Top movies of 2020

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.

Image of movie poster for Misbehaviour

Misbehaviour (2020)

Categories: Drama, based on true events

Not rated

Rent Prime

Why I love this movie

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.

Image of movie poster for Uncle Frank

Uncle Frank (2020)

Categories: Feel good, drama

R

Free on Prime

Why I love this movie

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.

Image of movie poster for I'm Your Woman

I’m Your Woman (2020)

Categories: Crime

R

Free on Prime

Why I love this movie

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.

Image of movie poster for The Nest

The Nest (2020)

Categories: Drama

PG-13

Rent Prime

Why I love this movie

The Nest is a melancholy drama about a family relocating to England in pursuit of the father, Jude Law’s, dreams of wealth and status. The cracks in their foundation are revealed as the transition into a new life goes off the rails.

Image of movie poster for King of Staten Island

The King of Staten Island (2020)

Categories: Dark comedy

R

HBO Max

Why I love this movie

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.

Image of movie poster for Soul

Soul (2020)

Categories: Drama

PG

Disney +

Why I love this movie

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.

Image of movie poster for Happiest Season

Happiest season (2020)

Categories: Dark comedy

PG-13

Hulu

Why I love this movie

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.