In the last decade, independent films have become a powerful force in cinema, breaking away from traditional storytelling and embracing bold, unique narratives that captivate audiences with emotional depth and artistic innovation. While blockbuster movies often follow familiar formulas, indie films frequently push boundaries, exploring complex themes and presenting fresh perspectives on life, society, and human relationships. These films offer an intimacy and authenticity that resonate deeply, often leaving a lasting impact on viewers. From deeply personal stories to unconventional genres, the indie scene has produced some of the most unforgettable cinematic experiences of recent years. This list highlights 20 must-see indie films of the last decade, each standing out for its originality, compelling storytelling, and the skill of its creators. Whether you’re an avid indie fan or new to the genre, these films offer a diverse journey through some of the best modern independent cinema.
1. Moonlight (2016)
Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight is an emotionally resonant story about identity, masculinity, and sexuality. Following the life of Chiron, a young Black man growing up in Miami, the film is told in three parts—childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Each chapter explores Chiron’s struggles with self-discovery and acceptance in an environment of poverty and prejudice. Jenkins’ poetic direction and the film’s lush cinematography highlight its raw and intimate storytelling, ultimately winning Moonlight the Academy Award for Best Picture.
2. Lady Bird (2017)
Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird is a coming-of-age drama that captures the bittersweet experience of adolescence with humor and tenderness. Starring Saoirse Ronan as Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, the film follows her final year of high school as she navigates friendship, family, and self-identity. Set in Sacramento, Lady Bird is both specific and universal in its depiction of teenage struggles and aspirations. Gerwig’s sharp, heartfelt script and direction made Lady Bird an instant classic.
3. The Florida Project (2017)
Directed by Sean Baker, The Florida Project offers a vibrant yet gritty look at life on the margins. Set in a rundown motel near Disney World, the story follows six-year-old Moonee and her young mother, Halley, as they navigate poverty and instability. Through Moonee’s innocent eyes, the harsh realities of her life are softened, and the mundane is turned magical. Baker’s dedication to naturalism and the cast’s performances bring an undeniable authenticity to this powerful film.
4. Hereditary (2018)
Ari Aster’s Hereditary redefined horror with its slow-burn suspense and psychological depth. The film follows the Graham family as they grapple with loss and a mysterious family curse. Toni Collette delivers a standout performance as a grieving mother unraveling under the weight of trauma. Blending supernatural elements with deeply unsettling family dynamics, Hereditary became one of the most memorable horror films of the decade and established Aster as a filmmaker to watch.
5. Eighth Grade (2018)
Comedian Bo Burnham’s directorial debut, Eighth Grade, is an honest and sensitive portrayal of modern teenage life. The film follows Kayla, a shy 13-year-old girl navigating social anxiety, self-esteem issues, and the challenges of social media in her final week of middle school. Elsie Fisher’s authentic performance as Kayla resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Eighth Grade captures the awkwardness and vulnerability of adolescence with remarkable empathy.
6. The Lighthouse (2019)
Directed by Robert Eggers, The Lighthouse is a psychological horror film set on a remote, stormy island where two lighthouse keepers, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, slowly descend into madness. Shot in black and white, with a square aspect ratio, the film’s visual style pays homage to classic horror. Its unique dialogue, eerie atmosphere, and intense performances make The Lighthouse a haunting and unforgettable cinematic experience.
7. Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite made history as the first foreign-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. This darkly comedic thriller follows the Kim family, who cunningly infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Park family, exposing the stark class divisions within South Korean society. With its sharp social commentary, unpredictable plot twists, and masterful direction, Parasite is a stunning critique of inequality and capitalism, resonating with audiences worldwide.
8. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Céline Sciamma’s Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a visually stunning love story set in 18th-century France. The film follows the relationship between Marianne, a painter commissioned to secretly paint the portrait of Héloïse, a young woman resisting marriage. Their intense, fleeting romance unfolds with quiet intimacy, capturing the beauty and pain of forbidden love. The film’s evocative cinematography and hauntingly beautiful score make it a masterpiece of romantic storytelling.
9. Manchester by the Sea (2016)
Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester by the Sea is a heartbreaking drama about grief and forgiveness. The film follows Lee Chandler, a man burdened by past trauma, who returns to his hometown after his brother’s death to care for his teenage nephew. Casey Affleck’s portrayal of Lee is deeply moving, as he struggles to reconcile his tragic past with his responsibilities in the present. Manchester by the Sea is a raw and powerful exploration of loss, resilience, and redemption.
10. The Farewell (2019)
Directed by Lulu Wang, The Farewell is a poignant dramedy based on Wang’s own family experience. The story follows Billi, a Chinese-American woman who travels to China with her family to say goodbye to her terminally ill grandmother, Nai Nai—who is unaware of her diagnosis. The film’s exploration of cultural differences and familial bonds, combined with Awkwafina’s touching performance, provides a heartfelt look at love, loss, and the immigrant experience.
11. Uncut Gems (2019)
Josh and Benny Safdie’s Uncut Gems is an intense, high-stakes thriller that showcases Adam Sandler in a career-defining role. Sandler plays Howard Ratner, a New York jeweler with a gambling addiction who finds himself caught in a dangerous game of survival and risk. The Safdies’ frantic direction, combined with a pulsating soundtrack, creates an atmosphere of constant tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
12. Sound of Metal (2019)
Directed by Darius Marder, Sound of Metal follows Ruben, a heavy metal drummer who begins to lose his hearing. As he grapples with this life-altering change, he confronts the challenges of adapting to a silent world. Riz Ahmed’s powerful and empathetic performance, paired with the film’s innovative sound design, creates an immersive experience that captures the emotional depth of Ruben’s journey. Sound of Metal is a moving meditation on identity, resilience, and acceptance.
13. Minari (2020)
Lee Isaac Chung’s Minari tells the story of a Korean-American family that moves to rural Arkansas in pursuit of the American Dream. Through their struggles and triumphs, the film beautifully captures themes of family, sacrifice, and resilience. Steven Yeun and Youn Yuh-jung deliver standout performances, bringing authenticity to this tender story of cultural roots and generational conflict. Minari is a deeply personal film with universal appeal, offering a hopeful look at immigrant life in America.
14. The Green Knight (2021)
David Lowery’s The Green Knight is a bold, visually stunning adaptation of the Arthurian legend of Sir Gawain. The film follows Gawain on a perilous journey to face the mysterious Green Knight, confronting questions of honor, courage, and mortality. Lowery’s surreal and haunting visuals, combined with Dev Patel’s compelling performance, make The Green Knight an atmospheric and thought-provoking exploration of heroism and destiny.
15. The Vast of Night (2019)
Andrew Patterson’s The Vast of Night is a sci-fi thriller set in a small New Mexico town during the 1950s. The story follows a young switchboard operator and a radio DJ who investigate a mysterious frequency that could be extraterrestrial. With its retro aesthetic, sharp dialogue, and slow-burn suspense, The Vast of Night pays homage to classic sci-fi while creating a gripping mystery that leaves audiences spellbound.
16. Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)
Eliza Hittman’s Never Rarely Sometimes Always is a raw, compassionate look at teenage pregnancy and the challenges women face in seeking reproductive healthcare. The film follows Autumn, a 17-year-old girl who, with her cousin’s support, travels to New York City for an abortion. Hittman’s minimalist style and Sidney Flanigan’s sensitive performance lend authenticity to this quiet but powerful story of resilience and sisterhood.
17. A Ghost Story (2017)
David Lowery’s A Ghost Story is a meditation on love, loss, and the passage of time. The film follows a recently deceased man who, as a ghost, observes the life he left behind. With its minimalist approach and contemplative pacing, A Ghost Story explores themes of grief and the impermanence of existence. Its haunting imagery and introspective narrative make it a thought-provoking piece of indie cinema.
18. Waves (2019)
Directed by Trey Edward Shults, Waves is an emotionally charged family drama that examines the ripple effects of trauma and forgiveness. The film follows a family in South Florida as they navigate love, loss, and healing after a tragic event. With its stunning cinematography and powerful performances, Waves immerses viewers in a visceral journey that captures the highs and lows of family life.
19. Paterson (2016)
Jim Jarmusch’s Paterson is a quietly contemplative film that follows the life of a bus driver named Paterson (played by Adam Driver) who lives in the city of Paterson, New Jersey. Paterson spends his days driving his bus and writing poetry inspired by the mundane beauty of his daily routine. Jim Jarmusch captures the simplicity and poetry of everyday life in a way that’s gentle, heartfelt, and profound. Paterson celebrates creativity, routine, and the beauty in small moments, making it a thoughtful and introspective film that resonates with anyone who’s ever found joy in the ordinary.
20. The Rider (2017)
Chloé Zhao’s The Rider is a poignant blend of fiction and reality, telling the story of Brady, a young cowboy struggling to find his place after a near-fatal rodeo accident leaves him unable to ride again. Starring real-life cowboy Brady Jandreau, the film blurs the lines between documentary and narrative, capturing the intimate and often harsh reality of life in rural America. Zhao’s sensitive direction and the cast’s authentic performances create a moving story of resilience, identity, and the search for purpose.
These 20 indie films have left an indelible impact on the last decade of cinema, pushing boundaries, exploring complex emotions, and capturing the human experience in a way that mainstream films rarely do. Each of these movies is a testament to the creativity and ambition that define independent filmmaking, proving that sometimes the most profound stories come from the margins. For anyone seeking films that challenge conventions and offer unique perspectives, these indie gems are essential viewing.