1- The Boy and The Heron

The Boy and The Heron can be described with one word; art. The film is masterfully crafted in the singular vision of Hayao Miyazaki as it tackles grief, malice, and sorrow. Every shot feels like a painting in its own right. Simply put, it’s one of the best of 2023

2- Maestro

Maestro is ambitious, intense, and poignant. It simultaneously weaves between heartwarming and heartbreaking.

Bradley Cooper is now one of Hollywood’s best directors and is extraordinary as Leonard Bernstein. Carey Mulligan is equally great!

3- Poor Things

PoorThings is beautifully shot, with production designs among the best of 2023.

While it does overindulge on itself and at times off-putting and overbearing, there’s a shade of brilliance as well.

However, Emma Stone is a superstar here and might just lock Best Actress

4- Hit Man

Hit Man is a fun and hilarious thriller-comedy. It’s also a great screenwriting debut for Glen Powell, who raises his starpower considerably on both sides of the camera.

Definitely one of the enjoyable and charming spotlights of #NYFF!

5-Pricilla

Priscilla (2023) is the yin to Elvis (2022)’s yang. It’s a dark and intimate look at the life of Priscilla Presley.

Cailee Spaeny shines in the titular role and Jacob Elordi brings unique shades to Elvis on film. The film might be Sofia Coppola’s best work as a director.

6- May December

MayDecember is an intense film. It’s uncomfortable, lives in the morally gray, but balances itself with humor.

Todd Haynes brings his trademark style, paired well with a haunting score.

Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore are fantastic, Charles Melton is great. #NYFF