Top 10 Movies of 2020 (So Far)
Top 10 Movies of 2020 So Far
Top 10 Best Movies of 2020
It’s been a rough year for theatres; but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been great movies. Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Movies of 2020 So Far. For this list, we’ll be looking at the best movies released this year, either in theaters or on streaming platforms.
#10: “Sonic the Hedgehog” (2020)
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Given reception to the blue blur’s original design, and the curse of the video game movie, it’s safe to say everyone’s expectations were fairly low for “Sonic the Hedgehog.” And that’s what made it such a delightful surprise. The family friendly adventure follows Sonic as he goes on the run from the vile Dr. Robotnik, who wants to harness his power. Ben Schwartz is the perfect voice for Sega’s mascot, cracking jokes almost as quickly as he moves. But it’s Jim Carrey’s manic performance as Robotnik that steals every scene. Sonic’s superspeed makes for some worthwhile action, and his charisma makes for an entertaining hero.
#9: “Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn” (2020)
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While “Suicide Squad” wasn’t exactly well received, Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn was an undeniable standout. So it was only natural to see her return to the role. Only this time, DC didn’t restrict her with a PG-13 rating. “Birds of Prey” sees Harley sucked into a war between an eccentric psychopathic crime lord and the women trying to take him down. The action sequences are sleek and brutal, the character dynamics often strained and hilarious. Ewan McGregor as the slimy, skin-crawling Black Mask serves as proof that he needs to be a villain more often. But more important is how “Birds of Prey” reminded moviegoers that Harley Quinn is a lot better off without the Joker.
#8: “The Assistant” (2020)
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If you’re looking for a taut psychological thriller that explores a familiar space, look no further than “The Assistant.” “Ozark’s” Julia Garner shines as Jane, a recently hired assistant at a powerful entertainment company. Following one day in her life, the film navigates workplace abuse, harassment, and sexism both subtle and overt. Coming in the wake of the #MeToo movement, it’s a deep dive down the rabbit hole of systematic oppression showcasing just how deeply rooted the problem is. Tension is palpable from the get-go and it’s kept at just the right level by up-and-coming writer/director Kitty Green.
#7: “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution”
Netflix has become a haven for excellent documentaries - and they’re not all about true crime. “Crip Camp” tells the story of Camp Jened and its handicapped campers in the early 1970s. With their disabilities came discrimination from others and the camp offered a refuge where they could be themselves. But the friendships that grew there led to genuine change in the country. From their days outdoors to their fights for civil rights, it’s hard not to be inspired by the film’s subjects. Their perseverance shows that change can come from anyone with the right amount of conviction and determination. And by the end, you’ll be wanting to look up your old camp friends.
#6: “Bacurau” (2020)
After the matriarch of a small Brazilian town passes, the residents begin to notice strange occurrences. Namely that their home vanishes from GPS maps, cell service stops working, and a UFO begins flying above. If that wasn’t bad enough, they’re also being hunted by a band of mercenaries. “Bacurau” is a fantastically absurd genre mash-up that preaches the strength of community in trying times. But instead of conveying that in a normal way, it goes all-out insane. And seeing just how strange it grows is what makes it a 2020 highlight. Western and Sci-Fi tropes crash into one another as hilarious amounts of gore fill the screen. Narratively and stylistically, it’s unlike any other movie this year.
#5: “Sorry We Missed You” (2020)
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This touching drama follows a UK family through financial struggles as patriarch Ricky gets a job as a self-employed delivery driver. It’s not the most exciting premise, but it is nevertheless relatable. The timely story analyzes and critiques the downfalls of capitalism and the gig economy. As we watch Ricky and his wife Abbie battle to stay afloat, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of familiarity. And director Ken Loach’s casting of relatively unknown actors makes it feel all the more realistic. By showing the negative effects of a financial system at a personal level, “Sorry We Missed You” guarantees compassion from its audience. But much like real life, don’t expect any kid gloves.
#4: “First Cow” (2020)
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A24 is one of the most revered production companies today. And teaming up with respected indie director Kelly Reichardt produced one of the most interesting movies of 2020. “First Cow” chronicles the friendship of a nomadic chef and a Chinese immigrant in early 19th Century America. The two go into business, baking cakes with milk stolen from a wealthy Chief Factor’s prized cow. It’s a small, simple story. But their search for glory and riches in Oregon Territory flawlessly captures the beginning of the American Dream. And there’s suspense throughout from the illegality of their operation. However, it’s the chemistry between John Magaro and Orion Lee that sells the story and builds a strong bond between characters from completely different backgrounds.
#3: “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” (2020)
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This tough coming-of-age drama follows the young Autumn as she deals with an unplanned pregnancy. Deciding to terminate, Autumn and her cousin Skylar travel to New York City. And what follows is a gloomy, engrossing story of strength in the face of unwavering uncertainty. The film excels at displaying how lonesome this situation can be for many young women. Newcomer Sidney Flanigan sinks into the role of Autumn, painting her as a fearful yet immensely caring character and giving one of the best performances of the year. Abortion is undeniably a hot-button issue, and “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” traverses it with supreme grace and respect for the women who must deal with it alone.
#2: “Bad Education” (2020)
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Movies intended for release on streaming platforms rather than theaters can sometimes get a bad rap. But HBO’s “Bad Education” stands tall among the best of them. Based on a true story, it follows a Long Island superintendent whose pristine school district is put into jeopardy when an embezzlement scam comes to light. The combination of a mundane setting, delicious scandal, and devious characters makes for a darkly comedic satire. And the terrific cast, which includes Allison Janney and Ray Romano, is firing on all cylinders. But it’s Hugh Jackman as the proud, lying superintendent trying to cover up the scam that truly shines. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “The Half of It” (2020) A Coming-of-Age Romance with an Interesting Twist on Character Dynamics “Emma” (2020) A Visually Stylistic Interpretation of Jane Austen’s Classic Comedy “Onward” (2020) A Life-changing, Magical Quest of Two Brothers & Their Deceased Father’s Legs “The Way Back” (2020) A Touching Drama About an Alcoholic Coach & His Downtrodden Basketball Team “Bad Boys For Life” (2020) The Boys Are Back For More Mayhem & Action
#1: “The Invisible Man” (2020)
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Universal has tried for years to remake its classic movie monsters. It turns out all it needed was a studio on a winning streak like Blumhouse and a passionate director like Leigh Whannell. The modern retelling follows a woman who escapes her abusive partner only for him to die, leave her a fortune, and begin terrorizing her invisibly. The film is bolstered by an intense, frantic performance from Elizabeth Moss as a woman pushed to the breaking point. But it’s also a lesson in how to use space and camera setups to produce fear. Because the threat can come from anywhere, not even empty rooms feel safe. And it leaves an underlying tension throughout the entire movie.
