20 Best Indie Movies Of 2016
All the movies who are independent, throw your hands up at me.
In a year where action-packed superhero blockbusters and big-budget animations were the norm, it’s always refreshing to take a break from the all too predictable movies the Hollywood mainstream trots out month after month and check out the fruits of the less ubiquitous world of independent film. And thankfully, 2016 was proof that indie filmmaking is as strong as it ever was.
The films listed here are diverse in terms of genre, budget and eventual success. Every genre from neo-Western and black comedy to sci-fi and drama are represented, as are films with budgets ranging from miniscule to still pretty small and movies that managed to earn crossover hit status and ones that flew largely under the radar.
But a few things unite them all: they don’t need excessively huge budgets, big studio backing or hackneyed Hollywood tropes to be compelling, brilliant movies.
So, let’s hear it for the underdog and celebrate the cream of the crop of indie filmmaking in 2016.
20. Don’t Think Twice
Directed by and starring the multi-talented Mike Birbiglia, Don’t Think Twice was one of 2016’s most critically acclaimed comedy-dramas.
Centring on the ups and downs of working New York City’s comedy circuit, the movie focuses on a comedy improv troupe and how its members are affected when one of them finds fame and success by nabbing a spot on the fictional TV programme Weekend Live – a thinly veiled stand-in for the most hallowed of all comedy sketch shows, Saturday Night Live.
Co-starring a host of comedic talents including Keegan-Michael Key and Kate Micucci, it’s been hailed as an honest and bittersweet exploration of the life of working comedians and one that will resonate with anyone who’s had to grapple with the dilemma of following your dream or facing reality and giving up.