It's that time of year again, when I reflect on all of the films released in New Zealand cinemas between January 1 and December 31.
Here are the 10 best of 2016.
10: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
My top 10 of the year goes Rogue from the get-go. Dark, gritty, dirty, brave and a Star Wars story worth telling. It delivers us to the door of A New Hope jam-packed with everything I need for a thrilling few hours in that galaxy far, far away.
9: The Big Short
Smart, funny, scary, ingeniously populated and a rollicking good time, The Big Short was such a left-field bolt from the blue, enormously entertaining and even more so on repeat viewing.
8: Hell or High Water
A modern-day Western, this is a heist story of filial love unexpectedly pulsing with a deep social conscience and another outstanding outing from Jeff Bridges. It's a film full to the brim with superior performances - simple, succulent, temperate dialogue and assured, purposeful storytelling.
7: Moana
Moana charms every creature big and small she encounters during this film, including the odd demi-god, and ultimately us all. Bursting with Pacifica legend, the story pulls strands from here and there, weaving together a fresh, inspirational, and hugely entertaining musical family adventure which filled me with unbridled joy.
6: La La Land
Talking of musicals, La La Land also just snuck into 2016 and danced sung and charmed its way straight into my top ten. It's magical, old-school yet modern musical cinema which I found entirely irresistible.
5: Zootopia
I've lost count the number of times I've watched Judy Hops and Nick Wilde and Flash the Sloth and the joy in doing so simply never fades. Fresh, clever and squeal-level funny, Zootopia a top notch story with a sugar-free message, an all-ages giggle fest delivered by a cast of lovable and memorable animated characters I am still in love with.
4: I, Daniel Blake
Ken Loach back throws killer emotional gut-punches with I, Daniel Blake. It is an unforgettable film which still haunts the recesses of my mind, heart and your conscience months after viewing.
3: Spotlight
My own love of journalism and enormous admiration for those who strive to deliver us these kinds of true stories added an extra dimension to my experience. Spotlight is gripping, thought-provoking, shocking, distressing and triumphant. It has it all, including the Oscar.
2: Arrival
Yep, I cried. For ages. I found Arrival profoundly affecting. It blew my mind and broke my heart, combining to restore my faith in all the miraculous little things that make us who we are, which make us human.
1: Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Crumpy put through the Taika Waititi kaleidoscope of Kiwi comedy, this is a simple and unmitigated joy from go to whoa. Of course there is a beating heart amidst the crackling one liners, once again elevating Waititi's storytelling from the merely entertaining to the instant classic. And make no mistake, that's exactly what Hunt for the Wilderpeople is. Skuxx As.
Newshub.
