movie appeals to fans of D and D as well as anyone who enjoys action and fantasy movies. It has grossed over $200 million at the box office.
Everything, Everywhere, All at Once
You would be wrong if you thought multiverses existed only in Marvel movies. You can explore the multiverse in Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan‘s epic dramedy movie, starring Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, and Jamie Lee Curtis in lead roles.
The movie was a hit at the Oscars in March 2023, with an impressive seven wins, including Best Actress (Michelle Yeoh), Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis), Best Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan), and Best Film Editing.
Wonka
Before you think of yet another movie based on Roald Dahl’s classic book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, take time to read. The movie is from the viewpoint of Willy Wonka and covers the beginning of the young man’s journey as a master chocolatier.
It stars Timothée Chalamet as Willy Wonka, Keegan-Michael Key as the Chief-of-Police, Paterson Joseph as Arthur Slugworth, Matt Lucas as Prodnose, Mathew Baynton as Ficklegruber, Jim Carter as Abacus Crunch, Tom Davis as Bleacher.
Since its release less than two weeks ago, the movie has already earned $150 million worldwide.
Animated Movies of 2023
It wouldn’t be a good or true movie list in 2030 without a selection of animated movies that made history this year. Animated movies are not only for kids; whether it is their stop motion animation, incredible soundtrack or dialogue, they appeal to people of all ages.
Disney’s Wish, which was a standout this year, tells the story of a young lady, Asha, who wishes upon a star. In typical Disney style, the movie is complete with songs, magic and fantasy. It plays on your emotions, making you realise it is possible for wishes to come true.
In Guillermo Del Torros’ Pinocchio is another top pick. In this depiction. Del Torro adds a different spin to the classic story, which is told using stop-motion animation.
2023 Movies: The Year That Was
We’ve seen many movies based on historical figures this year like Napoleon and Oppenheimer, and we’ve also seen movies that challenge who we are like Barbie. 2023 definitely has some memorable movies.
As the year ends, prepare your popcorn, sit down and enjoy our selection of the best movies of 2023.
