20 Best Movies Of 2021 (So Far)

19. Malcolm & Marie

Oxygen Melanie Laurent
Netflix

One of the most-debated movies of 2021 so far, Sam Levinson's low-budget drama, shot at the height of the pandemic last summer, stars John David Washington and Zendaya as a filmmaker and his girlfriend who, after arriving home from his latest movie premiere, explosively examine their relationship.

While it's fair to say that Levinson's screenplay doesn't much want for subtlety - especially with Washington's character speaking so effusively about the de-merits of film criticism - this is a fiery, passionate character piece which finds Washington and Zendaya on top form.

Levinson also makes the most of Marcell Rév's gorgeous monochrome cinematography to deliver a chamber piece which pays loving homage to the work of the great John Cassavetes.

It won't be for everyone, but if you're a fan of the two leads this can't be missed.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.