So, no need for a meaningless and impossible encapsulation of a year in film. The following were the best movies of 2014.
1. Guardians of the Galaxy
No movie in 2014 exceeded my expectations like this one. Another Marvel movie, about a set of characters no one had ever heard of, set in space? It sounded awful. But it was the most enjoyable cinema experience of the year. New characters and worlds were introduced that felt both fresh and classic at the same time. The usual Marvel formula was followed but this movie also had a sense of humor. Surprisingly, I’m now looking forward to the sequel.
2. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
This movie had a kinetic charge. More than almost any other movie this year it felt like it was authored by its director. And it had a set of intense performances by actors at the top of their game.
3. The Grand Budapest Hotel
Wes Anderson gets criticized for making “twee” or “emo” pictures. While I disagree with that assessment, I did really enjoy this departure from his usual style. This movie is an old fashioned adventure romp with Anderson’s excesses layered on top. The story seems continue to expand and unravel throughout the movie’s runtime. Instead of seeming bloated, it’s the most energetic picture since his debut.
4. The Lego Movie
The Lego Movie satirizes the usual Hollywood hero story and the Lego toys cleverly. Of all those movies that “both kids and parents enjoy” it’s the best in years.
5. Force Majuere
This is Swedish film about an incident on a family ski vacation. While at lunch an avalanche appears to be coming towards the family – the father flees and leaves his wife, son, and daughter behind. The avalanche never actually reaches them but the rest of the movie examines how his decision affects the family. It’s an insightful critique of modern relationships and surprisingly funny.
Honorable Mention
22 Jump Street, Big Hero 6, Captain America:Winter Soldier, the Giver, Gone Girl, the Hobbit:the Battle of the Five Armies, A Million Ways to Die in the West
As usual, I am but one man, so here are the notable titles I missed that may have affected this list – Chef, Edge of Tomorrow, Inherent Vice, Locke, Nightcrawler, Pride, Snowpiercer, St. Vincent, Still Alice, the Boxtrolls, the Tale of Princess Kaguya, Top Five