Though 2019 will soon become another year full of film masterpieces, there should be no forgetting the cinematic wonders produced in 2018. From dramatic love stories to clever comedies and jaw-dropping thrillers, 2018 was an astonishing year in terms of film. So why not take a homework break to curl up in a warm blanket with some friends and watch these movies?

The Catalyst has put together a list of the Top 8 recommended movies of 2018 movies to watch: A Star is Born, Green book, Mission Impossible: Fallout, The Hate U Give,  Eighth Grade, Black Panther, A Quiet Place, and Birdbox.

A Star is Born depicts the complicated relationship between two musicians who fall in love in the midst of fame. The big time artist, Jackson Maine, played by Bradley Cooper, sees talent within a young budding artist named Ally played by Lady Gaga. The two encourage each other to redefine their taste for music as Ally rises in her career and Jackson begins his journey on a downward spiral with addiction and other health issues.

This movie is by far worth watching due to its dynamic and intense storyline. This film really makes the viewer ponder the significance of pursuing love versus passion. Anyone who loves music and romance should watch this movie.

Based on a true story, the film Green Book is both heartwarming and aggravating as it explores the culture and racism within the deep South during the 60’s. The story follows the famous Dr. Don Shirley, a world-renowned African-American pianist played by Mahershala Ali. As he embarks on a music tour, he is in need of security and driving assistance, so he hires an Italian-American bouncer from the Bronx known as Tony Lip, played by Viggo Mortensen.

This film is deeply moving as it shows how the friendship between two men of extremely different backgrounds impacts the lives of many. For anyone who enjoys historical pieces, Green Book is an evoking depiction of social stigmatism and racism in the early 60’s. This movie is highly recommended to people who enjoy all genres.

Keeping viewers at the edge of their seats, the action movie Mission Impossible: Fallout highlights the intense life of an Impossible Missions Force agent named Ethan Hunt. Played by Tom Cruise, Hunt is assigned to purchase stolen artifacts before an organized terrorist group known as the Apostles tries to snatch the treasured valuables.

Fallout is for the thrill-seekers who are capable of following the many twists and turns this movie holds. Each scene contributes to the plot, so it is important to stay attentive while watching. Though similar to many of the other Mission Impossible movies, this one has an authenticity of its own.

The Hate U Give is a film following a young and bright teenage girl named Starr Carter played by Amandla Stenberg. All her life, Carter was raised in an all black neighbourhood yet is enrolled in an all white prep school, which makes it hard to know where she fits in. Soon her worlds collide due to a tragic loss and she finally sees how to use her voice for power.

This movie is important because of its intensity and perspective on real world issues. A beautiful coming of age story, The Hate U Give draws the viewer in with its tremendous character development. Anyone who enjoys watching conflict unravel and is interested in activism should watch this flick.

The slice of life piece, Eighth Grade follows the story of an introverted teenage girl, Kayla Day, played by Elsie Fisher, through her final week of middle school. Written and directed by the award-winning Bo Burnham, this quirky yet relatable movie is truly in touch with the mindset of a changing preteen.

   This movie is recommended to adolescents due to its realistic portrayal of the awkward transition from middle school to high school. With scenes addressing topics like social media and body insecurities, viewers are provided with food for thought on real-world issues.

Black Panther is your classic hero-versus-villain action movie with a refreshing twist. As the young prince, T’Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman, strives to become king after his father’s death, derailing conflicts arise. This leaves him questioning his fate and ultimately the power he holds. Prince T’Challa must take a leap of faith in order to save the his country.

This remarkable story leaves viewers questioning the role of the antagonist. It incorporates African and African-American culture, giving the movie an interesting  perspective and beautiful visuals. Known for its almost entirely black cast, Black Panther is empowering and unique. Anyone who enjoys a great Marvel movie and is curious for a taste of something more should definitely watch this film.

The modern thriller, A Quiet place, is a refreshing new taste of horror that takes place in a Post-apocalyptic world overcome with intelligent beings who are hypersensitive to sound. Unlike your typical supernatural movie, this one plays on realistic fears. The plot is surrounding a family played by, John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe and Cade Woodward who must live in silence in order to survive among the world’s new inhabitants.

This movie is recommended for its originality and impressively realistic scary moments. A Quiet place is unique and the ending is unpredictable. Anyone who loves a good sci-fi horror film should watch it. A Quiet place doesn’t fail to absorb you into its atmosphere and keep you on the edge of your seat.

In Netflix’s psychological thriller, Bird Box, supernatural forces bring the human race to the brink of extinction. One thing that allows few to survive is putting on a blindfold in order to avoid the mysterious entity. With the world unraveling, a mother, played by Sandra Bullock, and her two kids set out to find a sanctuary by navigating the woods and river, careful not to uncover their eyes.

As one of the most mind-boggling stories of recent years, this gut-wrenching movie did not fail to thoroughly reel viewers in. While it keeps the audience guessing, Bird Box reveals unspoken truths about the sacrifices we make for loved ones. It is brutal, dark, and one of a kind, making it a must watch for all horror fanatics.

These Top 8 movies were chosen for their depth and individuality. They are all especially thought-provoking and have the ability to touch on many important aspects. Each one was handpicked because of their representation of how society has grown to 2019. As the new year embarks, many life lessons can be remembered from A Star is Born, Green Book, Mission Impossible: Fallout, The Hate U Give, Eighth Grade, Black Panther, A Quiet Place, and Bird Box.