Be wary of that tryptophan because these three films are worth staying up for after giving thanks with your friends and family. Whether all the football games have ended or you’re just a big film buff, these films will be sure to keep the party going long after the plates are licked clean.
“The Irishman” (2019)
5 out of 5 stars
I’ll say it again and again: 2019 had some of the best movies in the entire decade. From “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” to “Ford Vs Ferrari,” “Parasite” and “Marriage Story,” 2019 was legendary for game-changing films. But one 2019 film, “The Irishman,” certainly has a special place in my heart, as I have watched it every Thanksgiving since its premier three years ago.
Martin Scorsese released this haunting yet emotional film at a point in his career when many hang their hats up. Not only did Scorsese direct this film at 76, but he also got the amazing Joe Pesci to come out of retirement to play mob boss Russell Bufalino. Along with Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Harvey Keitel and Ray Romano, “The Irishman” proved that age is just a number.
While its runtime is a hefty three-and-a-half hours, seeing these legends on screen makes for a perfect Thanksgiving because it’s a time for reflection and giving thanks with those most familiar to you. Although the mob families are plagued with violence, it’ll surely remind you of your own familial dynamics, which is what makes this film so spectacular.
However, this story is incredibly complex and will need some background for those who are not familiar with the disappearance of Teamster leader Jimmy Hoffa.
“When Harry Met Sally” (1989)
5 out of 5 stars
This film, above all, gives the viewer fall vibes more than any other — just look at the poster. Besides the fact that most of its scenes are filmed during the holidays, this romantic comedy is one of the greatest movies of all time, period.
Two friends in a tumultuous relationship — Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) — perfectly encapsulate what it’s like to be in love with your best friend. Over a period of “12 years and 3 months” Harry and Sally meet for the first time, awkwardly reunite only to separate, then become close friends, and finally get together on New Year’s.
If you’re looking for a lighter film after a heavy meal, “When Harry Met Sally” is a perfect choice and might even make you want to get seconds after the film is over.
“Knives Out” (2019)
5 out of 5 stars
If you think your family has problems, take a gander at this one. Another 2019 film, “Knives Out” is a murder mystery for the ages that will make you want to skip dessert.
Like “The Irishman,” this film has a stunning cast including the likes of Ana De Armas, Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon and Toni Collette.
When the patriarch of a wealthy family turns up dead after a night of celebration, the cast is thrown into a series of interviews and an emotional roller coaster by investigator Benoit Blanc, played by Craig.
This murderous epic will truly reign home if you’re celebrating with your extended family; we all know it’s impossible to avoid drama with that many people stuck in a house, no matter its size.
Happy Thanksgiving, UCCS!
Image caption: Photo from marketwatch.com.