If there’s one list I love writing every year, it’s this one.
A popcorn movie doesn’t make you weep, it doesn’t demand thoughtful introspection.
Popcorn movies are easy, breezy and fun.
There will be more honorable mentions at the end, but these two deserved a special spotlight.
Even with those titles off the list, it’s been one hell of a year for popcorn entertainment.
So yeah, there’sa lotto chose from.
Image via Marvel Studios
The Commuter
I just love watching people learn you shouldn’t fuck withLiam Neeson.
The actor has become the new Die Hard of easy-pitch filmmaking.
“Liam Neeson, but on a plane.”
Image via Lionsgate
“Liam Neeson, but on a snow plow.”
(That’s real by the way, coming to theaters next year.
)The Commutersees Neeson re-team with his frequent collaboratorJuame Collet-Serrato bring us “Liam Neeson on a train.”
Image via Lionsgate
In fact, Heughan is pretty much doing a 007 audience, which works quite well.
Because it’s fun over here.
But it’s certainly for me, andJ.A.
Image via Warner Bros.
It might not be for everyone, but I love it and I’m sure glad it exists.
Overall, the key element that makes this film work is a big dose of old-fashioned love.
This was a great year for high-concept R-rated comedyandGame Nightwas the best of the bunch.
Image via 20th Century Fox
Image via Universal Pictures
Image via Warner Bros.
Image via Lionsgate
Image via Universal Pictures
Image via Paramount Pictures
Image via Warner Bros.
