The day each year when Indiewire senior film critic David Ehrlich releases a supercut of his personal top 25 films of the year is a little like mini Christmas morning for movie lovers. On Tuesday, the 2016 installment dropped, and it’s glorious: a timely reminder that movies are great right now, despite what some people say.
The video starts with quick shots from many of the year’s movies — not just the ones that made the list — as a kind of overture to the list, serving as a great reminder of the year in film. Then the countdown begins in reverse order, from 25 to 1. (You’ll have to watch to find out which movie took the top slot.)
Part of the fun of Ehrlich’s video countdown, which he’s been doing since 2011, is a number of truly inspired musical pairings — all of which were drawn from 2016 movies as well. My personal favorite moment in this year’s supercut comes when George Michael’s “Faith” — which plays over clips from Silence and The Witch — is briefly interrupted by one of the year’s single funniest scenes. I’ll let you discover it for yourself.
Like any top-movies list (ours will be out soon), this is designed not just for enjoyment but also for quibbling. I love picks like Things to Come, The Witch, and The Fits, but I might lose a few others (High-Rise, Indignation) to make room for a few that are missing (especially Cameraperson).
Still, it’s a great celebration of an excellent year at the movies. Get out your headphones and enjoy.