Yesterday, I gave my worst of 2023, so now, let’s review my favorite movies of 2023. These films have outstanding craftsmanship, groundbreaking performances, and thought-provoking narratives. While every movie here won’t get Oscar gold, they are the ones I enjoyed most in 2023.

Honorable Mentions – Spiderman : Across The Spider Vers, Rustin, The Iron Claw, Killers of the Flower Moon, Poor Things, Leave the World Behind, Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning, Joy Ride, Maestro and May December

10: A Thousand and One – Teyana Taylor leads this heart-wrenching drama with her star-making performance from Teyana Taylor, which would have received awards buzz in a less crowded year.

9: Air – Ben Affleck directs and co-stars in this enjoyable drama about Michael Jordan’s historic shoe deal with rock-solid acting work from the likes of Matt Damon, Chris Messina, Jason Bateman, Viola Davis, Marlon Wayans, and Chris Tucker.

8: They Cloned Tyrone – John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris join forces in this enjoyable comedic sci-fi romp.

7: The Burial – Jamie Foxx makes another appearance on the list for this crowd-pleasing courtroom drama. Who knew hearing Tommy Lee Jones sing a Tony Toni Tone classic would be so much fun?

6: The Holdovers – Alexander Payne returns to form with this enjoyable holiday drama featuring award-worthy performances from its trio of lead actors.

5. Barbie – Who knew a film about a doll would be so relatable to both men and women trying to find their place in the world? America Ferrara’s monologue alone is worth the price of admission.

4: Origin – If there is any studio that dropped the ball on promoting a film for Best Actress, its Neon with this one. Aunjanue L. Ellis-Taylor always brings her A-Game, and she elevates her character to a career-best performance.

3: Oppenheimer – Another masterclass in directing from Christopher Nolan that combines popcorn entertainment with enthralling performances.

2: The Color Purple – A bold new take on a beloved classic that stands on its own with an Oscar-worthy performance from Danielle Brooks.

1: American Fiction – In a less crowded year, Wright, overdue for Oscar Gold, would undoubtedly be a front-runner. Any melanin writer or creative will find something they can relate to in Wright’s performance. Furthermore, director and writer Cord Jefferson is an emerging talent, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.