What are the best films of 2018 so far?

It's hard to believe it's the last day of August. While we still have a ways to go until the Academy Awards, 2018 has had a strong start and thrown us a few films up for award contention with Black Panther opening the year, some great Indie films sprinkled in between the summer blockbusters, and a strong mid-point with films like BlackkKlansman closing out the summer lineup.

As we enter fall awards mania, you might want to catch up on some of these films that have been released this year so far...

Isle of Dogs

While stop motion might not be everyone's cup of tea, Wes Anderson delivers an unprecedented achievement in the genre to date and an endearing story to go along with it. Despite the controversy around Anderson's handling of the Japanese culture, the imagery alone is worth the watch.

A Quiet Place

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John Krasinski's directorial debut is nothing short of phenomenal. The marketing and trailers may have turned some viewers off because of the jump scares, but this film is so much more than the thriller/horror genre can contain. I can't say much more without spoiling it, but you'll just have to trust me and see the film. I promise it's not too scary :)

Mission Impossible 6: Fallout

I know, I know. It seems like six Mission Impossible movies is too many. Well, that's where you're wrong my friend. With the strongest offering to date, Fallout gives a thrill that reminds us why we go to the movies. As usual, Tom Cruise does most of his own stunts and the action sequences are phenomenal. But what makes this movie standout in the genre is the exceptional storytelling and continued development of a character we have come to know and love. Try to see this one in theaters if you can!

BlackkKlansman

SO many great conversations about the relationship between racism and our country's history have come from this film. Spike Lee handles these weighty topics with a deftness that only he can pull off and the performances, screenplay and direction all point to Oscar nominations. Go see this movie. Not just because it's an achievement in filmmaking, but because it's important.

Hearts Beat Loud

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Not many people saw this movie and it's a damn shame. Whoever said Ron Swanson...ehh.. Nick Offerman couldn't lead an Indie drama was mistaken. To be fair, I'm a sucker for music movies, especially ones with a good dose of coming-of-age tropes and family drama, but hey, I think this movie has something for everyone.

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Fred Rogers inspired a generation to strive for greater kindness and humility. Why wouldn't they make a movie about him? For those of us who grew up watching Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, it's hard to hold back the ugly cry while learning more about him. For anyone who wants to be inspired by a life and legacy that impacted a generation, this film is a must watch.

Death of Stalin

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Another film that flew under the radar, this movie, helmed by the creator of Veep is one of the best comedies of the past decade. The satirical humor might not be for everyone, but the physical comedy and performances are some of the best of the year. You don't want to miss it.

Incredibles 2

After a 14-year-break from adventures with the Parr family, the incredibles are back with an important message for our current cultural environment. The film subverts expectations and takes us on a wild ride in the process. Brad Bird delivers another animation classic for the Pixar vault.

Black Panther

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To say that this film had an impact is an understatement. One of the best received stories from Marvel to date, there's hope yet for more representation and diversity in the entertainment industry. The story is helmed by the supremely talented Ryan Coogler who continues to be a director to watch.

Eighth Grade

I wasn't initially interested in seeing Bo Burnham's feature directorial debut because the trailer alone was so full of awkward moments. I wasn't sure if I could sit through two hours reliving my middle school years. After finally accepting that the hype was real, I decided to catch a showing with a Q&A live stream with Burnham and the cast afterwards. This film is affecting and deftly executes on themes that anyone can relate to, regardless of whether you've been a 13-year-old girl or not. You can read my review over at Reel World Theology.

Leave No Trace

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I didn't find out until afterwards that this film is based on a true story about an actual father and daughter in Oregon. I watched this movie right before taking a trip to the area that serves as the setting for this story, which caused me to think about it long after viewing. You probably won't get to take a trip to Oregon, but Debra Granik's interpretation of the story will give you plenty to digest afterwards. 

Lean on Pete

While there weren't any major stunts or action sequences to get my heart rate up like Mission Impossible: Fallout, I still sat at the edge of my seat during this film about a young boy trying to find home. It's a beautiful story and not your typical horse movie. While the relationship between Pete and Charley is endearing, Charlie Plummer's performance ensures you'll ultimately feel invested in him and his well-being. This is a tough watch, but so worth it in the end.