13 Awesome Performances In Otherwise Disappointing 2021 Movies

7. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II - Candyman

Reminiscence Hugh Jackman
Universal

Like the majority of the films on this list, this thoroughly messy and underwhelming horror reboot was gifted with a far stronger lead performance than the material deserved.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has been on a roll ever since his scene-stealing turn in DC's Aquaman and in the role of Anthony McCoy, an artist who becomes obsessed with the Candyman legend, he adds another impressive performance to his growing filmography.

Even though McCoy isn't a well-written character (he's basically a passenger in the movie despite supposedly being the protagonist), thanks to how well Mateen fleshes McCoy out and realizes all of his emotional beats, viewers will still be firmly invested in his fate from beginning to end.

A sequel to the film hasn't been officially announced, but if it does happen (and knowing Hollywood, it probably will) let's hope Mateen returns.

Contributor

Film Studies graduate, aspiring screenwriter and all-around nerd who, despite being a pretentious cinephile who loves art-house movies, also loves modern blockbusters and would rather watch superhero movies than classic Hollywood films. Once met Tommy Wiseau.