2020 Movies

The Plex Database of 2020 Movies consolidates the year's best releases, ensuring you don't miss a single story. This unique year stood as testament to the saying, "Art thrives in adversity", as the world wrestled with an unprecedented pandemic.

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The Best Movies of 2020

The tumultuous ride of 2020 has undeniably left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. A challenging period for filmmakers and audiences alike, it revolutionized the way we perceive and consume cinema. Amidst uncertainty and chaos, we sought refuge in a motley collection of narratives brought alive on the smaller screens of our homes. This unusual year, however, didn't dampen the spirit of cinematic brilliance. The absence of big-ticket Oscar contenders allowed smaller films to shine through and gain well-deserved recognition. In an unprecedented year, let's revisit the best movies that offered us solace, entertainment, and a fresh perspective.

Lovers Rock

Part of Steve McQueen's "Small Axe" anthology, "Lovers Rock," mesmerizes with its poetic depiction of the joy and camaraderie in a 1980s London house party. In just 68 minutes, it encapsulates the energy, romance, and solidarity of a night filled with potential, symbolizing solace and unity amidst a larger, colder world.

First Cow

"First Cow" emerges as a sublime ode to friendship and entrepreneurial spirit set in the 1820s Pacific Northwest. The narrative follows two settlers who embark on a venture selling fried cakes made from stolen cow milk. This tranquil yet dazzling film is a tribute to the land we call America, highlighting tenderness as a precious commodity in an otherwise rough-edged reality.

Nomadland

An exploration of the concept of home and belonging, "Nomadland" struck a chord with its poignant narrative. Frances McDormand's portrayal of a widow adopting a nomadic lifestyle shone a light on the spirit of resilience and companionship amidst solitude. The characters she encounters are bound by a shared compassion and a sense of community, making this film a radiant symbol of human connectivity.

The Trial of the Chicago 7

This film masterfully narrates an intense chapter of American history, depicting the trial of anti-war activists accused of inciting violence at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. As entertaining as it is galvanizing, it showcases the significance of civic responsibility and democratic ideals.

Miss Juneteenth

A salve in an increasingly divided America, "Miss Juneteenth" elegantly portrays the struggle between personal dreams and societal expectations. Nicole Beharie's outstanding performance as a former pageant winner projecting her aspirations onto her daughter resonated with audiences on a universal level. This film is a rich tapestry of a community rooted in historical significance, reminding us of the diversity and cultural richness of America.

Emma

"Emma" served as a delightful reminder of why Jane Austen's work endures. Autumn de Wilde's vibrant adaptation of Austen's 1815 novel brings to life the antics of the eponymous heroine, splendidly portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy. The film feels both modern and authentic, effectively inviting Austen enthusiasts and novices alike into its warm embrace.

Bill and Ted Face the Music

In the bleak canvas of 2020, this film emerged as an effervescent burst of optimism. The return of Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves, reprising their roles from three decades ago, brought a delightful wave of nostalgia. They embodied the insecurities of middle age while setting the stage for another act of world-saving heroics, their daughters being the torchbearers. This blend of earnestness and comedy guided us through the year's darker phases, proving that laughter could indeed be the best medicine.

Collective

A rare documentary that unfolds like a political thriller, "Collective" follows Romanian journalists unraveling a scandal in the healthcare sector. It is a testament to the power and necessity of investigative journalism, underlining its importance in a world plagued by distorted truths and corruption.

David Byrne's American Utopia

This filmed record of David Byrne's hit Broadway show is a testament to the power of music and unity. Directed by Spike Lee, it resounds with joy, expressiveness, and inclusivity. It asserts the radical simplicity of staying connected for a meaningful existence, making it a must-watch for music and theatre enthusiasts.

Wolfwalkers

"Wolfwalkers" is a delightful animated tale that weaves a mystical narrative set in 17th-century Ireland. With enchanting aesthetics and a compelling storyline, it captivates the audience with its irresistible charm. The story, suffused with the spirit of friendship and discovery, provides a magical escapade for viewers of all ages.

2020 Movies & Industry Highlights

The world of cinema encountered several unprecedented challenges in the year 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite the unusual circumstances, the film industry adapted and evolved, creating some noteworthy records and revealing surprising trends in global cinema. Global Impact of COVID-19 on the Film Industry The pandemic led to the postponement of numerous films originally scheduled for theatrical release. They were instead released on various video-on-demand or streaming platforms. Interestingly, some films continued to show in theatres wherever guidelines allowed. However, during this period, several film companies ceased reporting box-office figures due to the pandemic's impact.

Highest-Grossing Films of 2020

Despite these adverse conditions, a number of films were successful in generating substantial revenue. The top films of 2020, ranked by their worldwide gross, are worth highlighting:

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train, distributed by Toho/Aniplex, earned a staggering $507,127,293.
The Eight Hundred, courtesy of CMC Pictures, collected an impressive $461,421,559.
My People, My Homeland, distributed by China Lion, made $433,241,288.
Bad Boys for Life, courtesy of Sony Pictures, secured a worldwide gross of $426,505,244.
Tenet, distributed by Warner Bros, took in $365,304,105.

Film Records and Box Office Triumphs

There were a few milestones of note in the 2020 film industry. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, after being re-released in 4K in China and earning $26.4 million, saw its total gross rise to over $1.008 billion. This marked the second billion-dollar film in the Wizarding World franchise, following Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2. 2020 was also a historic year in terms of global box office markets. For the first time, China overtook North America, generating $2.7 billion in theatrical revenue compared to North America's $2.3 billion. This marked the lowest point for the North American box office in at least 40 years, a direct consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pivotal Changes in the Industry

The impact of the pandemic on the Asian film markets was relatively smaller, and as a result, for the first time in history, the majority of the top ten highest-grossing films of the year were East Asian (Chinese and Japanese) productions. 2020 also saw The Eight Hundred become the first Chinese and non-Hollywood film to top the global box office with more than $450 million gross. It was later overtaken by Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train in May 2021. Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train broke numerous box office records and became the highest-grossing Japanese film, the highest-grossing anime film, and the highest-grossing R-rated animated film.

Remarkable Achievements

Sonic the Hedgehog also achieved a landmark by breaking Pokémon: Detective Pikachu's record for the highest opening weekend for a film based on a video game. It went on to become the highest-grossing film based on a video game in the United States and Canada, surpassing Detective Pikachu. However, it did not beat it at the worldwide box office. For the first time in box office history, two non-American animated film productions, Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train from Japan and Jiang Ziya from China, became the highest-grossing animated films of the year.

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