Barack Obama's Top Movie Picks For 2023 –That You Can't Miss

Former President Barack Obama's annual tradition of sharing his favourite movies of the year provides us with a glimpse into his cinematic preferences. This year, his list not only highlights his personal picks but also shines a spotlight on the exceptional productions from his own company, Higher Ground, which he co-founded with wife Michelle Obama. 

The top three movies on his list, Rustin, Leave the World Behind, and American Symphony, are all outstanding cinematic achievements and serve as an example of the quality of Higher Ground's work.

Rustin

Rustin takes centre stage, starring Colman Domingo as the overlooked civil rights activist Bayard Rustin. The film unfolds a compelling narrative that sheds light on Rustin's pivotal role in the civil rights movement. We witness Domingo's masterful portrayal of Rustin, capturing the essence of his struggles and triumphs. This cinematic tribute not only entertains but also educates, contributing to the cultural tapestry of films with a social impact.

Leave the World Behind

Ethan Hawke, Julia Roberts, and Mahershala Ali headline Leave the World Behind, a mysterious apocalypse story that grips audiences from the opening scene. The trio's stellar performances, coupled with a thought-provoking plot, elevate this film to one of Obama's top picks. As the world grapples with an unknown calamity, the film prompts viewers to contemplate the fragility of human existence. It's a classic example of the power of storytelling when intertwined with top-tier acting.

American Symphony

American Symphony follows the journey of musician Jon Batiste and his life partner, Suleika Jaouad. Against the backdrop of Batiste's endeavour to compose a symphony, Jaouad confronts the return of her cancer. This emotional rollercoaster weaves a story of love, resilience, and the pursuit of artistic expression. Obama's endorsement underscores the film's ability to resonate on both a personal and societal level, solidifying its position among the year's cinematic highlights.

Acknowledging Industry Shifts

In a post on X/Twitter, Obama contextualises his list, acknowledging the two strikes that shaped the entertainment industry in 2023. Acknowledging his bias, Obama asserts, “I’m biased since these movies were produced by Higher Ground, but these are, in fact, three of the best films I saw this year.” This transparency adds a personal touch to the list, inviting readers to appreciate not only the movies but also the passion and commitment behind their creations.

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.

Here are some films that reflect their hard work over the last year — including some like… pic.twitter.com/TMH9LeQgsT

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 27, 2023

He applauds the collective efforts of writers and actors, emphasizing their contribution to transformative changes in working conditions and industry protections. This acknowledgement adds depth to Obama's film choices, emphasizing their significance in a year marked by industry evolution.

Beyond Higher Ground

Beyond projects backed by Higher Ground, Obama extends his commendation to a diverse array of films. "The Holdovers," "Blackberry," "Oppenheimer," "American Fiction," "Anatomy of a Fall," "Monster," "Past Lives," "Air," "Polite Society," and "A Thousand and One" made the cut as his favourites. This eclectic selection showcases Obama's appreciation for independent darlings, international gems, and blockbuster spectacles, offering a well-rounded cinematic palette.

Barack Obama's curated list provides cinephiles with a curated journey through the cinematic landscape of 2023. From socially impactful narratives to apocalyptic mysteries and stories of personal triumph, these films exemplify the diverse and transformative power of storytelling.