Top Ten Films of 2015

As 2016 draws to a close, I thought it would be cool to do a bit of reflection. Since I’m in catch up mode, here are my top ten films of 2015.

10) Paddington

UK Release: 28th November 2014

Ok, I’m cheating here because Paddington was released in late 2014 but I watched it in 2015.  It was a hard decision as it was a toss up between this and Shaun the Sheep.  But this sweet little film about love, family, immigration and opening our hearts to kindness had such an impact that I was willing to bend the rules.  Just an amazing film all round and worthy of a place in my top ten.

9) Inside Out

UK Release: 24th July 2015

Gorgeous animation and an imaginative story about getting in touch with your emotions, Inside Out is one of Pixar’s best.

Review

8) The Martian

UK Release: 30th September 2015

If you’ve read the book, you will undoubtedly know that it was better than the film.  No doubt about it.  However, as a film, this is Ridley Scott back on top form.  I wished more of the book was incorporated into the film but overall, Ridley and star performer Matt Damon captured the harrowing essence on being trapped on Mars.

7) Amy

UK Release: 3rd July 2015

This documentary is not for the faint hearted.  A powerful and unflinching account about the life of Amy Winehouse, in her own words and by those who knew her.

Review

6) Star Wars: The Force Awakens

UK Release: 17th December 2015

A welcome return of a beloved sci-fi classic.  Star Wars: The Force Awakens is filled with nostalgia and enough mystery to advance the story.  In Daisy Ridley and John Boyega, you can safely say the franchise is in safe hands.

Review

5) Beasts of No Nation

UK Release: 16th October 2015

A Netflix film that should have been recognised more during the awards season, Beasts of No Nation is a brilliant and psychologically accurate about a child becoming a soldier in an unnamed African country.  Idris Elba is outstanding but Abraham Attah is the real star.  One of the best child performances you will see on screen.

4) Ex Machina

UK Release: 21st January 2015

Not only the best sci-fi film of 2015 but also one of the best sci-fi films of all time.  Blurring the ethical and moral lines of artificial intelligence, Ex Machina is a film deserved to be watched again and again.

Review

3) Sicario

UK Release: 8th October 2015

Tense, gripping, edge of your seat drama, Sicario deserves to be in my top ten.

Review

2) Mad Max: Fury Road

UK Release: 14th May 2015

This film was a total surprise.  Mixing emotional depth with high octane action, Mad Max: Fury Road captured the old school feeling of how Hollywood use to do action films.  Thrilling and exciting, Mad Max: Fury Road deserves to be on the list…all shiny and chrome.  WITNESS!

Review

1) Whiplash

UK Release: 16th January 2015

A master and student relationship pushed to the ultimate extremes.  It is the examination of art, dedication and sacrifice for your passion, all told from the perspective of Jazz drumming.  Whiplash is a film worthy of the number one spot.

Review

Honourable Mentions

• Kingsman: The Secret Service
• Birdman: Or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance
• Shaun the Sheep Movie
• Selma
• Straight Outta Compton
• Steve Jobs: Man in the Machine