We’re relaunching the 100 Film Challenge for 2021 — an invitation to film lovers to rebuild a habit of watching more movies, rediscover favourites and explore new voices on screen. If you took part in past years, we’d love to hear how it went: share your results in the comments or tag posts with #100FilmChallenge on social platforms. If you’re new, here’s a clear, flexible guide to joining in.
The 100 Film Challenge was created to help people carve out time for something they enjoy, even when life gets busy. Watching 100 films in a year can be ambitious, but many participants find the target motivating: it encourages variety, prompts revisits to classics and introduces titles you’ve always meant to see. Completing the challenge often nudges people toward a better balance between work and leisure, and brings the particular satisfaction of hitting a clear goal.
The Guidelines
- Run the challenge from 1 January to 31 December 2021. The aim is to watch at least 100 films during that period.
- Films can be brand new to you or favourites you return to. The goal is enjoyment and discovery.
- How you watch doesn’t matter: cinema screenings, DVDs, streaming services or broadcast TV all count.
- Consider setting a sub-challenge: for example, watch 100 independent films, 100 films directed by women, 100 international titles, or 100 classics you’ve never gotten around to.
- Each counted entry must be a different film. Multiple viewings of the same title count only once toward the 100.
- Document what you watch in a method that suits you. Options include:
- A dedicated notebook or journal
- A spreadsheet to track titles, dates, ratings and notes
- Online platforms such as Letterboxd (which also has a mobile app)
- Rate films if that helps you engage. A simple 1–5 star system or brief notes on what you liked and didn’t like can deepen appreciation and make it easier to compare new films to ones you’ve already seen.
- Share recommendations and discoveries with others. Use the hashtag #100FilmChallenge to join a wider conversation on social media platforms and to get ideas from fellow participants.
- Above all: have fun. Use the year to discover new filmmakers, revisit beloved films and build a sustainable viewing habit.
- Let the challenge commence!
#100FilmChallenge
Need inspiration? Check out curated resources like the “100 Greatest Films of the 2010s” list on The Film Magazine for suggestions. You can use curated lists as starting points, then mix in personal favourites and unexpected finds.
Practical Tips to Reach 100
- Break the year down: aim for roughly two films per week, or set a monthly goal of eight to nine films. Small, steady targets make the total feel manageable.
- Use dead time: short flights, evenings after work, weekends and commutes (audio films or film podcasts about your viewing choices) can add up quickly.
- Make it social: schedule monthly watch parties, in-person or virtual, to stay motivated and hear different perspectives.
- Keep variety in mind: balance heavier dramas with comedies, documentaries, and genre films to maintain momentum.
- Track progress visibly: a simple checklist or spreadsheet you update regularly will keep the challenge front of mind and provide a satisfying record of your year in film.
Ways to Customize the Challenge
If 100 feels too high or too low, adapt the target to suit your schedule. Try a “50 Film Challenge” if you want a gentler pace, or focus on a theme for the year such as national cinemas, debut features, or a director’s filmography. The most important element is setting a goal that stretches you while still being achievable.
Whether you’re hoping to complete the full 100 or simply to watch more films mindfully, the challenge is a flexible framework to help you prioritize cinema in your life. Share your journey, swap recommendations, and enjoy the year of viewing ahead.
Suggested starting point: explore a curated list like “100 Greatest Films of the 2010s” to jump-start your watchlist and discover films you may have missed.