It goes without saying that Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi is the most anticipated film event of 2017, but it also goes without saying that the newest instalment in the legendary sci-fi space opera franchise is going to be sold out in theatres worldwide when it first hits the big screen.
With that in mind, what’s a Star Wars fan to do when you can’t get tickets to a screening right away? Go see other movies, of course – and there are great ones still playing, at that. Here are our picks for 5 movies you should tide yourself over with until you finally get to see The Last Jedi.
5. Blade Runner 2049
One of the most visually stimulating and complex movies of 2017 is still in theatres, at least for now. Despite underwhelming box office numbers, the sequel to the influential 1982 sci-fi cult classic is not to be ignored, whether through its gorgeous visuals, its direction courtesy of Sicario and Arrival’s Denis Villeneuve, or the performances of Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford (in a reprise of his role in the original). It may lack the excitement or the full-on action of the Star Wars franchise, but Blade Runner 2049 still has the sci-fi themes and layered but tight storytelling Star Wars fans crave. It’s a spectacle very much worth witnessing, if you still can.
4. Lady Bird
Okay, so this film couldn’t be further from the realm of Star Wars-esque movies, but it’s a worthwhile watch nonetheless if you’re into poignant coming-of-age stories about adolescence and fractured parental relationships. The directorial debut of indie darling actress Greta Gerwig has already earned all kinds of plaudits from critics and awards shows alike, including hardware from the Gotham Awards and National Board of Review. Perhaps best of all, the film has earned the distinction of being the best-reviewed movie in Rotten Tomatoes history with 191 positive reviews, topping the record previously set by Toy Story 2 (163 positive reviews). With the mother-daughter duo of Laurie Metcalf and Saoirse Ronan getting rave reviews, expect Lady Bird to be a serious contender this awards season.
3. The Shape of Water
If you’re fascinated by the sea just as much as space, this is one you’ll want to watch. This fantasy drama flick about a mute employee at a government laboratory getting well-acquainted with a humanoid sea creature is a worthwhile watch in terms of storytelling, cinematography, and sheer entertainment value. Critics have already deemed the film as del Toro’s best since his 2006 film Pan’s Labyrinth, and praise has particularly been given to del Toro’s directorial vision as well as Sally Hawkins’ powerful lead performance. It’s more within the sci-fi/fantasy realm that Star Wars fans love than other films on this list, with the high critical praise to back it up with.
2. The Disaster Artist
Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, this is a must-see comedy if ever there was one. Starring James Franco as The Room mastermind Tommy Wiseau during the making of his much-maligned (but much-beloved at the same time) cult film, this movie is sure to rake in significant box office returns on top of a sea of praise from critics – not to mention possible Oscar nominations, to boot. Already winning hardware at precursor awards ceremonies like the Gotham Awards, The Disaster Artist is both a hilarious and emotional look into the making of possibly the worst movie ever put to film.
1. Thor: Ragnarok
They often say the third movie in a franchise is the worst one, but don’t tell that to fans of Thor or the MCU in general. Helmed this time by acclaimed Kiwi director Taika Waititi, the third instalment in this superhero franchise is considered to be the best and most exciting in the Thor trilogy, with its combination of witty humour and intense action sequences on top of a colourful universe making it an incredibly fun and enthralling theatre experience. If you want all the things in a movie the Star Wars franchise can give you – and possibly more – Thor: Ragnarok is your one-way ticket to cinematic heaven.
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