Independent films have always been a niche within the world of cinema, often overlooked by mainstream audiences in favor of big-budget blockbusters and studio-backed productions. However, in recent years, independent films have been gaining more traction and recognition, proving that smaller budgets and lesser-known actors can still deliver powerful and thought-provoking stories on the big screen. In fact, 2021 has been a particularly exciting year for independent films, with a plethora of hidden gems that have captivated audiences and critics alike. Get ready to uncover the top independent films of the year – these are the must-watch movies that have flown under the radar but deserve to be celebrated and shared.
1. “Minari” (directed by Lee Isaac Chung)
“Minari” is a semi-autobiographical film that tells the story of a Korean-American family’s struggle to achieve the “American Dream” while living in rural Arkansas in the 1980s. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung and starring an ensemble cast that includes Steven Yeun, Yeri Han, and Yuh-Jung Youn, “Minari” is a heart-wrenching and heartwarming tale of family, identity, and the immigrant experience. The film has received critical acclaim for its intimate storytelling and powerful performances, earning six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actress.
2. “Sound of Metal” (directed by Darius Marder)
“Sound of Metal” follows the journey of a heavy metal drummer, played by Riz Ahmed, who begins to lose his hearing. As he struggles to come to terms with his new reality, he must also confront his past demons and find his new place in the world. Directed by Darius Marder, “Sound of Metal” is a raw and emotionally-charged film that has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the deaf community and the universal themes of acceptance and resilience. Ahmed’s performance has been hailed as one of the best of the year, earning him a Best Actor nomination at the Oscars.
3. “Promising Young Woman” (directed by Emerald Fennell)
“Promising Young Woman” is a dark comedy-thriller written and directed by Emerald Fennell, known for her work on hit TV series “Killing Eve”. The film stars Carey Mulligan as a young woman seeking revenge against those who wronged her best friend in college. With its bold and unapologetic approach to tackling sexual assault and toxic masculinity, “Promising Young Woman” has been praised as a timely and important film that has sparked conversations and discussions. Mulligan’s performance has also been lauded, earning her a Best Actress nomination at the Oscars.
4. “Nomadland” (directed by Chloé Zhao)
“Nomadland” is a breathtaking and poignant film that follows a woman, played by Frances McDormand, who becomes a modern-day nomad after losing everything in the Great Recession. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film blurs the lines between fiction and reality as it features real-life nomads playing versions of themselves alongside McDormand. “Nomadland” has been hailed as a cinematic masterpiece, praised for its stunning visuals, intimate storytelling, and powerful performances. The film has already won numerous awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Drama, and is a strong contender for the upcoming Academy Awards.
5. “Another Round” (directed by Thomas Vinterberg)
“Another Round” is a Danish comedy-drama directed by Thomas Vinterberg, known for his work on “The Hunt”. The film follows four middle-aged high school teachers who make a pact to maintain a constant level of intoxication throughout the day to see if it improves their lives. What starts as a lighthearted experiment slowly unfolds into a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on the pressures and expectations of middle age. “Another Round” has been praised for its blend of humor and depth, with lead actor Mads Mikkelsen delivering a standout performance. The film has been nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best International Feature.
These are just five of the many independent films that have been making waves this year. Other notable mentions include “The Father” with Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman, “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” starring Andra Day, and “Judas and the Black Messiah” with Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield. These films, along with the ones mentioned above, represent the diversity and range of stories that independent films have to offer, proving that there is more to cinema than just big explosions and superheroes.
So why should you, as a movie-goer, care about independent films? Well, for one, they offer a refreshing change of pace from the cookie-cutter formula of mainstream Hollywood movies. Independent films are driven by creativity and passion rather than profit, resulting in unique and daring storytelling. They also give a platform to diverse voices and underrepresented stories, shining a light on experiences and perspectives that may not have been explored before.
Moreover, independent films often feature lesser-known actors who deliver breakout performances, giving them a chance to showcase their talents and potentially launch their careers. And let’s not forget the awards season – independent films usually dominate the indie categories at awards shows, making it exciting to root for and discover new talent and narratives.
So the next time you’re looking for a movie to watch, don’t overlook the hidden gems of independent films. Take a chance on these smaller productions and be prepared to be wowed by the creativity, fearlessness, and artistry of these captivating and thought-provoking stories. Who knows, you might just uncover a new favorite film or filmmaker.
