Forgotten Films of the Year 2020

The year 2020 disrupted life in every possible way. We couldn’t see our friends, attend school, or go to the movies. The film industry was forced to postpone release dates, alter long-established production schedules and protocols, and shift to new distribution models. Although streaming platforms had been strengthening their foothold in the industry before the pandemic, they scrambled to pick up the slack once movie theaters shut their doors. As many film releases moved exclusively to streaming platforms, numerous titles received little press and were overlooked. This was due to several factors, primarily limited marketing, oversaturation of multiple streaming platforms, competition with established franchises, and simply not being released at the right cultural moment.

Here are five incredible films that fell victim to COVID-19:

Dinner in America

Writer-director Adam Rehmeier crafts a fiery, punk-infused satire of Midwestern suburbia in "Dinner in America." The film revolves around the unconventional relationship between Patty, a shy and socially awkward young woman, and Simon, an abrasive punk rocker. Their dynamic beautifully explores themes of rebellion and the search for belonging, resonating deeply with viewers, particularly those who feel like outsiders.

Visually striking, the film captures the raw energy of the punk ethos, enhancing its storytelling with a vibrant and unfiltered aesthetic that draws you in. It’s unfortunate that "Dinner in America" didn’t receive the recognition it deserved upon its initial release, especially given the talent of its lead actors. Kyle Gallner, known for his standout roles in "Jennifer’s Body" and "American Sniper," brings remarkable depth to Simon, while Emily Skeggs, a Tony Award nominee for her performance in "Fun Home," captivates as Patty.

Now, four years later, the film is unexpectedly trending on social media and gaining a devoted cult following— an example of the power of social media for the promotion of a film. Explore our article on the topic to learn effective strategies to leverage social platforms for your own projects. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to check it out on Hulu!

Boys State

"Boys State" is a groundbreaking documentary that follows a group of high school students participating in the Texas Boys State program, where they engage in a week-long simulation of the political process. Directed by Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, the film distinguishes itself from other political documentaries of this century by offering a lively and humorous look at a process that, while fictional, highlights the very real flaws of modern politics.

Released in 2020, "Boys State" arrived at a time when many Americans were overwhelmed by the tumultuous political landscape. In an election year filled with significant challenges, a fictional campaign may not have seemed like the ideal way to spend one’s free time. However, now— four years later, amid another election cycle but in a starkly different political era— this documentary serves as a fantastic opportunity to reflect, share some laughs, and engage in a serious analysis of contemporary American politics.

Through its engaging storytelling and authentic portrayal of the students' experiences, "Boys State" not only entertains but also invites viewers to consider the complexities of democracy and the importance of civic engagement in an increasingly polarized world. Now streaming on Apple TV+.

Saint Maud

From the director of "Love Lies Bleeding," "Saint Maud" is a psychological horror film that follows Maud, a reclusive nurse who becomes obsessed with saving the soul of her terminally ill patient, Amanda. Directed by Rose Glass, this haunting film masterfully explores the complexities of Maud while distinguishing itself within the horror genre by employing subtle psychological horror to leave viewers with a lingering dread they can’t shake. It serves as a reminder that our nightmares often resonate more deeply through psychological horror than through jump scares. As Maud's devotion to her religion intensifies, her mental state deteriorates, leading to a chilling exploration of faith, isolation, and the blurred line between devotion and fanaticism.

"Saint Maud" received a limited theatrical rollout before heading to streaming platforms. However, it was released alongside other high-profile films, causing it to be overshadowed during a particularly crowded and complex time in the market. Head over to Amazon Prime to give it a watch.

The Invisible Man

Starring the beloved and acclaimed actress Elisabeth Moss, "The Invisible Man" is a psychological horror film you simply cannot miss. Directed by Leigh Whannell, who is known for his work on "Insidious: Chapter 3," the film takes the classic tale of the "invisible man"— a story that has captivated audiences for over a century— and transforms it into a modern thriller.

In this reimagining, we follow Cecilia (played by Moss), an architect who has just escaped a toxic relationship. Unfortunately, her ex is a wealthy tech mogul who invents a technology that renders him invisible. After faking his own suicide, he begins to terrorize Cecilia, manipulating her life from the shadows.

The film serves as a powerful commentary on contemporary gender issues, the rise of power-hungry tech moguls, and the growing awareness of toxic relationships. As Cecilia desperately seeks help from the police, she is dismissed and labeled as a hysterical woman struggling with grief, highlighting the pervasive challenges faced by victims of abuse. Available on Amazon Prime.

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm

Before you watched the iconic 2006 mockumentary "Borat," you were one person; afterward, you were transformed. While its sequel, "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm," didn’t receive the same level of attention as its predecessor, this is not a reflection of its quality. The original film concludes with Borat returning home, but the sequel opens with his imprisonment for his crude behavior and negative portrayal of Kazakhstan. After 14 years behind bars, he is released and embarks on a journey back to America, this time accompanied by his 15-year-old daughter, of whom he has only just learned.

In this follow-up, Borat attends Trump rallies and forms an unexpected bond with two conservative men, with whom he quarantines for a week. While they appear to be in on the joke, they are very much themselves— genuine participants in Borat's wild escapades. The film's most infamous moment features a staged interview with Rudy Giuliani, who, at the time, was the mayor of New York and personal attorney to Donald Trump. In a shocking twist, Borat’s daughter, posing as a conservative interviewer, invites him to her hotel room for a drink. The ensuing events are nothing short of outrageous, and you’ll want to see it for yourself.

Though "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm" may not have garnered the same beloved status as the first film, it offers keen commentary on the state of American politics in 2020. Check it out on Amazon Prime.

From a global pandemic to a tumultuous time in American politics, many incredible films were swept under the rug during a year that tested our limits socially, physically, and financially. The list of 2020 films that deserve a revival goes on. Let’s give them a second life.

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