The 15 Best Movies of 2016

Image courtesy of CBS Films

12. Hell or High Water

Hell or High Water is the little indie that could. After coming out of nowhere at the end of the summer, it became a major hit for the still up-and-coming CBS Studios. The story of two brothers (played by Chris Pine and Ben Foster) who rob a series of banks in order to avoid losing their house connected with many. Though some have called it a “Trump voter’s film,” that does a real disservice to a movie that focuses on something different: the working poor. Sure, the plight of the less than wealthy is nothing new in cinema, but through Taylor Sheridan’s script the movie deconstructed the lives of countless people who live with just enough to survive, but not enough to live. In between the bank robbing is a biting look at the loss of America’s heritage, and how its can-do attitude is a front for corporate greed.

Though Jeff Bridges is receiving the majority of the awards love so far, it is Chris Pine who transitions from pretty boy matinee idol to serious actor. As the level-headed Toby, Pine’s performance is sensitive if only to belie the strength and tenacity he holds onto in secret. The actor’s been in a blockbuster this year, as well as a small Disney movie, but this what he should be remembered for in 2016.

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