Best Movies of 2017
Happy New Year from Parent Previews.
As 2017 passes away, the staff at Parent Previews takes a moment to remember some of our favorite films from last year.
Favorite Dramas
Darkest Hour This bio-drama about Winston Churchill’s first month as Prime Minister in the UK impresses with a strong script and amazing performances. Make-up so incredibly transforms Gary Oldman into this historical figure that you won’t even recognize him!
Dunkirk World War II surrounds you with this strongly crafted film that is more of an experience than a story. It depicts the retreating Allied forces on the beaches at Dunkirk, France.
War for the Planet of the Apes This movie is the third in the rebooted Planet of the Apes franchise. All the scripts in this series are impressive, and this one is particularly so. It explores the essence of humanity – which is more evident in the apes than the humans. Andy Serkis gives an exceptional performance as the digitally-created character Caesar, and Woody Harrelson is chilling as the cold-hearted Colonel.
Favorite Musical
The Greatest Showman This musical about the life of P.T. Barnum (played by Hugh Jackman) will have you singing, dancing and cheering for the underdogs in this circus spectacular.
Favorite Action Movies
The LEGO Batman Movie The more ironic side of Batman’s loner personality comes to life in LEGO bricks. And as the Dark Knight learns lessons about the importance of friendships and teamwork, your little bats will too.
Spiderman: Homecoming Despite so many remakes of this character, Tom Holland plays a convincing Peter Parker (AKA: Spider-Man) who is trying to get the hang of the superhero thing. Not only does the teenager learn a thing or two about the wisdom of experience, he also presents a good role model for similarly aged viewers.
Wonder Woman Female empowerment brings a touch of kindness to the chaos of mankind in this superhero film starring Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman.
Favorite Animations
Boss Baby This silly-but-sweet animation shows the challenges of adapting to a new addition to the family with a good dose of humor and imagination.
The Breadwinner Based on a young adult novel, this Canadian/Irish co-production tackles the tough subject of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan in a sensitive way, making it accessible to teen audiences. The creative animation implies enough details to make the serious of the situation apparent, without making it too disturbing.
Coco Pixar brings its usual charm to the screen in this animation that celebrates the multiple generations in a Mexican family. Music and a trip to the land of the dead make it both fun and adventurous.
Loving Vincent This murder mystery, based on the life of Vincent Van Gogh, features a brand new animation technique: It is done in oil painting! If you love this famous artist, you may be just as impressed by this master piece of a film.
