Going virtual for the first and hopefully last time, Sundance 2021 rejiggered with fewer films, longer filmmaker Q&As, the largest-ever audiences, and no lines or snow. Though the excitement of live audiences was missing, there was no dearth of exciting films. Here are some standouts among this year’s 73 features.

Films I covered:

CODA

Cinematography by Paula Huidobro, AMC
Directed by Siân Heder

In the Same Breath

Cinematography by 20 camera people
Directed by Nanfu Wang

R#J

Cinematography by Diego Madrigal
Directed by Carey Williams

Passing

Cinematography by Eduard Grau, ASC
Directed by Rebecca Hall

Jockey

Cinematographer: Adolpho Veloso
Director: Clint Bentley

Human Factors

Cinematographer: Klemens Hufnagl
Director: Ronny Trocker