Critics Poll: Jane Campion’s ‘The Power of the Dog’ Named Best Film of 2021 So Far By Over 50 Critics

A quick poll of over 50 critics was conducted by yours truly over the weekend. I asked the participants to name their ten best movies of the year thus far. Some submitted less than the required ten picks due to lack of choice, but the consensus was clear: Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog” is the best movie so far this year.

Despite polarizing reviews, Julia Ducournau’s “Titane,” this year’s Palme d’Or winner, managed to snag second place with close to half the participants listing it. It’s a testament to not just the immense power that comes with winning the top prize at Cannes, but the ubiquitous journey of this highly original body-horror classic-in-the-making.

Two 2021 Oscar-nominees made the top 10: “Judas and the Black Messiah,” and “The Father,” both released during the first few weeks of 2021, but eligible for this past April’s Oscars. It’ll be interesting to see if some critics voting bodies deem them eligible for their awards.

THE RESULTS:

1) The Power of the Dog (32 votes)
2) Titane (25)
3) CODA (20)
4) The Green Knight (18)
5) Dune (17)
6) Quo Vadis Aida? (17)
7) In the Heights (16)
8) The Father (14)
9) Judas and the Black Messiah (13)
10) Mass (12)
11) Summer of Soul (10)
12) Pig (9)
13) Bergman Island (8)
14) Passing (7)
15) Red Rocket (7)

There is still a lot to be seen, and some of the films that were screened at a few film festivals were just not seen enough. Those include “The Lost Daughter,” “Tragedy of Macbeth,” “Drive My Car,” “C’mon C’mon,” and “Spencer.” However, overall, even though these titles did get votes, it’s quite clear that Campion’s film will be the one to beat this awards season.

The list of film critics who participated will be posted shortly.