As a cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of cinematic artistry, I must say that this year’s Rotten Tomatoes list leaves me both astounded and heartened. The sheer diversity and quality of these films reflect the vibrant creativity thriving in our global film industry today.
Over the past five years, Hollywood has experienced quite a rollercoaster ride with the movie industry grappling with one obstacle after another. The unexpected COVID-19 pandemic almost halted show business, along with numerous other sectors. Approximately three and a half years following the onset of the global health emergency, there was the 2023 Writers’ Strike that ran from May to September. Although there have been setbacks, 2024 has witnessed Hollywood gradually adapting to a new status quo, resulting in several top-notch productions.
Movie enthusiasts have long relied on the credibility of the film review platform, Rotten Tomatoes, often consulting it to compare various movies’ ratings before choosing which ones merit their precious viewing hours. It goes without saying that when compiling a list of the best films of 2024, one should turn to this influential site. Here are ten of Rotten Tomatoes’ top-rated films from 2024, all boasting perfect 100% scores.
10 ‘All We Imagine As Light’
Payal Kapadia’s film titled “All We Imagine As Light” was entirely filmed in Mumbai, India, which serves as an inspiring setting for this powerful production. The narrative focuses on the poignant lives of three female residents in the city, each grappling with unique hardships. One woman is dealing with her husband’s absence, another is maintaining a clandestine relationship with a Muslim man, and the third is a widow facing eviction who finds solace in the companionship of the other two women. The film emphasizes resilience as these characters bravely confront urban chaos to forge their paths forward.
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia Brings Poetic Humanity in Understated Indie Drama
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises for Kapadia’s portrayal of contemporary life in Mumbai, seamlessly weaving romanticism with the raw essence of reality. Critic Adam Kempanaar from Rotten Tomatoes has commended her for masterfully delving into the subtle, intangible emotional landscapes of the city. The film’s captivating ambiance and leisurely rhythm, which resonates harmoniously with its profound style, makes it a must-watch indie gem in 2024.
9 ‘Laroy, Texas’
Fans of dark humor will find themselves engrossed in “Laroy, Texas“, an unusual movie featuring John Magaro as a man contemplating suicide following his wife’s infidelity revelation. His mundane life takes an unexpected turn when he is mistakenly believed to be a professional assassin and hired for a hit. As the story unfolds, Ray stumbles upon a local conspiracy, introducing an intriguing crime angle to this humorously grim tale.
A Funny Dark Comedy With Charm and Bite
Critic Robert Daniels of Top Tomatoes labeled the movie as an exhilarating Western thriller with a barn-like intensity. Despite its remote setting, it manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with a mix of comedic, violent, and somber moments. Fans find the intricate plot and sharp dialogue to be highly engaging and enjoyable.
8 ‘Sugarcane’
Sugarcane explores a Canadian boarding school for Native Americans, infamous for the abusive treatment of its pupils. This harrowing documentary delves into the shocking scandal surrounding St. Joseph’s Mission. Established in the 1800s and closed in 1981, this institution allegedly mistreated and may have even taken the lives of some of its students, as suggested by the unearthing of numerous mysterious, unlabeled graves.
Outraging Documentary Highlights Racism and Abuse at Segregated Boarding School
Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat, co-directors and a member of the Canim Lake Band Tsq’escen respectively, underscore the harrowing experiences faced by indigenous children at the hands of Catholic Church representatives in Canada who oversaw these institutions. The documentary has been described as “haunting,” implying that it will hold viewers spellbound with its powerful message and crucial content.
7 ‘On Becoming a Guinea Fowl’
In this tale, we find ourselves in Lusaka, Zambia, where the protagonist, Susan Chardy, known as Shula, encounters various trials stemming from her family’s perspectives and preconceptions, all while battling the ghosts of her past traumas. The opening scene offers a shocking revelation as she stumbles upon her uncle’s lifeless body on the road, an event that sets in motion a tumultuous series of events. As a result, long-buried family secrets resurface, causing a stir among the younger generation who refuse to adhere to their elders’ demands for silence and conformity.
A Feminist Stand on Generational Trauma
In more contemporary discussions, generational trauma is being recognized as a significant issue, and it’s particularly noticeable in the family setting depicted in the movie “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl”. This film delves into gender inequality within a troubled Zambian family, focusing on how the family responds to the molestation of several female cousins by an uncle. Critics have praised the film’s stark portrayal of patriarchal toxicity as “relentless”.
6 ‘Mad Props’
Among Rotten Tomatoes’ highest-rated films of the year, Juan Pablo Reinoso’s “Mad Props” is particularly noteworthy. The movie follows Tom Biolchini globetrotting as he competes to acquire uncommon items in his pursuit of film memorabilia collectibles.
‘Mad Props’ Is Refreshingly Fun
This movie, affectionately titled “Mad Props“, offers a delightful glimpse into the life of a man who cherishes his hobby with an endearing zeal. It turns out that items from famous films can sometimes fetch high prices, but Biolchini seems to be more enamored by the magic of cinema itself. While the tale of a dedicated hobbyist might not resonate with everyone, critics struggled to find flaws in this nostalgic journey through the world of prop collecting. To some extent, this film could be seen as a heartfelt ode not only to collectors, but also to all genuine cinema enthusiasts.
5 ‘Kill the Jockey’
Luis Ortega’s “Kill The Jockey” is an intriguing endeavor that blends elements of surrealism, drama, and comedy. This work narrates the turbulent journey of a once-successful jockey grappling with addiction and complicated dealings with organized crime. A life-altering accident sets him on a path of self-discovery, questioning his true desires. The narrative also delves into themes that are subtly queer and challenges conventional gender roles.
Unexpectedly Artistic
Kill The Jockey” transcends typical horse stories with its unique, Argentinian perspective delivered in Spanish. This visually stunning production, boasting an artistic flair often absent from sports dramas, offers a fresh take on storytelling by allowing viewers to create their own interpretations of its surreal imagery. As Variety critic Guy Lodge aptly put it, the movie is both “fleeting and soulful.
4 ‘Misericordia’
I must say, Alain Guiraudie’s Misericordia, a contemporary thriller, truly left an impression on me. In May 2024, it graced the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in the running for the Queer Palm. The narrative revolves around a man attending his former boss’s funeral at his childhood home, only to find himself entangled in a police investigation within a seemingly peaceful yet chatty town.
Understated, Yet Complete
As a film enthusiast, I must say that this movie with its tension-filled narrative has a captivating essence of simplicity. What truly resonates is the heartrending portrayal of human relationships, as a once treasured friendship gradually devolves into bitter arguments. The script’s innovative storytelling, delightful originality, and sprinkles of humor, make it one of the standout foreign queer films of the year.
3 ‘Girls Will Be Girls’
Shuchi Talati’s “Girl Will Be Girls” offers a modern spin on the timeless coming-of-age narrative. The story unfolds in a Himalayan boarding school and follows Preeti Panigrahi as Mira, a student whose life is turned upside down by an enchanting newcomer with whom she begins a romance. Mira’s stern mother complicates the schoolgirl storyline.
A Sundance Delight
In a delightful turn of events at the 2024 Sundance Festival, the captivating film walked away with an audience award. Fans admire its sensitive portrayal of adolescent themes and relatable storytelling. The scenes masterfully depict the turmoil, internal strife, and budding yearning for independence and self-discovery that are distinct to the teenage experience.
2 ‘The Friend’
The American drama titled “The Friend,” penned by Siegel & McGehee, derives from a 2018 novel that explores the healing power of pet ownership after a devastating loss. Notable actress Naomi Watts, known for her wide-ranging roles in films such as the iconic “King Kong,” portrays a woman whose world is shaken by the unexpected demise of her closest companion. As events reminiscent of a sitcom unfold, she finds herself inheriting his enormous pet dog.
Perfect Film for Dog People
Andy Howell, a reviewer from Rotten Tomatoes, appreciates the filmmakers for crafting “a top-notch adult-oriented dog movie.” The film is as sentimental as anticipated, featuring heartfelt tributes to pets in montage sequences, yet manages to be appealing despite this. Moreover, the stylish wardrobe choices by Watts provide an engaging visual touch.
1 ‘Look Back’
At the summit of this year’s most critically acclaimed movies on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting a perfect 100% fresh critic rating and an exceptional 99% “Popcorncometer” audience rating, stands an animated film derived from a web manga with the same title. The narrative revolves around a secluded young girl named Kyomoto, known for her extraordinary artistic talents. A character named Fujino harbors envy towards her skills and ignites a rivalry, but eventually discovers they both share a deep love for drawing, which in turn, forges an invaluable connection between them.
Beautifully Heartwrenching
Numerous viewers have shared that the touching movie brought them to tears. A skillfully crafted tempo guides the audience through a rollercoaster of intense emotions, from profound sorrow to exhilaration and back. The film’s uncomplicated elegance highlights the authenticity of its characters, especially resonating with artists. Look Back, indeed, demonstrates that Japanese animation continues to dominate high-quality movie production, earning widespread praise both from fans and critics as one of the top films this year.
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2024-12-04 04:32