30 Best-Rated Movies from 2019
The year 2019 was an incredible time for movies, offering a wide range of stories that captured our imaginations. From epic superhero conclusions to thought-provoking dramas and hilarious comedies, there was truly something for everyone to enjoy. Hollywood seemed to be at the top of its game, delivering films that not only performed well at the box office but also earned critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike. It was a year filled with memorable moments on the big screen that people are still talking about.
Looking back, 2019 stands out as a particularly strong year for filmmaking, with many movies receiving high praise for their originality, storytelling, and performances. This list celebrates some of the best-rated films from that year, taking a look at what made them so special. Whether you’re a fan of mind-bending thrillers, heartwarming animations, or intense war dramas, you’re sure to find a film that resonates with you. Get ready to revisit some of the most celebrated movies that made 2019 an unforgettable year in cinema.
‘Parasite’ (2019)
‘Parasite’ tells the story of the Kim family, who are all unemployed and living in a cramped semi-basement apartment. They see an opportunity when their son, Ki-woo, gets a job tutoring the daughter of the wealthy Park family. One by one, the Kims cunningly install themselves in the Park household, pretending to be unrelated and highly qualified workers. They begin to enjoy a parasitic lifestyle, living off the wealth of their unsuspecting employers in their luxurious home.
As the Kims become more comfortable in their new roles, a dark and unexpected secret about the house threatens to unravel their elaborate scheme. The film masterfully blends suspense, dark comedy, and social commentary, exploring themes of class struggle and economic inequality. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this South Korean thriller captivated audiences worldwide and went on to make history by winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, becoming the first non-English language film to do so.
‘Joker’ (2019)
‘Joker’ offers a dark and gritty origin story for one of comics’ most infamous villains. The film follows Arthur Fleck, a struggling party clown and aspiring stand-up comedian living in a rundown Gotham City. Arthur suffers from a neurological condition that causes him to laugh at inappropriate times and he cares for his frail mother in their dingy apartment. He dreams of making people laugh, but finds himself constantly beaten down and disregarded by a cruel and unforgiving society.
As Arthur’s life continues to spiral downwards, a series of traumatic events push him to his breaking point. He begins a slow and unsettling transformation from a troubled man into the nihilistic and chaotic criminal known as the Joker. The film is a character study that delves into themes of mental illness, societal neglect, and the consequences of a lack of empathy. Joaquin Phoenix’s powerful and committed performance in the lead role earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)
‘Avengers: Endgame’ serves as the epic conclusion to a story that unfolded over twenty-two interconnected films. The movie picks up after the devastating events of ‘Avengers: Infinity War’, where the powerful villain Thanos wiped out half of all life in the universe with a snap of his fingers. The remaining heroes are scattered and defeated, grappling with immense loss and failure. The world is in ruins, and hope seems to be lost for those who are left behind.
After five years, a glimmer of hope emerges when a potential way to undo Thanos’s actions is discovered. The surviving Avengers, along with their allies, must reassemble for one last mission to restore balance to the universe. This monumental film brings together a massive ensemble cast of beloved characters for a final, high-stakes battle against Thanos. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, the movie shattered box office records and provided a powerful and emotional finale for fans around the world.
‘1917’ (2019)
‘1917’ is a gripping war film that immerses viewers directly into the chaos and tension of the First World War. The story follows two young British soldiers, Lance Corporal Schofield and Lance Corporal Blake, who are given a seemingly impossible mission. They must cross into enemy territory to deliver a critical message that could save the lives of 1,600 of their fellow soldiers, including Blake’s own brother. The message is a command to call off an impending attack that is destined to fail.
What makes this film so unique is its presentation as a single, continuous shot, which creates a sense of real-time urgency and suspense. The audience experiences the perilous journey right alongside the soldiers, navigating through treacherous trenches, abandoned farmhouses, and war-torn landscapes. Directed by Sam Mendes, the film was praised for its stunning cinematography and technical achievements, winning three Academy Awards. It’s a powerful and visceral depiction of the sacrifices made during the war.
‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood’ (2019)
‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ takes viewers back to the golden age of Hollywood in 1969. The film centers on Rick Dalton, a fading television star who is struggling to find meaningful work in a rapidly changing industry. Alongside him is his longtime stunt double and best friend, Cliff Booth, who helps him navigate the challenges of his career. As Rick tries to adapt to the new Hollywood landscape, he happens to live next door to the rising actress Sharon Tate and her husband, director Roman Polanski.
The movie paints a vivid picture of the era, blending fictional characters with real-life figures and events from that time. It’s a tribute to the final moments of Hollywood’s classic era, filled with nostalgia, humor, and a touch of melancholy. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, the film features a star-studded cast led by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie. Brad Pitt’s performance as the cool and capable Cliff Booth earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
‘Knives Out’ (2019)
‘Knives Out’ is a modern-day whodunit that puts a clever and comedic spin on the classic murder mystery genre. The story begins when the wealthy crime novelist Harlan Thrombey is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday party. While his death is initially ruled a suicide, the renowned private detective Benoit Blanc is anonymously hired to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Blanc soon discovers that everyone in Harlan’s eccentric and dysfunctional family had a motive for his demise.
As Blanc questions the family members and the loyal staff, he uncovers a tangled web of lies, secrets, and red herrings. Each character is a suspect, and the detective must sift through their conflicting stories to piece together the truth. The film is a sharply written and entertaining mystery with a fantastic ensemble cast, including Daniel Craig as the charming Southern detective. Directed by Rian Johnson, it was praised for its witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and engaging characters.
‘Ford v Ferrari’ (2019)
‘Ford v Ferrari’ brings to life the thrilling true story of the rivalry between two of the world’s most famous car manufacturers. In the 1960s, the Ford Motor Company decides to challenge the dominance of Enzo Ferrari’s racing team at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in France. To do this, they enlist the help of American car designer Carroll Shelby and fearless British driver Ken Miles. Their mission is to build a revolutionary race car that can finally beat Ferrari.
The film follows Shelby and Miles as they battle corporate interference, the laws of physics, and their own personal demons to create the Ford GT40. It’s a story of innovation, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of victory. The movie features exhilarating racing sequences that put the audience right in the driver’s seat, capturing the danger and excitement of professional racing. Christian Bale and Matt Damon deliver compelling performances as the determined duo, and the film won Academy Awards for its impressive film editing and sound editing.
‘The Irishman’ (2019)
‘The Irishman’ is a sprawling crime epic from acclaimed director Martin Scorsese. The film tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who becomes a hitman for the mob. Through his eyes, we witness several decades of organized crime in post-war America. Frank’s journey leads him to become a trusted associate of the powerful Teamster leader Jimmy Hoffa, and he gets deeply involved in the criminal underworld. The story is told as a reflection by an elderly Frank, looking back on his life and the choices he made.
Based on the book ‘I Heard You Paint Houses’, the film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the passage of time. It features a legendary cast that includes Robert De Niro as Frank Sheeran, Al Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa, and Joe Pesci as the quiet but menacing mob boss Russell Bufalino. The movie uses impressive de-aging technology to allow the actors to portray their characters over several decades. It’s a contemplative and monumental film that offers a different perspective on the gangster genre.
‘Jojo Rabbit’ (2019)
‘Jojo Rabbit’ is a unique and poignant film that balances comedy with drama to tell a powerful story. The movie is set in Germany during the final stages of World War II and follows a lonely young boy named Jojo. Jojo is a devout member of the Hitler Youth, and his imaginary friend is a goofy, buffoonish version of Adolf Hitler. His whole world is turned upside down when he discovers that his mother is hiding a young Jewish girl in their attic.
Forced to confront his own blind nationalism, Jojo begins to question his beliefs and see the world in a new light. The film is a heartfelt satire that explores the absurdity of hate and the importance of compassion and understanding. It tackles serious themes with a blend of humor and tenderness, making for a truly memorable viewing experience. Written and directed by Taika Waititi, who also plays the imaginary Hitler, the film won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
‘Little Women’ (2019)
‘Little Women’ is a fresh and vibrant adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. The film tells the beloved story of the four March sisters, Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth, as they come of age in the aftermath of the Civil War. Each sister has her own distinct personality and ambition, and they navigate the challenges of life, love, and finding their place in the world. The story is told through the eyes of Jo March, an aspiring writer who reflects on her past and present.
Director Greta Gerwig brings a modern sensibility to the timeless story, weaving together different timelines to give new depth to the characters and their relationships. The film celebrates the bonds of sisterhood and explores themes of female ambition, independence, and the choices women face. It features a talented ensemble cast, including Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, and Timothée Chalamet. The movie was praised for its beautiful costume design, which earned it an Academy Award.
‘Marriage Story’ (2019)
‘Marriage Story’ provides an intimate and compassionate look at a marriage breaking apart and a family staying together. The film follows Charlie, a successful theater director, and Nicole, a talented actress, as they navigate the difficult process of divorce. What starts as an amicable separation soon becomes a bitter and emotionally draining legal battle, fueled by their high-powered lawyers. The story explores the complexities of love, loss, and the painful realities of a dissolving partnership.
The film is a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional turmoil that accompanies a separation, showing both the tender moments and the heated arguments. It delves into the personal and professional sacrifices the couple made during their marriage and how their individual desires led them to grow apart. Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver deliver powerful and heartbreaking performances that earned them both Academy Award nominations. The film, directed by Noah Baumbach, offers a deeply human and empathetic perspective on the end of a relationship.
‘The Farewell’ (2019)
‘The Farewell’ is a touching and funny film based on a real-life family lie. The story centers on Billi, a Chinese-American woman who discovers that her beloved grandmother, Nai Nai, has been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. However, her family decides to keep the diagnosis a secret from Nai Nai, believing that the emotional burden of the news would be too much for her to bear. Instead, they stage a fake wedding for Billi’s cousin as an excuse to gather the whole family together in China to say their goodbyes.
As Billi travels to China to be with her family, she struggles with the cultural differences surrounding how to handle grief and death. She feels it’s wrong to lie to her grandmother, but her family insists it’s the right thing to do. The film explores the complexities of family dynamics and the clash between Eastern and Western cultural values. Awkwafina gives a heartfelt and nuanced performance in the lead role, and the movie, directed by Lulu Wang, was celebrated for its warmth, humor, and emotional honesty.
‘Toy Story 4’ (2019)
‘Toy Story 4’ continues the adventures of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the beloved toy gang. In this installment, Bonnie, their new owner, creates a new favorite toy out of a spork and some craft supplies, naming him Forky. Forky, however, is convinced he is trash and not a toy, and he keeps trying to throw himself away. When Bonnie and her family go on a road trip, Forky escapes, and Woody goes on a mission to bring him back.
During his journey, Woody reunites with his long-lost friend Bo Peep, who has embraced a new life as a free-spirited adventurer. This encounter makes Woody question his own purpose and what it truly means to be a toy. The film explores themes of loyalty, identity, and finding your place in the world. It’s a funny, heartwarming, and visually stunning animated adventure that provides a touching and satisfying conclusion to Woody’s story. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
‘Uncut Gems’ (2019)
‘Uncut Gems’ is a tense and anxiety-inducing thriller that never lets up. The film stars Adam Sandler in a dramatic role as Howard Ratner, a charismatic and compulsive New York City jeweler. Howard is always on the lookout for his next big score, but his high-stakes gambling habits have left him in serious debt to some dangerous people. He believes he has finally found the win that will solve all his problems when he acquires a rare black opal from Ethiopia.
The movie follows Howard over a few frantic days as he tries to sell the opal while juggling his business, his family, and the loan sharks who are closing in on him. The Safdie brothers’ direction creates a relentless pace and a chaotic atmosphere that puts the audience right in the middle of Howard’s stressful world. Adam Sandler’s performance was widely praised as a career-best, and the film is a gripping and unforgettable cinematic experience.
‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ (2019)
‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ is a beautiful and intimate French historical drama. The film is set on a remote island in Brittany at the end of the 18th century. A young painter named Marianne is commissioned to paint a wedding portrait of Héloïse, a reluctant bride-to-be who has just left a convent. The catch is that Marianne must paint Héloïse in secret, observing her by day and painting her by night, because Héloïse refuses to pose for the portrait.
As Marianne studies Héloïse, a deep and powerful connection begins to form between the two women. The film explores their burgeoning love affair through stolen glances, quiet moments, and shared secrets. It’s a slow-burning and passionate story about love, memory, and the female gaze. Directed by Céline Sciamma, the movie was celebrated for its stunning cinematography, which resembles classical paintings, and its powerful, understated performances. It’s a poignant and unforgettable love story.
‘Klaus’ (2019)
‘Klaus’ offers a charming and imaginative new origin story for Santa Claus. The animated film follows Jesper, a lazy and spoiled postman who is stationed in the bleak and remote town of Smeerensburg, located on a frozen island above the Arctic Circle. The town’s inhabitants are perpetually feuding with each other and barely exchange a word, let alone letters. Jesper is about to give up on his mission when he meets a reclusive toymaker named Klaus who lives in a cabin filled with handmade toys.
Jesper and Klaus form an unlikely friendship and begin delivering toys to the children of Smeerensburg, hoping to bring some joy to the dreary town. Their acts of kindness start to melt the ice in the hearts of the townspeople, inspiring laughter and goodwill. The film is beautifully animated with a unique, hand-drawn style that gives it a classic feel. It’s a heartwarming and humorous story about the power of generosity and friendship, making it a new holiday classic for families to enjoy.
‘The Lighthouse’ (2019)
‘The Lighthouse’ is a gripping and atmospheric psychological thriller shot entirely in black and white. The film is set in the 1890s and tells the story of two lighthouse keepers who are stationed on a remote and mysterious New England island for a four-week shift. One is a seasoned and crusty old keeper named Thomas Wake, and the other is a younger man with a mysterious past named Ephraim Winslow. As a powerful storm traps them on the island, their isolation begins to take a toll on their sanity.
The two men are forced to confront their inner demons, and a tense power struggle develops between them. The film is filled with haunting imagery, strange visions, and a growing sense of paranoia. It’s a masterfully crafted story that explores themes of madness, masculinity, and mythology. Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe give incredible and intense performances as the two keepers. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film is a visually stunning and deeply unsettling experience.
‘Shoplifters’ (2019)
‘Shoplifters’ is a compassionate and thought-provoking Japanese drama that explores the meaning of family. The film centers on a makeshift family living on the margins of society in Tokyo. They rely on petty crime and shoplifting to make ends meet. One cold night, the father figure, Osamu, and his son, Shota, find a young girl who has been left out on a balcony in the freezing cold. They decide to take her in and make her a part of their unconventional family.
Despite their poverty and criminal activities, the family shares a bond of love and affection. They live a happy, albeit precarious, life together. However, an unforeseen incident soon brings their hidden life to light and threatens to tear them apart. The film raises powerful questions about what truly constitutes a family and whether bonds of love can be stronger than ties of blood. Directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, this moving and humane film won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ (2019)
‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ picks up after the world-altering events of ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Peter Parker is trying to return to his normal life as a high school student and is still grieving the loss of his mentor, Tony Stark. He decides to take a break from being Spider-Man and joins his friends on a school trip to Europe. His plans for a relaxing vacation are quickly disrupted when Nick Fury shows up and recruits him for a new mission.
Mysterious elemental creatures have been causing destruction across the continent, and Spider-Man is needed to help a new hero named Mysterio fight them. Peter must step up and embrace his responsibilities as a hero, all while navigating the challenges of teenage life and a budding romance. The film is a fun and action-packed adventure with plenty of humor and heart. It serves as an exciting next chapter for the web-slinger in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
‘Pain and Glory’ (2019)
‘Pain and Glory’ is a deeply personal and reflective film from the acclaimed Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar. The movie follows Salvador Mallo, an aging film director who is experiencing a creative crisis and physical decline. He finds himself looking back on his life, reflecting on his childhood in the 1960s, his relationship with his mother, his first loves, and the films that defined his career. A series of reunions forces him to confront his past and reconnect with key figures from his life.
The film is a semi-autobiographical work that blurs the lines between fiction and the director’s own life experiences. It’s a vibrant and moving meditation on art, memory, and the passage of time. Antonio Banderas gives a career-defining performance as Salvador, capturing the character’s vulnerability and pain with great nuance. His portrayal earned him the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination. The film is a beautiful and poignant exploration of a life lived through cinema.
‘Apollo 11’ (2019)
‘Apollo 11′ is a stunning documentary that takes viewers on an immersive journey back to one of the most significant moments in human history. The film uses newly discovered, large-format archival footage and audio recordings to document the historic 1969 mission to land the first humans on the moon. There is no narration or modern-day interviews. Instead, the story is told entirely through the original sights and sounds of the mission, from the launch preparations to the moon landing and the astronauts’ safe return to Earth.
The result is a breathtaking and visceral experience that makes you feel like you are witnessing the event as it happened. The restored footage is incredibly clear and vibrant, offering a new perspective on this incredible achievement. The film captures the immense scale of the operation and the courage of the astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins. It’s a powerful and awe-inspiring tribute to a moment that united the world and pushed the boundaries of human exploration.
‘Us’ (2019)
‘Us’ is a chilling and thought-provoking horror film from the mind of Jordan Peele. The movie follows the Wilson family as they go on vacation to their beach house in Santa Cruz. Their peaceful getaway turns into a nightmare when they are terrorized by a group of four intruders who look exactly like them. These doppelgängers, known as the Tethered, have come to take the place of their counterparts in the world above.
The film is a tense and suspenseful thriller that is filled with layers of meaning and social commentary. It explores themes of duality, identity, and the dark side of the American dream. Lupita Nyong’o delivers an incredible dual performance as both the protective mother, Adelaide Wilson, and her menacing doppelgänger, Red. The film will keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you think long after the credits roll.
‘Booksmart’ (2019)
‘Booksmart’ is a fresh and hilarious coming-of-age comedy that puts a new spin on the classic high school movie. The story follows two academic superstars and best friends, Amy and Molly, who have spent their entire high school careers focused on getting into good colleges. On the eve of their graduation, they make a shocking discovery. All the kids who partied and broke the rules also got into great schools. Realizing they missed out on the fun, the two decide to cram four years of partying into one wild night.
The film follows the two friends on their chaotic and eventful quest to attend a big graduation party. Along the way, they encounter a variety of quirky characters and get into some outrageous situations. It’s a heartfelt and witty story about friendship, growing up, and the pressures of being a teenager. The movie is directed by Olivia Wilde and features breakout performances from Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever. It’s a smart and modern comedy that celebrates female friendship.
‘A Hidden Life’ (2019)
‘A Hidden Life’ is a profound and visually stunning film from director Terrence Malick. It is based on the true story of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian farmer who refused to fight for the Nazis during World War II. When he is called up for active duty, Franz’s conscience and his unwavering faith prevent him from swearing an oath of loyalty to Hitler. His decision is met with scorn and hostility from his fellow villagers and the local authorities.
Despite the immense pressure and the threat of execution for treason, Franz remains steadfast in his beliefs, supported by his loving wife, Fani. The film is a powerful and contemplative exploration of faith, morality, and the courage to stand up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. It’s a slow-paced and meditative movie with breathtaking cinematography that captures the beauty of the Austrian countryside. The film poses a powerful question about the cost of conviction.
‘Ad Astra’ (2019)
‘Ad Astra’ is a visually spectacular science fiction film that is also a deeply personal and introspective journey. Brad Pitt stars as Roy McBride, a stoic and emotionally distant astronaut who is known for his calm demeanor under pressure. He is sent on a top-secret mission across the solar system to find his long-lost father, who disappeared on a mission to Neptune sixteen years earlier. Roy’s father is now believed to be a threat to the stability of the entire solar system.
As Roy travels further into the vast emptiness of space, he is forced to confront the truth about his father and the nature of his own existence. The film is a meditative and thoughtful exploration of themes like father-son relationships, loneliness, and the human search for connection. It features stunning visuals and a powerful, understated performance from Brad Pitt. The movie is a unique blend of a grand space epic and an intimate character study.
‘Honey Boy’ (2019)
‘Honey Boy’ is a raw and courageous film written by Shia LaBeouf, based on his own childhood experiences. The story follows Otis, a young actor, as he navigates a turbulent upbringing with his abusive and alcoholic father, who is a former rodeo clown. The film cuts between two different timelines. One shows a young Otis working as a child actor while living in a motel with his father, and the other shows an older Otis in rehab, struggling with his mental health and coming to terms with his past.
The film is a powerful and unflinching look at trauma, addiction, and the complicated relationship between a father and a son. Shia LaBeouf gives a powerful performance playing a character based on his own father, while Noah Jupe and Lucas Hedges both deliver incredible performances as the younger and older Otis. Directed by Alma Har’el, the movie is a deeply personal and therapeutic work of art that finds empathy and understanding in the darkest of places.
‘Dolemite Is My Name’ (2019)
‘Dolemite Is My Name’ is an entertaining and uplifting biographical comedy that tells the story of the one-of-a-kind performer Rudy Ray Moore. In the 1970s, Moore was a struggling comedian and musician who decided to create an outrageous and charismatic alter ego named Dolemite. This new persona, a flamboyant and fast-talking hustler, quickly became a sensation in the world of stand-up comedy and underground records.
Fueled by his success, Moore decides to take his character to the big screen, even though he has no experience in filmmaking. He assembles a motley crew of friends and film students to help him make his own blaxploitation movie, ‘Dolemite’. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming celebration of a true underdog who believed in himself and his dreams. Eddie Murphy gives a fantastic comeback performance as Rudy Ray Moore, capturing his infectious energy and determination.
‘Sound of Metal’ (2019)
‘Sound of Metal’ is a powerful and immersive drama about a heavy metal drummer whose life is turned upside down. The film follows Ruben, who is one half of a punk-metal duo with his girlfriend, Lou. They live a nomadic life, traveling from gig to gig in their RV. One day, Ruben suddenly experiences severe hearing loss and is told that his condition will only get worse. His world is thrown into chaos, and he is forced to confront a future without sound and without his music.
Lou checks him into a sober house for the deaf, hoping he can learn to cope with his new reality. There, he is taken under the wing of a compassionate man named Joe, who runs the community. Ruben struggles to adapt to his new life and must decide whether to embrace his new identity or try to reclaim the life he once had. The film uses innovative sound design to put the audience inside Ruben’s experience, making for a truly unique and moving cinematic journey. Riz Ahmed gives a phenomenal performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination.
‘The Two Popes’ (2019)
‘The Two Popes’ is an intimate and engaging film that imagines a series of conversations between two very different leaders of the Catholic Church. The story is set behind the walls of the Vatican and follows the conservative Pope Benedict XVI and the more progressive future Pope Francis, then known as Cardinal Bergoglio. At a key turning point for the Church, Cardinal Bergoglio requests permission to retire, but instead, the introspective Pope Benedict summons him to Rome.
What follows is a fascinating and often humorous dialogue between two men with opposing views who must confront their pasts and find common ground to forge a new path for the Church. The film offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these two powerful figures, exploring their doubts, their faith, and their humanity. Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce give masterful performances, perfectly capturing the essence of their characters. It’s a thought-provoking and surprisingly funny film about tradition, progress, and friendship.
‘Midsommar’ (2019)
‘Midsommar’ is a unique and unsettling folk horror film from director Ari Aster. The story follows a young American couple, Dani and Christian, whose relationship is on the verge of falling apart. Dani is grieving a recent family tragedy, and Christian is emotionally distant. In an attempt to mend their relationship, they decide to travel to a remote Swedish village with their friends to attend a fabled midsummer festival that only happens once every ninety years.
What begins as an idyllic and picturesque retreat into a sun-drenched pastoral paradise slowly devolves into a bizarre and increasingly violent competition at the hands of a pagan cult. The film is a bright and colorful horror movie that unfolds in broad daylight, creating a uniquely disturbing atmosphere. Florence Pugh gives a stunning and raw performance as Dani. The movie is a mesmerizing and terrifying exploration of grief, relationships, and the dark side of tradition.
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