End of 2023 Recommendations
As 2023 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time during the holiday season to catch up on the latest movies released throughout the year, especially those available on streaming services right now!
Surprise Streamable Hits and Originals
From unexpected titles already on streaming platforms to original streaming content, we will introduce you to eight films that have made a buzz this year, including those that made headlines and became the talk of the town.
Everything Everywhere All at Once
The story of “Everything Everywhere All at Once” follows an ordinary housewife, Evelyn, who suddenly becomes the savior of the world. The movie entails her battling across multiverses to save it, weaving a chaotic narrative with themes of “Multiverse x Kung Fu”. Despite its chaotic approach, the film snagged the Academy Award for Best Picture, stealing the show. The quirky visuals produced by the keen duo of directors known as Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert) and the interwoven human drama about family and love have matched well to create a quality piece of cinema.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
The legendary treasure hunter is back in “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” the latest and final chapter of the “Indiana Jones” series. In this installment, he races across oceans and skies, competing for a mysterious artifact called “Archimedes’ Dial”. The film is packed with excitement from its iconic theme music and thrilling adventure, topped off with a remarkable performance by the 80-year-old Harrison Ford.
Maestro: The Art of Music and Love
“Maestro” portrays the life of the legendary conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein, known for scoring films like “West Side Story”. This biopic highlights Bernstein’s glory and struggles as well as his love for his wife Felicia. Directed and led by Bradley Cooper, with Carey Mulligan playing Felicia, their performances are exceptional, unfolding a heartwarming story that will touch the audience deeply.
The Little Mermaid
The live-action film adaptation of the classic “The Little Mermaid” tells the story of Ariel, the mermaid princess with a beautiful voice who yearns for the human world. Driven by her love for the human, Prince Eric, she makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch, Ursula, to become human. The movie boasts visually stunning real-life and VFX representations of the underwater world, along with a remarkable acting debut by Halle Bailey as Ariel, bringing the Disney heroine to life magnificently.
The Fabelmans
“The Fabelmans” is the latest and autobiographical work of the renowned director Steven Spielberg. The film follows the story of a boy named Sammy who becomes entranced by filmmaking, capturing moments of dreams and a sparkling future with his 8mm camera. It is a human drama dedicated to everyone who harbors dreams, depicting the challenges, growth, and encounters along the way. The film also quietly evokes memories of one’s first venture into a movie theater.
Babylon
From the director of “La La Land,” Damien Chazelle’s newest work “Babylon” is similarly bewitched by the magic of cinema. Set in 1920s Hollywood during the peak of silent films, it portrays the industry’s opulence and the transition to the talkie era. The film resonates wildly with the ambitions and dreams of Hollywood, painting a fleeting yet beautiful picture of this magical era in film with stunning artistry and music.
Rebel Moon Part 1: The Child of Flame
Director Zack Snyder’s latest science fiction spectacle, “Rebel Moon Part 1: The Child of Flame”, unveils an epic narrative he has nurtured over many years. The protagonist, Kora, living on the outskirts of space, is faced with an attack by a dominating empire. She begins to gather allies across planets to retaliate, embarking on a grand battle for galactic supremacy. The movie promulgates an ambitious drama staged in the galaxy, reminiscent of “Star Wars” meets “Seven Samurai”.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The 3D animated film “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” has been a massive hit in Japan. With the beloved video game character Mario at its center, the film exceeds expectations, bringing to life various aspects of the Mario series we’ve all imagined. The narrative is fantastic, packed with elements and references adored by fans, such as the side-scrolling levels reminiscent of the original “Super Mario Bros.”, along with other franchise staples like Mario Kart and Donkey Kong, capturing the essence of Mario’s world.
Source: YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video