Whether it be on a streaming service or in the theaters, if your local ones are open, 2021 has brought us some gems so far. There may be a few months to go, but I already have my favorite films of the year. Let me know in the comments which films made your list.
1. Judas and the Black Messiah
For any millennial history buffs this isn’t the type of story they teach us in school, or even in college. Older generations may have possibly missed learning about it as well. It’s definitely a must see for all Americans, since this is our history.
Denzel Washington will always be the man of the hour. The rest of the cast is great as well. A thriller with so many twists that you’re constantly changing your assumptions on who really is evil.
3. Skater Girl
As a teenager I was a skater girl here in America. I wasn’t very good, but skateboarding changes you for the better. It was nice to see a film about kids in India falling in love with skating as well. I struggled with the gender issues of skateboarding too, but not to the extent of the main character. I truly think everyone should have access to skateboards and an awesome skate park.
Also a movie about skaters, we follow 3 friends as senior year is coming to close. They are so close to freedom, but this is bringing more pressure than joy. The main character is better at skateboarding than me, but the film goes beyond skateboarding. It’s a great coming of age story, and anyone can relate to it, even if they’ve never touched a board.
The film is a fictionalized account of Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke meeting for one night in February 1964. Everything these men did lives on all around us. Even as a millennial, that came way after some of these men’s time, I just know they paved the way for all of us. The film is epic with it’s portrayal of 4 legends.
The film will grab you by the heart and have you experience everything from sadness to joy. Since I’m from Connecticut I frequent NYC a lot. You can’t help but feel sad to know the city is changing. Most people near a big city, or living in one, understand. The musical numbers are great, and if you didn’t get to see this on Broadway like me, this is the next best thing.
7. Minari
The hope for the American dream will always be beautiful even if it seems unattainable. The family dynamic are the best part, especially between the grandma and grandson.
8. Fatherhood
Based on the true story of Matthew Logelin, the film captures the worst time in a persons life, but also shows us how strong the fatherhood bond can be. It’s emotional and uplifting at the same time.
9. Candyman
A sequel to the 1992 film the story follows a now grown up Anthony McCoy preparing to meet the local monster. As he dives deeper into the man Helen originally saved him from things get more complicated with racism, gentrification, violence, and scapegoats.
10. Really Love
A passionate love story set in Washington D.C., this film is for anyone who liked Normal People, The Photograph, or Love Jones. Once you start the film you become addicted to the characters, and you don’t want the story to end.
Honorable Mention: Resort to Love
If you need a romance film to watch with your Mom or Grandma this film is for you. That’s code for no sex scenes. It’s quirky and fun, but also has heart.
Katelyn The Journalist 