2023 Film Highlights: Must-Watch Thrillers, Animated Wonders, and Heartfelt Stories

1. Taget 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 2344, ID: 22507484
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Taget is a gripping South Korean thriller that dives into the treacherous world of online shopping, centering on Soo-hyeon, who unwittingly becomes the target of a psychopathic serial killer after reporting a faulty washing machine. The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to evoke real-world anxieties surrounding privacy and online scams, making it not just terrifying but also disturbingly thought-provoking.
2. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse 2023，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 390050, ID: 9362722
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Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is an animated visual feast that beautifully continues the journey of Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy. Through a mesmerizing animation style and an expansive multiverse, the film takes viewers on a ride alongside the two Spider-Men as they grapple with the choice between destiny and self-empowerment; it strikes a perfect balance between action, humor, and heartfelt moments, making it an essential watch for animation enthusiasts.
3. Barbie 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 558177, ID: 1517268
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Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig, is a gorgeous and subversive film that deftly combines humour, social commentary and visual feast. Margot Robbie plays Barbie, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery into the human world, becoming aware of her female identity and self-worth. The film explores themes of feminism, identity and social expectations through wit and charm.
4. John Wick: Chapter 4 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 344835, ID: 10366206
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John Wick: Chapter 4 is about John Wick’s final life-and-death battle to free himself from the underworld once and for all. To win his freedom, John must face a siege from all sides, including new powerful enemies and old allies. The film dazzles audiences with elaborate martial arts scenes, intense fights and stylised direction.
5. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 392140, ID: 6791350
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Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 serves as an emotionally charged and visually impressive conclusion to the beloved trilogy. The film follows the Guardians as they embark on a quest to save Rocket Raccoon, showcasing the stellar performances of the cast and accompanying it with a soundtrack that enhances the narrative perfectly.
6. Oppenheimer 2023，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 776360, ID: 15398776
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Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ is a masterful biopic that delves into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the internal turmoil and brilliance of the man. The film’s stunning visuals and intricate storytelling make it a standout in 2023, offering a profound reflection on the consequences of scientific discovery.
7. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 258054, ID: 9603212
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In Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt faces a mission of unprecedented danger as his team races against time to locate and dismantle a global network capable of wielding a mysterious weapon that could control the entire system. With thrilling chases, intense fights, and breathtaking aerial stunts, the film immerses viewers into a captivating world filled with intrigue and betrayal.
8. Killers of the Flower Moon 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 253496, ID: 5537002
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Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ is a haunting exploration of greed and betrayal in 1920s Oklahoma. Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro deliver powerful performances, bringing to life the tragic true story of the Osage murders. The film’s meticulous attention to detail and Scorsese’s masterful direction make it a compelling watch.
9. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 29300, ID: 9185206
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This heartfelt coming-of-age tale, adapted by Kelly Fremont Craig from Judy Blume’s classic novel, gracefully navigates the complexities of adolescence through the eyes of its main character, Margaret. As she grapples with her identity, faith, and relationships, the film presents a delightful mix of humor and sincerity, capturing the bittersweet essence of youth with compassion and understanding.
10. Past Lives 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 126389, ID: 13238346
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Celine Song’s ‘Past Lives’ intricately explores the lives of childhood friends Nora and Hae Sung, who reunite many years later, navigating their feelings as they confront both their past and present realities. Set against the backdrop of their meeting in the United States, the film poignantly examines the weight of unresolved emotions and life decisions, crafting an evocative and emotionally resonant masterpiece.
11. Speciale Cannes 2023 – Jeanne du Barry, Monster, Le retour, The First Slam Dunk, The mother 2023，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 27795640
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Jeanne du Barry, helmed by Maïwenn, attempts a striking yet emotionally lacking retelling of the life of Louis XV’s favorite mistress. Despite Johnny Depp’s return to the spotlight, the film struggles to fully engage audiences, with Depp’s subdued performance being the most notable aspect of the narrative.
12. Scream VI 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 122974, ID: 17663992
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‘Scream VI’ reinvigorates the iconic horror franchise with a fresh setting and inventive set pieces. Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the film follows the latest generation of Woodsboro survivors as they face off against Ghostface in New York City. The movie’s suspenseful sequences and clever nods to horror tropes make it a thrilling addition to the series.
13. Screener Squad: Palm Trees and Power Lines 2023，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 27113564
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Palm Trees and Power Lines presents the story of Rhea, a 17-year-old girl yearning for excitement in her monotonous life, who unexpectedly meets Tom, an older man. As Rhea becomes enchanted by his mature and caring demeanor, she finds herself drawn into an unequal and perilous relationship, ultimately confronting the harsh truth of manipulation that lurks beneath the surface, revealing the vulnerability of youth and the perils posed by adults.
14. Kuolleet lehdet 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 26667, ID: 21027780
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Kuolleet lehdet tells the poignant tale of two lonely individuals who find solace in each other while navigating the desolation of life in Helsinki. With a minimalist approach, the film balances humor and sentiment, offering a realistic yet hopeful perspective that highlights the belief that love can illuminate even the darkest of times.
15. Creed III 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 95157, ID: 11145118
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Creed III marks an important chapter in the coming-of-age journey of boxer Adonis Quady, who faces formidable professional trials as well as the shadows of his past. The re-emergence of his childhood friend Damien, fresh out of prison, brings forth intense confrontations and emotional turmoil, capturing Adonis’ quest for redemption and legacy while showcasing the tender bond he shares with his daughter.