Black Panther being pushed for Best Film nomination

I’ll start.

The Dark Knight
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I won’t get into the impact this film has had because we all already know that this movie has pretty much changed cinema and it’s influence in pop culture is undeniable. Juxtaposing a cocophony of crime and injustice, Nolan utilizes themes far more interesting than anything the MCU has had, or ever will have, to offer and with it constructs a fascinating, gripping, look at one man spreading his message to society. It’s artistic merit is not to be understated from its stunning cinematography from Wally Pfister who is a tour de force behind to camera, to all the performance, in particular that of Heath Ledger’s who’s presence and performance in this film will trump that of any in every other CBM made. This movie elevated the idea and confinements of what a CBM movie could be into one much much more: a film of beautiful details, stunning imagery, chilling themes and images and an ending that I know has impacted more individuals than just myself. I don’t understand how people just despise this movie out of spite.

Logan
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Again, here’s a film of themes, meaning and value that trump anything the MCU or the DCEU will ever make. I can’t stand the XCU or whatever the fuck its called, but Logan is a touching and poignant end to Jackman’s career. A film about finding peace in your life, loss and regret, and displaying the *true* cost of heroism, and ultimately redemption; this is all captured brilliantly through the neo Western atmosphere thanks to James Mangold behind the camera. Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart’s emotional presence they bring is not to be understated either. “Nature made me a freak. Man made me a weapon. And God made it last too long.” The movie is riddled with engaging dialogues, fascinating character interactions that actually mean something and the film actually has weight to it. Oh and the action? Best of any CBM.

I actually prefer this film to The Dark Knight, but regardless, both are films act as brilliant reminders that there are actually people underneath all that spandex and these two films along with Spider Man 2 are the only CBM that I can rewatch and get more out of with each viewing.