Rachel LaBonte

By not giving into what might be expected from a typical immigrant story, Chung has given the material space to breathe on its own, creating a space that can be appreciated by all kinds of people. The cast shines, the story hits home, and Minari stands as a winner.

The Quiet Girl is an earnest depiction of family and unexpected connections that lingers long after the credits roll.

Led by two powerhouse performances, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom soars when it lets its stars shine, hitting the audience with a gut punch of emotions.

Nomadland might tell an unconventional story, but thanks to Zhao's careful hand and McDormand's performance, it will resonate with all audiences.

With an aching heart, lush visuals, and magnetic acting, Hamnet is undoubtedly one of the best movies of the year and will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Grief and trauma don't provide easy answers and The Fallout doesn't either. But it does take viewers on a poignant journey right alongside its heroine. It can be heavy, but it can also hold moments of humor and joy.

It's a testament to the care that went into this movie, the hard work of the cast and crew, and the power of the story itself that I left the theater both moved and inspired. This is a movie that will likely stick with me for some time, and I'm glad; I think it's not one that should be forgotten.

The animators bring this world to life with expert skill.

The Christophers trusts its two leads and their characters to guide the audience to its desired conclusion, and watching it unfurl is a rewarding experience.

As a character study, Blue Moon is imperfect, but its smart framing of a pivotal moment in Hart's life elevates it.

Poetic License has a classic sort of feel that makes it a very enjoyable watch. It keeps a good pace, mixes the heart with the hilarious, and spotlights an incredible collection of performers.

Alice, Darling is a respectful and piercing character study that also serves as an excellent showcase for Kendrick's talents.

Though it can't quite break out of the Disney mold, Encanto is greatly aided by a unique story, a delightful cast of characters, and a vital message.

Gordon and Lerman are both in great form, going a long way in carrying the somewhat problematic premise.

Led by a stunning Emma Mackey, Emily is a striking depiction of a woman embracing her individuality while crafting an iconic piece of literature.

She Rides Shotgun packs a punch — or, to use one of Nate's lessons for Polly, hits you like a baseball bat to the back of the head. The subplot with the local gang may be forgettable, but the father-daughter relationship will stick with you for a long time.

Scrap is ultimately an unflinching and sensitive portrait of a woman faced with the terrifying uncertainty of rebuilding her life. Though some of the harsher realities of being homeless aren't explored in much depth, and the ending is a touch too neat, Kerr crafts a compelling journey for us to go on, one that should linger after it's over.

Save for the tiniest of things, Wicked is a worthy screen adaptation of the musical, guaranteed to make viewers feel like they could defy gravity too.

Quietly immersive and poignant, Supernova excels as a showcase for leads Tucci and Firth, even when the story can't quite match them.

What Happens Later isn't without some hiccups in its execution, but with Ryan at the helm, it's impossible not to feel charmed.

Those willing to embark on Fremont's modest, gently heartbreaking journey will find themselves rewarded by what it has to offer.

Pixar's latest big screen adventure, Elio, is a big-hearted tale about friendship, family, and connection, and it will both delight and wreck you.

Bolstered by a star-making performance from Simu Liu, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings gets the MCU's newest hero off to a promising start.

Anchored by excellent lead performances from Ed Helms and Patti Harrison, Together Together is a charming crowd-pleaser with a lot of heart.

Led by a great Lesley Manville, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a delightfully wholesome film and the very definition of a "feel good" story.

The Harder They Fall is a crowd-pleasing and worthy addition to the Western canon that knows how to have a good time with a familiar story.

It's an absurd and stunning story, but it also holds such heart and authenticity that it feels deeply relatable.

Though messy at times, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is an impactful examination of grief aided by excellent character work and exhilarating action.