2020 was a difficult year for theatrical releases, with many blockbuster films heading straight to the digital platforms. On the other hand, many streaming sites, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, are becoming the new normal for many film-goers.
Because of this, Netflix announced a slate of over 70 new films for 2021, which is more than any other production company. They plan to release at least one every week, up until the new year.
Here are some of the best movies you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home in 2021:
1. The Harder They Fall (TBA)
With an incredible cast of Regina King, Idris Elba, Lakeith Stanfield, Jonathan Majors, and more, this film is a Western about a man who seeks revenge against his enemy. This is Jeymes Samuel’s (commonly known as The Bullitts) first feature film, after directing JAY-Z’s Legacy and a Western short film with another all-star cast.
2. Don’t Look Up (TBA)
The cast of this movie is enough to make many watch it: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ariana Grande, Timothée Chalamet, Kid Cudi, Cate Blanchett, Meryl Streep, Chris Evans, and the list goes on. It’s a political satire directed by Adam McKay, following two astronomers who have to warn people of an oncoming asteroid. This film trended on Twitter for days because of Leonardo DiCaprio’s neckbeard, which is as terrifying as it sounds.
3. Beauty (TBA)
This film follows a budding pop star named Beauty and the woman who falls for her. It’s a queer romance written by Lena Waithe and directed by Andrew Dosunmu. I am especially looking forward to this because Lena Waithe is a rising voice in the industry and is finally getting the recognition she deserves.
4. The Guilty (TBA)
This film is a remake of a 2018 Danish film with the same title and follows a police dispatcher who gets an emergency call from a missing woman. Usually, I hate when Western production companies remake international films because it rarely gives enough credit to the original filmmakers. However, the original Danish film was one of my favourites of 2018 so I am looking forward to how it’s going to be remade and revamped, especially with Jake Gyllenhaal and Paul Dano attached.
I’m hopeful that movie theatres will open back up when it’s finally safe to, but Netflix’s 2021 lineup makes me feel better about staying home again this year. Happy watching!