6. Dead Again in Tombstone (2017)
In the wild west, gunslinger Guerrero (Danny Trejo) returns from the dead in order to save the world.
Of all the action stars working in Hollywood, icon Danny Trejo is the only one possessing verisimilitude, as he was previously a criminal before reforming. This is evident in his entertainingly badass lead performance as Guerrero Hernandez, exacerbated by his striking, ominous appearance.
A sequel to 2013’s Dead in Tombstone, this is an original western for its genre-blending approach, sprinkling in fantasy and horror tropes. For instance, one of its most exciting and novel features is an army of Confederate soldier zombies. Like the first instalment, Dead Again in Tombstone is suspenseful, action-packed and filmed kinetically, with period detail in its sets and costumes. Overall, it makes for unabashedly violent, grindhouse fun.
7. The Hero (2017)
Former western movie star Lee Hayden (Sam Elliot) receives a cancer diagnosis. This prompts him to reconnect with his estranged daughter (Krysten Ritter), revive his career and kindle a romance.
In a nearly sixty-year career, Sam Elliot finds his defining role with The Hero. Mirroring his own life, Elliot brings a relatable honesty, intelligence and melancholy to Lee Hayden. The Hero unveils the unshakable masculinity of his cowboy persona, looking into the sadness of a more realistic figure.
Although many films have tackled strained parental relationships, The Hero stands out for achieving a believable, moving father-daughter drama devoid of a forced resolution. Balancing stoner comedy with existential introspection, The Hero also critiques Hollywood’s fickleness and looks into the transient, illusory nature of celebrity.
8. The Polka King (2017)
Polish immigrant and polka bandleader Jan Lewan (Jack Black) sets up a Ponzi scheme in Hazelton, Pennsylvania. The funds allow him to expand his business empire, amassing his own brand of vodka and starting to lead European tours. However, the FBI soon learn of Lewan’s wrongdoings.
After Nacho Libre (2006), The Polka King sees Jack Black return to form as a legendary comedic leading man. Like High Fidelity (2000) and School of Rock (2003), Black is also able to contribute his singing acumen. In a story based upon real events, Black’s portrayal of Jan Lewan is funny, yet perplexing. On one hand, Lewan is clearly nefarious and exploitative, for taking the money of naïve old people.
However, Black brings a huge amount of charisma and kindness to the role, making it hard to dislike the character. What is most inspiring about Jan Lewan is his unflappable positive attitude. He pretends everything is wonderful, even when his world is collapsing around him. Bolstered by Jenny Slate’s comedic talent, The Polka King masters character-centred humour, centred around eccentricities.
9. Tag (2018)
Five friends (Jon Hamm, Ed Helms, Jeremy Renner, Hannibal Buress, Jake Johnson) have been playing tag for thirty years. Before his wedding, they try to tag their game’s only undefeated player.
Based on a true story, Tag is the perfect recipe of irreverent humour underpinned with touching sweetness. At its core is the importance of support and friendship, postulating over the value of fun and childishness. The preposterous premise and slapstick action sequences are enhanced by the casting of Jeremy Renner. This actor’s serious persona and past in dramatic roles juxtaposes against the silliness of the all-star ensemble. Although all the actors contribute great comedy, Isla Fisher excels for her commitment to jokes and her feral performance.
10. Bad Times at the El Royale (2018)
In 1969, seven mysterious people converge at a hotel on the California-Nevada border. As their secrets are revealed, they find themselves in violent conflict.
Informed by conspiracy theories, Bad Times at the El Royale boasts thematic richness. Writer-director Drew Goddard deals with appearance and reality, morality and redemption. Through his layered characters, Goddard also asks: ‘what constitutes a good or bad person?’ Stylistically, Bad Times at the El Royale outdoes other neo-noirs for its lavish set design, period costumes and soundtrack of soul and hippie rock. The slow-burning mystery plot is constantly surprising, peeling back veneers to reveal yet another clandestine revelation. On this note, Jeff Bridges uses his loveable persona against the audience, tricking them to hide his character’s darker aspects.