As the year comes to a close, film critics have begun to reflect on the movies that have made an impact in the past twelve months. From blockbusters to indie darlings, 2021 has been a diverse year for cinema, with a wide range of genres and styles making their mark on audiences and critics alike.
Our team of film critics has compiled a list of their top 10 favorite films of the year, taking into account a variety of factors such as storytelling, performances, direction, and overall impact. While it was a tough decision to narrow down the list to just 10 films, each of the selections has left a lasting impression and is worthy of recognition.
One film that stood out to our critics is “Dune,” directed by Denis Villeneuve. This epic sci-fi adaptation of Frank Herbert’s novel has been praised for its stunning visuals, immersive world-building, and standout performances from its ensemble cast. With a mix of action, drama, and political intrigue, “Dune” has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning it a spot on our list of favorites.
Another standout film from this year is “The Power of the Dog,” directed by Jane Campion. This psychological drama follows a rancher and his family as they navigate love, betrayal, and toxic masculinity in the American West. With powerhouse performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, and Jesse Plemons, “The Power of the Dog” has been lauded for its nuanced storytelling and rich character development.
In addition to these two films, our critics also highlighted “CODA,” directed by Sian Heder, as one of their favorites of the year. This heartwarming coming-of-age story follows a teenage girl who is the only hearing member of her deaf family as she navigates her passion for singing and the challenges of balancing her family’s needs with her own dreams. With a breakout performance from Emilia Jones and a touching exploration of identity and acceptance, “CODA” has resonated with audiences of all ages.
Other films that made our critics’ top 10 list include “Drive My Car,” directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, “The French Dispatch,” directed by Wes Anderson, and “The Green Knight,” directed by David Lowery. Each of these films offers a unique and compelling cinematic experience, whether through their visual style, storytelling techniques, or thematic depth.
One common theme among the top 10 films selected by our critics is the diverse range of voices and perspectives represented on screen. From stories of deaf families in “CODA” to the exploration of toxic masculinity in “The Power of the Dog,” these films offer a glimpse into a variety of lived experiences and cultural backgrounds. This emphasis on diversity and inclusion has been a driving force in shaping the landscape of contemporary cinema, and our critics have taken note of the impact it has had on this year’s standout films.
Overall, the top 10 films of the year as chosen by our critics represent a mix of genres, styles, and themes that have resonated with audiences and critics alike. From sci-fi epics to intimate character studies, these films showcase the power of storytelling and the art of filmmaking in creating meaningful and impactful narratives. As we look ahead to the new year, we can only hope that the momentum of this year’s standout films will continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.