Introduction

This is an idea I first saw on Rupert Pupkin Speaks wherein he lists his favorite “new-to-me” titles of the prior year. My 2021 viewings were as varied through time periods as others, and I saw some oddball films and interpretations of themes (like vampires), more on each specific title below.

During the pandemic years, and a little after that, I neglected to post these. I did one for 2023 and will now make up for the years I missed.

2022

Beautiful Boy (2018)

A devastating and beautifully performed film all around.

Vampire’s Kiss (1988)

This is a film that I knew of through memes but hadn’t actually seen. That fact, however, did not spoil or detract from the experience. An early big, fantastic turn from Nicolas Cage.

The Amusement Park (1975)

When I heard a George Romero film that had disappeared for decades was restored and would be on Shudder, I was excited but The Amusement Park exceeded my already high expectations.

The McPherson Tape (1989)

Found footage rarely works for me. However, this film never overstays its welcome, it utilizes VHS in a stripped-down, authentic low-budget approach of a paranoid concern that was quite timely in this film.

The Runner (Devandeh)(1984)

Made a trip to Film Forum for this restoration from Kino Lorber. Its a lyrical and wonderful film that marked a new stage in Iran’s presence on the world cinema scene.

Decasia (2002)

I’ve written in the past about the work of Bill Morrison, as opposed to Frozen Time this is less documentary more artful expression that is quite transcendent.

The Dybbuk (Der Dybuk) (1937)

This was the first sound version of this Jewish myth and is included in Kino Lorber’s Yiddish film box set and is captivating from start to finish.

My Grandpa is a Vampire (1991)

This is a film I might’ve been aware of as a kid, but I never saw it until Severin put it out on video. It’s a funny, goofy throwback that’s worth seeking out.

A Dog of Flanders (1935)

I’ve seen a few versions of this story and this one does go hard after the tear-jerking aspect of the source material.