Top 5 Movies of 2014 (As of Sept. 18)

Editor's Note: I have not seen all the movies that came out this year. Listed here are the movies that I have seen.

Summer is over and, let's be honest, there were some amazing movies this year. Below, I have listed the best movies this year in my opinion (and I highly recommend watching them)!

#5. Guardians of the Galaxy

Already the highest-grossing movie of the year, Guardians of the Galaxy is also one of the greatest movies this year. The script is well-written, each character having their own complex-yet-simple personas, and they are well-played by the actors. It's also well-directed and just all around fun to watch!

#4. Edge of Tomorrow

Yet another sci-fi flick makes it into my list, and what better choice for fourth place than Edge of Tomorrow? It's a time-loop thriller done right, with pitch-perfect pacing, edge-of-your-seat action, a fair amount of complexity and twists, and great lead characters portrayed by great actors!

#3. How to Train Your Dragon 2

A children's movie making the list? What sorcery is this?! I'm not sure, but there is no doubt that writer and director Dean DeBlois has crafted an amazing sequel and a beautiful animated adventure. The script is fantastic, perfectly balancing the light-hearted humor for the kids with a story that anyone of any age would enjoy.

#2. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Another sequel/sci-fi flick. This was the year for it, I guess. Anyways, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a thrilling, of not intriguing, adventure. The morals and messages ring loud and proud throughout this well-scripted and well-directed movie. It has the best pacing I've seen in all the movies this year, neither ending too soon or too late. And the story itself is so good, I just had to buy the novelization (which I hope to read soon)!

#1. Boyhood

If you have seen Boyhood, then you shouldn't be surprised to see it as my number one choice for Movie of the Year. Following the story of a boy for a real twelve years, Richard Linklater masterfully weaves a dramatic tale about growing up. It is a long movie (nearly three hours), but it goes by quickly, like life.

Do you agree with the list? What are your top picks for Movie of the Year? What's your favorite movie of the year? For me, the answer is The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Not the best movie, I know, but it's still my favorite!

Comments

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Kevin Lau

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