The Cinematic Decade: 25 Best Movies of the 2020s

The first half of the 2020s has proven to be a cinematic rollercoaster, defined by its unique challenges and triumphs. The film industry weathered the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic, only to face additional disruptions with wide-scale strikes in America during 2023. Despite these hurdles, the past few years have birthed a plethora of iconic films that promise to stand the test of time, redefining genres and pushing creative boundaries. Let’s delve into the 25 best movies of the 2020s so far, exploring their unique narratives, stellar performances, and the impact they’ve had on the cinematic landscape.

25. The Boy and the Heron (2023)

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Every Hayao Miyazaki release is a cause for celebration, and The Boy and the Heron is no exception. A decade after his last feature, Miyazaki’s creative spirit shines through in this breathtaking and thematically rich masterpiece. The film, potentially his last, invites audiences into an imaginative world that reflects on his own legacy. With fantastical elements and layers of subtext, Miyazaki proves that his storytelling prowess remains unparalleled.

Release Date: December 8, 2023
Cast: Soma Santoki, Masaki Suda, Takuya Kimura, Aimyon
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 124 minutes
Watch in theaters

24. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

Director: Joseph Kosinski

Sequel to the iconic original, Top Gun: Maverick soars as a classic action movie. Tom Cruise reprises his role as Maverick, now mentoring a new generation. The film rights the wrongs of its predecessor, delivering a well-paced narrative, meaningful character development, and mind-blowing action sequences. Top Gun: Maverick not only respects its legacy but surpasses the original in quality, cementing its status as a must-watch action flick.

Release Date: May 27, 2022
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 146 minutes
Watch on Amazon Prime

23. Barbie (2023)

Director: Greta Gerwig

A surprising powerhouse of 2023, Barbie redefines expectations with its fresh and subversive take on the iconic doll. Greta Gerwig’s directorial finesse, coupled with stellar casting and a witty screenplay, propels Barbie beyond its box office success. The film celebrates, modernizes, and occasionally satirizes its titular character, solidifying its place as a cinematic juggernaut.

Release Date: July 21, 2023
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 114 minutes
Watch on Max

22. Godzilla Minus One (2023)

Director: Takashi Yamazaki

In a world with numerous Godzilla iterations, Godzilla Minus One stands tall. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Japan, the film revitalizes the franchise while paying homage to its predecessors. The emergence of Godzilla becomes a devastating threat, creating an exciting, tense, and emotionally charged narrative. A fitting addition to the Godzilla legacy, this film captures the essence of the iconic monster in a new light.

Release Date: December 1, 2023
Cast: Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yûki Yamada, Sakura Andō
Rating: PG-13
Watch in theaters

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21. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2021)

Director: Dean Fleischer Camp

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On charms with its adorable and heartwarming narrative. Using stop-motion animation, the film explores the world of Marcel, a one-inch-tall character on a quest to reunite with his shell friends. Amidst the whimsical adventure, a unique bond forms between Marcel and a documentary filmmaker, offering a simple yet profound perspective on life’s seemingly mundane aspects.

Release Date: September 1, 2021
Director: Dean Fleischer-Camp
Rating: PG
Runtime: 90 minutes
Watch on Showtime

20. The Worst Person in the World (2021)

Director: Joachim Trier

Navigating the blurred lines between youth and adulthood, The Worst Person in the World captures the essence of a woman in her late 20s facing life’s challenges. Released amidst the lingering effects of the pandemic, the film resonates with those feeling stuck, infusing humor and heartbreak into a relatable journey of self-discovery.

Release Date: July 8, 2021
Cast: Renate Reinsve, Anders Danielsen Lie, Herbert Nordrum
Rating: R
Runtime: 128 minutes
Watch on Hulu

19. The Fabelmans (2022)

Director: Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans intertwines biography, love for cinema, and family drama. Inspired by Spielberg’s own experiences, the film spans the early 1950s to the 1960s, offering a poignant exploration of passion for filmmaking amid familial challenges. With stellar performances and emotional complexity, The Fabelmans reaffirms Spielberg’s storytelling prowess.

Director: Steven Spielberg
Main Genre: Biography
Writers: Tony Kushner, Steven Spielberg
Watch on Showtime

18. Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)

Director: Eliza Hittman

In the early 2020s, Never Rarely Sometimes Always emerged as a powerful drama that navigates the emotional complexities of abortion. Unfolding in a small-scale and character-focused narrative, the film’s execution is empathetic, authentic, and profoundly moving. Its intimate exploration of a challenging subject makes it a standout among the films of the early 2020s.

Watch on Peacock

17. TÁR (2022)

Director: Todd Field

TÁR takes an unconventional approach to a fictional biography, exploring the life of Lydia Tár. With real-world issues like cancel culture and professional misconduct as its backdrop, the film sparks passionate discourse. Todd Field’s ambitious psychological drama delves into the complexities of online debate, creating a thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Watch on Amazon Prime

16. Minari (2020)

Director: Lee Isaac Chung

Minari, a quiet and moving drama, shines as a modern classic in the slice-of-life genre. Depicting the journey of a South Korean immigrant family in 1980s America, the film’s honest and emotional portrayal of cultural differences resonates. The film’s slow pace proves engrossing, delivering a heartwarming and bittersweet narrative that defies expectations.

Release Date: 2020
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 115 minutes
Watch on Netflix

15. RRR (2022)

Director: S. S. Rajamouli

RRR catapults modern-day action cinema to new heights with its grand scale and breathtaking visuals. Director S. S. Rajamouli crafts a mesmerizing tale set in 1920s India, blending historical events with fictional narratives. The film’s star-studded cast, high-octane action, and spectacular visual effects make it a standout entry in the action genre.

Release Date: March 24, 2022
Cast: N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 155 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

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14. Nomadland (2020)

Director: Chloé Zhao

Nomadland captures the essence of the American landscape and the people living on the fringes of society. Chloé Zhao’s masterful direction and Frances McDormand’s outstanding performance create an intimate and thought-provoking portrayal of the modern nomadic lifestyle. The film’s realistic approach and poignant storytelling earned it critical acclaim and numerous awards.

Release Date: 2020
Cast: Frances McDormand, David Strathairn, Linda May
Rating: R
Runtime: 107 minutes
Watch on Hulu

13. The French Dispatch (2021)

Director: Wes Anderson

Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch unfolds as a love letter to journalism, art, and storytelling. Meticulously crafted with Anderson’s signature style, the film weaves together multiple narratives within the world of a fictional magazine. With a star-studded ensemble cast and visually stunning cinematography, The French Dispatch stands out as a unique and visually captivating cinematic experience.

Release Date: October 22, 2021
Cast: Benicio del Toro, Adrien Brody, Tilda Swinton, Owen Wilson, Frances McDormand
Rating: R
Runtime: 107 minutes
Watch on Disney+

12. A Quiet Place Part II (2021)

Director: John Krasinski

The much-anticipated sequel to A Quiet Place, Part II exceeded expectations. John Krasinski masterfully builds tension in a post-apocalyptic world where sound means survival. With a compelling narrative, strong performances, and innovative sound design, the film serves as a worthy continuation of its predecessor, further establishing itself as a standout in the horror-thriller genre.

Release Date: May 28, 2021
Cast: Emily Blunt, Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 97 minutes
Watch on Paramount+

11. In the Heights (2021)

Director: Jon M. Chu

In the Heights bursts onto the screen with vibrant energy, celebrating community, culture, and dreams. Jon M. Chu brings Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical to life, infusing the film with stunning choreography, heartfelt performances, and a celebration of the immigrant experience. In the Heights stands as a testament to the power of musical storytelling and its ability to resonate across diverse audiences.

Release Date: June 11, 2021
Cast: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins, Leslie Grace, Melissa Barrera
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 143 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

10. Drive My Car (2021)

Director: Ryusuke Hamaguchi

Drive My Car unfolds as a meticulously crafted exploration of grief, love, and human connections. Adapted from a Haruki Murakami short story, the film weaves a complex narrative that traverses emotions and relationships. With powerful performances and stunning cinematography, Drive My Car cements Ryusuke Hamaguchi as a directorial force to be reckoned with.

Release Date: August 20, 2021
Cast: Hidetoshi Nishijima, Toko Miura, Reika Kirishima
Rating: R
Runtime: 179 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

9. C’mon C’mon (2021)

Director: Mike Mills

C’mon C’mon stands out as a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and the connections that shape us. Mike Mills crafts a tender and emotionally resonant story, anchored by Joaquin Phoenix’s captivating performance. The film’s intimate approach to complex relationships and its poignant exploration of human nature make it a standout entry in the drama genre.

Release Date: November 26, 2021
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, Woody Norman
Rating: R
Runtime: 108 minutes
Watch on Amazon Prime

8. Dune (2021)

Director: Denis Villeneuve

Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Dune delivers a visually stunning and epic sci-fi experience. With breathtaking cinematography, a stellar ensemble cast, and a meticulous approach to world-building, Dune captures the essence of Frank Herbert’s seminal work. The film sets a new standard for sci-fi epics, immersing audiences in a rich and expansive universe.

Release Date: October 22, 2021
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya, Oscar Isaac
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 155 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

7. The Power of the Dog (2021)

Director: Jane Campion

Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog unfolds as a masterclass in tension and nuance. With stellar performances from its cast, especially Benedict Cumberbatch, the film explores masculinity, identity, and the impact of trauma. Campion’s direction, coupled with stunning cinematography, elevates the film to a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of human nature.

Release Date: November 17, 2021
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons
Rating: R
Runtime: 125 minutes
Watch on Netflix

6. The Matrix Resurrections (2021)

Director: Lana Wachowski

The Matrix Resurrections marks the return of the iconic franchise with a fresh and thought-provoking take. Lana Wachowski masterfully navigates the complex narrative, blending action, philosophy, and spectacle. Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss reprise their roles, adding emotional depth to the mind-bending storyline. The film pays homage to its roots while pushing the boundaries of the sci-fi genre.

Release Date: December 22, 2021
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick
Rating: R
Runtime: 148 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

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5. The Matrix Resurrections (2021)

Director: Lana Wachowski

Release Date: December 22, 2021
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick
Rating: R
Runtime: 148 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

4. The Power of the Dog (2021)

Director: Jane Campion

Release Date: November 17, 2021
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons
Rating: R
Runtime: 125 minutes
Watch on Netflix

3. Dune (2021)

Director: Denis Villeneuve

Release Date: October 22, 2021
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya, Oscar Isaac
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 155 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

2. C’mon C’mon (2021)

Director: Mike Mills

Release Date: November 26, 2021
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, Woody Norman
Rating: R
Runtime: 108 minutes
Watch on Amazon Prime

1. Drive My Car (2021)

Director: Ryusuke Hamaguchi

Release Date: August 20, 2021
Cast: Hidetoshi Nishijima, Toko Miura, Reika Kirishima
Rating: R
Runtime: 179 minutes
Watch on HBO Max

Conclusion

The first half of the 2020s has left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape, with a diverse array of films that have captivated audiences worldwide. From the epic sci-fi spectacle of Dune to the intimate exploration of human connections in Drive My Car, these movies have redefined genres, pushed creative boundaries, and provided audiences with unforgettable experiences.

As we reflect on the top five films of this era, each one stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the film industry. Lana Wachowski’s The Matrix Resurrections seamlessly blends action and philosophy, while Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog delves into the complexities of identity and trauma with unmatched nuance. Denis Villeneuve’s Dune sets a new standard for sci-fi epics, and Mike Mills’ C’mon C’mon explores the intricacies of family dynamics with a heartfelt touch.

At the forefront, Drive My Car emerges as a cinematic masterpiece, showcasing the artistry of director Ryusuke Hamaguchi. With its meticulous exploration of grief and love, coupled with powerful performances and stunning cinematography, the film stands as a pinnacle of storytelling in the 2020s.

As we eagerly anticipate the cinematic journey that the latter half of the decade will unfold, these films will undoubtedly continue to resonate and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of cinema.