Re-Porter Blog: 2022 Year End Special

Welcome to the final hours of 2022. After 12 months, 365 days, 52 weeks, and 525, 600 minutes, we are just a few steps away from entering 2023. This year came with a lot. Some good and some bad. In terms of movies, the same can definitely be said. So much transpired on the big screen this year that was too big to ignore. While this year was eventful, next year looks….you know what, I’ll save it for tomorrow because it is truly something. But for now, let’s end this year right with our year-end close-out special that includes my top 5 films of 2022. Let’s get the ball rolling. 

Two of the year’s biggest blockbusters brought a tidal wave of aquatic thrills. From underground skirmishes to air and sea battles and so much more, audiences were soaked with adrenaline with little time to dry off.

We are truly living in the age of the multiverse. Several high-profile films showcased the possibilities of the world of endless possibilities. Whether it’s variants of people you know or the same person in the same place at the same time. The line between worlds has been blurred…with even more on the horizon. 

It would be an understatement to say that these two films took their sweet time manifesting. Top Gun Maverick and Avatar The Way of Water were both TBD for decades until they both were finally released to the public. Maverick became one of the year’s most celebrated films while The Way of Water reminded everyone why James Cameron is great at what he does. It may have taken a while to get these flicks, but it looks like the wait was worth it. 

Before We Get To My Top 5, Here are My Honorable Mentions/Runner-Ups For The Year

 As the first standalone Batman movie since Christopher Nolan’s trilogy, Matt Reeves’ The Batman had a lot riding on its shoulders. Luckily, an engaging story that leans heavily into the mystery and crime element made this the most authentic Batman movie that showcased the caped crusader as a full-fledged detective. While the future of the larger DC film verse continues to have uncertainty, it’s nice to know that this version of the dark knight seems to be in good hands moving forward. 

Growing up can be a real pain. But try growing up knowing every time you show emotion you turn into a giant, fluffy red panda, Pixar’s coming-of-age comedy delivered on the laughs and the heart. A feel-good movie about accepting who you are and the joy of embracing your “wild” side. 

The untold story of one of the most decorated African-American pilots in Naval aviation history, Devotion is a clear example of why knowing your history is so vital. Top-tier performances from Jonathan Majors and Glenn Powell make this biopic required viewing for anyone who understands that knowing history will help shape the world into what we know it’s capable of being.

The definitive origin story of the man who inspired one of Andy’s most treasured toys, Lightyear was a fun and vibrant animated adventure that added new layers to the character that we’ve known for 2 decades years. A story we never thought we needed but one we enjoyed nonetheless. 

A lot of conversations occurred around this movie upon release. The expectations and the high bar set by Ragnarok made Taika Watiti’s second Thor outing a tall task out of the gate. But despite it all, Thor Love and Thunder ended up being wild and crazy filled with action, emotion, and plenty of screaming goats. A rockin' good time that makes the ride worth the bumps in the road.

And now, I present my TOP 5 FILMS FOR THE YEAR 2022

Strange's Witching Hour 

There was a lot of mystery & speculation surrounding the second solo outing of Dr. Stephen Strange. Despite all that surrounded the project, the film ended up being a wild chase through the multiverse that could offer a glimpse into what is in store for the future of the current MCU saga. With genuine horror vibes, a fun new hero character, and one of the best villains in the MCU, Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness delivered a frightful thrill ride with plenty of scares and emotional depth. One can only imagine what is in store for Strange and company on the road ahead.

Behind The Scenes Footage

Maverick Rides Again 

I’m not sure what more can be said about one of the most exhilarating pieces of cinema this decade. The long-awaited sequel to the beloved 80s classic paid homage to the original while surpassing it in so many ways. Top-notch cinematography, adrenaline-induced action, and heartfelt emotion made this one of the crown jewel films of 2022. The return to the danger zone was everything we wanted and more. 

Behind The Scenes Footage

Warriors of Dahomey

Powerhouse movies with powerhouse performances aren’t uncommon in the cinematic landscape. But when one comes along that makes such an impact, it’s impossible to ignore. Gina Prince-Bythewood brought us an intense historical epic led by an electric performance from Viola Davis that is sure to be one of the best of her career. Full of grit, emotion, and tense action, The Woman King is a film that has all the ingredients to be an engaging showstopper. 

Behind The Scenes Footage

For Chadwick

The world is still reeling from the devastating loss of Chadwick Boseman. The hole that was left by him is still felt to this day. Crafting a sequel to the acclaimed 2018 MCU film was already a tall order made even more emotionally challenging without the former leading man. But despite it all, Ryan Coogler and company managed to persevere and craft a second installment that honored Boseman’s legacy while securing its future. Black Panther Wakanda Forever was an emotionally heavy film, but it was also therapeutic in helping us deal with the grief and loss of someone who meant so much to us. All while still delivering awesome action, a compelling villain, and new characters to grow within the later stages of the MCU. A love letter to a passionate and talented actor who without him, we would never have the privilege of calling Wakanda home.

Behind The Scenes Footage

Water Works

I think we can all agree that the wait for James Cameron’s sequel to his 2009 science fiction epic was well…long. Years of technological innovation and world-building caused delays and setbacks on a film built up to be just as cinematically game-changing as the first. 13 years later, I’m happy to say that the wait was worth it. Brimming with even more impressive visuals including next-level and industry-defining underwater performance capture, white-knuckle action sequences at every turn, and emotional stakes that greatly surpass its predecessor, Avatar The Way of Water is a tidal wave of adrenaline that shows that this franchise has the tools to be a box office powerhouse moving forward. With so much more of this story to tell, I’m confident that Cameron will “Sivako”(rise to the challenge) and create a saga that will resonate with audiences for years to come.

Behind The Scenes Footage

And with that, 2022 is over and out. This year gave us a lot but as I said before, the best is yet to come. Wanna see why? Come back tomorrow on Day 1 of 2023 to find out. Have a safe NYE and see ya in the new year.