Best Movies of 2013

Last year I a did a post called "The Year in Lists." It was a lot of fun to rehash the events of the last year. So, I thought I would do something similar this year, but split it up into separate posts. I know that Christmas is barely over, but 2014 is only six days away! So I'm kicking this mini-series off with my picks for best movies of 2013 (in no particular order):

1. Safe Haven. I've never met a Nicholas Sparks book I didn't like and Safe Haven was no exception. I really enjoyed the movie adaption. Although I was a little skeptical of Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel as a couple at first, I think they worked well together. 

2. 42. This movie was so moving. Any sports fan should see this one.

3. Mud. I'm going to be honest here: I fell asleep during the first half of this movie. At a later date, when I was awake, I finished the movie and the second half seriously made up for the slow start. See this. 

4. The Great Gatsby. Although I wasn't a fan of this book, the new movie adaptation was so so good (duh, Leo's in it). After seeing this I don't think anyone wouldn't want to live in the '20's or attend one of Jay Gatsby's parties. 

5. The Way Way Back. This movie was hilarious. The dynamics between the characters was what made the movie. 

6. Blackfish. This is now on Netflix instant play, so basically everyone should see it. Saw it in theaters with my sister and have since made all of my friends watch it (and seen it twice more myself). I know a documentary about whales doesn't sound all that appealing, but I promise you won't be disappointed. 

7. Blue Jasmine. Cate Blanchett: phenomenal. 

8. Lee Daniels' The Butler. Presidents fascinate me, so this movie was right up my alley. I loved seeing all of the behind the scenes moments. 

9. Gravity. Can you say, Oscar number two for Sandra Bullock? I went through a huge slight outer space phase in elementary school and have had a soft spot for anything space related since.

10. About Time. So cute. I love Rachel McAdams. This movie was much better than I expected. 

11. Catching Fire. Sorry, I'm not sorry. This movie definitely makes the list. 

12. Philomena. I wish that this movie got more press because more people need to see this. Judi Dench is just plain hilarious in this movie. 

13. American Hustle. I struggled with whether to add this movie to my list or not. I was slightly confused the whole time, and the story line was so-so for me. In the end, I added it because I enjoyed the actors so much and the portrayals of their characters.

I'm getting so excited for awards season :) but there are still a few movies that I want to see this year, so I may have to add some to the list! 

xo Catherine