With the blog about to go on break, I've decided to keep the post short and sweet this year. I will be leaving links to reviews for those that are curious about any of the movies mentioned here...
Starting with honorable mentions (ones that were considered, but ultimately fell short);
Aladdin - The best remake in otherwise a mixed year for Disney.
Toy Story 4 - Pixar can even make a fourth installment work quite well.
Shazam - Unique superhero, coming-of-age story has heart and a youthful vibe.
Abominable - Solid animated film hits almost all of the right emotional beats, with solid characters.
Overcomer - Entertaining and inspiring, but not quite as moving as the Kendrick Brothers' best.
The Elephant Queen - Entertaining and breathtaking nature documentary from AppleTV+.
Spider-Man: Far From Home - 180 from Homecoming, much more entertaining and suspenseful sequel is a very good narrative follow-up to Endgame.
Harriet - Historical drama is a tough watch, but inspiring, authentic, and very well-acted.
Here's the Top 10:
#10: The Kid Who Would Be King
This early-in-the-year favorite benefits from a strong, youthful vibe (reminiscent of Spy Kids), some mature and deep story elements, and some exciting moments.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/01/movie-review-kid-who-would-be-king.html
#9: Detective Pikachu
The year's biggest surprise is faithful to its source material, and is entertaining, well-acted and well-crafted with a twist and terrific visual effects.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/05/movie-review-detective-pikachu.html
#8: The Aeronauts
This must-see experience on the biggest screen possible is exciting, well-scripted and acted, and very scenically inviting.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/12/movie-review-aeronauts.html
#7: The Best of Enemies
A history story for teens and adults, this very well-acted and well-directed drama hits all of the right emotional notes.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/05/movie-review-best-of-enemies.html
#6: Little Women
Energetic and exciting take on Louisa May Alcott's novel features terrific performances and a down-home, yesteryear vibe.
http://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2020/01/movie-review-little-women.html
#5: The Farewell
Authentic and unique dramedy is funny, fresh and emotional with fantastic performances and a relatable, moving story.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/09/movie-review-farewell.html
#4: Breakthrough
Sincere, emotional and inspiring drama is one of the best-directed and well-acted faith-based dramas and movies of recent memory.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/05/movie-review-breakthrough.html
#3: Avengers: Endgame
Epic conclusion is involving visually and personally with some of the best performances, visual effects, and moments in not just the MCU, but movies of recent memory.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/05/movie-review-avengers-endgame.html
#2: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
Well-animated, well-written final installment is sad, funny, thrilling, and ultimately satisfying.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/02/movie-review-how-to-train-your-dragon.html
#1: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Instant classic moments, a faithful vibe to Mr. Rogers, his values and his show, and phenomenal performances make this the year's most unique and memorable movie experiences.
https://moviestakenseriously.blogspot.com/2019/11/movie-review-beautiful-day-in.html
