Welcome to Film Friday’s special edition! Here’s a curated list of the top seven films and TV series of 2023. From mind-bending thrillers to heartwarming dramas, these captivating stories and performances have taken the industry by storm. Grab your popcorn and join us on this unforgettable journey through the best of 2023’s film and television.

The Creator

“The Creator (2023)” by Gareth Edwards is a visually striking sci-fi action thriller set in a future where humanity battles AI. Ex-special forces agent Joshua (John David Washington) hunts the Creator, the AI’s architect. However, the Creator turns out to be a child named Alphie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles), challenging Joshua’s mission and notions of humanity. While visually impressive with strong performances, the plot is somewhat predictable, character development lacking, and the third act rushed. Nonetheless, it’s a must-see for sci-fi and action fans, showcasing Edwards’ vision and intriguing ideas.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

Join the Portokalos family on their heartwarming adventure in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3.” In this latest episode, the audience goes to a charming Greek town where family members get together, and unexpected events happen.

The movie is based on the memory of the late father, Gus Portokalos, and it shows the love, culture, and funny things that make families special. Even though it’s not clear if there will be another wedding, the movie promises laughs, tears, and a celebration of how complicated life is.

The Vaccine War

“The Vaccine War” (2023) is a Hindi medical drama directed by Vivek Agnihotri, exploring India’s Covaxin development during COVID-19. Nana Patekar portrays Dr. Balram Bhargava, and Pallavi Joshi stars as Dr. Priya Abraham, highlighting scientists’ dedication. Despite excellent performances and top-notch direction, the film gets politically entangled in its second half, at times leaning towards propaganda. Overall, it’s an informative celebration of Indian science, emphasizing the vital role of research in saving lives, making it a worthwhile watch with some shortcomings.

Shibpur

Set in 1990s Kolkata’s Shibpur neighborhood, “Shibpur” is a compelling gangster drama following Mandira (Swastika Mukherjee), a housewife turned underworld player after her husband’s murder. She climbs the mafia ladder with the aid of ruthless gangster Sultan Ahmed (Parambrata Chatterjee). While beautifully shot with powerful performances by Mukherjee and Chatterjee, the film suffers from a cluttered script, uneven pacing, and an abrupt ending. Director Arindam Bhattacharya excels in creating a dark atmosphere, but viewers should be prepared for these shortcomings.

The Changeling”

Kelly Marcel (“Terra Nova,” “Venom”) is trying horror on for size with this Apple TV+ series, based on the 2017 novel by Victor LaValle. “Judas and the Black Messiah” Oscar nominee LaKeith Stanfield stars as Apollo, a man whose wife, Emmy (Clark Backo), and infant son go missing thanks to the incursion of otherworldly forces—likely thanks to a pact Emmy made with a mysterious woman she met in the Brazilian jungle. “The Changeling” also features Samuel T. Herring, Jonelle Gunderson, and character-acting stalwarts Adina Porter and Daphne Rubin-Vega.

Dreaming Whilst Black

“Dreaming Whilst Black” is a hilarious British comedy series starring Adjani Salmon as Kwabena, an aspiring filmmaker juggling a dead-end job, dreams, and love life. This witty satire on the British film industry sheds light on challenges faced by black filmmakers. Yet, it’s also a heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and chasing dreams. The stellar cast, including Babirye Bukilwa, Funmilayo Fagun, and Maurice Childs, delivers outstanding performances. With sharp and witty writing by Adjani Salmon, this show is a must-watch for British comedy fans and dream chasers alike.

Kumudini Bhavan

In 2023, “Kumudini Bhavan” emerges as a riveting Bengali whodunit web series, unfolding its enigma within a Kolkata girls’ hostel. Inspector Hochi Sarkar (Ambarish Bhattacharya) spearheads the investigation into the murder of newcomer boarder Anushree (Ushasi Ray). Anushree forges friendships swiftly but stirs animosities that culminate in her tragic poisoning. The series, distinguished by its compelling simplicity, boasts well-rounded characters and standout performances, especially by Bhattacharya and Ray. “Kumudini Bhavan” also delves into pertinent issues like bullying, sexism, and mental health, painting a realistic picture of hostel life for young Indian women. In sum, it’s a must-watch, finely-crafted whodunit.