Best Movies Of 2017: Top Film Recommendations

Hey guys! Let's dive into some of the best movies that graced our screens back in 2017. This year was packed with incredible stories, stunning visuals, and performances that left us all talking for months. Whether you're a fan of superhero action, indie dramas, or gripping thrillers, 2017 had something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with some top-notch film recommendations from 2017!

Why 2017 Was a Great Year for Cinema

2017 was truly a fantastic year for cinema, offering a diverse range of films that catered to various tastes and preferences. One of the standout aspects of 2017 was the sheer variety of genres that delivered exceptional movies. From the superhero realm, we saw films that pushed boundaries and deepened character development, while the horror genre experienced a renaissance with movies that were both terrifying and thought-provoking. Independent cinema also shined, offering unique and intimate stories that resonated deeply with audiences. The year was marked by creative risks that paid off, with filmmakers experimenting with new narrative techniques and visual styles, resulting in a fresh and exciting cinematic landscape.

Another reason 2017 stands out is the impactful storytelling present in many of its films. Many movies tackled complex social issues, sparking important conversations and leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Whether it was through historical dramas, contemporary narratives, or even fantastical settings, filmmakers used their platforms to explore themes of identity, justice, and the human condition. This commitment to meaningful storytelling elevated the year's films beyond mere entertainment, transforming them into powerful works of art that continue to resonate today. Furthermore, 2017 was a year that celebrated diversity both in front of and behind the camera, with more opportunities for underrepresented voices to shine, adding richness and authenticity to the stories being told. All these factors combined to make 2017 a year to remember for movie lovers.

Top Film Recommendations from 2017

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the absolute best movies from 2017 that you should definitely check out if you haven't already, or revisit if you're in the mood for a cinematic treat.

1. Get Out

Jordan Peele's directorial debut, Get Out, is a masterclass in horror and social commentary. This movie isn't just scary; it's smart, thought-provoking, and deeply unsettling. The film follows Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), a young African-American man who visits his white girlfriend's family estate. What starts as an awkward but seemingly normal weekend quickly devolves into a terrifying nightmare as Chris uncovers a dark and sinister secret lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly welcoming facade. Get Out brilliantly explores themes of race, privilege, and the insidious nature of prejudice in a way that is both entertaining and deeply disturbing, making it a must-watch for any horror fan or anyone interested in social issues.

The genius of Get Out lies in its ability to blend horror with sharp social commentary. Peele uses the genre to explore the complexities of race relations in America, creating a narrative that is as insightful as it is terrifying. The film's use of symbolism and metaphor adds layers of depth, inviting viewers to unpack its themes long after the credits roll. The performances are uniformly excellent, with Kaluuya delivering a standout performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination. The supporting cast, including Allison Williams, Catherine Keener, and Bradley Whitford, perfectly embody the unsettling and duplicitous nature of their characters. Get Out is not just a horror film; it's a cultural phenomenon that has sparked countless conversations and continues to resonate with audiences today. Its impact on the horror genre and its contribution to the dialogue on race in America make it one of the most important films of the 21st century.

2. Blade Runner 2049

A visual masterpiece directed by Denis Villeneuve, Blade Runner 2049 is a stunning sequel to Ridley Scott's iconic 1982 film. Set thirty years after the original, the film follows Officer K (Ryan Gosling), a blade runner who unearths a secret that threatens to destabilize the fragile balance between humans and replicants. As K investigates, he crosses paths with Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), the former blade runner who has been missing for decades. Blade Runner 2049 is a visually breathtaking and intellectually stimulating film that explores themes of identity, memory, and what it means to be human.

Blade Runner 2049 is a triumph of cinematic artistry, blending breathtaking visuals with a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. Villeneuve's direction is masterful, creating a world that is both futuristic and deeply melancholic. The film's cinematography, by Roger Deakins, is simply stunning, earning him a well-deserved Academy Award. The performances are equally impressive, with Gosling delivering a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of Officer K. Ford's return as Deckard adds a layer of nostalgia and intrigue to the story. The film's exploration of complex themes, such as artificial intelligence, existentialism, and the nature of consciousness, elevates it beyond mere science fiction, transforming it into a profound meditation on the human condition. Blade Runner 2049 is a must-see for fans of the original and anyone who appreciates visually stunning and intellectually stimulating cinema. Its lasting impact on the science fiction genre and its exploration of timeless philosophical questions make it a true cinematic masterpiece.

3. Dunkirk

Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk is a harrowing and immersive war film that tells the story of the Dunkirk evacuation during World War II. The film eschews traditional war movie tropes, focusing instead on the visceral experience of the soldiers trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk, awaiting rescue. With its stunning visuals, intense sound design, and non-linear narrative, Dunkirk puts you right in the middle of the action, making you feel the fear, desperation, and hope of the soldiers fighting for their lives. Dunkirk is a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience that showcases Nolan's mastery of visual storytelling.

Dunkirk stands out as a unique and powerful war film due to its immersive and visceral approach. Nolan's decision to focus on the sensory experience of the soldiers, rather than a traditional narrative structure, creates a sense of immediacy and realism that is both captivating and unsettling. The film's stunning cinematography, combined with its intense sound design, puts the viewer right in the heart of the action, making them feel the fear, confusion, and desperation of the soldiers trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk. The non-linear narrative, which interweaves the perspectives of soldiers on land, sailors at sea, and pilots in the air, adds to the film's sense of disorientation and chaos. The performances are uniformly excellent, with a cast of both established stars and newcomers delivering authentic and emotionally resonant portrayals of the soldiers. Dunkirk is not just a war film; it's a cinematic experience that immerses the viewer in the harrowing reality of war, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll. Its innovative approach to storytelling and its powerful depiction of human resilience make it a true masterpiece of the war genre.

4. The Shape of Water

Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water is a beautiful and enchanting fairy tale for adults. Set in 1962, the film follows Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins), a mute woman who works as a cleaner at a high-security government laboratory. Elisa's life is forever changed when she discovers a captured amphibian creature and forms a deep and emotional connection with it. The Shape of Water is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that celebrates love, acceptance, and the beauty of the unconventional. With its whimsical atmosphere, memorable characters, and heartwarming story, it's no wonder this film won Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

The Shape of Water is a captivating and enchanting film that blends fantasy, romance, and social commentary into a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. Del Toro's masterful direction creates a world that is both whimsical and deeply emotional, drawing the viewer into Elisa's extraordinary journey. The film's stunning visuals, combined with its haunting score, create a sense of magic and wonder that permeates every scene. Hawkins delivers a tour-de-force performance as Elisa, conveying a range of emotions without uttering a single word. The supporting cast, including Octavia Spencer, Richard Jenkins, and Michael Shannon, add depth and complexity to the story. The Shape of Water is not just a love story; it's a celebration of diversity, acceptance, and the power of human connection. Its exploration of themes such as otherness, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what is right makes it a timely and relevant film that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Its lasting impact on the fantasy genre and its message of love and acceptance make it a true cinematic gem.

5. Call Me by Your Name

Luca Guadagnino's Call Me by Your Name is a beautiful and tender coming-of-age story set in the Italian countryside in the summer of 1983. The film follows Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet), a 17-year-old boy who falls in love with Oliver (Armie Hammer), a visiting American scholar who is staying with his family. Call Me by Your Name is a sensual and evocative film that captures the intoxicating feeling of first love, the beauty of the Italian landscape, and the bittersweet ache of summer ending. With its stunning cinematography, heartfelt performances, and poignant story, it's a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Call Me by Your Name is a beautifully crafted and deeply moving film that explores the complexities of first love, desire, and self-discovery. Guadagnino's direction is subtle and nuanced, allowing the story to unfold at a leisurely pace, immersing the viewer in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the Italian summer. The film's stunning cinematography captures the beauty of the Italian landscape, creating a backdrop that is both idyllic and sensual. Chalamet delivers a breakout performance as Elio, capturing the vulnerability, confusion, and exhilaration of first love. Hammer is equally impressive as Oliver, conveying a sense of confidence and warmth that draws Elio in. Call Me by Your Name is not just a romance; it's a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, family, and the search for meaning in life. Its honest and heartfelt portrayal of human connection makes it a film that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its lasting impact on the romance genre and its exploration of universal themes make it a true cinematic treasure.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! These are just a few of the amazing movies that came out in 2017. It was truly a stellar year for cinema, and these films are a testament to the creativity, talent, and passion of the filmmakers who brought them to life. If you haven't seen them yet, I highly recommend giving them a watch. You won't be disappointed! Happy watching!