John Waters’s Top 10 Movies of 2023 - Top 10 Extraordinary Films
by Maivizhi A
Updated Dec 08, 2023
John Waters’s Top 10 Movies of 2023
In the dynamic realm of cinema, few directors can claim a more distinctive and provocative style than the legendary John Waters. As we embark on a cinematic journey through the year 2023, it is only fitting to celebrate the best offerings from the mind of this avant-garde auteur.
Waters, often hailed as the "Pope of Trash" and the mastermind behind the cult classic "Pink Flamingos," continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of subversive humor, transgressive themes, and an unapologetic celebration of the unconventional.
1
Beau Is Afraid
Ari Aster
2
A Prince
Pierre Creton
3
Master Gardener
Paul Schrader
4
Full Time
Éric Gravel
5
Last Summer
Catherine Breillat
6
Sparta
Ulrich Seidl
7
Fallen Leaves
Aki Kaurismäki
8
Strange Way of Life
Pedro Almodóvar
9
Oppenheimer
Christopher Nolan
10
Do Not Expect Too Much of the End of the World
Radu Jude
S. No
Title
Director
Waters, known for pushing the boundaries of societal norms and challenging mainstream sensibilities, has crafted a filmography that stands as a testament to his iconoclastic approach. In this collection of the best John Waters movies of 2023, audiences can expect to be immersed in a world where the absurd meets the outrageous, and the unconventional reigns supreme.
Among the highlights of this cinematic showcase is "Hairspray," Waters' beloved 1988 musical comedy that not only entertained but also served as a subversive commentary on racial integration during the 1960s. As Waters effortlessly blends satire with social commentary, "Hairspray" remains a testament to his ability to infuse serious subjects with irreverent humor.
The compilation also includes the timeless "Serial Mom," a satirical take on suburban life that showcases Waters' knack for turning the mundane into the extraordinary. Starring Kathleen Turner as the seemingly perfect mom with a penchant for homicide, the film is a rollercoaster of dark humor and societal critique that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Fresherslive brings you the cream of the crop in articles. Unlock a world of knowledge and insights with our Top 10 articles, the ultimate destination for valuable information.
Top 10 John Waters Movies 2023
As we delve into the world of John Waters in 2023, expect a cinematic experience like no other. These films, handpicked for their audacious storytelling and fearless exploration of the unconventional, invite viewers to embrace the chaos and revel in the brilliance of one of cinema's most eccentric visionaries. So buckle up for a wild ride through the irreverent and extraordinary universe of John Waters, where the only rule is that there are no rules.
1. Beau Is Afraid
In Ari Aster's "Beau Is Afraid," chaos and hilarity collide in a cinematic masterpiece that unfolds like a never-ending fever dream. Joaquin Phoenix leads a star-studded cast, including the incomparable Patti LuPone, Parker Posey, Nathan Lane, and Amy Ryan. This superlong, super-crazy, super-funny movie takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride through one man's epic mental breakdown.
The film is a laugh riot from hell, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer's memory. Aster skillfully weaves absurdity and brilliance, creating a narrative that challenges conventional storytelling. The performances are nothing short of extraordinary, with each actor delivering their A-game to make "Beau Is Afraid" an unforgettable experience. From its surreal plot twists to its dark humor, the movie keeps audiences guessing and laughing in equal measure.
As a testament to Aster's directorial prowess, "Beau Is Afraid" transcends traditional genre boundaries, making it a standout entry in John Waters' 2023 film lineup. The film's audacious blend of talent, humor, and insanity solidifies its place as one of the best offerings in contemporary cinema, ensuring that audiences will be talking about it long after the credits roll.
2. A Prince
Pierre Creton's "A Prince" emerges as an unexpected gem in John Waters' curated list for 2023. This obscure, gerontophilic tale revolves around a hot male farmer and his two elderly lovers who meet bizarre and unexplained fates. The film delves into themes of youth, beauty, and the peculiar ways in which they affect human relationships.
Dirty in a soil-like way, "A Prince" takes audiences on a slow, spooky, and poetically twisted journey. Creton crafts a narrative that transforms ordinary elements into mythic creatures, where men howl like dogs, and eroticism takes on an otherworldly quality. The film's unconventional approach challenges the norms of gay cinema, making it a standout piece that leaves a lasting impression.
In a cinematic landscape often dominated by predictability, "A Prince" stands out for its uniqueness, offering an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. Creton's masterful storytelling and the film's surreal atmosphere make "A Prince" a testament to the diversity and creativity present in contemporary cinema.
3. Master Gardener
Paul Schrader's "Master Gardener" is a bold exploration of eroticism intertwined with the world of gardening. This S&M-infused tale with stud-muffin-Nazi overtones features Sigourney Weaver in a stellar performance as a sugar mama seeking vengeance. The film digs deep into the soil of desire, unearthing a narrative that is both provocative and enthralling.
"Master Gardener" stands out as a visually arresting and thematically rich cinematic experience. Schrader skillfully navigates the complexities of desire, power dynamics, and revenge, creating a film that is both intellectually stimulating and sensually captivating. Sigourney Weaver's portrayal adds a layer of sophistication to the film, making it a standout performance in her illustrious career.
As the title suggests, "Master Gardener" invites audiences to dig beneath the surface, exploring the hidden layers of human desire and the consequences of unleashing untamed passions. Schrader's film is a testament to the enduring allure of unconventional narratives and the power of cinema to push boundaries, making it a must-watch in John Waters' 2023 selection.
4. Full Time
In Éric Gravel's "Full Time," the pulse-pounding narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a transit strike in Paris. The film follows a compelling protagonist, a single mother who works at a hotel. Her daily life takes an unexpected turn as she faces the challenge of getting to work on time amidst the chaos of the strike.
Drawing parallels to the intensity of classics like "The French Connection," "Full Time" is an exhilarating thriller that captivates audiences with its brilliant storytelling. The film explores the ordinary struggles of a working-class individual against the extraordinary circumstances of a city in upheaval, making it a standout entry in John Waters' 2023 recommendations.
5. Last Summer
Catherine Breillat's "Last Summer" delves into the dark complexities of desire and taboo. The film centers around a French lawyer dedicated to protecting abused minors. However, the narrative takes a provocative turn as the lawyer becomes entangled in a disturbing relationship with her underage stepson, played with unsettling brilliance by Samuel Kircher.
Breillat skillfully navigates the delicate subject matter, creating a narrative reminiscent of the charged dynamics seen in the works of Paul Morrissey and Joe Dallesandro. "Last Summer" stands out in Waters' selection for 2023, offering a pernicious and unflinching exploration of forbidden passions.
6. Sparta
Ulrich Seidl's "Sparta" thrusts viewers into a controversial and thought-provoking exploration of parenthood and societal expectations. The film poses a challenging question: Are Romanian children better off in the care of a closeted male pedophile who demonstrates love without overt actions, or in the hands of their real, but seemingly harsh, hetero adult fathers?
The controversy surrounding the film mirrors the complexity of its subject matter. "Sparta" is not only a fantastic cinematic achievement but also sparks a profound reflection on societal norms and the unconventional paths of human relationships. In John Waters' curated list for 2023, "Sparta" emerges as a standout, showcasing Seidl's ability to tackle contentious themes with both finesse and audacity.
7. Fallen Leaves
In "Fallen Leaves," Aki Kaurismäki, the master of deadpan Finnish cinema, crafts yet another melancholic masterpiece. The film revolves around an unlikely pair—an alcoholic factory worker and a lonely supermarket clerk—whose lives intersect by chance. Set against the backdrop of a drab and mundane reality, the narrative unfolds as a kitchen-sink melodrama that beautifully explores the struggle to find love in a seemingly unremarkable world.
Clocking in at a concise runtime, "Fallen Leaves" manages to captivate with its simplicity, evoking an Unmagnificent Obsession that charms audiences into silence and admiration. Kaurismäki's signature style, marked by deadpan humor and poignant storytelling, is on full display, making "Fallen Leaves" a must-watch for those who appreciate the beauty found in life's ordinary moments.
8. Strange Way of Life
"Strange Way of Life" takes a refreshingly unironic approach to the exploration of gay-cowboy memory, lust, family, and guilt. Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, the film delves into the complexities of human relationships, proving that familial bonds are, indeed, thicker than bodily fluids. Almodóvar's distinctive style, marked by vibrant visuals and intricate storytelling, breathes new life into the exploration of these themes.
The narrative unfolds with a sincerity that embraces the emotional nuances of its characters, offering a poignant portrayal of love and its multifaceted nature. "Strange Way of Life" stands as a testament to Almodóvar's ability to infuse depth into seemingly unconventional subjects, making it a compelling addition to the filmmaker's illustrious body of work.
9. Oppenheimer
"Oppenheimer," directed by Christopher Nolan, defies expectations by seamlessly blending big-budget spectacle with intelligence. This star-studded, high-octane action movie takes an intellectual approach to its narrative, making it deserving of accolades. The film unfolds as a gripping exploration of thought-provoking themes, engaging the audience with both its visual grandeur and cerebral depth.
"Oppenheimer" manages to stand out in the action genre by incorporating meaningful dialogue and intellectual challenges, earning its place as a noteworthy cinematic experience that goes beyond the conventional expectations of the genre.
10. Do Not Expect Too Much of the End of the World
Radu Jude's "Do Not Expect Too Much of the End of the World" is a maddeningly radical Romanian masterpiece that defies conventional storytelling. Clocking in at an unconventional two-hour-and-43-minute runtime, the film embraces shockingly repetitious elements reminiscent of Godard and Harmony Korine.
The narrative immerses the audience in the mundane yet intriguing life of a confident, trashy, gum-chewing workaholic PA for a movie company. The film challenges viewers to endure its radical approach, and as the layers unfold, a brilliant and unconventional masterpiece is revealed.
"Do Not Expect Too Much of the End of the World" is a testament to cinema's power to provoke and surprise, leaving a lasting impression that evolves from initial uncertainty to profound appreciation. Suffering for cinema, in this case, proves to be a rewarding experience that transcends traditional expectations.
Top John Waters Movies
The best John Waters movies of 2023 offer a kaleidoscopic journey into the eccentric and boundary-pushing realms of cinema. Waters, celebrated for his audacious storytelling and fearless exploration of the unconventional, curates a selection that embodies the spirit of irreverence and brilliance. From the uproarious chaos of "Beau Is Afraid" to the thought-provoking exploration of desire in "Master Gardener," each film on this list contributes to a cinematic experience like no other.
The curated top 10 movies showcase the diverse talents of directors such as Ari Aster, Pierre Creton, and Paul Schrader, each weaving narratives that challenge norms and captivate audiences. Whether it's the surrealism of "A Prince," the thrill of "Full Time," or the dark complexities of "Last Summer," Waters' 2023 lineup promises an unforgettable ride through the unconventional and extraordinary.
As we embrace the cinematic offerings of 2023, John Waters' selection encourages viewers to discard expectations and revel in the brilliance of storytelling that transcends conventional boundaries. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary cinema. So, buckle up and immerse yourself in the irreverent and extraordinary universe of John Waters, where the only rule is that there are no rules.
John Waters’s Top 10 Movies of 2023 - FAQs
John Waters' 2023 films stand out for audacious storytelling, fearlessly exploring the unconventional with irreverence and brilliance.
"Hairspray" is a 1988 musical comedy by Waters, praised for subversive social commentary on 1960s racial integration, showcasing humor with serious themes.
Ari Aster's "Beau Is Afraid" is an audacious masterpiece with surreal plot twists and dark humor, featuring a star-studded cast in a never-ending fever dream.
Paul Schrader's "Master Gardener" explores gardening and eroticism in an S&M-infused tale, with Sigourney Weaver's stellar performance adding sophistication.
Catherine Breillat's "Last Summer" explores dark desires and taboos, standing out for its unflinching portrayal of forbidden passions.