Fans and critics alike often have a problem separating “Best” and “Favorite” when it comes to end of the year Top 10 compilations. A perfect example of this are all those who have “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and/or “Mad Max: Fury Road” on their Best of 2015 lists. A film can be wildly entertaining, but that doesn’t automatically mean that it is of the quality to deserve Best of the Year status.
It’s time to acknowledge the films of the past year that were thoroughly enjoyable, even if they weren’t “Best of the Year” worthy. After all, isn’t simply having a great time at the movies what everyone is hoping for when they by a ticket?
With that in mind, here are The Guilty Pleasures of 2015:
“THE AGE OF ADALINE”
Blake Lively and Harrison Ford are excellent in this engaging and emotional romantic fable.
“EX MACHINA”
Writer/director Alex Garland pulls-off a unique sci-fi thriller. Domnhall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander and Oscar Isaac all deliver.
“GOOSEBUMPS”
This fun family adventure brings R.L. Stine’s beloved horror comedy books to life, with Jack Black as the perfect, cinematic version of the author himself.
“IRRATIONAL MAN”
Woody Allen’s crime drama is one of the most engrossing films of the year. Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone give notable performances. And the finale twist is fantastic!
The Second Act of “JOY”
When Jennifer Lawrence’s Miracle Mop inventor Joy Mangano enters the world of QVC, this movie soars. Each scene with Lawrence and Bradley Cooper is dynamite.
“PIXELS”
A rare winner for Adam Sandler, this action comedy combines an all-star cast, genuine laughs and life-size video game characters.
“RICKI AND THE FLASH”
Meryl Streep gives her best acting performance since “The Iron Lady” and she knocks it out of the park with 10 “live” rock song performances.
“SAN ANDREAS”
The best action movie of 2015 stars Dwayne Johnson and a superb Paul Giamatti taking on the mother of all earthquakes. Nothing shaky about it.
“THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER”
Geared for youngsters, but still fun enough for the longtime SBSP fans. Turning SpongeBob and pals into CGI superheroes was genius.
The Second Half of “TRUMBO”
Following a rough-to-watch first hour, this true story drama about Hollywood screenwriter Dalton Trumbo (Bryan Cranston) really gets cooking with fun dialogue and memorable scenes.