The 10 Best Films of the First Half of the 2020s
As we reach the midpoint of the 2020s, it’s the perfect time to look back at the most outstanding films of the decade so far. From bold storytelling to unforgettable performances, these ten films have defined the first five years of cinema in the 2020s — at least for me.
#10 La Chimera
A beautiful and delicate story about being human, the sense of beauty, and the fragile balance of sanity. Vibrant, colorful, and refreshingly unlike typical Hollywood, with a remarkable lead performance by Josh O'Connor, who brings touching vulnerability and depth to the film.
#9 The Taste Of Things
There’s nothing more beautiful than love… and food. This captivating and visually stunning story of love and passion arrives as a timely reminder to cherish the moment and hold a little tighter to those we care about.
#8 The Zone Of Interest
The cold indifference and horrifying banality through which this story is presented make the blood run cold. The Holocaust has been depicted on screen many times, but rarely — if ever — has it reached such an emotionally unsettling peak as it does here.
#7 Everything Everywhere All At Once
A chaotic story stretching across multiverses — a concept that almost never works, yet somehow works here, and that’s exactly what makes this film worth celebrating. A powerful reminder that we are responsible for our own choices.
#6 Challengers
Far more nuanced than it often gets credit for, as many overlook its depth behind the cast’s beautiful faces. At its core, it's a story about the inevitability of human emotions and connections — whether romantic, friendly, or brotherly.
#5 The Holdovers
A warm, heartfelt story about misfits and the quiet strength within each of us to change, to heal, and to move forward — even when it feels like we’re broken beyond repair.
#4 I'm Still Here
An incredibly powerful story about a gentle, ordinary woman who becomes a hero for her husband, her family, and ultimately for herself. A story that reminds us justice always prevails — even if it comes far too late.
#3 Anora
A modern Cinderella tale seen through the unique lens of Sean Baker, telling a vivid story about the desire to be loved, the longing to become more than you are, the temptation of easy gains, and the sobering consequences that follow.
#2 Poor Things
When Yorgos Lanthimos’ wild, unexplainable, colorful world collided with a more mainstream, Hollywood-like approach — for me, magic happened. It struck the perfect balance, making this story one of the most unforgettable of the decade so far.
#1 Aftersun
A film that took me 3 to 5 business days to fully process, and only truly hit my emotions about a week later. I can’t imagine what it feels like for those who see their own story reflected here — but even as an outside observer, it left an unforgettable impression on me.
