2020 has undoubtedly been the dumpster fire to end all dumpster fires, but its cinema was as strong as ever. With almost everyone stuck inside, we consumed more media, content, and streaming entertainment than ever before. But even with theaters on the brink, it didn’t mean that we suffered from a lack of new movies; in fact, with a dearth big-budget blockbusters, 2020 was the year for arthouse films and indies to shine. This year was also a milestone for Strange Harbors, as I was able to (virtually) attend three film festivals as accredited press - an immense opportunity that allowed me to see a large number of the films listed below. We’re all eager to move on to 2021, but before we do, let’s take one last look at the best movies that shaped the last 365 days. Minor spoilers ahead…

Originally slated to debut at SXSW in March before the festival was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, She Dies Tomorrow is finally seeing its U.S. release July 31st at select drive-ins and August 6th on VOD. Writer and director Amy Seimetz, with her third feature film, conjures a gorgeous and affecting nightmare with a weight of timeliness that can’t be ignored. Experimental, surreal, and mesmerizing, She Dies Tomorrow is one of the best films of the year. Minor spoilers ahead…