As 2023 comes to a close, former President Barack Obama has once again delighted movie enthusiasts and bookworms alike by sharing his annual favorites list. This time, his movie picks shed light not only on the cinematic treasures of the year but also on the impact of industry-wide movements for better working conditions.
In a tweet and posts across social media platforms on December 27, Obama unveiled his top 13 movies of 2023. The list is uniquely split into two sections, acknowledging the potential bias as three of the films are produced by Higher Ground, the production company co-founded with his wife, Michelle Obama.
“I’m biased since these movies were produced by Higher Ground, but these are, in fact, three of the best films this year,” Obama confessed in his tweet.
The former president’s transparency about his bias adds a personal touch to the list, emphasizing his connection to the films on both a professional and emotional level. The three films produced by Higher Ground — “Rustin,” “Leave the World Behind,” and “American Symphony” — not only made the cut but are praised for reflecting the dedication of writers and actors, particularly in light of the SAG-AFTRA and writers strikes earlier in the year.
“Earlier this year, writers and actors went on strike to advocate for better working conditions and protections. It led to important changes that will transform the industry for the better,” Obama noted in his post.
The acknowledgment of industry movements underscores the importance of collective efforts in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone involved in the filmmaking process.
Now, let’s delve into Obama’s complete list of the best movies of 2023, along with information on where to watch them:
- “Rustin” — Where to watch: Netflix
- “Leave the World Behind” — Where to watch: Netflix
- “American Symphony” — Where to watch: Netflix
- “The Holdovers” — Where to watch: Available on Peacock from Dec. 29
- “Blackberry” — Where to watch: AMC+, Roku Channel, and YouTube for purchase
- “Oppenheimer” — Where to watch: Available on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and YouTube for purchase
- “American Fiction” — Where to watch: Currently in theaters
- “Anatomy of a Fall” — Where to watch: Available on AppleTV+, Prime Video, and YouTube for purchase
- “Monster” — Where to watch: Currently in theaters
- “Past Lives” — Where to watch: Available on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and YouTube for purchase
- “Air” — Where to watch: Prime Video
- “Polite Society” — Where to watch: Prime Video
- “A Thousand and One” — Where to watch: Prime Video
This eclectic mix spans various genres, offering something for every moviegoer. Whether you prefer the convenience of streaming platforms or the immersive experience of the theater, Obama’s list ensures that these cinematic gems are accessible to all.
