Film Fad’s Top 4 Favorite Movies of 2015
Matt’s Picks
2015 was actually a lackluster year for me seeing the latest films. Dealing with school and with the ticket prices being so high, I really didn’t get the chance to head to the theaters too much in 2015. That all will change in 2016; I promise you that, but for now, here are my Top 4 favorite films of the year.
4. Dope
4. Dope
“Dope” was a snappy, well-written tale of a teenager, obsessed with 1990s hip-hop, who ends up becoming a successful drug dealer in the end. The film paid homage to several films from the 1990s, including one of my favorites, “The Wood.” I liked this film because of the protagonist’s journey and the script was fresh and fun. It’s not something I’d go out and buy on Blu-ray or give someone as a gift, but it’s perfect if you need a few hours of laughs and good storytelling.
3. Straight Outta Compton
3. Straight Outta Compton
As a fan of the album and someone who loves old school hip-hop, I truly enjoyed watching this film. I’m not the biggest advocate for the classic biopic storytelling structure, but it was awesome to see the stories of some artists I grew up with. Jason Mitchell’s performance was phenomenal, in my opinion, and I’m a little upset he wasn’t nominated for a Golden Globe, but the Oscars are still right around the corner. I do recommend everybody does see this at some point. You might get a little annoyed with some of the corny and ill-delivered dialogue, but the story’s themes and subjects are ones that should be recognized and understood by all generations in this day and age.
2. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
2. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
I’m like every other kid that grew up in the 90s: My parents showed me “Star Wars.” I fell in love. I saw the “Special Editions” two-times each in the theaters. I strongly anticipated the Prequel Trilogy. I strongly hated the Prequel Trilogy.
“The Force Awakens” was the “Star Wars” film we all deserved a long time ago. It was a solid story full of new and old characters, and it left us with plenty of room for the next two episodes. The only complaint I have about the film is Kylo Ren taking off his helmet so early in the trilogy. There’s probably a reason they did this and we haven’t seen it yet, but regardless of my complaint, the film is worth the $12 it costs to go to the theaters.
1. Spy
1. Spy
I was pleasantly surprised with “Spy,” and I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. It’s funny, action-packed, nostalgic, smart, and witty. You’ll be laughing from the first minute until the very last scene, and the best part is that Melisa McCarthy gets to TRULY show her acting chops in this one. She has found a niche as the “Ugly, Big Tomboy” that uses crude humor for cheap laughs. That was funny, to be honest, but only for the first couple of films, then it just got annoying. In this her character is sympathetic, innocent and headstrong, creating a nice change in McCarthy’s career outside CBS’ “Mike & Molly.” She leads you on a satisfying journey, all ending with a rather random cameo by 50 Cent (which made me roll my eyes). Regardless of that, “Spy” has been nominated for two Golden Globes: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actress – Musical or Comedy for Melissa McCarthy. It also deserves a nod for its screenplay, yet we can’t get everything we deserve these days. Check this one out and you won’t be disappointed.
