The best movies of 2021 were a diverse mix of blockbusters, indie films, and international cinema, including Dune, Drive My Car, The French Dispatch, and more.
2021 was a year of resilience and revival for the film industry. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, filmmakers and audiences alike found ways to connect through the power of cinema. From long-awaited blockbusters to thought-provoking indie films, the year delivered a wide array of cinematic experiences that captivated, entertained, and inspired us.
Dune: An Epic Sci-Fi Spectacle
Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic novel, Dune, was a visual masterpiece that transported audiences to the distant world of Arrakis. With its stunning cinematography, immersive sound design, and stellar performances from a star-studded cast, Dune set a new standard for sci-fi filmmaking. The movie grossed over $400 million worldwide, proving that audiences were eager to return to theaters for the right film.
Drive My Car: A Poignant Exploration of Grief and Connection
Japanese director Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s Drive My Car was a critical darling that won numerous awards, including the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. The movie, based on a short story by Haruki Murakami, follows a theater director as he grapples with the loss of his wife and forms an unexpected bond with his young female driver. Drive My Car’s slow-burn approach and nuanced performances made it a deeply moving and unforgettable cinematic experience.
The French Dispatch: Wes Anderson’s Love Letter to Journalism
Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch was a whimsical and visually stunning tribute to the world of journalism. Set in a fictional French city, the movie tells a series of interconnected stories through the lens of an American newspaper. With its all-star ensemble cast, meticulous production design, and signature Anderson style, The French Dispatch was a delightful and quirky addition to the director’s filmography.
The Dig: A Quiet Meditation on History and Legacy
Simon Stone’s The Dig, based on the true story of the 1939 excavation of Sutton Hoo, was a understated yet powerful drama that explored themes of history, legacy, and the passage of time. Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes delivered nuanced performances as an archaeologist and a widowed landowner who form an unlikely connection during the dig. The movie’s beautiful cinematography and poignant storytelling made it a hidden gem of the year.
Other Notable Films of 2021
- The Power of the Dog: Jane Campion’s slow-burn Western drama, featuring a career-best performance from Benedict Cumberbatch.
- Licorice Pizza: Paul Thomas Anderson’s nostalgic and charming coming-of-age story set in 1970s California.
- The Green Knight: David Lowery’s visually stunning and enigmatic adaptation of the Arthurian legend.
- Pig: Michael Sarnoski’s unconventional and emotionally resonant thriller, anchored by a powerful performance from Nicolas Cage.
- Titane: Julia Ducournau’s provocative and genre-defying body horror film that won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
According to Box Office Mojo, the top-grossing movies of 2021 worldwide were:
- Spider-Man: No Way Home – $1.89 billion
- The Battle at Lake Changjin – $902 million
- Hi, Mom – $822 million
- No Time to Die – $774 million
- F9: The Fast Saga – $726 million
While box office numbers are one measure of a film’s success, the true impact of cinema lies in its ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. The best movies of 2021 did just that, offering a diverse range of stories, styles, and perspectives that resonated with viewers around the world. As we look ahead to the future of film, we can take comfort in knowing that even in the face of adversity, the power of cinema endures.
Conclusion
2021 was a year that reminded us of the resilience and adaptability of the film industry. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, filmmakers found innovative ways to create and share their stories with the world. From big-budget blockbusters to intimate indie films, the year delivered a wealth of cinematic experiences that entertained, inspired, and moved us. As we look ahead to the future of film, we can take heart in knowing that the magic of the movies will continue to thrive, no matter what obstacles may come our way.