Happy Tuesday, dear readers! Each week, we’ll rank the top 10 films in a specific category. While we aim to tie these lists to big releases, that won’t always be the case. Our goal? For you to enjoy, share your own lists, and join in on a lively, friendly debate. This is an interactive space to build community here at The Contending.
No fancy intros, no long essays – just a category and a list. Sound good?
It feels just like yesterday that I was heading to my first Telluride Film Festival. That was 2015 – the year of Spotlight, Steve Jobs, and Beasts of No Nation. I felt like William Miller in Almost Famous – not quite as young, but just as naive, wide-eyed, and passionate about the medium. I was suddenly among the likes of Sasha Stone, Kris Tapley, and other voices who helped shape the Oscar discourse we now take for granted. It was magical, thrilling, and more than a little intimidating.
Now, I’m on my way back to the mountains for my ninth visit – having only missed 2020 (canceled by the pandemic) and 2022 (due to health issues). Clarence, Joey, and Megan will be there too, and next Tuesday’s Top Ten will be a collective ranking of our festival favorites. Over the years, Telluride has been where I’ve met many online friends, countless filmmakers, and some of the most recognizable stars in the industry. For me, it remains the best five days of the year.
Before the festival kicks off, this week’s list looks back at the standout films I first saw at Telluride. These are the ones that have stayed with me the most – at least until this year brings new contenders.
10. Manchester by the Sea (2016)
9. Parasite (2019)
8. Belfast (2021)
7. The Shape of Water (2017)
6. Hostiles (2017)
5. Spotlight (2015)
4. First Man (2018)
3. Moonlight (2016)
2. Arrival (2016)
1. La La Land (2016)
1. Carol
2. Portrait of a Lady on Fire
3. First Cow
4. Moonlight
5. Lady Bird
6. A Hidden Life
7. Nickel Boys
8. Anora
9. Petite Maman
10. Fallen Leaves
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11. Faces Places
12. Toni Erdmann
13. Bergman Island
14. All of Us Strangers
15. Varda by Agnès
16. Steve Jobs
17. The Zone of Interest
18. Parasite
19. TÁR
20. Uncut Gems
21. Janet Planet
22. La Chimera
23. Cold War
24. Armageddon Time
25. The Assistant
To be honest, I first had to research what has been happening in Telluride over the past 10 years—I didn't have a list like this yet. But since I love top 10 lists, here is my selection:
1. Petite Maman
2. Cold War
3. Parasite
4. Anora
5. Free Solo
6. Fallen Leaves
7. Moonlight
8. Things to Come
9. Roma
10. Carol