Netflix dominates the streaming competition with its accumulation of original movies, including Oscar-winning films like Roma and Mank. In 2021, Netflix continued to release exceptional movies that include many noteworthy comedies and dramas.
Netflix has many anticipated films scheduled for the remainder of the year, such as Don't Look Up and Army of Thieves, so there is still time to unleash their best movies of the year. Nevertheless, the streaming platform has released many movies this year, and a few have already become critically acclaimed.
Malcolm & Marie - 6.7
In Malcolm & Marie, the titular couple returns home after attending a premiere of Malcolm's movie inspired by Marie's darker past. But instead of a night of celebration, they argue the merits of their relationship throughout this single night and wonder if it is worth all of it.
Sam Levinson's romantic drama dives into the highs and lows of a dynamic and imperfect relationship. Despite some issues with the screenplay and over-the-top dialogue, the movie is crafty, with black and white cinematography and a single location to focus on the anger and frustration presented by the couple. John David Washington and Zendaya showcase a powerful and spectacular performance and never lose any momentum in their dynamics throughout the film.
Fear Street Part Two: 1978 - 6.7
The Fear Street trilogy became an overnight hit on Netflix this summer. This slasher series follows the scary murder sprees occurring in Shadyside, and a group of residents attempts to break the curse fallen on them.
Fear Street Part Two: 1978 flashbacks to the 1978 murder spree at Camp Nightwing, as C. Berman recounts her survival and heartbreaking loss of her older sister. The sequel is bloodier, exciting, and emotional, while it calls back to the nostalgia of classic '70s slasher movies. It also focuses on the chemistry between characters, such as Ziggy and Cindy, whose story makes the audience hopeful, despite their predetermined fate. It is a fantastic addition to the trilogy's storytelling, with incredible performances from the cast, so it is no surprise that Part Two is the best of the trilogy.
Penguin Bloom - 6.8
Tragedy strikes the Bloom family when Samantha Bloom becomes paralyzed after an accident. Soon, the family welcomes home an injured magpie that changes their lives.
Based on a true story, Penguin Bloom is a heartfelt movie that focuses on a family's resilience and survival after an unfortunate accident. It uses emotional and inspirational storytelling to tell the tale of adapting and growth while nurturing a magpie. The film's highlight is Naomi Watts, who showcases a spectacular and moving performance as Samantha Bloom.
Trollhunters: Rise Of The Titans - 6.8
Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans concludes the adventure of the Tales of Arcadia franchise. The Guardians of Arcadia prepare for their final battle together when the Arcane Order has reawakened the Titans.
Although the film might not be the best of the franchise, it still presents the high-stakes battles with incredible visuals and the storytelling of an epic adventure that is suitable enough to conclude the series. It ties together everything from the series and leaves an intriguing plot-twisting ending.
Worth - 6.8
Worth follows the events after the 9/11 terrorist attack when Kenneth Feinberg, an attorney, accepts an impossible task to calculate the worth of life to compensate families who lost their loved ones. He faces challenges when Charles Wolf, a husband who lost his wife in the attacks, organizes a community to criticize their efforts and is cynical about his intentions.
This biopic explores the initial frustrations faced by the families that turn into compassion, sympathy, and togetherness. It showcases the journey of becoming more righteous rather than simply doing a job, which allows this powerful drama to close on a hopeful and humane note, given the sensitive nature of its story.
Pieces Of A Woman - 7.1
A young woman struggles with grief when she loses her baby. She tries to move on, but it only continues to affect her relationship with loved ones.
Pieces of a Woman begins with an intensely powerful and emotional birthing scene that slowly transitions into the aftermath and follows Martha Weiss' journey to acceptance and forgiveness. As the movie progresses, viewers feel empathetic toward the character in her effort to manage the pain and suffering of losing a child. Vanessa Kirby showcases a powerful and stunning performance as the leading character, and it earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
The White Tiger - 7.1
The White Tiger follows the story of a sharp and ambitious Indian driver who hopes to escape from poverty. When a couple betrays him, he challenges the establishment and builds his empire as a wealthy businessman.
The White Tiger is a riveting story that has both thrills and humor. It discusses themes of class struggle and one's struggle to overcome inequality. The film is exceptional, as it has several plot twists and a brilliant performance from the cast, especially from Adarsh Gourav. The White Tiger received an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.
The Dig - 7.1
In The Dig, an excavator and his team dig through the grounds of a wealthy landowner's property when they suddenly come across a wooden ship from the Dark Ages.
The Dig is one of the best movies about archeologists and hidden treasures. It is a visually pleasing film that showcases the beauty of the countryside while telling a moving story to uncover the Sutton Hoo treasures. Of course, Ralph Fiennes and Carey Mulligan also deliver a charming and brilliant performance in this educational and touching film.
Wish Dragon - 7.2
Din is a teenaged boy who wants to reunite with his childhood best friend. He finally seeks a chance when he comes across a wishing dragon who can grant him his most desired wishes.
Wish Dragon is like a contemporary retelling of Aladdin, but it adds more humor and incorporates Chinese culture into its lighthearted story. The film is fun and exciting, which makes it enjoyable for families and children to watch.
The Mitchells Vs. The Machines - 7.7
The Mitchell family embarks on a final family road trip before Katie Mitchell begins her new chapter in college. But their family trip takes a detour when they become humanity's last hope to stop a robot invasion.
The Mitchells vs. The Machines received critical acclaim from critics and audiences for its refreshing story of a family renewing their bond while saving the world. It is a well-written and beautifully animated film that is funny, touching, and entertaining, and the heartwarming story and aesthetics have something for the whole family to love.