2021 was the year that cinema came back as people packed Movie theatres all over again. However, there was still the threat of COVID-19, which prompted many movies to be concurrently released across streaming platforms. While many blockbuster release dates were pushed back with some still in waiting, the industry is underway again, boosted by the return of top-tier films.

As things opened up again, the film industry experienced a welcome renaissance in 2021 because of a chaotic 2020. Being reluctant to release following some of the poor box office returns of films playing during lockdown conditions, things have gradually improved. Being a return to form with a year filled with many amazing movies, here are several highlights with some of the best films 2021 had to offer.

King Richard

Behind the sports that you love to watch and bet on with King Kaka and Sportsbet.io, there's always a good story. King Richard is about Richard Williams and his family that includes tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams. This is a biographical sports drama that follows the life of the titular Richard, played by Will Smith, as he helped his two daughters reach the pinnacle of their tennis careers.

However, as the family portrait sports drama suggests - their journey was not easy because they also had to deal with many issues in their lives. A major issue they had to endure all their lives was their struggle against racial discrimination and inequality. This was an insightful study into race, class, sports, and celebrity status and the film delivered on all fronts.

The Power of the Dog

As a film that thrives on subtext with subtle story beats, The Power of the Dog is a powerful undertaking filled with fantastic performances and beautiful technical work. This beautiful film is directed by Jane Campion, who showcases stories from the early 1900s that still have raw emotional power and value in the modern world.

This is not your typical ‘cowboy’ movie because it deals with many timely and important themes. The Power of the Dog was released on Netflix, which like Roma gave more people an opportunity to see true cinema, the work of an established auteur and stunning production values. Leading the awards tally this year, The Power of the Dog deserves all of its accolades because it performs on all levels.

Spider-Man: No Way Home

It's difficult to build a comprehensive universe for a movie franchise, something that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has done in spades. Following in the wake of Into the Spider-verse, this Tom Holland starring sequel had a few tricks up its sleeve... and not just webbing. Based on its retrospective casting, No Way Home proves once again that nostalgia is a powerful tool. The latest Spider-Man series reboot has prided itself on full entertainment value and Spider-Man: No Way Home delivers - one of the best superhero movie experiences to date, which many believe was unlucky not to get nominated for Best Picture.

Spider-Man is one of the most famous comic book characters in the world, appealing to old fans and creating new ones too. Being one of the highest-grossing films ever and bringing audiences back to cinemas in their droves, just proves that Spider-Man is here to stay. The Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to grow and it looks like Spider-Man will be the main focal point, reflecting his pivotal role in the comics.

CODA

CODA stands for 'Child of Deaf Adults' and is the title of this important film that offers a sensitive reflection on disabilities and the people who deal with them. The drama journeys with 17-year-old Ruby, the only hearing member of a family from Massachusetts, who works to keep the family's fishing business afloat while navigating her teens.

Director Sian Heder tackles and showcases this difficult topic in a heartfelt film based on the French film La Famille Bélier. CODA released on Apple TV+ where it's currently available for streaming. While many didn't get a chance to see CODA, it's Best Picture selection and strong word-of-mouth should give this dark horse more coverage.

These are just some of the fantastic movies that 2021 had to offer. If you’re looking for more top-tier films, you should check out 2021’s catalogue because it is filled with fantastic movies from January to December. You can watch them while you’re on a break from playing games with King Kaka and Sportsbet.io casino.