The 15 Best Movies Of 2024

by

As a film critic with a background in technology and a soft spot for heartwarming tales, I must say that the films of 2024 have left me absolutely spellbound! Among these cinematic marvels, there are a few gems that truly stand out, capturing my heart and expanding my mind.

2024 posed significant challenges for the movie business. The aftermath of the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes was evident in a reduced number of films released compared to usual, and perhaps more concerning, production struggled to regain momentum even following the resolution of the strikes. To make matters worse, looming media consolidation, AI continuing to impact creative roles post-strikes, and industry professionals becoming increasingly cautious about potentially contentious projects all contribute to valid concerns about the future.

Despite some flaws within the Hollywood system, these movies were still impressive, with several reaching extraordinary heights. A significant number of the top-tier films were either independent productions or came from international sources, yet they managed to extract substance even from this dysfunctional environment. The most striking characteristic shared by 2024’s best films is their willingness to take chances. These films pushed the boundaries in artistic expression, questioned conventional wisdom about the film industry, and made daring statements concerning governments and corporations. As a result, these 15 films proudly stand as a testament against creative complacency.

I’ve chosen these movies, arranged in alphabetical order, mostly based on my personal preferences. However, they have all received widespread critical praise, and some have even achieved success at the box office and in awards ceremonies. Since I’ve only seen the films that made the list (sorry to “Nosferatu” and any 2024 movies I haven’t caught up with yet), they are the ones that qualified for inclusion.

The Brutalist

Cast: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce

Director: Brady Corbet

Rating: not yet rated (expect an R)

Runtime: 215 minutes

Where to watch: in select theaters December 20

2024’s top-rated film, “The Brutalist,” selected by The New York Film Critics Circle, is an immense, ambitious, intricate work of art that delves into numerous themes, one of them being the challenges of creating such grand, intricate masterpieces. Can you imagine crafting a 3.5-hour VistaVision historical epic on a budget under $10 million? Brady Corbet, the filmmaker behind “The Brutalist” (which earned him five awards at the Venice Film Festival including Best Director), hopefully didn’t face as much turmoil as Adrien Brody’s character, László Tóth, did while constructing his community center in the movie.

Corbet’s masterpiece serves as a poignant reminder that immigrants have been the backbone of this nation, yet have often faced mistreatment throughout history. “The Brutalist” offers a grim portrayal of America, exposing the deep-seated corruption at its capitalistic heart, which is truly disheartening. The film’s weighty themes and lengthy duration might initially seem daunting; however, exceptional direction and outstanding performances by Brody, Felicity Jones, and Guy Pearce make it so captivating that one could argue it could be even longer (though its thoughtful intermission certainly helps).

Conclave

Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, Isabella Rossellini

Director: Edward Berger

Rating: PG

Runtime: 120 minutes

Where to watch: in theaters, PVOD

The movie “Conclave,” which centers around the process of choosing a new Pope, was released just days before the U.S. elected its newest president. Although it tries to highlight similar struggles in both voting systems, some parts may seem implausible now given recent events, as the film appears to hold faith in the system upholding liberal values that might appear unrealistic to many viewers today.

But there’s nothing wrong with enjoying an idealistic fantasy, and this one is both exceptionally well-crafted and far more entertaining than you might expect. The memes are right: All the catty backstabbing between the Cardinals plays somewhere between a tense political thriller and “Mean Girls.” Ralph Fiennes stands out amidst a top-notch ensemble as Cardinal Lawrence, a man struggling with religious doubts who claims he doesn’t want the papacy even if he’d make one of the best candidates. Some of the twists are heavily foreshadowed, but the final one comes as one of the best surprise endings in recent memory — and its audacity only feels braver post-election.

Dune: Part Two

Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Javier Bardem

Director: Denis Villeneuve

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 166 minutes

Where to watch: Max, PVOD

At times, the Hollywood studio system operates flawlessly, as demonstrated by the highly anticipated science fiction epic, “Dune: Part Two.” This film, starring an illustrious lineup of today’s hottest stars and boasting state-of-the-art special effects, embodies the essence of a thrilling popcorn blockbuster. With its impressive ratings on Letterboxd in 2024, “Dune: Part Two” is widely acclaimed for its captivating entertainment value and thought-provoking themes, making one ponder why other big-budget films often fail to reach this level of quality.

In Denis Villeneuve’s 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel “Dune,” the second half delivers an exciting, action-packed climax for the intricate build-up from “Dune: Part One.” This closure leaves viewers eager to follow Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) further in subsequent sequels. The story’s themes of religious extremism, anti-imperialist struggle, and the transformation of potential heroes into villains still resonate deeply today, just as they did when Herbert initially crafted the universe of Arrakis.

Heretic

Cast: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East

Director: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods

Rating: R

Runtime: 111 minutes

Where to watch: in theaters

2024 saw an abundance of outstanding horror films, with far too many to include here. The chilling suspense of “Longlegs” and the shocking grotesque style of “The Substance” truly deserve recognition; they would have made my top 25 list if not for the powerful impact of “Heretic,” which just barely pushes them aside in this particular ranking.

In this piece, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods’ film is highlighted for its exceptional screenplay that shines through witty dialogues, intellectual theological discussions, and gradually escalating terror. This cinematic masterpiece comes alive thanks to a remarkable ensemble of three talented actors. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, both having grown up within the Mormon Church, delivered compelling performances as missionaries, resonating deeply with many viewers who share similar backgrounds or have left the church. Lastly, Hugh Grant showcases his enthusiasm playing the antagonist, a non-believer tormenting the missionaries. His character amuses through his Monopoly monologues, singing Radiohead tunes, and an infamous Jar Jar Binks impression that you’ll never forget.

Hit Man

Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta

Director: Richard Linklater

Rating: R

Runtime: 115 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix

In my opinion, as a passionate movie enthusiast, it seems like Glenn Powell could be the genuine article, bucking the ongoing debate about if over-reliance on franchises has stifled the classic movie star. While “Twisters” was indeed a sequel, it thrived mainly because of its leading man, and Powell, alongside Sydney Sweeney, were the driving forces behind the massive popularity of “Anyone But You.

In one of the best comedic performances of the year, Powell plays a philosophy professor pretending to be multiple fictitious “hitmen” as part of questionable police entrapment schemes. When he actually comes to care about one of his targets (played by Adria Arjona), the film turns into one of the year’s steamiest romances. This is loosely based on a true story, but Powell and Richard Linklater’s script gets playful with how loose such adaptations can get, especially when it comes to “Hit Man’s” ending.

I Saw the TV Glow

Cast: Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Helena Howard, Lindsey Jordan

Director: Jane Schoenbrun

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 100 minutes

Where to watch: Max, PVOD

When I critiqued “I Saw the TV Glow” for Looper, I penned that it “casts such a powerful imprint that it’s challenging not to ruminate on it for months following the viewing.” This film continues to reveal depth and detail as time passes, suggesting that it might be more complex than initially perceived. After rewatching it, I find myself edging closer to articulating my thoughts about the movie’s narrative, yet the brilliance of Jane Schoenbrun’s horror-drama lies in its ability to accommodate various interpretations.

2024 stands out as a particularly challenging year for individuals identifying as transgender, making the introspective and poignant film “I Saw the TV Glow” an incredibly relevant piece of art. A quick glance at the moving and emotional reactions to the film on TikTok will confirm its profound impact within the trans community. However, anyone, whether cisgender or transgender, who has ever grappled with self-doubt about their life choices or yearned for something beyond their everyday existence can find a relatable element in this masterful production.

Look Back

Cast: Yumi Kawai, Mizuki Yoshida

Director: Kiyotaka Oshiyama

Rating: 13+

Runtime: 58 minutes

Where to watch: Prime Video

Kiyotaka Oshiyama, the creator of Studio Durian, poured his heart into “Look Back” – a labor of love that he wrote, directed, designed characters for, and even did most of the key animation himself! Given his dedication and passion, it’s no surprise that this talented artist was drawn to bringing Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga about two equally dedicated artists to life. The final product is an almost flawless adaptation of a nearly flawless manga.

In Japan, the animated film “Look Back” was unexpectedly popular and received the highest rating of the year on Letterboxd. This short movie is filled with breathtaking visuals and intense emotions, all contained within less than an hour. It’s a poignant exploration of the human spirit in the face of personal hardship, taking on even more significance as a hand-drawn work of art that bravely challenges the rise of AI.

Nickel Boys

Cast: Ethan Herisse, Brandon Wilson,  Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Director: RaMell Ross

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 140 minutes

Where to watch: in select theaters December 13

RaMell Ross’ film ‘Nickel Boys,’ based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel, resides at the crossroads of avant-garde art cinema and conventional storytelling. It excels in both categories, demonstrating exceptional skill in both. While sharing some similarities with 2023’s ‘The Zone of Interest’ in terms of historical significance, formal originality, and emotional disturbance, it stands out by centering around characters that you can empathize with and root for.

The central aspect that makes this film stand out is the perspective it offers; the majority of scenes are presented from the viewpoints of Elwood (Ethan Herisse) and Turner (Brandon Wilson), two African-American boys who end up in a harsh and violent reform school during the 1960s. This first-person approach, when compared to something like “Hardcore Henry,” offers an emotionally intense experience that may not resonate with everyone in the audience. However, if you find yourself drawn into it, the impact can be truly overwhelming. With over a third of reviews on Metacritic awarding it a perfect score and Ross receiving numerous best director accolades, it’s evident that this innovative technique has struck a chord with many viewers.

The People’s Joker

Cast: Vera Drew, Lynn Downey, Kane Distler, Nathan Faustyn, David Liebe Hart

Director: Vera Drew

Rating: not rated (content equivalent to R)

Runtime: 92 minutes

Where to watch: PVOD, on MUBI December 6

In a year marked by underperformance of “Joker: Folie à Deux” and lackluster anticipation for “Saturday Night”, the standout film that Warner Bros. initially didn’t want you to watch is “The People’s Joker”. This comedic spoof, centered around a transgender clown character (Vera Drew) fighting against Gotham’s comedy world, had a challenging journey to the big screen. It encountered legal challenges during its debut at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival and was only released to the public following a year and a half of negotiations and additional editing.

If “The People’s Joker” simply aggravated David Zaslav and teased Lorne Michaels, it would still be intriguing to watch, but it goes way beyond that. Its bitingly satirical dialogues and quick-witted mixed-media visual jokes accumulate to make it arguably the funniest comedy of 2024. Meanwhile, Drew’s semi-autobiographical account of self-discovery adds a moving emotional depth to the film’s madness (or “super-madness,” if you prefer). Furthermore, the reinvention of the Batman universe in this fan fiction as a form of punk rock defiance even won praise from renowned comic writer Grant Morrison.

A Real Pain

Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Kieran Culkin

Director: Jesse Eisenberg

Rating: R

Runtime: 90 minutes

Where to watch: in theaters

Since the start of 2024, “A Real Pain” has been widely recognized as one of the year’s top films. It garnered critical acclaim early on, winning a screenwriting award at Sundance and being highly praised by critics, even in its initial release. The film is written, directed, and stars Jesse Eisenberg, marking a significant advancement from his 2022 directorial debut, “When You Finish Saving the World.” This film can be considered one of the saddest comedies of the year, yet it manages to be hilarious while addressing heavy topics like bipolar disorder and the Holocaust legacy. Remarkably, it does so without crossing any boundaries of disrespect.

Kieran Culkin is rightly earning accolades and awards for his portrayal of Benji, a character who causes trouble for his brother David (Eisenberg), yet brings happiness to most people he encounters – making Benji’s self-inflicted pain even more poignant. The series “A Real Pain” masterfully explores intricate family dynamics and the emotional turmoil tied to histories of suppression and advantage, striking a chord that resonates as both timeless and crucial in today’s society.

The Remarkable Life of Ibelin

Director: Benjamin Ree

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 90 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix

2024’s notable documentaries feature a diverse range such as the road trip film about trans rights titled “Will & Harper,” the inspiring biopic on Christopher Reeve called “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” and the emotional drama set in prison, “Daughters.” Critics have raved about “No Other Land,” but its release in America is uncertain. Among films easily accessible to the public, no documentary has been as guaranteed to bring viewers to tears as “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin.

In the World Cinema Documentary category at Sundance, the film “Ibelin” emerged victorious in both the directing and audience awards. This captivating documentary chronicles the life of Mats Steen, a Norwegian young man who passed away at 25 due to Duchenne muscular dystrophy. His parents initially believed he was squandering his life playing video games … until they discovered that in the “World of Warcraft” community, he was cherished as Ibelin Redmoore. This touching tale underscores the often overlooked positive impact of gaming and the internet, especially when these platforms are too often associated with negativity.

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

Cast: Soheila Golestani, Missagh Zareh, Mahsa Rostami, Setareh Maleki

Director: Mohammad Rasoulof

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 168 minutes

Where to watch: in select theaters

2024 saw some daring films take center stage, and none more so than “The Seed of the Sacred Fig.” Remarkably, director Mohammad Rasoulof filmed this movie secretly while serving an 8-year prison sentence for his criticisms of the Iranian government. He ultimately completed it in Germany after escaping. Such a gripping tale makes “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” essential viewing – and thankfully, the film itself stands out as a worthy watch.

This captivating drama offers an insightful look at Iran’s civil turmoil through the eyes of a family struggling in the midst. The character Iman (Missagh Zareh) is a judge within the theocratic regime, sanctioning death penalties. His wife Najmeh (Soheila Golestani) stands by him, but yearns to aid him in any way possible. Meanwhile, their daughters Rezvan (Mahsa Rostama) and Sana (Setareh Maleki) sympathize with the feminist demonstrations. As the movie progresses towards its climax, the family’s disagreements intensify into a gripping, suspenseful tale.

Sing Sing

Cast: Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin, Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez

Director: Greg Kwedar

Rating: R

Runtime: 168 minutes

Where to watch: returns to theaters January 17

Among all the films listed, “Sing Sing” suffered an unusually awkward distribution. Following its initial screening to critical acclaim at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, where Colman Domingo was honored with a tribute award, indicating his future success in playing John “Divine G” Whitfield, a wrongfully imprisoned actor, A24 acquired it and released it in a limited capacity in July 2024. Unlike most of A24’s limited releases, however, “Sing Sing” never expanded beyond being shown at 191 theaters and has yet to be made available for streaming.

Hopefully, it will find greater success in its upcoming rerelease, as “Sing Sing” has the potential to be a huge crowdpleaser if crowds actually show up. The inspiring true story about the theater program at Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison is told with incredible sensitivity and realism. Aside from Domingo and Paul Raci, all of the actors in the film are former members of the program itself. In both its content and its very existence, the film provides a powerful reminder of how art can help us through the worst situations.

Wicked (Part I)

Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande-Butera, Jonathan Bailey

Director: Jon M. Chu

Rating: PG

Runtime: 160 minutes

Where to watch: in theaters

Although ‘Wicked: Part I’ may not be flawless, with debates over its lighting and color grading, it was undoubtedly the most anticipated film of 2024. Initially, there were legitimate concerns about Ariana Grande’s acting abilities, if Cynthia Erivo was too old for Elphaba, and why the movie was longer than the entire Broadway show. However, these doubts are overshadowed by the exceptional performances of Grande and Erivo, and a visually breathtaking musical experience that stands out among recent big-screen spectacles.

In 2023, much like how “Barbie” drew massive audiences, the blockbuster hit “Wicked” demonstrates that when high-quality films cater to women and LGBTQ+ viewers, they will enthusiastically attend. Although primarily an exceptional piece of entertainment, “Wicked” also tells a compelling story about a woman of color standing against untruthful politicians who target marginalized communities, making it particularly resonant in today’s climate. With its blend of popular appeal and social significance, the film is fast becoming a top contender for major Oscar awards.

The Wild Robot

Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Kit Connor, Pedro Pascal

Director: Chris Sanders

Rating: PG

Runtime: 102 minutes

Where to watch: in theaters, PVOD

2024 was a challenging year for every aspect of the film industry, but animators faced harder times than many others – a pity given that animated movies are frequently among the finest and most successful films produced today. Critics and audiences alike praise “The Wild Robot” as one of the standout achievements in filmmaking this year, which only adds to the frustration over the significant job cuts affecting the artists responsible for its creation.

After watching “The Wild Robot,” one comes away with a sense of optimism that we may all persevere through our tough times. If Roz, brilliantly voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, can modify her programming to attain new heights while maintaining the compassion within her, isn’t it possible for each of us to achieve feats we once thought unattainable? If the movie’s animal characters can set aside their conflicts to ensure everyone’s survival, could humanity also find hope in overcoming the crises that confront us today? And now I find myself getting sentimental over this robot cartoon once again…

Read More

2024-12-07 15:31