Top 3 Films of 2021

by andrewbondarev, posted in Arts, Culture, & Entertainment

Silas Gonzalez ‘24

I personally believe the following films stood out the most last year. 2021 was another troublesome year for theaters and studios, with numerous movies releasing on theatrical and streaming platforms.  After the consequences of the pandemic, the box office last year suffered a massive blow by theater shutdowns and protocols to keep people safe.  Currently audiences have the choice to watch films digitally or in theaters.  Warner Brothers, for example, had each of their films in 2021 immediately released on their streaming service (HBO Max.)  Despite these arrangements being more convenient for audiences, the entertainment industry has not completely recovered from the pandemic.  Thankfully, wonderful films have been released that I would wholeheartedly recommend.

Spider-Man: No Way Home

Perhaps the most discussed movie of the year, Spider-Man No Way Home is a wonderfully crafted Spider-Man film.  With his identity revealed, Peter Parker struggles to resolve the obstacles that result, enlisting Doctor Strange to spell his problems away.  However, the spell goes out of control, opening the multiverse to past villains.  Legendary actors such as Williem Dafoe, Jamie Foxx, and Alfred Molina reprise their roles as iconic Spidey foes.  Spider-Man No Way Home is a must-see movie, with an excellent message and heartfelt characters.

Tick…tick…boom!

Review: 'Tick, Tick... Boom!' is An Engaging, Complicated Musical With A Stunning Andrew Garfield Performance

The Netflix musical Tick…tick…boom! is a biopic on playwright Jonathan Larson, navigating his friendships and career.  Out of my great admiration for actors such as Andrew Garfield and Alexandra Shipp, this movie is my personal favorite to come out this year.  Lin Manuel-Miranda, creator of hits such as the Hamilton musical, has a directorial debut with this film, showcasing his love for music and appreciation for John Larson, visualizing Larson’s songs to convey scenes in Tick…tick…boom! 

Encanto

Disney's 'Encanto' review: While set in Colombia, the charming animation pays more of an homage to Latin America's beauty, focusing on family values — The Mujerista

Disney’s new family film Encanto brings back the classic magic of their movies that I have severely missed.  Encanto is thoroughly enjoyable, with the mannerisms of each character being expressive and lively, and an authentic story that utilizes its characters in the most efficient way possible.  Lin Manuel-Miranda once again perfects musical composition, with the song We Don’t Talk About Bruno topping Frozen’s Let it Go as the most listened to Disney song.  With a beautiful structure and soundtrack, Encanto is a powerhouse in the Disney market.