The cinematic landscape of 2021 has been a mosaic of spellbinding narratives and breathtaking cinematography, striving to overshadow a year of uncertainty. Eli Glasner, CBC’s esteemed film critic, has curated a list that encompasses not just the quintessence of storytelling but also monumental strides in filmmaking. Despite the challenges that film industries have faced during this continued period of the pandemic, many movies still managed to grace the silver screen and streaming platforms, leaving indelible impressions on audiences worldwide.

Dominating Glasner’s selection is “The Power of the Dog,” Jane Campion’s triumphant return to cinema with a tense psychological western that explores themes of masculinity and repression in 1920s Montana. Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an Oscar-worthy performance as Phil Burbank, a brutish rancher who encounters complex emotional turmoil.

Next on the list is “Dune,” Denis Villeneuve’s epic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s seminal science fiction novel. Featuring stunning visuals and a powerful score by Hans Zimmer, this film is praised for its faithfulness to the source material and its grandiose scale, promising viewers an overwhelming audio-visual feast.

Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s “Drive My Car” also finds its place among Glasner’s top films. This meditative Japanese drama, which takes viewers on a journey both literal and metaphorical, touches upon grief and catharsis with its careful pacing and emotionally rich performances.

For animated film enthusiasts, Glasner heralds Disney’s “Encanto” as one of the year’s best. With its vibrant animation and captivating story about familial bonds and the struggle with individual identity, “Encanto” stands out as a colorful exploration of culture and magic that resonates with all ages.

The list would not be complete without acknowledging “Licorice Pizza,” Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest work set in the 1970s San Fernando Valley. It is hailed for its coming-of-age charm captivated through dynamic performances from Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman.

Glasner also did not miss recognizing “Nomadland,” Chloé Zhao’s poignant examination of itinerant living in America which garnered critical acclaim earlier in awards season. Frances McDormand delivers another compelling turn that echoes with Glasner as a reflection on independence and community amid vast Western landscapes.

Notably, each film selected stands testament to resilience: Of filmmakers nurturing their vision amidst global upheaval; of narratives that resonate with our search for meaning in turbulent times; and of an industry’s determination to keep storytelling aflame when the world needs it most.

These films represent more than just entertainment. They encapsulate our collective desire for connection and understanding through art, earning them CBC’s Eli Glasner’s commendation as the best films of the year.