2021 has been an interesting year for film.
While we’re still cautious about going to theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic, distributors and festivals relied more on streaming platforms for release. It’s odd; I’m a theatergoer, the cinema is like a second home. Nothing replaces the theatric experience, whether it’s sitting in a small indie theater with a couple of people or a packed IMAX with a roaring crowd watching a blockbuster. At the same time, thanks to the new focus on streaming, I was able to see some of my favorite films this year. Simultaneous digital and in-person releases helped me watch films I couldn’t see before, and I imagine that to be the case for many others. It’s been a ride, as some of these films have become some personal favorites as well:
Some honorable mentions include Sweat, Nightmare Alley, Bad Luck Banging or Looney Porn, Censor, C’mon C’mon, Red Rocket, Memoria, Cowboys, Once Upon a Time in Uganda, Venom Let There Be Carnage (deal with it), and Ahed’s Knee.
