1. Parasite
Bong Joon-ho's film shattered perceptions of what a "foreign language film" could achieve globally. It exposed brutal class disparities with such surgical precision, making audiences uncomfortable but undeniably captivated. The shift in tone, the genre-bending, and the sheer audacity of its storytelling redefined cinematic excellence for many, proving universal truths don't need a Hollywood stamp to resonate deeply. It truly felt like a cultural earthquake.
2. Everything Everywhere All at Once
This movie was a kaleidoscopic explosion of creativity, proving that maximalist storytelling can also be deeply personal and emotionally resonant. It blended absurd humor with profound themes of family, identity, and existential dread across infinite multiverses. Audiences were ready for something that embraced its wild ambition, ditching traditional genre confines for a truly unique and exhilarating viewing experience that felt like a jolt to the system.
3. Roma
Alfonso Cuarón delivered a quiet, intimate epic that celebrated the unsung heroes of domestic life through a deeply personal lens. Shot in stunning black and white, its deliberate pacing and immersive sound design demanded attention, pulling viewers into a specific time and place without relying on conventional plot devices. It championed the art house experience on a global scale, reminding us that powerful cinema often resides in the subtle, deeply human moments, and that streaming platforms could deliver such artistry.
4. Get Out
Jordan Peele’s directorial debut wasn't just a horror film; it was a masterclass in social commentary, cleverly using genre tropes to dissect systemic racism. It sparked countless conversations, proving that intelligent, thought-provoking cinema can also be incredibly entertaining and terrifying. The film's impact went beyond the screen, cementing Peele as a vital new voice and demonstrating how horror could be a potent tool for cultural critique, making us see everyday interactions differently.
5. CODA
CODA’s Oscar win was a huge moment for representation and independent filmmaking. This heartwarming story, centered on a Child of Deaf Adults, brought American Sign Language and deaf culture to mainstream audiences with genuine warmth and authenticity. It proved that compelling, character-driven narratives, even those that feel familiar, can still break through when told with such heart and integrity, especially when streaming platforms give them a wider reach. It really resonated with so many.
6. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
The *Knives Out* franchise, and the anticipation for *Wake Up Dead Man*, exemplifies a return to classic, star-studded mystery. Rian Johnson reinvented the whodunit for a new generation, proving audiences still crave clever plotting and charismatic ensembles. These films reject over-reliance on CGI for sharp dialogue and character-driven intrigue, making the case for sophisticated, original blockbusters. Its ongoing success highlights a hunger for smart, cinematic experiences, even as streaming shapes what we expect.
