NBP Top 10's Of 2021 - Daniel Howat

By Daniel Howat 

After the disappointment of 2020, this new year brought us back to theaters in a big way. Major studio releases returned, as did scale and scope. Delayed releases resulted in a strong slate of films, and for me, a diverse end-of-year list where no two films are remotely alike. Going with the Academy's adjusted eligibility, even using just ten months of this year, it's a phenomenal list. I'm so delighted with these picks, and as always, it wasn't easy to narrow down to just ten films. "The Eyes of Tammy Faye," "Encanto," and "The Power of the Dog" just barely missed the cut.

But first, an ode to "Bo Burnham: Inside." Despite some viewing it as a TV special rather than a feature film, it's genuinely my favorite film of the year. There are certain precious moments when a piece of art is so astounding that even a first viewing bowls you over. Like when I first watched "La La Land," listened to "Hamilton," or saw the music video for Childish Gambino's "This is America," I immediately knew that "Inside" was something special. It was a realization that I was experiencing something that would stick with me for a very, very long time. It's a stunning work of art, both hilarious and deeply moving, that speaks to the state of our culture more effectively than anything I've ever seen. Through Burnham's exploration of his loneliness, he makes us feel less alone. Brilliant cinematography and editing (all from Burnham himself) bring to life the most creative songwriting in years. Deep empathy, breathtaking honesty, and a soul laid bare for the world to see, "Inside" is one of the best pieces of art I've seen in a decade, full stop. This list wouldn't be complete without giving the film its due.

And now, here are my Top Ten Films of 2021.​..

​10. LUCA

"Luca's" placement on my top ten is due in large part to my children. Watching the film four times with my kids, the depth within the bright, hilarious story struck me each and every time. Full of joy and adventure, "Luca's" atmosphere is unlike any other Pixar movie. A delightful bright blue and golden color palette, romantic Italian countryside, and Dan Romer's rousing score create an absorbing world that pulls you in. More importantly, this coming-of-age tale tackles the complexity of youth and friendship in honest and painful ways. Not only was I personally moved, but I was also struck by the beautiful themes my kids were taking in. Their names are Ezra and, conveniently, Luca, making this movie even more special for us. It's fun to have a film that my son thinks is named after him, but I'm so grateful it's a movie as special as this.

9. WEST SIDE STORY

I've seen and enjoyed the 1961 "West Side Story" a few times in my life, but it wasn't a film I grew up with or had a deep connection to. I felt that I was entering this 2021 version with mostly a blank slate. Unsurprisingly, I was blown away by Steven Spielberg's old-fashioned, big-budget musical, which will forever stand alongside the original film as a glamorous and romantic stunner. Newcomers Ariana Debose and Mike Faist steal the show, Rachel Zegler proves she's a star, and Steven Spielberg reinforces his place as one of the greatest directors of all time (not that we even needed the reminder). The cinematography, production design, and costumes are all top-notch, blending realism with the fantastic in the best way. Whether it's today, or sixty years ago, "West Side Story" is a winner.

8. CODA

As a tender coming-of-age story with its heart on its sleeve, "CODA" is an absolute crowd-pleaser. With a light, funny tone, the film's most emotional moments may sneak up on you, but they're unavoidable and continuously moving. There have been plenty of unforgettable, loving dad moments in cinema, and Troy Kotsur nearly tops them all in one scene near the end of the film on the back of a truck with daughter played effortlessly by Emilia Jones. The ensemble's chemistry is magnificent, with Jones shining in a highly challenging role. The film may have familiar beats but it still manages to have an enormous impact by the time it reaches its heartwarming conclusion. A gentle, hilarious, and undeniably sweet movie, ever since its world premiere at Sundance in January, "CODA" has been one of the best of the year.

​7. BEING THE RICARDOS

Like most Aaron Sorkin films, "Being the Ricardos" is jam-packed with story, but it whizzes by thanks to dazzling writing and snappy dialogue. More than just a look at "I Love Lucy," it's an intimate look at a marriage between two of the most powerful creatives in 1950s America and all the challenges thrown their way during one stressed-filled week. Though they don't look much like their characters, Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem nail their respective roles as Lucille Ball and Dezi Arnaz, bringing the energy and drama needed for the dynamic duo. As good as those two are, Tony Hale and Nina Arianda manage to have stand-out moments of their own amongst the film's stellar cast. The movie is imperfect and features a poor and unnecessary framing device, yet the thrilling storytelling from Sorkin shines regardless. This behind-the-scenes tale is hilarious and energetic and oh so satisfying.

6. THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD

Joachim Trier's "The Worst Person in the World" subverts expectations at every turn, bursting with energy and honesty. This warm, melancholic film is just about as authentic as a romantic comedy can be. It reminded me of one of my favorite films, "(500) Days of Summer," in the way that it blends magical realism to dive into the mind of the protagonist, played brilliantly by Renate Reinsve. It's darker than "(500) Days of Summer," though, providing moments of deep, challenging emotion alongside the hilarious ones. Reinsve is sublime, grounding every decision of the indecisive main character. Hilarious, endearing, and meaningful, "The Worst Person in the World" is the most surprising and unexpected entry on this list for me.

5. KING RICHARD

It's been too long since Will Smith was this good. He's one of the most iconic names in Hollywood but doesn't get enough credit for his pure talent and charisma. "King Richard" takes advantage of both in the best fashion possible. Sports dramas can too often be wrapped in cliches, and "King Richard" doesn't entirely avoid them, but it's a knockout crowd-pleaser regardless making it one of the more enjoyable films of the year. The terrific ensemble brings the Williams family to life, led by Smith and the unforgettable Aunjanue Ellis. An ode to parenthood, talent, and the incredible dedication needed to be a winner in not just sports, but in life, "King Richard" changes the angle of biopics to highlight the elements that made Venus and Serena household names. This movie will have you cheering through the end credits backed by Beyonce's vocals for the song "Be Alive."

4. IN THE HEIGHTS

Soon, lots will be written about why "In the Heights" was a relative failure this year financially and a definitive failure in the awards race. I look forward to reading those pieces because it doesn't make any sense to me at all. In a year with so many incredible musicals, for me, "In the Heights" topped them all. Jon M Chu's film is energetic, full of life, and so much joy. If "West Side Story" soars thanks to the throwback vibes as an old-fashioned big-budget musical, "In the Heights" succeeds due to its fresh and modern approach. It's rare to see a big-budget romance avoid nostalgia, but with thrilling music brilliantly directed by Jon M. Chu. and a cast I can't wait to see more from, "In the Heights" established itself as a future classic.

​3. C'MON C'MON

Familial love stories are relatively rare these days, and Mike Mills' "C'mon C'mon" is one of the best I've ever seen. I don't always want to play the "dad" card, but this movie hit me right in my sweet spot exactly for that particular reason. Being a parent is hard, and frustrating, and exhausting, but I love it so deeply. "C'mon C'mon" is one of the few films to explore that polarity with gentle insight, diving into the big feelings that kids can have and those that adults aren't exempt from while never minimizing them. I love Joaquin Phoenix in this mode - quiet, reflective, internal - and he's brilliant as he's ever been before. Woody Norman is a revelation, and his natural chemistry with Phoenix makes their relationship feel so genuine and undeniable. Gabby Hoffman doesn't get enough credit for her role either as she captures the exhaustion that moms carry, but you never doubt her deep love for her son. No film in 2021 moved me like "C'mon C'mon."

2. DUNE

More big movies like this, please! The size and scope of "Dune" took my breath away. Watching Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of the first half of Frank Herbert's classic sci-fi novel for the first time, I knew I was watching something akin to "The Lord of the Rings" – an epic story with a rich mythology, but it wasn't fully registering for me. I knew I was missing details due to how dense the world building was, but the scope and story was so engaging that I couldn't wait to watch it again. Everything about the production from a technical standpoint is the best of the best. The visual effects, score, sound, costumes, and cinematography are some of the best work seen in a major blockbuster in years. Denis Villeneuve has brought to life a remarkable world, and the attention to detail is astounding that it rewards multiple viewings to take it all in. While other films on this list moved me more emotionally, I was rarely more engrossed than with "Dune."

1. LICORICE PIZZA

Paul Thomas Anderson's "Licorice Pizza" is deceptively simple. On the surface, it's another coming-of-age film full of nostalgia and warmth. Endlessly charming, this slice of life film is anchored by two brilliant, first-time actors, and they hold the whole thing together even when it feels like the movie may be on the edge of falling apart. Alana Haim delivers a star-making performance in what is shockingly her first acting role. The late Philip Seymour Hoffman's son, Cooper Hoffman, is also a perfect fit for his role, with a goofy charm that you can't help but love. This pair made every moment fly by effortlessly and elevated the experience to a higher level than we're used to seeing with coming of age films. Silly, lightweight, but full of the lived-in truths of young love and figuring life out, "Licorice Pizza" couldn't be more enjoyable. I had a smile on my face from beginning to end and for that, it's my favorite movie of 2021.
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What do you think of my list? Let us know what you think in the comments section below or on our Twitter account. Be on the lookout for more of our Top 10's for 2021 and check out our Editor In Chief Matt Neglia's Top 10 list here, along with Josh Parham's list here. Our annual NBP Film Awards and the NBP Film Community Awards will come in a few weeks to allow you all some time to see those final 2021 awards season contenders.

​You can follow Daniel and hear more of his thoughts on the Oscars and Film on Twitter at @howatdk