The results are in for our 2021 poll of Film Comment’s contributors and colleagues! Our Top 20 lists in both the Released and Undistributed categories feature original appreciations from critics, as well as links to features, reviews, and interviews about these films and directors from throughout the year. On this page, you’ll find our list of the best films that were released either theatrically or virtually in 2021 in the United States.
Don’t see your favorite? Check out our Best Undistributed Films of 2021 list, featuring films that premiered this year but have not yet announced stateside distribution.
Curious to see who voted and for which films? Check out our voters’ individual ballots here.
Peruse the poll results of yesteryear.