50 Best Movies of 2022: A Must-See List for Every Movie Fan

50 Best Movies of 2022: A Must-See List for Every Movie Fan

Every year is defined by a handful of movies that leave a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. 2022 was no different, with production houses from Hollywood to Bollywood churning out a diverse range of films. From indie dramas to blockbuster action flicks, there was something for everyone in 2022.

This essay will identify some of the best films of 2022, featuring movies from Hollywood and other parts of the world, including Europe and Asia. From thought-provoking dramas such as The Banshees of Insherin to edge-of-your-seat thrillers such as All Quiet on the Western Front, this list has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or simply looking for a great movie to watch, this list is sure to have something to catch your eye. So grab some popcorn and get ready to explore some of the best films of 2022!

1. Everything Everywhere All at Once

Everything Everywhere All At Once is a sci-fi action comedy that was directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert and has a stacked cast that includes Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Jamie Lee Curtis, James Hong, and Harry Shum Jr. among others.

Led by the incredible Michelle Yeoh, who is exceptional here too, Everything Everywhere All At Once lives up to its name. The movie has been described as a true work of genius by many critics and rightfully so.

It challenges storytelling in narrative films, with scenes often feeling like a somewhat pleasant fever dream. The movie truly stands out as one of the most unique and original movies to come out in years.

It follows Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a Chinese-American laundromat owner who is struggling to keep her business afloat and her family together. One day, Evelyn is suddenly thrust into a multiverse adventure, where she must learn to access the skills and memories of her alternate selves in order to save the world.

Along the way, Evelyn experiences everything from being a world-famous chef to a martial arts master to a sentient rock, yes you read that right, a rock!

2. Top Gun: Maverick

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Top Gun: Maverick (2022) is a must-see for any cinema. However, you are advised to first watch its prequel, Top Gun (1986).

The film follows Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise), a veteran Navy pilot who is called back to Top Gun to train a new generation of pilots for a dangerous mission. Maverick is a reckless outsider who pushes the rules to the limit, but he is also a brilliant pilot and a loyal friend.

The film’s aerial sequences are simply breathtaking. They are some of the most realistic and exciting flying scenes ever put on film.

The movie is shot in a way such that the audience feels like they are right in the cockpit with Maverick and his fellow pilots as they soar through the sky at supersonic speeds.

Besides the visuals, the film is brought to life by director Joseph Kosinski and a brilliant cast that includes Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm, Glen Powell, Lewis Pullman, Ed Harris, and Val Kilmer alongside the ever-brilliant Tom Cruise.

3. The Banshees of Inisherin

The Banshees of Inisherin is a comedy-drama written and directed by Martin McDonagh. It is a darkly comic masterpiece that stands as one of the best films of 2022, the perfect feel-bad treat if you will.

The movie has a relatively simple premise that acts as the movie’s saving grace in more ways than one. It is set on a remote Irish island in 1923 and follows two lifelong friends, who find themselves at crossroads, as their once-close bond is shattered by a sudden and unexplained rift.

Despite the simple premise, the movie is a true masterpiece. McDonagh provides a masterclass in suspense and character development, as he gradually unravels the layers of complexity behind the two men’s relationship.

The two leads, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, also put in award-worthy performances as the two friends, each struggling to come to terms with the loss of the other in their own unique way.

4. The Fabelmans

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Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age film. The film follows the journey of Sammy Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle), a young boy growing up in Arizona in the 1950s, who discovers his passion for filmmaking.

The film is loosely based on his journey into filmmaking and the emotion depicted in every frame is evidence of how personal the movie is to him. It is beautifully shot and directed, with Spielberg using all of his cinematic skills to create a truly magical experience.

Spielberg captures the joys and sorrows of childhood with such clarity and insight, and the film is full of moments that will stay with you long after you’ve seen it.

5. Nope

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Jordan Peele is slowly but surely making a name as one of the most brilliant directors and Nope is another brilliant production after Us (2019) and Get Out (2017).

Nope follows the Haywood siblings, OJ and Emerald who run a horse ranch in Agua Dulce, California. When they witness a mysterious object in the sky, they begin to investigate, hoping to capture evidence and make a fortune.

However, they soon realize that they are dealing with something far more dangerous than they ever imagined. Nope is a Sci-fi/horror thriller that is sure to get your blood pumping.

In this movie, Peele recruits Daniel Kaluuya, who also starred in Get Out, to star alongside the likes of Keke Palmer, Steven Yeun, Michael Wincott, Brandon Perea, and Keith David.

6. RRR

Perhaps the best Bollywood production of 2022, RRR is a glorious work of historical fiction. The key or operating word here is fiction.

This Telugu-language film was directed by S.S. Rajamouli who is also known for movies such as Baahubali. It presents a fictionalized account of two real-life Indian revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Komaram Bheem, who fought against the British Raj and the Nizam of Hyderabad in the 1920s.

RRR is a visually stunning film, with over-the-top action sequences, lavish musical numbers, and breathtaking cinematography. It is also a deeply moving story about friendship, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom.

The film’s two leads, Ram Charan, and N.T. Rama Rao Jr. deliver powerhouse performances. Their chemistry on screen is electric and is the heart of the film.

7. Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022) is a captivating and visually stunning stop-motion animated film that reinvents the classic tale of a wooden boy who longs to be a real boy. Unlike previous versions starring Pinocchio, del Toro’s is a darker and more complex take on the story, exploring themes such as grief, loss, and the nature of humanity.

The film’s protagonist is a charming and mischievous Pinocchio (voice of Gregory Mann), who is brought to life by the magical woodcarver Geppetto (voice of David Bradley) after Geppetto loses his son in a tragic bombing.

Pinocchio embarks on a journey of self-discovery, accompanied by his conscience, Sebastian J. Cricket (voice of Ewan McGregor), and the wise fairy, Cricket (voice of Tilda Swinton).

Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, both good and bad, including the greedy impresario, Count Volpe (voice of Christoph Waltz), and the sadistic podestà, Podestà (voice of Ron Perlman).

8. Avatar: The Way of Water

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The first Avatar film, created and directed by James Cameron, and released in 2009, was a groundbreaking success, grossing over $2.9 billion worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time. It was also praised for its groundbreaking visual effects and immersive worldbuilding.

In the wake of this success, there were rumors of a second Avatar film for many years. However, it wasn’t until 2022 that Avatar: The Way of Water was finally released.

Avatar: The Way of Water, also directed by Cameron, is set more than a decade after the events of the first film and follows Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) as they raise their family on the planet Pandora. However, their peaceful life is threatened when humans return to Pandora to mine for a valuable mineral called unobtanium.

9. All Quiet on the Western Front

If you love or at least appreciate anti-war films, then this is a must-watch for you! All Quiet on the Western Front (2022) is a German film based on Erich Maria Remarque’s 1929 novel by the same name.

It is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant depiction of the horrors of World War I, told from the perspective of a young German soldier named Paul Bäumer (Felix Kammerer).

The movie does not shy away from showing you the dark side of war. It begins with Paul and his classmates enlisting in the army with patriotic fervor.

However, the young men quickly realize just how incredibly brutal and deadly trench warfare is. Paul witnesses firsthand the death and destruction that war brings, and he struggles to maintain his humanity in the face of such unimaginable suffering.

All Quiet on the Western Front is also a beautifully made film. The cinematography is stunning, and the performances are all excellent. Kammerer is particularly good as Paul Bäumer, and he convincingly conveys the character’s journey from an idealistic young soldier to a hardened veteran.

10. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is a 2022 American mystery film written and directed by Rian Johnson. It is the sequel to Johnson’s 2019 film Knives Out and features an ensemble cast led by Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, and Ethan Hawke.

The less that is said about the movie’s plot the better as it relies on misdirection and mystery heavily. However, the movie follows detective Benoit Blanc (Craig) who is invited to a private Greek island by billionaire Miles Bron (Norton) to participate in a murder mystery game.

However, when a real murder occurs, Blanc must use his skills to unravel the mystery and expose the killer. For those who already watched 2019’s Knives Out, there may be some similar elements.

However, credit to Rian Johnson as he tries his best to avoid repeating the same tricks.

11. The Batman

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When it was announced Robert Pattinson, was the new Batman, not many gave him a chance and the criticism was loud. However, with the first trailer, Robert Pattinson won over fans of the dark knight and many couldn’t wait to meet his Batman.

This iteration of the infamous DC Comics hero takes a fresh and unique approach to our hero’s story. Directed by Matt Reeves, The Batman is set in a Gotham City that is as corrupt and crime-ridden as ever.

The film’s cinematography is simply breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the city skyline and claustrophobic close-ups of Batman’s gritty investigations and action scenes.

The film is supported by its wonderfully talented cast that includes Robert Pattinson, Zoe Kravitz, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, and Andy Serkis.

12. The Northman

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If you’re looking for powerful storytelling, visceral action, and stunning visuals, then The Northman is your 2022 go-to movie. Director Robert Eggers, known for his atmospheric and unnerving horror films, does a great job in crafting this truly epic and immersive experience with The Northman.

The film tells the story of Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), a Viking prince who witnesses the murder of his father and is forced to flee into exile. Years later, Amleth returns to his homeland to avenge his father’s death and reclaim his birthright.

The film was hailed by many critics for not conforming to modern norms of storytelling and for Eggers sticking to his guns and delivering an immersive epic that transports you to the world it is set in.

13. The Woman King

Starring the ever-glorious Viola Davis, The Woman King is an action-packed historical epic about the Agojie, a regiment of female warriors in the Kingdom of Dahomey that fascinatingly really did exist.

The film is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and stars Viola Davis as General Nanisca, the Agojie’s legendary leader. Davis gives a wonderful performance, as expected, as Nanisca, a woman who is both fierce and compassionate.

She is a warrior who has seen it all, but she is also a mentor to the younger Agojie warriors and a protector of her kingdom.

The story of the Agojie is not a famous one but the director and the cast bring the story wonderfully to the big screen. It is definitely a 2022-must-watch.

14. Three Thousand Years of Longing

Three Thousand Years of Longing, directed by George Miller, can only be described as a bitter-sweet modern take on the fairytale of the djinn in a bottle.

The film stars Tilda Swinton as Alithea Binnie, a narratologist who specializes in stories about wishes gone wrong. While attending a conference in Istanbul, Alithea accidentally unleashes a Djinn (Idris Elba) from a bottle.

The Djinn offers Alithea three wishes in exchange for his freedom, but Alithea is hesitant to make a wish, knowing the risks involved.

The Djinn convinces Alithea to listen to his stories, and he recounts his three thousand years of captivity and the many wishes he has granted over the centuries. Alithea is drawn to the Djinn’s stories, and she begins to question her own beliefs about love, loss, and the power of stories.

Three Thousand Years of Longing is a film that defies easy categorization. It is a love story, a fantasy adventure, and a meditation on the power of storytelling.

15. Athena

Assemble lovers of French films! Directed by Romain Gavras, Athena is a French action-thriller film starring Dali Benssalah, Sami Slimane, and Alexis Manenti.

The film tells the story of four brothers of Algerian origin living in the banlieues of Paris. After their youngest brother is killed by the police in unclear circumstances, the brothers take up arms and lead a violent uprising against the police and the state.

With a captivating story, Athena also has incredibly stunning visuals of the riots not to mention the amazing action sequences of the duels between the authorities and the rioters.

The film is shot in a very kinetic and fluid way, with long single takes and elaborate tracking shots. This gives the film a real sense of energy and immediacy, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience for the viewer.

16. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

Since his first appearance in Shrek 2, Puss in Boots has always been a fan favorite. This led to the development of spinoffs with him as the lead; hence the Puss in Boots film series was born.

The first was Puss in Boots (2011), which was followed by a short film titled Puss in Boots: The Three Diablos which was released in 2012.

2022’s Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is the recent release from the series. It follows our titular feline hero, Puss (Voiced by Antonio Banderas), as he embarks on a perilous journey to find the mythical Last Wish, which could restore one of his lost nine lives.

Along the way, Puss must confront his own mortality, learn to value his friendships and embrace the softer side of himself. While Puss is his charming and hilarious self, the film’s standout performance comes from the villain Death, also known as the Wolf.

As the name suggests he is the embodiment of death and as fans of DreamWorks productions will tell you, he is among the best animated villains.

17. Tár

After a 16-year break from filmmaking, director Todd Field announces his return with this musical drama film starring Cate Blanchett. Cate plays the role of Lydia Tár, a world-renowned conductor of a German orchestra who is on the verge of a major breakthrough.

However, as she prepares to record a new version of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, Tár begins to unravel, both personally and professionally. Tár is a mesmerizing and provocative exploration of power, abuse, and the creative process.

It is also a stunningly beautiful film, with lush cinematography and a haunting soundtrack. Blanchett’s performance is one of the best of the year.

18. Thirteen Lives

Thirteen Lives (2022) is a gripping and suspenseful retelling of the real-life rescue of a Thai soccer team and their coach from a flooded cave system.

Directed by Ron Howard and starring Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell as two of the British cave divers who played a pivotal role in the rescue, the film is a testament to the power of teamwork and the human spirit.

From the opening moments, Thirteen Lives plunges viewers into the claustrophobic and dangerous world of cave diving. The film meticulously recreates the conditions faced by the divers, from the murky and treacherous waters to the tight and twisting tunnels.

The performances by Mortensen and Farrell are both understated and powerful, and they convincingly convey the expertise and courage of the divers.

The film also does a masterful job of conveying the urgency and complexity of the rescue operation. With the boys and their coach trapped deep inside the cave system, the divers had to race against time to develop a plan to get them out safely.

19. Bullet Train

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Bullet Train (2022) is a must-see action comedy that is sure to get you laughing out loud. Directed by David Leitch, the film stars Brad Pitt as Ladybug, an unlucky assassin who boards a bullet train in Japan to complete a simple mission.

However, he soon learns that he is not the only assassin on board and that they are all after the same target.

From start to finish, the movie is a wild ride with great line delivery, hilarious dialogues, and over-the-top action sequences you expect from an action blockbuster like this.

The film is made even better by the cast of eccentric characters that include Joey King, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Andrew Koji, Hiroyuki Sanada, Michael Shannon, Benito A. Martínez Ocasio, and Sandra Bullock.

20. Hustle

Hustle is a heartwarming and inspiring story about a down-on-his-luck basketball scout who discovers a once-in-a-lifetime talent in Spain. It stars Adam Sandler as Stanley Sugerman, a former college basketball player who is now working as a scout for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Stanley’s job is to travel the world and find the next great NBA prospect, but he’s been struggling lately. After a failed scouting trip to China, Stanley is on the verge of being fired. But then, he gets a tip about a talented Spanish player named Bo Cruz (Juancho Hernangómez).

His luck seems to have changed but there are more on the way as the pair try to maneuver a tough industry. Hustle stands as one of the best sports films in recent years.

21. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

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Following the success and buzz brought about by Marvel’s Avengers Saga, fans wanted and still want to see more. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022) is the second film about the Marvel character Black Panther.

It is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that pays tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, while also moving the franchise forward in new and exciting ways.

The film follows the people of Wakanda as they mourn the death of their king, T’Challa. They must also grapple with the threat of a new enemy, Namor the Sub-Mariner, who is determined to protect his underwater kingdom from Wakanda’s advanced technology.

22. Babylon

Babylon (2022) is a wild and intoxicating epic film that chronicles the rise and fall of multiple characters during Hollywood’s transition from silent to sound films in the late 1920s. The film tells the story of early Hollywood in its most decadent and deprived nature.

From drug use to sex parties, Babylon has it all! Directed by Damien Chazelle it stars an ensemble cast that includes Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Diego Calva, Jean Smart, Jovan Adepo, and Li Jun Li.

The film follows a diverse cast of characters, including a fading silent film star (Pitt), a young aspiring actress (Robbie), a Mexican immigrant who becomes a successful executive (Calva), and a black musician who is struggling to break into the industry (Adepo).

As the film progresses, we see these characters navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood, dealing with the challenges of the new technology, the cutthroat competition, and the rampant racism and sexism of the era.

23. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Yet another Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) entry on this list. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a 2022 American superhero film, the second based on the Marvel Comics character Doctor Strange.

The film is directed by Sam Raimi, and stars Benedict Cumberbatch who reprises his role as Doctor Strange, alongside Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Rachel McAdams.

In the film, Doctor Strange must team up with a teenager with the ability to travel through the multiverse, to stop Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch from destroying every universe in her quest to reunite with her children.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a visually stunning film with stunning special effects and action sequences. You will appreciate how perfectly Raimi toes the line between Dramatic scenes and horror.

24. Bodies Bodies Bodies

The A24 brand is increasingly becoming infamous for producing cult classics and Bodies Bodies Bodies is being hailed as another in what is becoming a long list.

Bodies Bodies Bodies is a slasher comedy film directed by Halina Reijn. It follows a group of wealthy twenty-somethings who become trapped in a mansion during a hurricane party and decide to play a murder mystery game, which goes horribly wrong when someone is actually killed.

It is a Gen-Z-targeted ‘whodunit’ mystery film that is as entertaining as it is suspenseful. The film also has a stacked cast that includes Amandla Stenberg, Maria Bakalova, Pete Davidson, Myha’la Herrold, Rachel Sennott, Chase Sui Wonders, Lee Pace, and Rachel Zegler.

25. Sonic the Hedgehog 2

As the name suggests, this is the sequel to the 2020 film Sonic the Hedgehog and the second film in the Sonic Cinematic Universe. It is an action-comedy animation film based on the Sega video game character of the same name.

The film follows Sonic and his new friend Tails as they find themselves as Earth’s last line of defense against Dr. Robotnik and his new ally Knuckles the Echidna.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is a fun and exciting film for all ages. It is packed with action, humor, and heart. The film’s story is simple but effective, and the characters are all well-developed and likable.

26. Enola Holmes 2

Enola Holmes 2 is a delightful and captivating sequel to the 2020 hit, Enola Holmes. Millie Bobby Brown reprises her role as the titular character, the younger sister of the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill).

In this installment, Enola takes on her first official case as a detective, investigating the disappearance of a young girl from a match factory.

As she delves deeper into the case, Enola uncovers a web of deceit and corruption and must use all of her wit and skills to solve the mystery and protect herself and her loved ones.

27. The Adam Project

The Adam Project, directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Reynolds, Walker Scobell, Jennifer Garner, and Mark Ruffalo, is one of those feel-good family-centered sci-fi action-adventure films.

The movie follows a time-traveling pilot who teams up with his younger self and his late father to save the future.

The film is perfectly paced, with exciting action sequences, hilarious comedy, and genuine emotional moments. The performances are all excellent, with Reynolds and Scobell having particularly great chemistry as the two versions of Adam.

28. Decision to Leave

Decision to Leave is a South Korean neo-noir romantic thriller. This groundbreaking film is a police procedural movie and surprisingly might be the best and most romantic movie of the year 2022.

It is a visually stunning film with a complex and suspenseful plot, and it features two outstanding performances from Park Hae-il and Tang Wei.

The film follows Hae-joon (Park Hae-il), a detective investigating the murder of a wealthy Chinese businessman. The prime suspect is the businessman’s wife, Seo-rae (Tang Wei), but Hae-joon is drawn to her mysterious beauty and enigmatic demeanor.

As he investigates the case, Hae-joon finds himself increasingly falling for Seo-rae, and the lines between duty and desire begin to blur.

29. Crimes of The Future

Crimes Of The Future is a 2022 science fiction body horror film written and directed by David Cronenberg. It stars Viggo Mortensen, Léa Seydoux, and Kristen Stewart.

The film is set in a dystopian future where human evolution has accelerated, leading to the development of new organs and body parts. Mortensen and Seydoux play a performance artist duo who showcase their body transformations to audiences.

Stewart plays a government agent who is investigating the duo’s work. Crimes Of The Future is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film with a captivating plot that explores themes of art, evolution, and the body.

The film is not for the faint of heart, as it contains some graphic and disturbing scenes. By disturbing we mean just that, disturbing!

However, it is a rewarding experience for viewers who are willing to embrace Cronenberg’s unique vision.

30. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed

In a year full of great cinema, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed stands out. It is an epic documentary that chronicles the life and work of artist and activist Nan Goldin, whose intimate photography and searing slideshows have captured the beauty and pain of the human experience for over four decades.

Goldin’s work has always been deeply personal, but it has also become increasingly political in recent years. In 2017, she co-founded the advocacy group Prescription Addiction Intervention Now (PAIN), which has been campaigning to hold the Sackler family accountable for their role in the opioid crisis.

The movie, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, which is directed by Laura Poitras, creates a powerful and moving portrait of a woman who has used her art to make a difference in the world.

This is one whose influence goes way beyond filmmaking and entertainment. It will stay with you long after you’ve seen it and will invoke some reflection of how the world works from you, the viewer.

31. Elvis

Are you a fan of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, or at least curious about his story, then this is a must-watch for you! This Baz Luhrmann biopic is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that tells the story of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame and his tragic downfall.

Austin Butler gives a star-making performance as Elvis, capturing the singer’s charisma, talent, and vulnerability. Tom Hanks is also excellent as Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis’s manipulative manager.

The film is a feast for the senses, with Luhrmann’s signature maximalist style on full display. The music sequences are particularly electrifying, and the film does a great job of capturing the energy and excitement of Elvis’s live performances.

32. Women Talking

Women Talking is a movie that is well, about women having a conversation. However, this is an excessive simplification as there is so much more to this wonderfully made production.

The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Miriam Toews, which was inspired by a real-life case of sexual abuse in a Mennonite community in Bolivia.

The film tells the story of a group of women who gather in a hayloft to discuss what to do after it is revealed that they have been drugged and raped by some of the men in their community.

The women come from different backgrounds and have different beliefs, but they are united in their desire to find justice and safety for themselves and their children.

Mostly set in the hayloft, this movie is a deeply moving production about women’s rights and social justice.

33. Hit the Road

Hit the Road is a 2022 Iranian road movie written and directed by Panah Panahi, the son of acclaimed filmmaker Jafar Panahi. The film follows a family of four on a road trip across the Iranian countryside, with the unspoken purpose of helping the eldest son emigrate from the country.

Hit the Road is a beautifully made film, with stunning cinematography and a captivating score. But it is also a deeply moving and thought-provoking film, that explores themes of family, loss, and hope.

The film’s four central performances are all excellent, with Pantea Panahiha and Hasan Majuni particularly shining as the parents. The two young actors, Amin Simiar and Rayan Sarlak, are also very good, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of their characters.

34. Kimi

Kimi (2022) is a Steven Soderbergh-directed tech thriller. It’s a timely and relevant film that explores the dangers of surveillance technology and the power of big tech companies.

The film follows Angela Childs (Zoë Kravitz), a tech worker who suffers from agoraphobia. She works from home for a company called Amygdala, which develops a voice assistant called Kimi.

One day, while reviewing audio recordings for Kimi, Angela hears a violent crime being committed. She tries to escalate the issue within the company, but she is met with resistance.

Angela then decides to take matters into her own hands and investigate the crime herself.

Kimi is a suspenseful and thrilling film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Soderbergh’s direction is masterful, and he creates a sense of claustrophobia and paranoia that perfectly reflects Angela’s experience.

35. X

No, this has nothing to do with Elon Musk’s X. X is a 2022 American slasher film directed by Ti West and written by Ti West and Mia Goth.

The film stars Goth, Jenna Ortega, Martin Henderson, and Brittany Snow with an appearance from Kid Cudi. It follows a group of young filmmakers who set out to make an adult film in rural Texas in 1979, but are soon targeted by a mysterious killer.

The film’s slow-burn pace and isolated setting create a palpable sense of dread, and West’s use of sound and camerawork is masterful.

36. Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood

One of the most captivating and interesting movies of 2022 is Richard Linklater’s Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood. A rotoscoped animated film, Apollo 10 ½ is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story set in Houston, Texas in the summer of 1969, as NASA prepares to launch the Apollo 11 mission to the moon.

The film follows Stan (voiced by Milo Coy), a ten-year-old boy who dreams of going to space, and his family and friends as they experience the excitement and wonder of the Apollo program.

37. Corsage

One of the most captivating films of 2022 was Corsage, a fictionalized account of a year in the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Directed by Marie Kreutzer and starring Vicky Krieps in a mesmerizing performance, Corsage is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of female agency, beauty, and aging.

Krieps’ Elisabeth is a complex and contradictory figure. She is both a symbol of beauty and grace and a woman trapped by the expectations of her time and social status.

As she approaches her 40th birthday, Elisabeth begins to question her role as empress and her own sense of self. She rebels against the strictures of court life, seeking solace in nature, art, and philosophy.

38. Barbarian

Barbarian is a must-see for every movie fan, regardless of their favorite genre. It is a masterful horror film that subverts expectations at every turn, delivering a truly terrifying experience.

The film follows Tess (Georgina Campbell), a young woman who arrives at an Airbnb late at night, only to find that it is already occupied by a stranger named Keith (Bill Skarsgård). Despite their initial awkwardness, the two decide to share the house for the night.

However, as Tess explores the house further, she begins to uncover its dark secrets and soon realizes that she is in grave danger.

39. This Place Rules

Andrew Callaghan’s This Place Rules is a captivating documentary that embarks on a cross-country road trip to capture the pulse of a divided America in the tumultuous year of 2020. You might be familiar with Callaghan as the creator of the popular YouTube channel Channel 5.

Callaghan’s unflinching and often hilarious lens captures a wide range of individuals and groups, from QAnon conspiracy theorists to white nationalist rallies to Burning Man attendees.

Along the way, he explores the roots of political division, the rise of misinformation, and the impact of social media on our society.

A HBO special, This Place Rules is a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the state of America today.

40. She Said

Some critics have labeled it as an Oscar-bait production, but She Said is a definite must-see nonetheless. It is a powerful and harrowing account of the New York Times investigation that exposed Harvey Weinstein’s decades of sexual abuse.

Starring Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan as Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, the film unflinchingly depicts the challenges and sacrifices that the two journalists faced as they uncovered the truth and the courage of the women who came forward to speak out against Weinstein.

She Said is more than just a procedural thriller; it’s also a moving and inspiring story about the power of journalism and the importance of holding powerful people accountable.

41. Lucy and Desi

Lucy and Desi (2022) is a captivating documentary about the unlikely partnership and enduring legacy of one of the most prolific power couples in entertainment history: Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

Directed by Amy Poehler it features interviews with Lucie Arnaz, Bette Midler, Carol Burnett, and other luminaries. The film explores the duo’s personal and professional lives, from their humble beginnings as struggling actors to their rise to stardom with the groundbreaking sitcom I Love Lucy.

42. Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist

Jeffrey Beall, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Manti Te’o’s football career seemed promising. However, this was until a covert online relationship drove his life and career into a tailspin.

2022’s Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist is a Netflix film that tells the incredible true story of Manti Te’o, a Notre Dame football star who was catfished by a woman named Lennay Kekua.

Te’o and Kekua had an online relationship for several years, but she was actually a fictional character created by Ronaiah Tuiasosopo, a transgender woman.

When Te’o learned that Kekua wasn’t real, he was devastated. The story made national headlines and Te’o was ridiculed by the media and the public.

43. The Sea Beast

The Sea Beast is a 2022 American computer-animated fantasy adventure film directed by Chris Williams and produced by Netflix Animation Studios. The film stars Karl Urban, Zaris-Angel Hator, Jared Harris, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Dan Stevens, and Kathy Burke.

The Sea Beast tells the story of Maisie Brumble (Hator), a young orphan girl who stows away on a ship of legendary monster hunters led by Jacob Holland (Urban).

When Maisie befriends a young sea beast named Red Bluster, she must work with Jacob to save Red from the hunters and challenge the world’s view of sea monsters.

44. Prey

Prey (2022) is a thrilling and suspenseful sci-fi action film with a strong female lead, stunning visuals, and a unique setting.

The film is set in 1719 and follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a young Comanche woman who dreams of becoming a hunter. When a mysterious and technologically advanced predator arrives in her territory, Naru must use all of her skills and cunning to protect her people and her way of life.

Prey is a refreshing return to form for the Predator franchise, with a stripped-down plot and a focus on character development.

45. Vengeance

Vengeance (2022) is a darkly comedic thriller that takes a unique look at the intersection of true crime and social media. The film follows Ben Mandell (BJ Novak), a self-absorbed New York podcaster who travels to West Texas to investigate the death of his younger brother, Ty.

Ben quickly finds himself out of his depth in the unfamiliar culture and landscape, but he’s determined to get to the bottom of Ty’s death. Along the way, Ben meets a cast of colorful characters, including Ty’s girlfriend, Abilene (Issa Rae), and her family and friends.

He also learns more about Ty’s life in Texas and the secrets that he was keeping from his family and friends.

Vengeance is a sharp and witty film that explores themes of grief, loss, and justice. It’s also a scathing critique of the true crime industry and its obsession with voyeurism and exploitation.

46. The Bad Guys

The Bad Guys (2022) is a hilarious and heartwarming animated film that is sure to please audiences of all ages. The film follows a group of notorious animal criminals, led by Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), as they attempt to go straight.

However, when they are framed for a crime they didn’t commit, they must work together to clear their names and prove that they are not as bad as everyone thinks.

The characters are all incredibly expressive and lovable, and the film’s humor is both clever and accessible.

47. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

Remember Nicolas Cage, well who could really forget? In this action comedy, Cage stars alongside Pedro Pascal. He channels his iconic characters as he’s caught between a superfan and a CIA agent.

Nicolas Cage is a fictionalized version of himself, who is struggling financially and professionally, and accepts a $1 million offer to attend the birthday of a wealthy Mexican superfan (Pedro Pascal).

Cage soon finds himself caught up in a web of espionage and danger, and must rely on his acting skills and his own personal history to survive.

One of the things that makes The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent so special is its self-awareness. Cage is not afraid to poke fun at himself and his career, and the film does a great job of balancing humor with heart. A definite must-watch!

48. Triangle of Sadness

In 2022, Ruben Östlund’s Triangle of Sadness became one of the most talked-about films of the year, winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and racking up critical acclaim.

The film is a savage satire of the super-rich, following a group of wealthy tourists on a luxury cruise that capsizes, leaving them stranded on a desert island with the crew members who previously served them.

Östlund’s film is a darkly funny and thought-provoking exploration of class, privilege, and the human condition. It is also a visually stunning film, with sweeping cinematography and elaborate set pieces.

The cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Harris Dickinson, Charlbi Dean, and Woody Harrelson.

49. Beast

Beast (2022) is a thrilling survival thriller directed by Baltasar Kormákur and starring Idris Elba. The film follows Dr. Nate Samuels (Elba), a recently widowed American who returns to South Africa with his two teenage daughters to visit the wildlife reserve where his wife met her death.

However, their journey turns into a nightmare when they are stalked by a massive rogue lion. Beast is a visually stunning film, with breathtaking cinematography that captures the beauty and danger of the African wilderness.

The action sequences are also incredibly well-choreographed and suspenseful, with Elba delivering a powerful performance as a father desperate to protect his children.

50. The Menu

This is one you’ve probably seen or heard of on social media. The Menu is a 2022 American dark comedy horror film directed by Mark Mylod and written by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy. It stars Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, and Hong Chau among others.

The film follows a young couple (Taylor-Joy and Hoult) who travel to a remote island to eat at an exclusive restaurant helmed by a renowned chef (Fiennes). However, as the evening progresses, the guests realize that they are in for a night they will never forget.

2022 was a great year for Cinema. We got blockbusters such as Top Gun: Maverick and Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness to captivating indie films such as Everything Everywhere All at Once and The Banshees of Inisherin.

However, this list only has 50 titles, and rest assured, 2022 does not have just 50 movies. There are many that have not made the cut and perhaps deserved to. However, some tough decisions had to be made.