After many movies’ release dates were pushed back due to the Covid-19 pandemic and theaters around the country closed, many movies were finally released this past year. Many movies were released straight on to streaming services such as Netflix, HBO, Hulu, etc. which offered viewers the unique experience of watching new titles from the comfort of their own homes. The movies listed and reviewed below are not only some of the more newsworthy films of the year, but also the most popular. 

“Don’t Look Up”

Nominated for movie of the year, “Don’t Look Up” certainly deserves the nomination. With a magnificent cast (Meryl Streep, Timotee Chalamet, Jennifer Lawerence, Jonah Hill, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Tyler Perry, Ariana Grande, Kid Cudi), “Don’t Look Up” will strike fear into the hearts of viewers as the obvious spoofs of current events and political personas slowly sinks in. With amazing details (Jonah Hill’s Birkin) and directing by Adam Mckay hopefully it brought more attention to the issue and serves as a warning. Needless to say, it is one of the most relevant and memorable movies of 2021 (and currently streaming on Netflix).

“The Tragedy of Macbeth”

In “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Denzel Washington and Frances McDermont were especially spectacular. In this film, they stuck to the original script from William Shakespere’s play- originally performed at The Globe Theatre in London and now available across the globe. This movie is great for all Shakespeare enthusiasts or anyone in an English class. 

“King Richard”

Although Will Smith (Richard Williams) is the most notable name in the film, Aunjanue Ellis (Brandi Williams), Saniyya Sidney (Venus Williams), Demi Singleton (Serena WIlliams), come together to form one of the best films of the year. This movie follows Richard Willams and his plan to make his daughters international tennis stars, although starting in an unlikely location- courts in Compton. Using wit, creativity and genius, Richard pushes and pushes his daughters for them to reach their full potential and their soon successes become his. Inspirational and funny, this movie is a must-see.

“West Side Story”

Nominated for Oscars in several categories including Best Picture, “West Side Story” transports audiences back to 1950s NYC. Although facing controversy and backlash over one of the actor’s personal lives, this movie, its marvelous casting, directing and choreography encapture the audience. Stephen Speilberg, Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose, Maddie Ziegler, and Mike Fasit do not disappoint. There is not much to say besides it is now streaming on HBO and definitely lives up to the original.

“Dune”

As someone who did not read the “Dune” series, I still enjoyed the movie. Timothee Chalamet, Oscar Issac, Stellen Skarsgard, Jason Momoa and Zendaya excelled and Denis Vellenuvue’s directing was spectacular. A change of pace from other popular sci-fi movie franchises, “Dune” had not only amazing graphics, but also a remarkable plot, and left enough mistique for a second “Dune” movie.