So…2019? A rather interesting year, don't you think? I can’t say things were much of an upgrade, but nor a downgrade. Trump is still banging around in The White House, which will come to a hopeful with the Presidential primary election in November. Meanwhile, 16 year-old Greta Thunburg leads the courageous and active fight against the rise of climate change. The rate of mass shootings continues, though in slightly decreased numbers, and same-sex marriage is being made lawful and ever more equal throughout the world. The year rather felt as though it was positioned somewhere, all between recovery, enjoyment, prediction, preparation, and limbo. It’s all good though. Every year has it’s own moments, and in light of recent pages from modern history, I'd actually say things went pretty well, in more ways than one. My only polite complaint might be the offbeat Christmas vibe this year. That was really weird (if you felt it too, you understand precisely). But again, things are cool, things are fine.

While I could go over some of the landmark moments and into the further steps humanity has taken in these past years 10 years, as I certainly would, I am going to keep my eyes set on the “prize" I have created for you readers today (or at least let's hope it’s something that good). Quick note, different from previous years of my partaking in the grand 'end of the year piece', I have taken time this year to rank my top 10 films in order from great to even greater, which in and of itself might have been more difficult than writing the actual reviews (just grueling).

But being an annual concluding piece for 2019, along with thousands of writers and critics alike, a very profound significance lies with this particular piece. As you might have guessed, late tonight, a mere minute ’til midnight, we will be walking into the new decade of 2020. Now in case you're accusing me of romanticizing the notion of this new year, just know that I probably am (only because I'm finally at an age where I'm cognizant, and actually care to think about things such as this). Anyway, let’s tend to the business at hand. 

This is my curation of the most fascinating and eyeopening cinematic works of this year. I expanded into the slightly grittier, darker film scene in this passing year (there were some great ones), while still retaining the great delight I find in the noisiest or most absurd adventures and comedies. Another quick note, I was glad, as well as tickled, to discover that Barack Obama had a strong curation of his own favorites this year, posting a list of his top movie picks for 2019 on Twitter, thus beating me to the punch of it all. Fascinating grouping of films though, and makes the former president all the more interesting, informed, and just dude!

Any movie you don't see featured in this list is the simple product of editing, contempt, and just the plain fact that I didn’t reach every title on my checklist, sadly (The Lighthouse, The Lion King, Hustlers. I’ll comeback for you. I promise.). Anyway, no further procrastination shall hinder our course. With further adieu, here are some of of the best films of 2019.

The Cinematic Catch:

10. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

Directed by J.J. Abrams

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I was hoping to get a full piece out of this film, maybe another time. J.J. Abrams returns to direct to the Star Wars family to direct this film, that picks up a year after the dismal events of the The Last Jedi (pertaining to the stakes, not quality). 

We watch as the dedicated duo of Finn and Poe (John Boyega and Oscar Isaacs) fight on the frontlines for The Resistance, while Rey (Daisy Ridley) strives to complete her Jedi training under Resistance Leader, Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher). With numbers painfully dwindling, the Rebellion against The First Order, led now by Supreme Leader Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), has reached a critical point where careful strategy is key to conserving their losing troops, supplies; a fighting chance. But when sudden intel from an enemy defector leads them to the mysterious discovery of Exegol, the hidden world of the infamous Sith Order, this finding reveals itself as the next step forward, and their only option. So with this this initiative giving one final chance to put an end to the dark regime, Rey, Poe, and Finn, along with friends, new and old, set off to locate a rare wayfinder leading to the ancient planet of the Sith. But with a persuasive Kylo still calling out to Rey to join him, as the last of the Jedi, she must resist the urge to darkness, and endure the painful truths to once again, bring balance to the force. The fate of the universe hangs in the balance.

I actually took a bus all the way to Houston to attend a Star Wars Marathon, showcasing all 9 films of relevance in order over a 21-hour span, eventually leading up to this 9th and final episode in the Skywalker Saga. Like any kid did, I always dreamed of having a lightsaber, and using the force to righteous ends, like levitating food towards my mouth, or making chores just a little bit easier. The scale of design in these films never ceases to astonish me (as I mentioned in my review of the Disney+ spinoff adventure, The Mandalorian). Anyway, through this sleepless, but wonderfully continuous view, I was able to contextualize the true significance and placement of Star Wars in pop culture, cinematic innovation. This is a near flawless tie-up to a story stretching over 40 years, and despite some pretty extreme story leaps, made itself a thrilling and emotional ride. Go watch.

Star Wars Episode IIX: The Rise of Skywalker is currently playing in theaters near you.

9. Toy Story 4 

Directed by Josh Cooley

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The folks at Pixar bring us this delightful fourth chapter to the toy franchise, as pals Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), and the rest of the lovable gang embark on a final adventure that will keep you laughing, but mostly crying all of the way down.

The group of ‘playthings’ now live with their new kid Bonnie, and have enough adventures around the house to keep them busy. But shortly after creating a new friend/toy at art class, Forky (a frail spork played by Tony Hale), Bonnie is surprised with a exciting roadtrip. So, toys included, the fun bunch set out to accompany their owner, for a vacation that has something fun for everybody

One fateful night on the road though, a stubborn Forky escapes this new life as a “toy", believing his only true purpose is to go back to the origins of his short-lived existence: the garbage can. So, Woody jumps out alone into the dark to retrieve Bonnie’s goofy new friend, as Buzz and the rest of the gang scramble after him to find their cowboy before it's too late. But on their return back to a perfect life of play, Woody and Forky run into an old and unexpected friend: Bo Peep (Annie Potts); a much more intrepid personality than the dainty sheperdess we once knew. Torn between his past, and considering what the future holds for him, our brave sheriff, encountering gangs of menacing dolls, a noisy, maze-like carnival, and new goofy characters (with voices lent by Jordan Peele, Keegan Michael-Key, and Keanu Reeves), confronts all of the history he and his friends been through, and is faced with a decision that will change his life forever.

In just a short amount of time, this “fourqel” takes us through all of the motions of the entire saga (stretching nearly 25 years) surrounding Woody, the friendships he has created in his journey, and his eternal fear of being a forgotten and alone without, inside his fleeting, but dedicated responsibility to care for his kid. And though this may not be a better conclusion to the story than [Toy Story 3], Woody’s character arc becomes so beautifully enhanced in ways I could never have imagined, making for another addition to this narrative that I don't mind welcoming with open arms. For these characters, as well as audiences of all ages, this is a sincere and delicate denouement of one of Pixar’s best. To infinity and beyond, I say.

Make sure to check out my complete review of Toy Story 4 here, available on digital and DVD.

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8. Ad Astra 

Directed by James Gray

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Right away, I have to say that this one of the most visually astounding films of this year, and also ranks as a best all timer for audiences who love astronomy, are fascinated with discovering the unknowns of our galaxy, and, yes, watching Brad Pitt, of course. Our journey begins with an intro to Roy Mcbride (an accomplished astronaut played by Brad Pitt). Early into our journey, Mcbride is given a sudden briefing that reveals the interstellar location of his surviving father (Tommy Lee Jones), long thought lost to the stars. This sends our courageous character on an galactic voyage to retrieve his castaway dad from the distant orbit of Neptune, and, hopefully, establish a connection he was never given the chance to grow.

James Gray’s combination of the elements of action, suspense, and drama make for a very balanced and intriguing story that works great in ways both seen, and hidden. This serves as an intimate character study, successfully achieved through our entrapment with Mcbride in a vessel that travels through, and contrasts, the surrounding expanse of infinity. But one of the real propellors of this work lies with a sheer awe, inspired by incredible visuals of our universe, and humanity's realistic interaction with, and advancement into, the heavens above (yup... airport on the moon). The story moves slowly, but doesn’t reach any moment of boredom. I can't stress nearly enough the breathtaking scale and persuasion of fine realism in this movie (reigniting some of the Kubrick visions of old), as it nicely, but subtly clashes with profound themes of fatherhood and spirituality throughout. In my mind, it shall remain a very tip-top entry in the beloved genre of the "space adventure".

Check out my full review on Ad Astra here, available on digital and DVD.

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7. Us 

Directed by Jordan Peele

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Being the explosive opener for the SXSW Film Festival earlier this year, Jordan Peele returns for a second helping of success, following his breakout directorial debut in 2016 with the race-themed social thriller, Get Out. Not a sequel, but an alternate societal dystopia all the same, Us introduces audiences to the Wilson Family, as they endeavor with great excitement on summer vacation to a beach, filled with food, boats, and a carnival. Bundles of fun for everyone, though Adelaide, the matriarch of the family (played by Lupita Nyong’o), does not share in the congenial eagerness, as a dark memories of that beach veil over creep back into unsettling view. Her fears are brushed off by the her husband though, Gabe (Winston Duke), and, soon arriving, they continue to have a wonderful day under the comforting beams of the sun. That night at home though, they awake to the sound of something outside in their driveway; an eerie-masked family all clad in red. Quickly revealing themselves to be unfriendly, the group overtakes the family, now holding them as hostages in their own home. But by the flickering light of the fire, the hair-raising intruders take off the masks to unveil the horrifying reality that each of the villains is a twisted doppelgänger of one of the family members. So begins the exhilarating story of the Wilson Family’s survival, as they try to outsmart the clan of slashers identical, not only in appearance, but in thought. 

This film sets its own rightful success, aside from its predecessor [Get Out], as it takes fascinating liberty with the concept of: instead of some distant threat or thug, what if your biggest enemy is actually much closer than you suspect: your own self? Peele, not only manages to scare the daylights of viewers with unsettling (but stupendous) cinematography, crazy characters, and atmospheric gut punches, but to give the audience great comedy alongside suspense (like a fine salad). I found myself cringing with anxiety and fear, while also chuckling generously at scenes that, traditionally, might have no place. But then again, this is no traditional work. This is a treacherously enjoyable film, that succeeds in fooling and scaring you around around each turn, and delves into a unique concept and truly artistic and enthralling execution. A whole door has been opened now, and we can defiantly hope for a sequel.

Check out my full review of Us here, available on digital and DVD.

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6. Marriage Story 

Directed by Noah Baumbach

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This ‘dramedy’ from writer and director Noah Baumbach (The Squid and the Whale, The Meyorwitz Stories (New and Selected)) follows the humorous and lovable relationship between married duo Charlie and Nicole (played by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson). Both working together in the theatre scene of New York (one as a director, the other as an actress), and sharing an imaginative young boy, Henry (Azhy Robertson), the two reflect and contrast each other in ways that make their pairing a quirky, but delightful bit of destiny. But when dysfunction begins to rear its long-due head in the happy family, compromises and efforts are made, until things ultimately boil down to the very last resort: divorce. So, each assuming lawyers of their own choosing (both played by Laura Dern and Alan Alda), Nicole and Charlie begin to start the whole process by splitting assets and housing and such, until talk of custody over Henry comes to the table. Mixes of love and fear, stirred by the antagonistic legal sides, send the two into a much unwanted feud, that starts with the overall well-being of their son, but expands to show the audience a mere view of the deep bond that’s been cultivated between them.

Rather than having two diametrically opposed parties, Baumbach shows that a divorce doesn’t automatically define a situation between a battlefield and a horror story. Through any fight or friction (of which there are many natural deposits throughout) that take place between them, Nicole and Charlie really do show the strength of their very honest chemistry, and that is a key aspect in what glues us to the course of these characters. It's a surprisingly tender story that, as well as dealing with the nitty gritty of a separation, shows the obscure realities of what life after legal breakup is like for their family, and how they manage to navigate this new chapter of life. The writing in this film is absolutely superb, as we are given a grounded, yet loose view of people and circumstances reacting in funny, as well as heartbreaking ways. Yet another impossible film to sum up in such little time, so make sure to read my fuller review below from my visit to the Telluride Film Festival earlier this year. A truly wonderful film.

Check out my full review of Marriage Story here, currently streaming on Netflix.

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5. Joker 

Directed by Todd Phillips

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This is film is one of the more profound entries on this list. In a stellar performance from Joaquin Phoenix, we meet the tragedy in life that is Arthur Fleck. An aching individual in a cruel world, Arthur suffers from a lifelong case of clinical depression, as well as a disorder that causes uncontrollable laughing in its subjects. Our character has been forever cast down by society in the unforgiving, crime-ridden scene of Gotham City (a sort of bizzaro image of New York in that era. But with one brutal and life-changing event, Arthur comes to the realization that he can, and will, no longer be bullied, or ridiculed, if “action” is taken. A dark and spellbinding course, Arthur Fleck takes a life full of abuse and betrayal, and begins to adopt a new personality; a new smile that he now wants the world to know 

I can't tell you how affected I was by this film. Alongside being beautifully shot, written, and visually and audibly prepared for this story, Todd Phillips’ work laid a real heaviness on my shoulders. My inclination towards using compassion was ceaselessly tested, and the mere notion of this hurting character was enough to make my stomach turn. But in spite of these difficult pills of we have swallow in our modern, it is a pretty fantastic and uniquely gritty film. Other supporting talents include Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz as they navigate this dark urban journey. It is a defining testament to the profound dramatic abilities of Phoenix, and serves as a long awaited tale behind the iconic, chuckling super villain we all know in one way or another. This is Joker.

Read my full review of Joker here, currently available on digital and DVD.

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4. I Lost My Body 

Directed by Jeremy Clapin

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I have long admired and delighted in animation, as a distinct platform for artists to showcase their visions in near flawless faith and homage. So my love for this visual art form was only greatly enhanced with this fascinating tale from director Jerémy Clapin and writer Guillame Laurant (Amelie). Winning the Nespresso Prize at the Cannes Film Festival’s Critics’ Week earlier this year (being the first animated feature to receive the honor), this story follows a severed hand’s magnificent and immersive journey as it crawls its way through the rooftops and slums of Paris, all in an effort to reunite itself with its the rest of its being. Through an array of flashbacks and memories we discover that this adventurous extremity belongs (or belonged) to Naoufel (Dev Patel), a young man whose career as a pizza delivery boy is coming to a failed close, and is in desperate need of a radical event to change his destiny. We focus keenly on the linked narratives of our character and his isolated hand, as either subject strives to both bestow and search for truth in a variety of manners, all in the hopes that they may once again be complete.

One of the first things that strikes me after watching this movie, aside from the breathtaking animation in series with delicate music, is the sense of pondering observation that the story and protagonist reflect in one another. Throughout Naoufel’s life, a mix of childlike wonder and curiosity has led him to seek out the more uncommon and peculiar in this world; recording the sounds of the spinning squeaks of a globe, watching the passing trees in a speeding car; basically the micro discoveries of which are rarely given thought or credit by the average individual. This creative spirit, in whichever of our character’s pursuits, was always accompanied and aided by the use of his hands. The, now severed, right specimen of the two represents a living reminder of this bright history, and desires to serve as a subsequent cue to the wandering, lost soul of its owner.

Another idea that is perfectly instilled into the film is that of fate, and the possibility of shifting the course already. An ominously alert house fly presents itself constantly throughout the film. The insect symbolizes the difficulty faced to Naoufel as he has repeatedly tried and failed to seize his gloomy life’s story by its elusive wings. In the face of this negative view, another concept arises to stimulate all minds: what can we do to change our blueprints, if indeed it isn’t just the mere appearance of control we are fed.

Sadly, there isn’t enough time to talk about the film in its entirety, but I was amazed by all connection between the story, dialogue, and visuals, all of which prove incredibly thought provoking. All of these factors culminate to define this work as an essential watch to any connoisseur, animator, or movie goer who loves a riveting adventure that also manages to be a sweet piece of poetry.

I Lost My Body is currently streaming on Netflix.

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3. The Irishman

Directed by Martin Scorsese

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From cinematic mastermind Martin Scorsese, comes this riveting experience, where we delve into the treacherous, mafia-ruled scene of New York City in the 50s. We closely follow the life of sturdy truck driver Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro), as he is quickly taken under the wing of one the most powerful figures in the mob world, Russell Bufalino (Joe Pesci). Together, through stealing, dealing, and killing, they make their eventful way to working with controversial union leader Jimmy Hoffa (an great influence in America at the time), and continue to pursue success and money, against the forces of everything, from The Kennedy Family, to rival gangs. But living a rich life by means of crime, must come with some price. Right?

Scorsese never ceases to amaze me with his profound and scholarly understanding of this visual art form; a view I believe won’t ever be repeated quite this way. If I’m actually looking, I really can’t find any problem with this film at all. The music was perfectly matched, as well as the flawless set design and time period dressing. The pacing of this 3 1/2 hour story does not approach any slows, and carries itself in such confident and vivid fashion, that gives an overall intimacy with this character’s world (very similar to the gripping events that take place in Uncut Gems). In spite of some of the criticism it has received (e.g, not really presenting any notable women to the overall story), The Irishman exists in 210 minute glory for the sole and simple purpose of faithfully portraying this timeless story of family and friendship in the shadow of master crime (no one person), and is another fantastic staple in Scorsese’s undeniable and iconic filmography.

The Irishman is currently streaming on Netflix.

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2. Uncut Gems 

Directed by The Safdie Brothers

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Making its grand premiere at the Telluride Film Festival earlier in the year, this crime-suspense-mixed mutt of thriller from the Safdie Brothers makes itself immediately known through searing action and gripping drama that will render you ever-faithful to the story, as well as your poor armrests. Taking the main stage of this story is middle-aged New York jewelry dealer Howard Ratner (played stunningly by Adam Sandler). He is an incredibly noisy and persistent businessman, but in spite of that, we begin to see he is very successful and persuasive by his "refined” traits. But with a great view of this rich and connected life, we are also introduced to his much more failed role as a husband (to Idina Menzel’s fed up character, Dinah) and father, as he has consistently chosen work above everything else throughout life. But family ties aren’t the only thing bent out of place, as Howard secretly faces a towering debt, alongside those who are tired of yielding to empty promises of return. So with intent to make due amends for financial follies and familial neglect, we watch as Sandler’s character sets off on a harrowing urban journey to make everything just right again.

The story moves in such swift and consistent strides that you are left nearly breathless in the midst of turmoil. And (similar to Joker) our sense of empathy for the the characters drift back and forth in reaction to the fateful number of choices made, for better or for worse. Entrapped in the dark and gritty perspective of our Howard Ratner, we are shown some of the worst sides in people (greed, jealousy, spite, dishonesty). But in this gallery of horrible happenings, and in whatever genre we perceive these to reside in, we are really left open only to see the good in others and in the world. Anyway…prepare for one electrifying ride of a lifetime!

Check out my full review of Uncut Gems here, currently showing in theaters .

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1. Parasite 

   Directed by Bong Joon-ho

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For years I have reminded myself to add more foreign film to my cinematic diet, and for years I have rather procrastinated on this potent front. But all of that shall change, with my recent viewing of this fantastic film from renowned South Korean director, Bong Joon-ho (Snowpiercer, Okja). At start, we are introduced to a seemingly average family living in the slums, who scrape and scheme for each won they possibly gather. But when a family friend comes for a visit to bestow good fortune with gifts, one of which is a temporary position as an English tutor for a rich family, eldest son Ki Woo (Choi Woo-shik) jumps readily at the opportunity, and prepares to receive the  money for the easy task. But as he works with and observes this family for only a short time, where others might encounter awe at the sight of such luxury, the boy finds a rare chance to benefit even further from small weaknesses exhibited in the wealthy Park household. So the destitute quartet masterfully begin to devise a plan that profits at the cost of virtually "no one”, and, in the process, we watch as a fascinating and eye-opening symbiosis develops between the two families. For better or for worse? I guess you’ll find out

This film takes us on an adventure that uncovers and reflects the many differences between those with and without access to financial comfort in life. But more importantly, we also receive view of the stark similarities among the parties, and how any great amount, as well as depletion, of money each has its own real and full effect. 

Winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes earlier this year, the movie has caused quite stir. The writing, acting, and camera placements are truly fantastic, and really immerse us in this not too distant of a realm. As well as receiving my rank of the “best film” of this year, it It feels near impossible to fit this film into only 300+ words, so you might want to expect a late review of this exquisite work. Whoa!

Parasite will be available on digital January 14, 2020.

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NOTE: And before we get to our last “winner”, here are some other movies that deserve a little shout out:

The

Honorable Mentions.

• Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened

• Klaus

• Avengers: Endgame

• A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

• Monos

• What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali

• Waves

• My Name is Dolemite

• Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

• It: Chapter 2  

The

Less Honorable Mentions.

The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part

All is True

Zombieland: Double Tap

Always Be My Maybe

Non-Fiction

Conclusion.

So there it is. A pretty rounded grouping of film, I feel (though I do need to get into more foreign films. There’s always next year). This cinematic summary does a finer job than last year of bringing undoubtedly exquisite works like Parasite or The Irishman to the prime eyes and ears of the readers, while still showcasing [my] more casual love for (still great) movies like Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel, or anything else that can make me quietly chuckle by myself (let’s make that a little easier to say: basically anything streaming on Disney+). I’m proud of the films I was able to watch this year, am grateful for the festivals I’ve been able to attend, and for the support of my family in my pursuit of such events and art forms. This website has been a hugely meaningful creative outlet for me, as I undertake the sometimes mountainous and near impossible notion of writing well. But as well as navigating words and ideas, which brings about that great sense one completion and satisfaction, smaller things also come into play, like the setting of invisible deadlines, or the unnecessary stress I put on myself when trying to curate the perfect images with my pieces, or the eternal task and focus on mending my excessive dispensement of commas. Through every great and small task of managing this review blog, I have bettered myself in this craft as I continue to learn of society, history, society in history, storytelling, and art, and their places in cinema, and the world among other things. All of these factors serve as crucial ingredients when writing a review in my mind that (one) includes the reader in the discovery and excavation of good, or bad, film, (two) is interesting, engaging, and insightful, and (and four) links my personality and stance on the world (in an interaction between the two) through my choice of words, and use of ‘rabbit trails’ as intellectual additives (a religion really). Anyway, I’m not here to give you a MasterClass (maybe this is something that should be realized out loud by the reader rather than author?). In closing, I now want to say thanks to everyone who has, or hasn’t, been reading Luminary View throughout this year. Hope you’ve enjoyed my perspective on the vast array of stories and worlds. Also, make sure to ready up and cast your movie ballots, as the awards season is fast approaching (the 77th Golden Globes are on January 5th (this Sunday) at 7:00pm CST. Also check out the SAG Awards, as well as the 92nd Academy Awards). Now below, I’ve included a small piece, a tribute if you will, to this past decade, in relation to my personal, as well as the world’s, growth and and journey within it. A completely optional, but interesting bit of nostalgia, a untrustworthy periscope for sure, button that brings much excitement for the unknown. Thanks for reading, Happy New Years to all, and until my next piece sporting much unpunctuality, keeping watching films, reading books, gazing at art, and letting others like me define for you their worth and meaning in 2020(just joking! Appreciate your time). Cheers!

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A Tribute to the 2010s.

We entered 2019 as we do with every other year: with natural uncertainty, served and topped with a variable mixture of hope, fear, and excitement for what lies ahead of us. Many thoughts filled our minds, whether they were ambitions, curiosities, and just plain ponderings; things like the rising advocation for the active prevention and battle against global warming and environmental damage, or the helplessly dangling wish that no further absurdity would make itself heard from The White House. We were all granted and refused and surprised with many of our predictions held for this year, as diversity in the workplace, in politics, and on screen has never before been so prevalent and celebrated, among other things. Influential figures including Greta Thunberg, Michelle Obama, BTS, and Baby Yoda (yes, correct) graced us, alerting our times to flaws of modern society through their works and words, bestowing such beauty and mastery of their art (Time 100).

The 2010s were a great decade to grow up in, full of joy and discovery, as well tragedy and heartbreak. We think to ourselves, comparing each era as if they completely different stretches of time, one good and the other bad (or at least some people do). While that is true in time and space, in our minds, there have been, and always will be, things we admire or fear, ideas, ambitions, and visions for what exciting things the future may hold. And there is a similar “longing” for the past (which I have talked about before), which we can that calls to us and inspires us. Each decade has its great and distinct flavor for sure (I have it real good for the 60s and 80s). Hopefully none this comes across sounding pointless or cheesy, but I feel the responsibility to give a proper send off to this decade, as I remember every event and its significance in shaping me, as I now write, ready to apply the best of these learned skills and lessons to my years ahead. If you haven’t already ticked the exit button in the this page’s left corner, I’m here to say... almost done.

When we when walk into 2020, we shouldn’t think “oh, the end of era. So sad…”. We should be grateful for what we’ve learned, and look back on those ten years for what they held and taught us. Even though we are leaving a decade, it's not like anything is going anywhere. The iPhone 11 will still be here, as well as the sickening, hellish concept of mac and cheese-filled Cheetos (detestably random). We are still progressing swiftly on the down the roads of sending men and women to Mars, and creating an AI that will aid and amaze humanity before destroying it, Terminator-style (a bad joke….?). Many awesome and exciting things lie ahead of us, as well as some of the crummy and unfortunate, only naturally.

And don't forget about the film scene! Some great features and shows are slated for release next year, with popular franchises such as James Bond, Ghostbusters, and Despicable Me seeing reinvigoration in their storylines, and money-grabbing abilities. A few notable directors will also be returning to present their (let’s hope) fine works, including Christopher Nolan’s new espionage/time travel hybrid, Tenet, as well as Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch, which tells the story of an American newspaper located in the whereabouts of 20th-century France (we can definitely prepare for something whimsically dry-witted). Lots of exciting movies, of which news I'd love to discuss further, but maybe for another time (you should watch me gush and go around the turn of the century) . I also didn’t really include any events from the last decade, but rather my feeling and remembrance that era, transitioning from my youth to young adulthood (a kid inside forever though). In closing, I am reminiscent, stepping into this new year, but also exhilarated, though never braced. I cannot wait to see what shall transpire and change life as we now know it (culturally, politically, environmentally, technologically, etc.). Now, I hope a similarly curious view holds place in your mind as well, as you may know not be able to control your life, others, and the world around you, but you are certainly the skipper when it comes to choosing what you may do.

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