The Absolute Best Movies of 2021 Worldwide, According to Shock Naue (And Me, Of Course)

Alright, film fanatics, put down your popcorn and listen up. It’s your pal, Quentin T. here, back from the celluloid trenches to give you the straight dope on the best movies of 2021 worldwide. Forget what those other so-called critics are saying – you know, the ones who probably think Cats is a cinematic masterpiece – we’re cutting through the BS and getting to the real flicks that made 2021 worth remembering. Now, I’m not saying this is gospel, but if you’re looking for the real deal on cinema that packs a punch, you’ve come to the right place.

Forget the Hype: What Actually Made the Cut in 2021

So, 2021. A year that felt like one long, strange fever dream, right? Well, cinema wasn’t immune to that, but amidst all the chaos, some real gems managed to crawl out. Let’s ditch the pretension and dive right into what movies actually deserved your hard-earned time and cash, shall we? I’m not going to waste your time with fluff – this is about the raw, the gritty, and the downright awesome. We’re talking about films that didn’t just entertain, they moved the damn needle.

Power of the Dog: Benedict Cumberbatch at His Finest

Look, I’m not one for slow-burn westerns, but Jane Campion’s Power of the Dog…man, that thing got under my skin. Benedict Cumberbatch is brutal as Phil Burbank, a cowboy whose masculinity is so toxic it could poison a whole damn ranch. It’s not your typical showdown at high noon; this is a psychological thriller, a slow, simmering pot of tension that boils over with a gut-wrenching intensity. And let me tell you, the way Campion crafts the narrative, it’s like watching a perfectly tuned machine grind itself to pieces. That’s some damn good filmmaking. Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil Burbank in Power of the Dog, intense and captivating

“The film’s deliberate pace and layered character studies demand patience, but the payoff is a deeply unsettling exploration of suppressed desires and toxic masculinity,” states Dr. Eleanor Vance, a film psychology professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. “It’s a masterful example of how slow-burn cinema can create immense emotional impact.”

Dune: A Visual Feast That Actually Delivers

Okay, listen up, sci-fi nerds. Dune. Did it live up to the hype? For the most part, yeah, it did. Denis Villeneuve delivered a visual spectacle on a scale we haven’t seen in years. It’s not just pretty pictures, though, it’s a world brought to life with painstaking detail, with a scale that’s both awe-inspiring and terrifying. And the cast? Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson—they all bring it. This isn’t just another space opera; this is epic storytelling done right. Now, I ain’t saying it’s perfect—it’s still got some of that ponderous Dune baggage, but it’s a hell of a ride and a serious flex for the genre. If you’re looking for a cinematic experience, you can’t go wrong with this one.

And if you’re a big fan of sweeping epics, you should definitely check out this article on most popular film in the world.

Drive My Car: A Quiet Masterpiece of Loss and Connection

Time to switch gears from sci-fi to something entirely different. Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s Drive My Car is a meditative, beautiful, and deeply emotional exploration of grief and human connection. This isn’t a movie that screams for your attention; it’s a movie that whispers, and if you pay attention, it’ll leave you floored. It’s about a theater director grappling with loss, and the way he navigates his life while trying to put on a stage production. It’s not a fast-paced thriller, no explosions, but every frame is rich and deliberate, every moment is heavy with meaning. It’s the kind of film that sticks with you long after the credits roll.

“Hamaguchi’s direction is masterful, utilizing long takes and silence to create a palpable sense of intimacy and introspection,” notes Samuel Peterson, an independent film critic from Chicago. “The film’s power lies in its ability to find universal truths in the specific details of its characters’ lives.”

The French Dispatch: Wes Anderson’s Whimsical Wonderland

Look, you either love Wes Anderson or you don’t, right? Well, I’m squarely in the “love” camp, and The French Dispatch is Wes at his most Wes. It’s a love letter to journalism, told through a series of vignettes, each one packed with Anderson’s signature style: meticulous composition, whimsical humor, and a cast of quirky characters. It’s not a film you watch for plot; it’s a film you soak in for atmosphere, style and wit. It’s pure cinematic confection, and I mean that in the best way possible.

The French Dispatch poster, showcasing the distinctive Wes Anderson style

West Side Story: Spielberg Remakes a Classic with Modern Flair

Alright, I’m gonna go out on a limb here: Spielberg’s West Side Story remake…it actually worked. And damn well, at that. It takes a classic, updates it without losing its soul, and manages to make it feel both timely and timeless. The dance numbers are jaw-dropping, the performances are powerful, and the story…well, it’s still heartbreaking and relevant. Sure, it’s based on a well known play, but Spielberg infused it with his own unique vision, and the result is a powerhouse of modern movie musical.

Which Films Pushed the Boundaries of Cinema in 2021?

Beyond just being great films, some flicks tried new things, took risks, and maybe even failed a little in the process. But hey, that’s what makes cinema exciting, right? Titane, for example, was a wild ride, a body horror fever dream that is definitely not for the faint of heart, pushing the limits of what a film can be. And while it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it sure was memorable. Then you’ve got films like The Green Knight, which was an artful, visually stunning take on Arthurian legend, that showed us you can still reimagine classic tales in bold new ways. And don’t even get me started on the hindi film scene, they were experimenting with genres and storytelling in ways that Hollywood could only dream of.

The Best of the Rest (Because There Were a Lot of Good Movies)

Look, I could keep going, but you got to catch a break, right? I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention other bangers like The Tragedy of Macbeth, with Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand bringing a dark, powerful intensity. There was Pig, a quiet, contemplative thriller with Nicolas Cage giving one of his best performances in years, proving that he’s still got plenty to offer when he doesn’t go completely off the rails. And while it had a rough release, Last Night in Soho managed to blend horror and fashion in a visually striking way, even if the script wasn’t perfect. 2021 wasn’t a perfect year, but when it comes to the cinema, it delivered in a big way.

So, What Did We Learn About 2021’s Best Movies?

2021 proved that even in the midst of chaos, cinema can still deliver the goods. We saw stories that challenged us, visuals that blew us away, and performances that left us breathless. These films weren’t just entertainment; they were experiences. They made us think, feel, and maybe even question a few things. Now, go out there and watch some damn good movies!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Movies of 2021

Alright, you got questions, I got (hopefully) some answers. Let’s tackle some of the most pressing queries you might have about the best movies of 2021.

What genre dominated the best films of 2021?

There wasn’t a single genre that dominated. We saw fantastic westerns, sci-fi epics, psychological dramas, and musicals all making the list. It was a diverse year for quality cinema, proving that great storytelling can come from any genre.

Were there any surprises among the top movies of 2021?

Absolutely! Pig, with Nicolas Cage, was a surprise hit, showcasing his dramatic chops. Drive My Car, a Japanese drama, made a big splash on the world stage, and that wasn’t expected by the mainstream.

How did streaming impact the best films of 2021?

Streaming platforms played a significant role. Many of the top films of 2021 premiered on streaming services, making them more accessible to a wider audience. It’s a game changer for independent and art house films, to be sure.

Which director had the strongest year in 2021?

Denis Villeneuve had a strong year with Dune, but we shouldn’t forget Jane Campion and her work in Power of the Dog. 2021 saw a lot of directorial powerhouses flexing their skills.

What should I watch if I want a fun, entertaining movie from 2021?

If you’re looking for a good time, West Side Story is your best bet, especially if you’re a fan of musicals. Or if you want some pure Anderson magic, The French Dispatch is never going to fail you.

Are there any international films worth checking out?

Definitely, Drive My Car is a must-see, but you should also look into what else is happening beyond Hollywood, especially in hindi film. There is some really amazing stuff coming out of different regions.

What movie from 2021 will most likely become a classic?

That’s tough to say, but Dune has a good chance to reach classic status, just given its scope, production value, and impact. But time will be the final judge.

What makes a movie “the best,” anyway?

It’s subjective, of course. For me, it’s a combination of great storytelling, strong performances, and a unique vision. It’s a movie that makes you feel something and sticks with you long after the credits roll.

Do you think 2022 will top 2021 in terms of movies?

Only time will tell, but the buzz is already strong. There are some interesting projects coming our way, and I for one, can’t wait to see how the cinema keeps pushing boundaries.