Before the pandemic hit, it would’ve been impossible to imagine just how much the movie-going experience would change. However, with cinemas closing and movie releases being canceled amidst COVID-19, most movies were streamed.
Thankfully, things are slowly starting to go back to normal. And although movies never really went away, it seems that now with blockbusters being released and cinemas opening up, they have made a much-needed comeback!
This is why we have compiled the best list of movies from this year that should be on your list of movies to watch ASAP. Please keep reading to find out about them.
Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar
- Release Date: February 12, 2021
- Director: Josh Greenbaum
- Cast: Kristen Wiig, Annie Mumolo, Jamie Dornan, Damon Wayans Jr.
This is a ridiculously funny movie from the minds of comedian geniuses Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo. The story follows two best friends who get fired from their jobs and leave their hometown in Nebraska to vacation in Florida. This movie is filled with exciting musicals, wild cameos, and a goofy and hilarious spirit that will leave you crying with laughter.
Judas and the Black Messiah
- Release Date: February 12, 2021
- Director: Shaka King
- Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield, Jesse Plemons, Dominique Fishback
Another must-watch movie is this one directed by the brilliant Shaka King. The movie portrays the real-life events of the rise and eventual murder of the chairman of the Black Panther Society. The enticing movie shows how the FBI carried out the murder through their informants, who helped with the arrangements. The historical drama that includes the award-winning lead, Daniel Kaluuya, is already gaining much Oscar buzz.
Saint Maud
- Release Date: January 29, 2021
- Director: Rose Glass
- Cast: Morfydd Clark, Jennifer Ehle, Lily Knight, Lily Frazer
This hauntingly spooky, while sneakily funny film, is one to watch because of its unique yet obscure story. Saint Maud, which also happens to be Rose Glass’ directorial debut, follows the life of a young woman who converted to Roman Catholicism and worked as a palliative care nurse. She hears the voice of God and believes that her new patient’s soul needs to be saved by her while she still has time. This movie will truly be a religious experience for you.
In the Heights
- Release Date: June 9, 2021
- Director: John M. Chu
- Cast: Anthony Maros, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Melissa Barrera, Leslie Grace
If happy vibes are what you are looking for in a movie, you must watch this one. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda himself, this is an adaptation of a Broadway musical. The musical drama includes themes of friendship, diversity, identity, dreams, and much more. It portrays the neighbourhood of Washington Heights in Manhattan that Dominican Americans predominantly fill.
A Quiet Place Part II
- Release Date: April 16, 2020
- Director: John Krasinski
- Cast: John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmons
Though the movie’s official release date was in 2020, it was not until 2021 that most viewers got the chance to watch this sequel to the 2018 thrill and horror hit. This one is truly just as brilliant as the first one, with gripping scenes that will leave you at the edge of your seat. The movie contains minimal language and verbal communication, but it makes up for that through the actors’ fantastic non-verbal cues and performances.
Shiva Baby
- Release Date: April 2, 20221
- Director: Emma Seligman
- Cast: Rachel Sennott, Dianna Argon, Molly Gordon, Danny Deferrari
The directorial debut of Emma Seligman will definitely cause you to feel extreme acute anxiety. At the very least, it will leave you intrigued throughout. The story follows a young college student who lives a double life as a student and works for sugar daddies. The movie shows an awkward encounter between her and one of her sugar daddies and wife.
Minari
- Release Date: February 12, 2021
- Director: Lee Isaac Chung (Munyurangabo)
- Cast: Steven Yeun, Alan Kim, Yeri Han, Youn Yuh-Jung
In Lee Isaac Chung’s Minari, a grandma arrives from Korea to America. She brings with her seeds to grow a Minari plant. The entire story is portrayed from the eyes of a seven-year-old, whose views will definitely make you laugh. What makes this movie great is that it portrays culture, diversity, and family.
Final Words
Looking for more scoop on the latest movie releases? Or if you simply want to check out a list of a to z movies and their ratings, head on over to Screendollars!