IMDb staff picks: The best movies and series of 2023

Bottoms

Dark, bizzare, and hilarious, this comedy turns the high school odd-duck story on its ear with quirky character cut-ups, and over-the-top comedic moments. Great cast, soundtrack, and story, this movie was firing on all cylinders. — Dan C.

Marshawn Lynch, what a revelation. Had no idea he was in this film and when he came onscreen, as the English teacher no less, I lost it, and continued to lose it out loud in the theater every scene he was in. — Emily B.

Streaming on MGM+

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is my definition of a perfect movie, so I was nervous slash hoping for the best when Netflix announced it was making "Scott Pilgrim Takes Off." Wow, wow, WOW. It did not disappoint. The references to the original, the character development, the song choices — all perfection. I highly recommend watching it without researching or reading anything about it first. Seriously. Stop reading this and go watch. — Tori W.

Streaming on Netflix

Anatomy of a Fall

Sandra Hüller gives the performance of 2023 in writer/director Justine Triet’s courtroom drama that finds every which way to add doubt to the legal process. Is Hüller’s character guilty of pushing her husband out of a window and causing his death? Was it suicide? An accident? I’ve been thinking about the film almost every single day for a full month, and I’m still not sure. Anatomy of a Fall won the Palme d’Or and the even more prestigious Palm Dog Award, and I hope we’ll see it at the 2024 Oscars, even if the Academy doesn't value canine costars as much as their human counterparts. — Alex L.

In theaters

Past Lives

Out of everything I saw this year, this was the movie that stuck with me, popping up in the quiet moments. I had heard great things, but I was pleasantly surprised about how deeply I was moved watching this romantic story unfold. Beautiful writing, amazing performances, and refreshing new perspective on complicated relationships. I hope it wins all the awards. — Michelle N.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Attack on Titan

This decade-running anime masterpiece based on the bestselling manga by Hajime Isayama reached its emotional rollercoaster of a grand finale in 2023. The tightly-written story full of dramatic plot twists, expert foreshadowing, and memorable characters, combined with the epic soundtrack and sheer production quality, truly cement its place for me as one of the best anime of all time. — Krystal X.

Streaming on Hulu & Crunchyroll

Daisy Jones & The Six

I absolutely loved the book so this was my most anticipated title of the year and it did not disappoint. I was so impressed by how they were able to create a fictional but iconic 70s band complete with a full album. I'm ready to see them on tour. — Courtney N.

Streaming on Prime Video

Polite Society

A really fun, funny romp with amazing choreography and a fantastic soundtrack! One to watch if you're looking for a well-written action movie. — Tom M.

Streaming on Prime Video

Fair Play

Fair Play is a psychological thriller that starts off as a romantic drama, and even though you’ll have enough time to prepare yourself for something horrible to happen, when it does it’ll knock the wind out of you. Watch it for excellent performances from the lead actors, and to feel the kind of rage that only goes away after you take a walk and tell everyone you know to watch the thing that just made you SO MAD. — Kashika S.

Streaming on Netflix

The Deepest Breath

A powerful documentary about what freediving is, and the athletes who risk their lives to probe the abyss of the ocean (“the last quiet place on earth”), as well as the deepest terrain of their souls and physical capabilities, alone and powered by only a single breath. This is a real-life thriller/love story/sports documentary/psychological study, and I encourage you to go in cold without doing any research about the fates of the people involved. What motivates these athletes to risk their lives to be utterly alone and unreachable in dark, dangerous, uncharted territory where they cannot be rescued, and then also risk deeply loving another who shares this need for life-threatening, extreme isolation ,and self-reliance? And the greatest irony of all is that the unexpected love story at the center of this film may end up being more dangerous than the sport itself. For me, this documentary is the most powerful, haunting, beautiful, and thought-provoking movie (in any genre) this year. — Emily G.

Streaming on Netflix

Jury Duty

“Jury Duty" is a wildly funny, truly original, and refreshingly clever ride. Only the creators of "The Office" could take something as mundane as a low-risk civil trail and turn it into mockumentary comedy gold. You'll fall in love with the cast, and gain a whole new level of respect for improvisational acting. — Matthew R.

Streaming on Freevee

Rye Lane

No movie caught me by surprise more than this charming rom-com, highlighted by the wholesome chemistry displayed between David Jonsson and Vivian Oparah. The film proves that creative cinematography and meaningful dialogue are enough to win over an audience. — Dillon L.

Streaming on Hulu

SWARM

Would you KILL for your favorite musical star? Well then don't call yourself a fan. — Jasmine D.

Streaming on Prime Video

Florida Man

This was a mini-series that left me wanting MORE! I watched without knowing anything about it, and it was not what I expected. The storyline and the beautiful shots by the DP left me in awe. I wanted to see where the story went next, but it seems as if we shall never know! — Erin P.

Streaming on Netflix

100 Foot Wave

It's a big, loud extreme-sports documentary series on big wave surfing, featuring some of the most courageous athletes to have ever lived, and it's also a quiet meditation on what it's worth risking to feel truly alive. — Lindsay C.

Streaming on Max

A Million Miles Away

While sci-fi has long been ahead of the curve when it comes to elevating actors beyond stereotypical depictions, stories of real life space exploration are still overwhelmingly white. A Million Miles Away is a corrective, directed with visionary verve by Alejandra Márquez Abella. I related to so many aspects of the movie, from not wanting to be known as “Enchilada Guy” at the office to the tenacity required to overcome slammed doors and internal doubts in pursuit of shooting for the stars. Special shout out to the interstitial graphics, which referenced Chicano culture and Frida Kahlo in equal measure. — Cirilia R.

Streaming on Prime Video

Silo

Not since Eddard Stark's beheading have I felt such emotional upheaval after — spoiler alert — Allison and Sheriff Holston's departures from the Silo. Switching main POVs can be tricky but this series does it well and I'm just as hooked when Juliette takes over. — Emily B.

Streaming on Apple TV+

Game Changer

Equal parts "Whose Line is it Anyway?" and "Taskmaster" with a mystery element thrown in every week — from a parody of "The Bachelor" to a surprise escape room, "Game Changer" is the most underrated TV show streaming right now. It's hilarious, clever, and incredibly original. You never know what's going to happen except that it's going to be a joy to watch. — Megan C.

Streaming on Netflix

Babylon 5: The Road Home

Animated spin-offs of revered fantasy IP are a definite trend (see: Witcher universe, upcoming LOTR projects, etc.), one that serves an especially poignant function for Babylon 5: The Road Home. Since nearly half of the original cast has passed on since the original series aired in the late 90s, soundalikes and a minimalist approach to CGI character design helps fans forget these losses for the hour and change run time. The wry humor and sentimental core feel dialed up a bit, perhaps to cut through the dust of a 20-year draught of new franchise material. Rumors of a reboot still swirl around this cult gem that is often credited with originating season- and series-long story arcs, the bread and butter of prestige television today. B5: TRH gave me hope, and a hunger for more. — Cirilia R.

Available to rent on Prime Video

The Holdovers

Alexander Payne's sweet return to form is comfort food particulary well-suited for the holidays. Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, and newcomer Dominic Sessa deserve awards-season consideration as lonely characters we've all encountered at some point in our lives but perhaps never stopped to get to know. And David Hemingson's script is a timely and frequently funny reminder that empathy is a choice, takes many compassionate forms (including an artfully improvised fib), and is served best when the person you care about is expecting it the least (but needs it the most). Enjoy this movie with loved ones and those you want to reconnect with. — Bret F.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Gridiron Grind

This coming of age story about a high school female footballer fighting self acceptance, sexism, and stereotypes will give you all the feels. Not only do the characters give stellar performances but the story of growing up and fitting in is something that may hit home for many. — Myra T.

Streaming on Tubi

Good Omens 2

Fans of Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s classic fantasy ‘Good Omens’ witnessed a bit of a miracle this summer when everyone’s favorite celestial duo returned to the small screen for “Good Omens 2.” Gaiman promised the continued adventures of Aziraphale and Crowley would be “gentle and romantic,” but what he didn’t tell us was that he had a hell of a cliffhanger in store. As exquisitely painful as that moment was (you know the one), the series resonated with fans, leading the second season to debut as the number one comedy on Prime Video. — Adrienne C.

Streaming on Prime Video

Shrinking

Jason Segal, Jessica Williams, and Harrison Ford are delightful in this dramedy, which centers around grief, friendship, love, and of course, therapy. I enjoyed it from start to finish, and can’t wait for season 2. — Jessica S.

Streaming on Apple TV+

Shoresy

Jared Keeso returns for Season 2 of the "Letterkenny" spin-off series. The show shares narrative and creative molecules with "Letterkenny," with Jacob Tierney pulling double duty as director and star once again, and a few other familiar faces and credited crew behind the wheel. This show never ceases to surprise with its fresh, wild, and unique brand of comedy, and deep respect and insider perspective of all things hockey. "Settle down..." and check it out. — John H.

Streaming on Hulu

Platonic

We’ve seen so many heartwarming, life-affirming portrayals of the friendships on screen, watching Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen as dysfunctional former best friends who tro to reconnect was a nice (and hilarious) change. Sylvia and Will come alive around each other, but no one’s giving them a trophy for adulting when they get on with their shenanigans. Also, full marks to the writers for sticking to the title and never When Harry Met Sally-ing these two! — Kashika S.

Streaming on Apple TV+

Inside

I'm not sure I get the end message of this movie (if there was one) but it was great to see Willem Dafoe straight crush it for and hour and 45 minutes. He's incredible. The movie was tedious but intentionally so. I dug it though it's definitely not for everyone. — Dan C.

Streaming on Prime Video

Theater Camp

Having been personally unfamiliar with attending a theater camp, I fell in love with the vibrant atmosphere and joyful camaraderie exhibited throughout this mockumentary-style comedy. The real-life friendship between Ben Platt and Molly Gordon (who clearly had a blast acting as a hilariously weird camp counselor) jumped off the screen. Plus, Jimmy Tatro never fit into a role so perfectly. — Dillon L.

Streaming on Hulu

Quiz Lady

10/10 — LOLed the whole time. The chemistry between Sandra Oh and Awkwafina lead to flawless performances, perfect comedic timing, and what felt like a true revival of a classic hour-and-a-half-comedy we’ve been needing for years. — Tori W.

Streaming on Hulu

The Sweet East

A runaway gets a series of glimpses of a true domestic threat — the heterosexual American male at large — in this survivalist folk tale best suited for people who are unconcerned about a story completely coming together as the credits roll. I'm going to become a Talia Ryder completist because I love how she outfoxed Simon Rex and the other sick men who dot the landscape she covers in a brief respite from her nowhere life back home. The unfinished movie within the movie made by Ayo Edebiri and Jeremy O. Harris deserves a Criterion release, and I can't even with Jacob Elordi, again! — Arno K.

In theaters January 26, 2024

A Good Person

Florence Pugh DELIVERS in a more complex and different role than I've seen her before. The story was so complex and relatable. It was beautiful visually, written well, great shot set-ups of shots. I watched it on a plane and cried like a baby the whole time. — Erin P.

Streaming on MGM+

Dream Scenario

“You’ve got to sleep on it, you’ve got to be able to DREAM about it,” says star Nicolas Cage in an interview with IMDb, and he’s absolutely correct about the bizarre and Jungian dark comedy that contemplates what would happen when the world shares a nightly collective hallucination about a nobody of a schlubby biology professor named Paul Matthews. Cage insists that Dream Scenario is one of his most accomplished performances and perhaps his best film to date, because writer/director/editor Kristoffer Borgli’s vision contains everything to say on the subject without anything needed to be added or taken away. I’d argue that Raising Arizona, Wild at Heart, and Moonstruck stand slightly above Dream Scenario(maybe Valley Girl and Con Air as well), but it is another must-see effort from a career that never fails to surprise and delight. And if you do see and delight in its weirdness, then check out Borgli's previous film Sick of Myself for another deep-dive into the destructive nature of fame. — Alex L.

In theaters

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani

Karan Johar has given several interviews stating how nervous he was before the release of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, because he hadn't directed a feature film in six years. But he shouldn’t have worried. From multi-generational romance to songs that’ll now play at every wedding, RARKPK had everything we’ve come to expect from a Karan Johar film, including a Poo-adjacent performance from Ranveer Singh as Rocky! — Kashika S.

Streaming on Prime Video

The Super Models

This show has some polarizing reviews, but I found it a refreshing take on how four intelligent women found themselves catapulted into being supermodels, and in turn, how they broke down barriers, took charge of their careers, their brand image, and ulitimately, their financial independence. — Jessica S.

Streaming on Apple TV+

L'immensità and 20,000 Species of Bees

Watch together for a Mediterranean exploration of transgender childhood. — Angelica

L'immensità streaming on Prime Video

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

I saw Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem at a sneak preview in late July, in the wake of Barbenheimer and the Turtles took my only 10-star rating that month. It’s "Freaks & Geeks" meets 'Escape From NY' meets 'The Fly.' It’s heartfelt and funny from end to end with best-in-class voice acting, including actual teens playing the turtles (see our super fun Burning Questions to get a preview). They recorded their scenes together, which is harder to parse in post-production but the resulting chemistry was worth the trouble. I have to imagine that Jackie Chan weighed in on his fight scenes as overprotective dad Splinter. I could go on and on, but if you have kids or are a kid at heart yourself, definitely don't miss this one. Oh, and the SOUNDTRACK — wall-to-wall 90s hip hop plus industrial glitch and magic from Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross?! Turtle power! — Cirilia R.

Streaming on Paramount+

SAW X

'Saw X' is the 'Avengers: Endgame' of the 'Saw' franchise; the cherry on top of 20 years of Jigsaw's games. As a longtime fan of the franchise, I was thrilled to get to know John Kramer on a more personal level and, shockingly, cheer for him for the entire 118 minutes. 'X' has officially given the original a run for its money as my favorite film of the series. — Hillary B.

Available to rent on Prime Video

The Killer

David Fincher is a Swiss watch filmmaker who crafts precisely clinical images that seem impenetrably cold at first blush, but on deeper inspection, they reveal a world of intrigue and allegory. The Killer, and as an extension, the expensive business of murder, is all about making a film - the obsessive strategy, the extended periods of lying in wait, the best laid plans that almost certainly crumble under the slightest bit of pressure, all to get your shot (pun intended). Michael Fassbender feels even more robotic than when he played the android David in the ‘Alien’ franchise, in perfect lockstep with Fincher’s camera, only hinting at anything under the surface in brief glimpses, such as after sniper-scoping a small child (just for the fun of it), he lets slide an evil Grinch grin that tells you everything you need to know about his character. The Killer also comments on the anonymous and mundane nature of evil, which never twirls its mustache as it plots to take over the world, but instead is an ad hoc upsell on a business contract gone bad. — Alex L.

Streaming on Netflix

Air

I loved it. I heard it was not a sports movie but really more of a marketing movie before I saw it and I completely agree (which was much more appealing). The 80s nostalgia was perfect and it felt like a classic Matt Damon/Ben Affleck collaboration. Also literally bought a pair of Airs after watching. — Courtney N.

Streaming on Prime Video

Ted Lasso

It is heartbreaking that this show has come to an end. Each episode delivers all the feels, and the writing is so sharp, immediate rewatches are recommended to catch all of the one-liners. Season 3, Episode 6 "Sunflowers" ranks as one of the best hours of television ever. Thanks for the joy, Richmond Greyhounds, and the barbeque sauce! — Katie S.

Streaming on Apple TV+

Poor Things

'Poor Things' is its own liberation movement, and the film's creators, cast, and tinkerers deserve all the accolades they will attract throughout awards season. I'd like to call attention to anyone who loved the series "Penny Dreadful"; in particular, Billie Piper's portrayal of Lily Frankenstein. I didn't think I'd ever need to see someone else's take on a woman brought back to life by a maker with dubious intentions. Emma Stone's performance stands tall next to Piper's, and I hope it inspires writers and directors to make couture for her after they observe the heroic woman she co-created with Yorgos Lanthimos. And Mark Ruffalo, I mean, I was already in love, and I will probably turn off the Oscars if he doesn't win for Best Supporting Actor. — Arno K.

In theaters

The Flash

I loved this movie. I thought it was emotional, funny, a bit strange and odd-looking at times in a way that endeared it to me. Supergirl was super cool (ba dum tss) and Ezra Miller compelling. What was with his terrible, bully-esque roommates though? Felt like they never got their comeuppance, so a bit of a missed catharis there for me. — Emily B.

Streaming on Max

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One

I saw this twice at the cinema during its opening week, once with my wife here in the UK and the second time with the IMDb Seattle team. What an amazing ride both times. The M:I team once again raised the bar on stunts and one of my favourite IMDb customer reviews of the movie (thanks HalBanksy) sums it up so well with this opening sentence: “I have just watched the greatest car-chase in the history of cinema, and that still wasn't even the best scene in the movie!” — Col N.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Talk to Me

One of my new favorite horror movies, with the perfect balance of jump scares, the supernatural, and gore. First-time directors Danny and Michael Philippou have very quickly made a name for themselves in the horror space, and I can't wait to see what they do with the sequel. — Hillary B.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Gen V

Being a spin-off from "The Boys," it did NOT disappoint!! — Erin P.

Last year I said that "The Boys" S3E1 had the best cold open I've ever seen, but "Gen V" S1E1 turned the shock factor up x100. I was wary of this spin-off and how it could possibly measure up to the original show, but they did it perfectly. — Hillary B.

Streaming on Prime Video

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

This movie was such a delight to watch since the animation is fantastic and every scene is bursting with color. Just all around a visually stunning film. It ended on a cliff-hanger and I'm dying to find out what happens in the third movie. — Karen C.

Streaming on Netflix

The Morning Show

Season 3 of might be the best one yet! The star studded cast grew this season with the addition of John Hamm and along with it came even more twists and turns. While I return to the show for the juicy drama, I really appreciate the show highlighting a number of important topics. — Maddie H.

Streaming on Apple TV+

The Fall of the House of Usher

Mike Flanagan surprised us again with a clever, dark, and mostly gory modern retelling of some of Edgar Allen Poe’s stories. It did justice to Poe’s work and had me hooked throughout — the perfect way to enter the final months of the year! — Eddie B.

Streaming on Netflix

One Piece

Netflix has broken the longstanding manga/anime adaptation curse with its live action "One Piece" TV series. The show's debut season is a gigantic love letter to the 26-year old manga and its creator Eiichiro Oda, leaning into the rich, colorful, bizarre world he created. It doesn't shy away from the zanier aspects of the manga while making the material accessible to anyone who is unfamiliar with Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew. Iñaki Godoy brings infectious charm to the role of Luffy and is joined by a strong, diverse cast of up-and-comers and recognizable faces that have kicked off an adventure I can't wait to continue. — John H.

Streaming on Netflix

The Bear

Season Two delivered the same juicy, back-of-house tension we've come to expect from our favorite Chicago restauranteurs. This season gave us focused episodic vignettes to expand our connection with many of the kitchen crew as they worked to develop their cooking, pastry, and hospitality skills. The season is filled with outstanding cameo performances, none better than in the flashback scenes of (episode 2.6) "Fishes," one of the finest episodes of television this year, while IMDb fans rated "Forks" (episode 2.7) as the best in the series to-date. — Derek L.

Streaming on Hulu

Extraction II

'Extraction II' may not feature eye-popping stunts like the motorcycle jump in 'Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning,' or stylized, highly choreographed ballet-like gun battles like 'John Wick: Chapter 4,' but what it does have is sheer, unadulterated, visceral action, including a 21-minute uninterrupted single-take sequence that will leave viewers breathless and exhausted. And that's just in the first half of the movie. Many films promise non-stop action, but this is one of the few that actually deliver it. — Giancarlo C.

Streaming on Netflix

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes

Huge Hunger Games fan so was super excited to see the prequel was getting a movie! The adaptation was amazing and hoping Suzanne Collins can expand this universe! — Myra T.

In theaters

The Last of Us

Season 1, Episode 3. I will never recover. — Hillary B.

Streaming on Max

Sex Education

I could cry (and I did, many times) at how much I love this cast, season, and entire series. It’s bittersweet to see such an amazing show come to an end, especially one that showcases queerness and sexuality in the most respectful, authentic, and hilariously awkward way. Above all else, I’m forever grateful for bringing a character like Eric Effiong into the world, and launching Ncuti Gatwa into global stardom. — Tori W.

Streaming on Netflix

Last Voyage of the Demeter

As a vampire devotee, it was a real treat to see a relatively fresh take on Dracula, the dark lord of the genre. Based on a single chapter of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel, The Last Voyage of the Demeter has a hardscrabble ensemble cast and the general dread of being at sea going for it. Director André Øvredal has called the film “Alien on a boat,” with 6’8” Javier Botet serving as our sinewy Xenomorph stand-in. There are some horror fans that believe that the less you see a monster, the scarier they are but I was all too happy to feast my eyes on the gorgeously grotesque character design here — clouded, opalescent eyes glowing through salty fog, and balletic violence that struck from above. I’ll go down with this ship any time. — Cirilia R.

Available to rent on Prime Video

Barbie

This is not about a doll, it's about "her, and her, and me and you... in PINK!" — Angelica

Available to rent on Prime Video

Saltburn

Beautiful. Messy. Emotional. Catastrophic. Psychadelic. Mesmerizing. Emerald Fennell took her 2020 film, Promising Young Woman, and turned it up to 11. The casting could not be more perfect. Jacob Elordi is a vision. Rosamund Pike is the gift that keeps on giving. Barry Keoghan will soon be a household name, and you'll never look at bathtubs the same again. — Hillary B.

Streaming on Prime Video

The Iron Claw

Whether you're a wrestling fan or not, this title is a must-see of 2023. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll...hope for a Zac Efron Oscar nomination? — Hillary B.

In theaters