It goes without saying that 2020 was a year for the records. With movie theaters shut down for the most part there were fewer films released. Despite all of that, this list of movies fufilled the need of an escape this year.
Categories: Drama, based on true events
Rent Prime
This is the true story of the events that took place in London 1970 during the Miss World pageant. The feminist movement and the controversy in South Africa surrounding the par tide created a spotlight on the pageant.
Categories: Feel good, drama
Free on Prime
This film takes place in the 1970’s, centering around a gay literary professor at New York University. His two worlds collide when his niece becomes a student and learns about her uncle’s personal life while experiencing the culture shock of moving from a small Southern town to New York city. I laughed out loud and cried several times, the mark of a great film in my books.
Categories: Crime
Free on Prime
I’m Your Woman is an excellent crime film about a naïve wife of a mobster, who must flee her home with no notice when her husband gets in trouble with his partners. She takes matters into her own hand and battles with who to trust in this thrilling performance from Rachel Brosnahan.
Categories: Dark comedy
HBO Max
Pete Davidson’s semi-autographical story of the struggles of mental health and grief are told in this dark comedy. While at times the movie reminded me of a silly Adam Sandler film, the serious themes made it a compelling watch. The performances and casting bring light to the darker realities Davidson explores.
Categories: Drama
Disney +
Soul might be Disney/Pixar’s most adult centered movie. There is not a lot in it that kids will understand. Similar to Inside Out, but taking the abstract themes even further, it explores what our purpose of life on earth. Funny and sweet, this film is perhaps not what we were expecting but what we needed this year.
Categories: Dark comedy
Hulu
I love this fresh take on the old tale of returning home for the holidays to a dysfunctional family. Kristen Stewart plays Mackenzie Davis’ girlfriend traveling home with her for the first time, only to realize Mackenzie has not informed her family that she is a lesbian or that Kristen is girl friend. It might seem slightly silly but there are some sweet themes beautiful holiday scenery.