In this film blog entry for the Herald, I look back at the movies, moments and performances from this year that have really stayed with me. Also a not very impassioned defense of Adam Sandler.

It’s been a big year for movies, one of the biggest ever. Then again, it seems like that every year. I definitely say it every year. Here are some of the movies, moments and performances I found to be the most memorable.

2015’s Coolest Villain: Immortan Joe

Hugh Keays-Byrne’s diseased dictator makes even Kylo Ren look cuddly.

2015’s Best Comedy Sidekick: Michael Peña in Ant-Man

Peña’s semi-reformed crook Luis drives many of Ant-Man’s best moments, and serves as a reminder of how much superhero films can benefit when they place emphasis on character, and of Pena’s still under-exploited gifts as a comic actor. Special mention to T.I. who was also pretty hilarious as Dave, the comedy sidekick’s sidekick.