Michelin Star Movies Pt.2

Michelin Star Movies Pt.2

The Highest Standard of Film

C. D. Michel

AS EXAM WEEKS HAVE FINISHED UP, and the holidays are getting ever nearer, I thought it would be fitting to make a sequel to my first article, to give my recommendations on what to watch this summer, and to save you from wasting time scrolling through Netflix. As mentioned last time, a Michelin Star is awarded to the best restaurants, who consistently have “quality ingredients… distinct flavours… and expertly crafted dishes”. So, for the second time I’ll be awarding movies some Michelin Stars for their immaculate flavours, ingredients, and qualities.

Note: You must watch all movies mentioned in this article during the summer holidays. You have two months, so no excuses.

Starting off with a bang, Project X (2012). While the acting, storytelling, and plot are a bit grungy, the fun nature of the film makes up for it. The film takes inspiration from the infamous party thrown by Aussie icon Corey Worthington in 2008, in which a small gathering of friends snowballs into an unstoppable party. While not being that serious of a film, the tension escalates so quickly that as an audience it really gets your heart going.   

Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk (2017) is an absolute masterpiece. Despite not being a ‘guns blazing’ war film, Dunkirk is by far my favourite war film. This film takes you away from your average CGI, and largely artificial visuals, as almost all scenes were re-created without special effects. But wait, that’s not all! Dunkirk also stars Mr Styles’ lesser-known brother Harry who’s acting brings the film to life. The complicated nature of the film, and multiple perspectives within, means that to fully embrace this film multiple watchings may be required. 

Not to toot Christopher Nolan’s horn, but his movies are phenomenal. Interstellar (2014) is something from another planet (pun intended). Usually in films the music will support the visuals, however, in Interstellar, the music is definitely on par with the visuals as they play an equal role in making this movie so captivating. Don’t get me wrong, the visuals are still exceptional. Furthermore, the ending is the cherry on top, as the whole movie comes together in the final revelation.

This one comes without any bias, and is one hundred percent objective, Cars 2 (2011) is the best kids movie created. A detective, crime, thriller action, where Lightning McQueen, Mater and Finn McMissile, are on a fast-paced mission to stop the corruption surrounding the big oil industries. If anything, this movie deserves to be a part of the Fast and Furious franchise instead of their Disney trilogy. Highly recommend it.

A rule of thumb for movies, if it is directed by Taika Waititi it is bound to be good. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), sticks by this rule of thumb, and is deserving of every award. The characters are fun, and charismatic and make the one hour, and forty-one minutes well worth your time. The movie is one of the best comedies ever, however, it still manages to sneak in some emotion, and a wholesome ending. 10/10.

For those thirsting for a thrill, Jordan Peele’s Get Out (2017) sure delivers. While there may not be the most jump scares, there’s a sense of eeriness which keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the film. Furthermore, the plot is thick; The film puts you in the protagonist’s perspective, as you uncover the demented, and unsettling plot bound to leave you speechless. Definitely, a must watch but not for the faint heart.

If the classic “Hollywood film” is getting a bit boring, Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite (2017) is a real change-up. A little cultural dabble into some K-drama is always welcome. This film is random, and full of surprises, as you watch a family go from having absolutely nothing, to everything, as they plan to take over another family’s life. A good watch, and this is highly recommended.

Since it is a two-month summer break, I thought I could leave some pointer’s just in case you finish the list.

  • Mathew Vaugn’s The King’s Man (2021)
  • Mathew Vaugn’s Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
  • Mathew Vaugn’s Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
  • Bryan Singer’s The Unusual Suspects (1995)
  • Taika Waititi’s Boy (2010)
  • Adam McKay’s Don’t Look Up (2021)
  • Michael and Peter Spierig’s Jigsaw (2017)
  • Todd Phillips’ Joker (2019)

Seth Gordon’s Baywatch (2017)