Matty's Best Films of 2013

To start, I have to admit I just got out of the hospital and have missed three films that could possibly be on this list, Inside Llewyn Davis, The Wolf of Wall Street and American Hustle. Knowing the track record of those directors, I have to imagine it is likely one or two of them would make my end of year list. That being said here is my best films of 2013. This year was great for films, especially American films.

12 Years a Slave - The best film about slavery, period. Where so many directors making films about tragic events offer moments of release, McQueen never lets up. The result is heartbreaking and immensely powerful. The film is fearless and unflinching and every performance is fantastic.

The Act of Killing - It took days for me to recover from this surreal documentary. Time and a second viewing have proven the film is as creative as it is horrifying.

Enough Said - A film so slight in scope it would be easy to write it off. However for me, unlike Before Midnight, this is the best exploration of love in later life of the year. Both leads are charming and honest and the film never feels forced. I loved this couple so much.

Frances Ha - Noah Baumbach makes his best film. I give Greta Gerwig credit for the film's success, This feels like early Woody Allen filtered for the current age.

The Grandmaster - The most gorgeous film of the year and in my opinion one of the finest martial arts films ever made. Director Wong Kar Wai is known for mood and atmosphere and he hits new levels in the thrilling fight sequences. The train fight is the most mesmerizing scene of the year.

Her - Spike Jonze already has some great films under his belt but Her is his best.

Nebraska - Funny, sweet and real. I have never been a big fan of Alexander Payne but this film made me smile. It succeeds to have an ending that is both emotional satisfying and not cheesy or forced.

Spring Breakers - The most bonkers experience I had at the movies all year. I can't even explain the mix of horror, humor, and social commentary that is going on here. Franco turns in his best performance ever.

This is the End - The funniest movie of the year and its also odd and original and daring. Everything works and so many of the jokes held up on a second viewing.

Upstream Color - Enigmatic films have the tendency to frustrate but Shane Carruth's second feature uses its confusing nature to create a hypnotic, creative thriller. I am endlessly fascinated by the plot yet have little desire to figure it all out. The mystery proves to be the best part.

The World's End - Edgar Wright and company bring their Cornetto trilogy to a wonderful end. The film is funny, exciting, and emotionally resonant. It has everything in it I love about going to the movies. Pegg finally breaks out of his nice guy mold and plays a character who is not affable.