NATHAN POPPE’S FAVORITE MOVIES OF 2017
‘The Disaster Artist’
On paper, this sounded like such a half-baked idea or midnight cinema’s biggest inside joke: James Franco and Co. use the world’s worst movie as a playground for bad wigs, drippy sentiment and unrelenting bromance. I love being wrong, and I also really loved watching this extremely funny film wrestle with the legend of “The Room.”
‘Dunkirk’
“Saving Private Ryan” made you feel like you were storming Omaha beach, but “Dunkirk” made being stranded on a beach engaging. With an effective story structure and restrained performances, this World War II film has a timeless appeal.
‘The Shape of Water’
The only really scary thing about “The Shape of Water” is how beautiful it is. Elements of fantasy, horror and fairy tales swim so well together, and Sally Hawkins delivers the smartest line delivered all year: “If we do nothing than neither are we.” This movie sure is something.
‘The Big Sick’
This movie not only tears down Middle Eastern stereotypes but also will make you laugh while it’s happening. There’s too many star-making moments for Kumail Nanjiani to count, and let’s not forget this is the smartest romantic comedy in years.
‘Get Out’
I can’t suggest this horror movie enough. Sure, the world is scary enough outside of its runtime but “Get Out” is too fiery and smart to be ignored. See it and then see it again.