In a year that felt like it was on pause, 2020 gifted us with an unexpected treasure trove of indie films. While mainstream cinema grappled with the fallout of lockdowns and restrictions, independent filmmakers took bold steps to tell stories that resonated deeply amidst uncertainty. Here’s a look at some of the best indie movies from 2020 that managed to capture our hearts and minds.
First up is "The Vast of Night," directed by Andrew Patterson. This film transports viewers back to the 1950s in New Mexico, where two young switchboard operators uncover a strange audio frequency during one fateful night. With its stunning cinematography and clever dialogue, it evokes nostalgia while keeping you on the edge of your seat—an impressive feat for a debut feature.
Then there’s "Palm Springs," which reimagines the time-loop trope into something fresh and hilarious. Starring Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, this romantic comedy takes place at a wedding where both characters find themselves stuck in an endless loop—a perfect blend of humor and existential musings about love and life.
"Sound of Metal" offers another layer entirely; it's an immersive experience following Ruben, a drummer who begins losing his hearing. Riz Ahmed delivers an extraordinary performance as he navigates this new reality filled with silence—and ultimately finds beauty within it. The film's sound design alone deserves accolades for how it draws audiences into Ruben's world.
For those craving drama laced with social commentary, "Minari" stands out beautifully against its backdrop—the American dream through Korean immigrant eyes in rural Arkansas during the 1980s. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung, this semi-autobiographical tale explores family dynamics while addressing themes such as identity and belonging.
And let’s not forget about "Promising Young Woman." Emerald Fennell's audacious directorial debut tackles heavy topics like consent through dark humor wrapped in thriller elements—a powerful narrative that's both entertaining yet thought-provoking.
Finally, we have "Shithouse," which captures college life authentically through the lens of loneliness experienced by first-year students navigating their newfound independence amid chaos. It resonates particularly well given how many were forced into isolation due to pandemic-related restrictions.
These films remind us why we fell in love with storytelling: they offer escape but also reflection; they entertain yet provoke thought—all essential ingredients when facing unprecedented times like those we saw last year.