TYF’s Best Films of 2016

Nicholas Sparks gets a bad rap, but this is one of his best movies. Teresa Palmer is a scene stealer. She’s so charming, as is Benjamin Walker. I really enjoyed the up-and-down journey their characters went on. The scenic Wilmington, NC adds to the vibrance of the movie. Not to mention cute dogs. I really enjoyed this film and the love story.

After the major success of The Conjuring, director James Wan returns with another haunting movie that’s just as good, if not better than the first one. The original duo of Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga are back as Ed and Lorraine Warren. Chilling, creepy and intriguing, all the elements you can ask for in a good horror movie.

The most realistic portrayal of high end fashion modeling. This Danish drama about a Danish girl that follows her dreams and heads for Paris to make it big. The glamorous and ugly side of modeling is depicted. It’s an exciting movie with a first time actress Maria Palm that nails it as the model.

Miles Teller and Jonah Hill knock it out of the park. I was so engaged and compelled with the story of how two regular young guys became famous arms dealers. The movie has a nice look to it. The story is fast paced and exciting. Just a fun and entertaining movie that made me want to research the real story afterwards. It’s a mix between The Wolf of Wall Street and Pain and Gain.

Vibrant, colorful, a look and feel of classic musicals from the 50’s and 60’s. Great chemistry by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. The camera work is fantastic. The dance numbers are fitting. The story feels very authentic to Los Angeles and the entertainment business. Just a memorable film.

Tom Ford does terrific work creating a sleek, stylish movie that has a grit and darkness. Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Shannon are phenomenal. The movie kept me on the edge-of-my-seat with anticipation of what was to come.

Reminded me of another personal favorite, Gone Girl. I didn’t read the book so I was engaged throughout by unfolding plot. Very good twists and turns. Emily Blunt does really good work. One of the best psychological thrillers of the year.

Ben Affleck is terrific in this suspense action thriller, playing an autistic man who is hell bent on justice. The movie is very intriguing and satisfactory. Lots of great action that outdoes Jason Bourne.

I am willing to stand on an island and support what I feel is one of the top three superhero movies to date. The all-star cast of actors and superheroes come together in this dark, entertaining and bold movie. The way the movie was able to mix some huge comic book storylines and make it fresh and cool was all I could ask for as a lifelong DC fan.

Non-cliche, upbeat and sad, heartbreaking love story that doesn’t resort to sex and physical intimacy (the characters only kiss once). It’s about the power of an imperfect connection and love for another person. The interaction between Emilia Clarke and Sam Clafin is so natural and honest. This is the best romantic movie in a decade.