Reflections: Best of 2022
A few shows, a few movies, and a few thoughts about next year.
Before I forget, allow me to point to my other 2022 “best of the year” lists: Top 10 Series of 2022 (Screen Anarchy) and 5 Best Film Experiences of 2022 (Dallas Film Now).
According to Letterboxd, I’ve logged 212 films for the year, which includes some that I’ve seen before; in addition, I’ve spent many, many hours watching episodic shows for coverage purposes, as well as personal interest. Most of those films and small-screen series fall outside my coverage area here, which means my best-of list for family-friendly audiences is quite small. My list follows, published here or elsewhere, linked to my reviews.
In the new year, I’m planning to resume weekly updates about new family-friendly releases, both in movie theaters on various services. I’ll also aim to review a few, as time and other duties allow.
Beyond that, I’m planning to resume monthly updates about film noir and also movies released during the 1970s, which you can subscribe to individually via the publication sections above: Concrete Falls and 70s Rewind, respectively.
Finally, I’ll explain the Avatar: The Way of Water photo above. Certainly, seeing that was one of my top cinematic experiences of the year. As I was watching it, though, I was beset by warring thoughts: “This looks awesome!” and “Is this for kids?”
To the latter point: It depends. Do you want your children to be exposed to extended sequences depicting an endless war in which many, many people die, often in horrible ways, and numerous others rally their fellow man so that they too may offer up their lives in a selfless sacrifice to benefit others? Is that mitigated by the visual splendors of endless varies of beautiful creatures, swimming and soaring above the sky?
It’s a tough call, I would think. As a single person without children, I recognize that it’s up to parents to make the call for their offspring, though I recommend seeing the film first, if possible within your circumstances. Watching Avatar: The Way of Water requires an investment of time and money, and I’m sure you will choose wisely.
As all my smart friends say: see you next year!