Best Movies Of 2017: A Look Back

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best movies of 2017. It was a fantastic year for cinema, offering a diverse range of genres and unforgettable stories. From superhero spectacles to indie gems, 2017 had something for everyone. In this article, we're going to dive deep into the films that captivated audiences and critics alike, exploring why they remain so memorable even years later. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s get started!

Blockbuster Bonanza

When we talk about the best movies of 2017, we can't ignore the massive blockbusters that dominated the box office. These films not only brought in huge crowds but also pushed the boundaries of visual effects and storytelling. Let's break down some of the biggest hits:

• Wonder Woman: Finally, a female-led superhero film that did not disappoint! Gal Gadot shone as Diana Prince, bringing strength, compassion, and a whole lot of butt-kicking to the DC Extended Universe. Directed by Patty Jenkins, Wonder Woman offered a refreshing take on the superhero origin story, emphasizing themes of hope and love amidst a world of war. The film’s success proved that audiences were hungry for diverse representation in the superhero genre, paving the way for more female-led blockbusters in the years to come. The action sequences were thrilling, the performances were captivating, and the message was both timely and timeless. It's a film that continues to inspire and entertain, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in superhero cinema.
• Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2: James Gunn returned with another hilarious and heartwarming space adventure. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 expanded on the found-family dynamic of the original, delving deeper into the backstories of characters like Peter Quill (Star-Lord), Gamora, and Rocket. The film's soundtrack was, once again, a major highlight, featuring a mix of classic tunes that perfectly complemented the film's quirky tone. But beyond the humor and catchy music, Vol. 2 explored themes of family, belonging, and self-discovery, making it a surprisingly emotional ride. The visual effects were stunning, the action sequences were inventive, and the performances were top-notch. It’s a film that’s both entertaining and emotionally resonant, making it a standout in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
• Thor: Ragnarok: Taika Waititi injected a massive dose of humor and fun into the Thor franchise with Ragnarok. Chris Hemsworth embraced his comedic side as Thor, and the film featured a colorful cast of characters, including the hilarious Korg (voiced by Waititi himself) and the menacing Hela (played by Cate Blanchett). Thor: Ragnarok was a visual spectacle, with vibrant colors and imaginative set designs. The film's blend of action, comedy, and heart made it a critical and commercial success, revitalizing the Thor franchise and setting the stage for Thor's pivotal role in Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. It's a film that proves that superhero movies can be both epic and hilarious, solidifying its place as a fan favorite.

Horror That Haunted Us

For horror fans, 2017 delivered some genuinely terrifying experiences. These films not only scared us but also explored deeper themes, making them stand out from typical genre fare. Let's look at a few:

• It: Based on Stephen King's iconic novel, It brought the terrifying Pennywise the Clown to a new generation. The film captured the essence of King's story, focusing on a group of kids who band together to fight a shape-shifting evil that preys on their fears. It was praised for its strong performances, particularly Bill Skarsgård's chilling portrayal of Pennywise. The film also explored themes of childhood trauma, friendship, and overcoming adversity. The scares were effective, the story was compelling, and the characters were relatable. It became a massive box office hit, proving that audiences were eager for well-crafted horror films with substance. It's a film that will continue to haunt our nightmares for years to come.
• Get Out: Jordan Peele's directorial debut, Get Out, was a groundbreaking horror film that tackled issues of race and social commentary. The film follows Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a young Black man who visits his white girlfriend's family and discovers a dark secret. Get Out was praised for its sharp writing, brilliant performances, and its ability to blend horror with satire. The film sparked conversations about race relations in America and cemented Peele as a major voice in the horror genre. Get Out was not only a critical and commercial success but also an important cultural moment, demonstrating the power of horror to address real-world issues. It's a film that is both terrifying and thought-provoking, solidifying its place as a modern horror classic.

Indie Darlings and Hidden Gems

Beyond the blockbusters and horror flicks, 2017 also offered a wealth of indie darlings and hidden gems that showcased the creativity and diversity of independent cinema. These films may not have had the same level of exposure as their blockbuster counterparts, but they were no less impactful. Let's explore some of these gems:

• Lady Bird: Greta Gerwig's directorial debut, Lady Bird, was a coming-of-age story that resonated with audiences of all ages. The film follows Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson (Saoirse Ronan), a high school senior navigating the challenges of adolescence, family, and identity. Lady Bird was praised for its authentic portrayal of teenage life, its witty dialogue, and its heartfelt performances. The film captured the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the universal struggles of finding your place in the world. Lady Bird was a critical darling, earning numerous awards and nominations, including Best Picture at the Academy Awards. It's a film that is both funny and poignant, capturing the essence of growing up.
• Call Me by Your Name: Directed by Luca Guadagnino, Call Me by Your Name was a beautiful and heartbreaking love story set in the Italian countryside. The film follows Elio (Timothée Chalamet), a young man who falls in love with Oliver (Armie Hammer), a visiting American scholar. Call Me by Your Name was praised for its stunning visuals, its evocative soundtrack, and its tender portrayal of first love. The film explored themes of desire, identity, and the fleeting nature of time. Call Me by Your Name was a critical success, earning numerous awards and nominations, including Best Adapted Screenplay at the Academy Awards. It's a film that is both sensual and melancholic, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.
• The Shape of Water: Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water was a visually stunning and emotionally resonant fairy tale for adults. The film follows Elisa (Sally Hawkins), a mute cleaning lady who forms a connection with an amphibious creature being held captive in a government laboratory. The Shape of Water was praised for its imaginative story, its beautiful cinematography, and its heartfelt performances. The film explored themes of love, acceptance, and the importance of embracing differences. The Shape of Water was a critical and commercial success, winning Best Picture at the Academy Awards. It's a film that is both fantastical and grounded, reminding us of the power of empathy and connection.

Animated Adventures

Animation also had a strong showing in 2017, with films that appealed to both children and adults. These animated adventures offered stunning visuals, engaging stories, and memorable characters. Let's highlight a couple of the best:

• Coco: Pixar's Coco was a vibrant and heartwarming story about family, tradition, and the power of music. The film follows Miguel, a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician but is forbidden by his family due to a past tragedy. Miguel embarks on a journey to the Land of the Dead, where he discovers the truth about his family's history and the importance of following his dreams. Coco was praised for its stunning animation, its authentic portrayal of Mexican culture, and its emotional depth. The film explored themes of family, memory, and the importance of honoring our ancestors. Coco was a critical and commercial success, winning Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. It's a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant, celebrating the richness of Mexican culture and the enduring power of family.
• Your Name.: Makoto Shinkai's Your Name. was a breathtaking anime film that captivated audiences worldwide. The film tells the story of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously begin to swap bodies. As they navigate each other's lives, they uncover a deeper connection and a looming catastrophe. Your Name. was praised for its stunning animation, its intricate plot, and its emotional impact. The film explored themes of fate, destiny, and the power of human connection. Your Name. was a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time. It's a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally profound, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best movies of 2017. It was truly a remarkable year for cinema, offering a diverse range of films that entertained, challenged, and inspired us. Whether you're a fan of superhero blockbusters, chilling horror flicks, heartwarming indie dramas, or captivating animated adventures, 2017 had something for everyone. These films continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the magic of the movies. What were your favorite films of 2017? Let us know in the comments below! Keep watching and exploring the world of cinema, because there's always a new story waiting to be discovered.