Top picks for must-see movies of 2023

 Keanu Reeves in a scene from John Wick: Chapter 4. (Courtesy)

As the final credits of 2023 start to roll, it's time to hit pause, rewind, and catch a glimpse of the cinematic treasures that might have escaped us in the hustle and bustle of the year. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot, and let's dive into the hidden gems of 2023.

First up on the list is the unexpected twist on the classic Barbie tale. Margot Robbie takes on the iconic role, breathing life into the plastic fantastic character, while Ryan Gosling charms his way into our hearts as Ken. This live-action satire promises to shatter the plastic perfection of Barbie's world, tackling the unrealistic expectations and stereotypes head-on.

Switching gears, we find ourselves on Rye Lane, a British comedy-drama directed by the incomparable Steve McQueen. With the dynamic duo of Daniel Kaluuya and Letitia Wright leading the cast, the film dives into the lives of friends navigating the challenges of running a record store in the heart of Peckham, London. With themes of gentrification, racism, and love, it's a moving story that might have slipped under the radar but deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Christopher Nolan takes a departure from mind-bending narratives with "Oppenheimer," a biographical drama about the American scientist behind the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, and Robert Downey Jr. bring Oppenheimer's story to life, exploring the ethical dilemmas and consequences of scientific innovation. If you're a fan of historical dramas, this one's a hidden gem.

The Spider-Verse saga continues with "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse." If you missed the animated brilliance and multiverse magic in the first installment, now's your chance to swing into action alongside Miles Morales and a stellar voice cast. It's a web-spinning adventure that's not to be missed.

Ethan Hunt and his team return for "Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning - Part One." If you've been holding out for the next heart-stopping installment of the spy franchise, your patience is about to pay off. Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, and Simon Pegg gear up for a new mission, promising thrills and jaw-dropping stunts.

John Wick is back in "John Wick: Chapter 4," seeking revenge and freedom from the High Table. Keanu Reeves reprises his role in this neo-noir thriller series, delivering more slick action and a riveting storyline. If you haven't joined the John Wick fan club yet, now's the time.

Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" offers a dark dive into American history. Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, and Jesse Plemons lead a stellar cast in this historical crime drama based on the true story of the Osage murders in 1920s Oklahoma. It's a haunting tale that deserves a spot on your must-watch list.

So, consider this your cinematic checklist as the year draws to a close. Whether you're into satirical Barbie tales, heartfelt British comedies, historical dramas, animated multiverses, spy thrillers, or neo-noir assassins, there's something for everyone.