The 20 Best Movies of 2021 So Far
Which films have impressed critics the most during the first half of the year? Above, we rank the best-reviewed movies first released in North American theaters (or debuting directly on digital/VOD/streaming outlets) between January 1, 2021 and June 30, 2021. Films are ranked by Metascore and must have at least 7 reviews from professional critics to be eligible.
Additional content by Keith Kimbell.
Originally published in Japan in 2007—and becoming an international best-seller after its David Mitchell-penned English-language translation arrived six years later—teenager Naoki Higashida's biography (whose authorship is in dispute) illuminated his experiences as a nonverbal person with severe autism spectrum disorder. This unconventional documentary adaptation by Jerry Rothwell focuses not only on Higashida's story but also those of five other youngsters with similar diagnoses, offering a rare cinematic window into the world of neurodiversity.
“Nimbly switching between different lenses and sonic streams, Rothwell invites viewers inside the psychological isolation and overwhelming sensory awareness felt by people at various points on the spectrum, as well as cathartic breakthroughs in expression and connection with others.” —Guy Lodge, Variety
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