10 most important films of 2023 and why they worked

Cinematic triumphs of 2023: 10 most impactful films of the year

The year 2023 saw the resurgence of the cinematic experience, marking a triumphant return to theaters as the pandemic's long shadow began to recede. As a diverse array of films, ranging from unexpected hits to anticipated blockbusters, captivated audiences and reinvigorated the film industry, 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' emerged as unlikely marvels. Here are some of the most important theatrical releases of 2023 - and why they were successful.

1. 'Barbie'

In a Hollywood landscape ripe for a quick-buck backstory on a Mattel doll, director Greta Gerwig defied expectations with 'Barbie'. Far from a conventional take, Gerwig transformed the narrative into a hot-pink fantasia of feminist art, challenging norms and leaving audiences with more than just laughter. Margot Robbie takes on the role of a doubt-plagued Barbie, injecting depth and complexity into a character often dismissed as superficial. Gerwig's storytelling elevates the iconic doll into a symbol of resilience and self-discovery.

2. ‘The Super Mario Bros Movie’

'The Super Mario Bros Movie' achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Hollywood film of the year to surpass $1 billion in global box office revenue. The animated feature, centered around the beloved Nintendo video game character, captivated audiences worldwide and solidified Universal's position in the animation landscape. Even Disney's CEO Bob Iger acknowledged Universal's achievement, praising the rival studio during the fiscal second-quarter earnings call in May.

3. 'Oppenheimer'

One of the most acclaimed films of the year, Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer', starring Cillian Murphy in the titular role, was a brutal take on J Robert Oppenheimer's conflicting journey to becoming 'The Father of the Atomic Bomb.' With brilliant storytelling, complex characterization and exceptional making, the movie presents the horrors of nuclear annihilation through the lens of a biography based on the development of the atomic bomb and the 1945 bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

4. 'The Eras Tour' movie

Taylor Swift extended her influence to the realm of cinema with the debut of her filmed Eras Tour concert in October. The pop star's cinematic venture proved to be a resounding success, redefining the theatrical landscape. Swift's filmed Eras Tour concert, spanning nearly three hours, shattered records for a theatrical concert release. It also achieved the distinction of being the second-highest film opening in the month of October. The event drew millions to theaters, providing a significant boost at a time when the actors' strike led to the postponement of several potential blockbusters. The film raked in nearly $180 million domestically and close to $250 million worldwide.

5. 'May December'

Todd Haynes' enigmatic creation, classified as a comedy, manages to evoke tears with its heart-crushing narrative. Charles Melton delivers a poignant performance as a stunted manchild, haunted by his unconventional past, opposite the thorny Julianne Moore. Natalie Portman adds to the complexity as a manipulative actress preparing to bring this skewed love story to the screen, providing a thrilling and emotionally charged experience.

6. 'The Holdovers'

Alexander Payne's latest film, already hailed as a new holiday classic, goes beyond the superficial warmth often associated with festive films. Paul Giamatti shines as a Grinchy teacher forced to spend Christmas break on campus, babysitting a student played by Dominic Sessa. Da'Vine Joy Randolph, an Oscar frontrunner, brings depth to her role as the school cook, transforming cliches into hard-hitting truths and elevating the film's emotional resonance.

7. 'Maestro'

In the role of star, director, and co-writer, Bradley Cooper reaches new heights in 'Maestro', a raw and romantic exploration of conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein's life. Cooper's heart-full-to-bursting portrayal has earned him accolades, capturing the essence of a maestro whose passions transcend musical boundaries and conventional norms. Carey Mulligan, portraying Bernstein's wife, stands as his emotional equal, adding depth to the film that immerses the audience in the exhilarating act of a genius inventing himself.

8. 'The Zone of Interest'

'Under the Skin' director Jonathan Glazer takes a bold approach in 'The Zone of Interest' by choosing not to depict the horrors of the Holocaust directly. Instead, the film focuses on commandant Rudolf Hoss and his family, portraying their mundane lives next to the atrocities of Auschwitz. This daring narrative, echoing contemporary antisemitism, serves as a compelling and unforgettable warning, highlighting the power of subtlety and implication in storytelling.

9. 'Poor Things'

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, 'Poor Things' features Emma Stone's unapologetically fearless performance. Stone portrays a pregnant and despairing wife who undergoes a transformative journey after her death and reanimation by an eccentric scientist, played by Willem Dafoe. The film delivers a raucous and visually stunning exploration of feminist themes, challenging traditional narratives and leaving a lasting impression.

10. 'Past Lives'

In her directorial debut, Celine Song beautifully captures her own life's narrative in 'Past Lives'. The film follows Nora, played by Greta Lee, who leaves her family and boy crush in South Korea at the age of 12, only to grow up in Canada. As an adult playwright in New York City, Nora's past resurfaces when Hae Sung, played by Teo Yoo, decides to visit her. The film is a lyrical work of art, exploring themes of identity and nostalgia.