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  • Writer's pictureJack Aling

ESC's Top 10 Films of 2022 (So Far)


2022 is halfway done. Let's stop thinking about that and instead look back at the incredible year of cinema our eyeballs have been treated to. We've created our list of the ten best films of 2022 (so far) Don't bother looking at other lists on the internet - this is the only correct one. NOTE: This list is based on UK release dates.


Before we jump in, here are some Honorable Mentions that just missed the list:


Elvis


An unapologetic steam train of a film, this energetic look at the life of Elvis Presley puts the glitz and glamour on full display without hiding away from the tragic story underneath.


Cha Cha Real Smooth


Cooper Raiff's Sundance smash takes a uniquely charming look at coming of age with a refreshing and honest voice that brings comfort through collective aimlessness.


Flee


A poignant and unique perspective on the refugee experience, Flee uses its distinctive art style to paint the world in a way that is both beautiful and distressing in equal measure.


X


Packed with sex, gore, and a meta glint in its eye, X is a slasher film ripped straight from the 1970s, thrown headfirst into the 21st century through blood-soaked nostalgia.



Anyway, on with the list...


10) Jackass Forever

Jackass Forever is a comforting celebration of laughter that encourages an equal level of screaming, cheering, and retching.



9) Belfast

Finding safety amongst the bleak, Belfast is an important and heart-melting film that reminds us all of the exhilaration of childhood and the cliché that home is where the heart is. READ THE FULL REVIEW



8) Mass

A subtle and moving piece that puts to screen the pain that can not be put into words and the desperate need for emotional release. READ THE FULL REVIEW



7) Boiling Point

Over one continuous take, Boiling Point forces you to hold your breath and is a great reminder to tip your servers. READ THE FULL REVIEW



6) The Northman

The Northman feels like the stuff of legend. A tale on an epic scale that provides brutal and bloody escapism at its best. READ THE FULL REVIEW



5) Licorice Pizza

Lacking a traditional narrative, watching these characters adjust to their ever-changing surroundings is so comforting and easy to get lost in.



4) The Batman

The Batman is something truly special, flipping superhero expectations on its head, taking you on a gritty detective mystery with precise and masterful storytelling.



3) Top Gun: Maverick

Maverick gives Top Gun the narrative and structure that the original was missing, engrossing the audience in the stress and the thrill of the adrenaline-fuelled story. READ THE FULL REVIEW



2) The Worst Person in the World

Focusing on forgiveness and progression, not only of ourselves but those around us, The Worst Person in the World is a welcomed surprise that tells an unmistakably human story. READ THE FULL REVIEW



1) Everything Everywhere All at Once

A touching and hilarious film with large ambitions that seemingly pulled off the impossible with the limited recourses and budget it was given.

Everything Everywhere All At Once is our best film of the year (so far...)


What is your favourite film of 2022? Did it make our list? What have we missed?

Send us your recommendations on Twitter or comment below.



Join the discussion: Share your thoughts using #ESCfilmclub on Twitter. Share posts and stories using #ESCfilmclub on Instagram Review and discuss your thoughts by tagging ESCfilmclub on Letterboxd.

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