I know it’s over a month late, but now that I’ve finally finished reviewing last year’s Best Picture nominations, I figured that a good old-fashioned ranking was in order. While much of 2019 cinema didn’t stand out very much, it offered a surprisingly strong group of nominees, the best since 2016 I’d say. Even if some of them were not for me, several I loved, so I can’t wait to see what 2020 has in store (whenever this whole virus situation allows the movie industry to return).

 

9. The Irishman

Martin Scorsese’s gangster epic was more of a lackluster bore than a magnum opus.

 

8. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Quentin Tarantino’s love letter to classic Hollywood was too rambling for its own good, with an over-the-top bloody conclusion that left a bad taste in my mouth.

 

7. Joker

Timely and well-acted, this comic book villain movie was also nihilistic to an unsettling degree.

 

6. Ford v Ferrari

This real-life tale of two men and the expectation-challenging car they created hits most of the right feel-good notes; considering I’m not into racing films, it did its genre proud.

 

5. Parasite

The surprise Best Picture winner was a surprise to me as well, a twisty and perceptive thriller that I keep liking more and more.

 

4. Marriage Story

Brilliant performances highlight this devastatingly real depiction of divorce and how it brings out the worst sides in people.

 

3. Jojo Rabbit

Taika Waititi’s merger of hilarious quirk and scathing satire may be divisive but handles its balancing act to great entertaining effect.

 

2. Little Women

Wholesome in the best way, this oft-remade adaptation is a joy of a film, managing to combine both old-fashioned and modern sentiments.

 

1. 1917

I love tracking shots, so I was destined to love this film. Boasting both a compelling story and bravura direction, it’s a genuinely awesome feat of film-making.

 

What did you think of the Oscar nominees? Anyone else wish Avengers: Endgame had snagged a nomination? Feel free to comment with your thoughts!