Top Movies of 2021
I wasn’t able to watch a movie in theaters for about two years due to the pandemic and our toddlers. As we returned to some semblance of normalcy in 2021, it was great to be able to see a few of these films on the big screen. Some were thought-provoking, others were inspiring, and a few were just fun to watch. Here were a few of my favorites:
1. Dune
“A great man doesn’t seek to lead. He’s called to it.
And he answers.”
I love sci-fi, but never got around to reading the Dune series. I knew nothing about the background or characters going into watching this. I absolutely loved the film. The cast was stellar, and in my opinion, the character development made the movie what it was. My only regret was not watching this one in theaters because the cinematography was epic.
2. Pig
“We don’t get a lot of things to really care about.”
When I first saw the trailer for Pig I expected it to be another cheesy Nicolas Cage action film. Then I came across this great review over on The Gospel Coalition and decided to give it a shot. I’ll admit, a movie that centers on a hunt for a truffle-hunting pig sounds less than thrilling, but if you haven’t seen this you need to. There are larger themes at play that tie everything together: revenge, hospitality, and most of all, grace.
3. The Alpinist
“If you fall and die everybody thinks you’re an idiot, risk taker, daredevil. But if you succeed everybody celebrates you as a big hero. But the reality is that you’re the same person either way.”
I’m kind of obsessed with climbing movies and Rebekah loves that about me (insert sarcasm here). Prior to watching The Alpinist, my favorites included Free Solo, The Dawn Wall, and Meru. While I don’t have an extreme fear of heights, there is no way I could ever attempt anything remotely close to this. In part, I watch these movies so I can live vicariously through these guys. Another reason I love them is because these climbers are masters of their craft, and I love seeing how they have spent years perfecting it.
The Alpinist follows the climbing adventures of 23-year-old Marc-André as he makes his way around the globe free soloing some of the most dangerous peaks on earth.
4. King Richard
“I think you might just have the next Michael Jordan on your hands. . .
Oh, no, brother man. I gots me the next two.”
King Richard traces the story of Venus and Serena Williams rise to tennis stardom. Their father and coach, Richard Williams, maps out their whole life plan before the girls were born and pushes them to become two of the best female tennis players of all-time. Most tennis fans consider Serena to be the GOAT.
As a Dad to a feisty four-year-old daughter, I enjoyed watching the ways Richard both excelled and failed at raising his girls.
5. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
“You are a product of all who came before you, the legacy of your family. You are your mother. And whether you like it or not, you are also your father.”
Judge me if you must, but I love a whole bunch of the Marvel films. Even if you don’t, this one is entertaining. Awkwafina is hilarious and Simu Liu’s portrayal of Shang-Chi’s journey is fun to watch.
6. No Time to Die
“History isn’t kind to men who play God.”
Another “judge me if you must”, but I have always loved the James Bond movies—at least the ones with Daniel Craig. This is the fifth and final movie for Craig in the Bond series and I was pleased with the way they wrapped things up. I still think Casino Royal was the best though!
These were a few of my favorites from this past year. What am I missing? What were your favorite films from 2021?
