In "The Fabelmans", Steven Spielberg reminds us why he loves the movies - movies are a powerful art form and impassioned mediums of expression, they blur the lines between reality and fantasy, they speak truths and can be deeply personal, and they stand the test of time. This is a masterful, paradoxical story crafted by one of cinemas most impactful directors about his upbringing as a novice filmmaker in a time when filmmaking, as we know it today, was in its infancy.

Spielberg tells his memoir through Sammy Fabelman, and he could have only dreamt about back in the 60s and 70s of capturing his younger years with this level of expertise and technological innovation. The film is not only a lesson about the history of film but an intricate exploration of film techniques and family dynamics.

There are many revelations and gutsy, tough themes in "The Fabelmans", but none speaks more strongly than that of the capabilities and evolution of film - that cameras often capture and preserve moments that can't be captured, or often go unnoticed, in real life.

This is proof that film is magic, a precious time capsule where Spielberg pays homage to the movies. Yet not everything is glossy, as we also get an intimate look at the challenges that come with marriage, parenthood, coming of age, bullying, and antisemitism. Yes, some scenes are emotionally charged, even painful, but others are beautiful and funny, and Spielberg's trademark moments of innocence, wonder, and awe shine through.

Top this masterwork with some great performances, especially by Gabriel LaBelle as Sammy and Michelle Williams as his mom, Mitzi, and you have one of the best films of 2022.