The verdict is in from Zak Hepburn — regular film critic for ABC News Breakfast — on the best and worst films of 2021.

In another year where going to the cinemas was hampered by the pandemic, there were still some great films to catch — and some not so good ones. 

Let's rip the bandaid off first with the worst films of the year.

Worst films of the year

Coming in at number one in the category of worst films in 2021….

The Misfits

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What it's about: Renowned criminal Richard Pace is recruited by a group of unconventional thieves and finds himself caught up in an elaborate gold heist with far-reaching consequences.

Who's starring in it: Pierce Brosnan, Tim Roth, Nick Cannon

Zak Hepburn's verdict: It's the worst film of the year according to Zak Hepburn, who brutally took it down by saying he would walk out on it — even if he was on a plane at 30,000 feet.

"I stand by this," said Hepburn.

"It only lasted a week in cinemas so I would like to think that was my community service for the year.

Where to see it if you're brave enough: Available to purchase on iTunes.

Dishonourable mention

Dear Evan Hansen

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What it's about: Loosely based on a true story, Dear Evan Hansen is about an anxious and lonely high school student – Evan Hansen – who begins writing letters to himself. When one of those letters falls into the hands of a grieving couple whose son took his own life, Evan embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Who it's starring: Ben Platt (Pitch Perfect), Amy Adams, Julianne Moore, Kaitlyn Dever, Amandla Stenberg.

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "It is based on the very, very, very popular Broadway musical of the same name. And it is woefully miscast, woefully misdirected and misjudged," Hepburn said.

"I think that the worst part of this is the actual casting of 27-year-old Ben Platt, who was very successful in the stage version of the show.

"It's almost like an episode of Undercover Boss. So, this is a dud note in my opinion."

Where to see it if you're brave enough: In cinemas now.

Best films of the year

Number 3: Coda

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What it's about: Ruby is the only hearing member of a deaf family in Massachusetts. In joining her high school's choir club, Ruby finds herself drawn to both her duet partner and her latent passion for singing.

Who it's starring: Emilia Jones, Eugenio Derbez, Marlee Matlin

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "Incredible cast," he said.

"Emilia Jones was in the central role.

"I'm actually tipping this is going to be a dark horse in the Oscars race, that you'll see a lot of nominations for this film."

"It's also got a great use of the Joni Mitchell song, Both Sides."

Where to see it: Apple TV+

Number 2: Dune

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What it's about: Paul Atreides is a brilliant and gifted young man who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people, where only those who can conquer their own fear will survive.

Who is it starring: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Zendaya, Jason Momoa

Zak Hepburn's verdict: Not everyone liked this film, but Hepburn has given it a solid thumbs up. He's referred to it as epic.

"I absolutely adored this experience," he said.

"What I appreciated about this film is that it opens up a whole new world and you have to get in on the ground and follow it.

"It's a really impressive story based on the very popular sci-fi novel from the 1960s. Many claimed it to be unfilmable.

"The director got an incredible cast together."

Where to see it: In cinemas now.

Number 1: Pig

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What it's about: A truffle hunter who lives alone in the Oregon wilderness returns to Portland to find the person who stole his beloved pig.

Who is starring in it: Nicholas Cage, Alex Wolff, Adam Arkin

Zak Hepburn's verdict: "What on paper looks like a John Wickian revenge film is tender about grief and healing and about how we connect with each other through food.

"This surprised me and that's always what I'm looking for when I look at films. Something to surprise me and something that's different.

"A minimal piece, I really encourage viewers to give this film a shot."

Where to see it: Available to rent or buy online

Streamers Choice

The Beatles: Get Back

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Zak Hepburn's verdict:

"I absolutely adored this.

"A fantastic look at the creative process and an incredible moment in the first episode where Paul McCartney is tingling away on the guitar while George and Ringo watch him and at 25 seconds he has the chord structure of Get Back.

"The archival footage is great as well and Peter Jackson did a great job."

Where to see it: Disney+