2017 was a tough year for many, and there were a lot of great movies that dealt with big issues. But there were also a few films that simply made us smile, laugh or just enjoy the moment. Here are some of our favorite movies of the year. Whether you’re a fan of horror or sci-fi, a classic or an offbeat, we have something for everyone. 1. Get OutThe first film to come from the comedy duo Key and Peele, Get Out is a smart, taut thriller that mixes horror with social commentary. It’s an ambitious move, but one that pays off in spades. The plot centres on Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a black man visiting his white girlfriend Rose’s family for the first time. When his girlfriend’s hypnotherapist mother Missy (Catherine Keener) forces him to stop smoking, he finds himself engulfed in a series of disturbing events. It’s a spiritual descendant of 1968’s Rosemary’s Baby and 1975’s Stepford Wives, but also reflects the racial tensions that have gripped our country since the election of President Donald Trump. It’s a biting, absurdist satire that cleverly captures some of the zeitgeist. 2. DunkirkDunkirk, Christopher Nolan’s latest epic, retells the famous rescue of British troops from a beach in France during World War II. It’s an excellent retelling of this important event in history and Nolan does an amazing job of capturing all aspects of the fight. The air battles, which often arouse little interest in war films, are as well-presented as you’ll find, and the attacks by German Stukas are terrifyingly realistic. The film also features strong acting and a gripping score from Hans Zimmer. However, there are a few shortcomings, most notably that there is no single protagonist to root for. 3. The Shape of WaterThe Shape of Water, from Hellboy and Pan’s Labyrinth director Guillermo del Toro, is easily one of the best movies of the year. While it uses familiar tropes, del Toro’s story is remarkably compelling and the film’s visuals are stunning. It also makes important and powerful points about prejudice, identity, and the radical power of understanding. In a time of xenophobia and racial division, del Toro aims to explore themes that resonate today. Set in 1962, it stars Sally Hawkins as a mute custodian who falls in love with a fish-out-of-water creature, played by Michael Shannon. She helps him escape from death at the hands of a corrupt government agent. 4. The FavouriteYorgos Lanthimos’ latest is a blistering period black comedy that’s not only hilarious, but darkly disarming. It takes its cues from the gritty, deadpan aesthetic of previous movies like Dogtooth and The Lobster and applies them to a period that’s often overtly beautiful but not always. It’s the story of the tense, three-way competition for Queen Anne’s favour between her weak-willed adviser Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz), her wiser than she lets on servant Abigail Masham (Emma Stone), and Queen Anne herself. Their tangled relationship is a compelling study in the political and sexual dynamics of 18th-century court life. 5. The Big SickIn the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of films based around illness. But not many of them have been this good, nor this well-crafted. Director Michael Showalter, screenwriters Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon, and producer Judd Apatow have taken this true story of a Pakistani-American comedian and white comedy writer falling in love and turned it into a warm-hearted dramedy about the challenges of cultural differences. The Big Sick begins as a witty romantic comedy in which Kumail (Nanjiani) falls for Emily (Zoe Kazan), an American woman who grew up in a family where arranged marriage is the norm. But when she develops a serious illness, the comedy arc gradually gives way to a deeper character study and an exploration of the pressures of being in a relationship with someone from a different culture. The lovable cast helps to make this film so delightful, and the story’s underlying themes are explored in a smart, deftly written way. It’s a must-see for anyone with an appreciation of a great American comedy. 6. The Hate U GiveThe Hate U Give is a gripping story about a black girl who witnesses the murder of her friend at the hands of a white police officer. It is an excellent example of how literature can bring to light the contentious issues that many people are too afraid to touch upon. The novel is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about racism and the importance of activism in today’s world. It is also an excellent read for anyone who wants to feel connected to a strong and relatable character. The author, Angie Thomas, has done a remarkable job of making the events in the book realistic and intense so that the reader can truly empathize with Starr Carter. However, the novel has some flaws that hinder the overall impact of the story. The main problem is that the story is bogged down by unnecessary characters and plotlines that distract from the message of the novel. 7. Paddington 2Paddington 2 is a heartwarming family movie that celebrates kindness, empathy, and the importance of community. It’s a counter-cultural message that’s especially appealing for kids, but it also speaks to adults as well. The film follows the adventures of a British teddy bear named Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) as he settles into life with the Brown family in London’s Windsor Gardens. He’s a popular member of the neighborhood and often spreads joy and marmalade wherever he goes. When he spots a unique pop-up book in Mr Gruber’s antique shop, it instantly attracts his attention. But when a thief steals the book and makes false accusations against him, he sets out to clear his name before Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday celebrations. 8. A Star is BornA Star is Born may be a remake of four previous versions, but it’s also one of the most original and heartfelt films of the year. Director Bradley Cooper and a promising Lady Gaga bring the classic story to life with their own unique vision and authentic energy. The film follows the journey of a young singer (Gaga) and her mentor Jackson Maine, who falls in love with her. The pair embark on a journey that will lead to fame and success. The film is packed with big moments and emotional punches that will leave you in tears. But what really sets this film apart is the chemistry between Cooper and Gaga. 9. The Lego Movie 2: The Second PartDespite its flaws, The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part is an entertaining film for children of all ages. It has a lot of great characters, fun action and spectacular visual effects. It also has some mild themes and cartoon violence. Parents should watch this movie with their children to ensure that they understand the content. The sequel to the 2014 hit, The Lego Movie, picks up five years after the first movie ended. Emmet (Chris Pratt) and his best friend Lucy/Wyldstyle are stuck in a world that has been turned into a post-apocalyptic wasteland by cute Duplo alien invaders. Directed by Mike Mitchell, the film also has a script written by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who were also responsible for the first LEGO movie. It also uses the same style of animation created by Animal Logic, which has developed a unique workflow for making films that look and move like real LEGO blocks and characters. 10. The Greatest ShowmanThe Greatest Showman is a movie musical that combines spectacular acting, breathtaking visuals and stunning music to create an extremely entertaining experience. The film also fosters hope and inclusion in its cast of outcasts. Director Michael Gracey, who has directed anime series Naruto, teamed up with choreographer Ashley Wallen of Moulin Rouge and Oscar and Tony-winning composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul to bring The Greatest Showman to life. While it may not be as good as last year’s box office smash La La Land, it still makes a splash as one of the best movies of 2017. The Greatest Showman is a fun and entertaining ride, with some memorable songs. Hugh Jackman is the dreamer of the piece, as P.T. Barnum, the founder of the famous circus. His dream is to make it big. The story is based on the real life of Barnum, who started the circus and had a bumpy rise to fame.