So following on from 10-6 last week, here are my top 5 films of 2021. It’s been a pretty great year for cinema and there’s still a ton of films that I haven’t seen, but want to. Without anymore delays.

5 – Censor

I really like the way Censor starts out like an almost nostalgia fuelled story that could be a drama, and to be honest I would probably still enjoy it if it wasn’t an all-out horror, and then as the story moves forward it becomes more and more twisted until the final moments that are absolutely great. It reminded me of Saint Maud, which is another excellent horror film. Censor is completely unique and I really recommend it.

4 – In The Earth

2021 has been a great year for horror and In The Earth is my favourite release. It’s the only time I’ve ever squirmed and had to look away in the cinema and my heart was racing all the way through it. Even with that, it still made me laugh at points. It’s a trippy film, and it’s full of a creepy and unsettling atmosphere. It’s not for everyone, but if you like folklore horror then this is really worth checking out.

3 – Judas and the Black Messiah

This was the first film I saw when cinemas reopened back in May. I knew it was supposed to be good, but I was blown away by it. I love films that lead me to reading about the true story and learning more about history and that’s exactly what this did. It’s a dark story and something that more people should watch. The performances are beyond excellent.

2 – Pig

Nicolas Cage has had 3 great films out in 2021, Willy’s Wonderland, Prisoners of the Ghostland and the best of the bunch Pig. Cage’s pet pig is stolen, and he goes on a mission to save it. The premise sounds stupid, but the actual film is a heartbreaking drama that works perfectly from start to finish. It’s something that really stays with you once you’ve seen it and it’s Cage’s best performance in a decade at least.  

1 – Tick, Tick… Boom!

I know I’ve spoken about this a few times recently and it’s not a perfect film, but it resonated with me so much. I’ve had the soundtrack on repeat almost constantly since seeing it and I can’t express enough how much I loved it. Andrew Garfield is phenomenal in this. It’s great music, great cast, and a moving and inspirational story. I want to watch it again right now.

2021 has been a great year for film fans and we can all look forward to 2022 where I’m sure there will be even more surprises to find. If your favourite film of the year isn’t on my list, let me know. I’m always happy to find new recommendations.

Thanks for reading and until next time,

Ashley