The 15 Best Movie Performances Of 2024

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As a movie critic with a soft spot for powerhouse performances, let me tell you about one of the most impressive acting feats I witnessed this year – Zoe Saldaña’s transformative portrayal of Emilia Perez in “Emilia Perez.

2024’s highest-grossing films, at first glance, are packed with grand spectacles, stunning visual effects, and sequels that lean heavily on visual appeal rather than the star’s charm. This trend, ongoing for decades, may intensify with the advancement of generative AI. However, this year has underscored the fact that creating a memorable or even great film requires much more than just these elements. The actors serve as our gateway to the story, enabling us to empathize, learn, experience deep emotions, and gain insights into ourselves and our shared humanity. Or simply, they make us laugh until we’re doubled over – and that matters too.

We’re taking many factors into consideration when determining the 15 best movie performances of 2024. Yes, awards buzz and critics scores make a difference, but it’s not all that matters to us. After all, we bet even the biggest movie buff may have a difficult time naming the best supporting actor nominees of any given year. So, for this list, we’re also looking at performances that carried a film, stole the show from the other characters (and the special effects), reminded us how great an established actor is, and helped launch a new star into the stratosphere. More than anything, we’re considering which movie performances from 2024 people will still be talking about long after awards season is over.

Denzel Washington, Gladiator II

Cast: Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pescal

Director: Ridley Scott

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 148 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

It’s truly impressive when a seasoned actor, who doesn’t need to prove themselves any further, delivers an outstanding performance in a genre film. For instance, Michelle Pfeiffer in “Batman Returns,” Javier Bardem in “Skyfall,” or Willem Dafoe in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (to name a few) are great examples of this phenomenon. Now, Denzel Washington’s performance in “Gladiator II” can be added to the list as well.

In the upcoming sequel to “Gladiator,” titled informally as “Gladiator 2,” Denzel Washington reunites with his director from “American Gangster,” Ridley Scott, to portray Macrinus, a questionable ancient businessman who amasses wealth by supplying armies with essentials such as food, weapons, and wine. He’s somewhat like a third-century tech mogul, except he purchases gladiators instead of investing in cryptocurrency. With an impressive ten Oscar nominations under his belt, including victories for “Glory” and “Training Day,” Washington delivers an exceptional performance that outshines the film’s star, Paul Mescal, and the spectacular special effects expected from a production with a nearly $300 million budget.

The movie “Gladiator II” left everyone astonished during its $55 million opening weekend, and M.V. Moorhead of “Phoenix Times” explains why: “Denzel Washington’s performance stands out once again – it isn’t flashy or exaggerated; instead, it’s a cleverly crafted, understated portrayal. In essence, he demonstrates an exceptional ability to act.” His talent for acting is undeniable, which is why he consistently receives awards, just as his character accumulates gladiators.

Demi Moore, The Substance

Cast: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid

Director: Coralie Fargeat

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 140 minutes

Where to watch: Amazon

Hollywood seems particularly fond of comeback tales, but fame, wealth, youth, and attractiveness are also high on their list. Given this, it’s fitting that these elements take center stage in “The Substance,” a film written and directed by Coralie Fargeat that skillfully combines industry satire with cringe-worthy body horror. This movie, in fact, is the one bringing Demi Moore back to the A-list limelight.

In spite of his lengthy career spanning several decades and notable films such as “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “Ghost,” and “A Few Good Men,” Moore has never received an Academy Award nomination. However, we anticipate that this will change with the release of “The Substance,” one of the most talked-about movies this year. In this film, Moore portrays Elisabeth Sparkle, a once prominent Hollywood actress who is let go from a TV show because of her age. After a car accident, Sparkle decides to try the Substance, a secretive street drug that claims to offer a “younger, more beautiful, and flawless” version of oneself… a claim that proves surprisingly literal.

Without question, this film’s widespread praise isn’t accidental; Moores unwavering dedication to her role is clearly evident. The star accomplishes a remarkable feat by portraying an utterly self-absorbed character while demonstrating no trace of vanity herself. This character has reached the depths of moral and spiritual decay. Rotten Tomatoes’ critical consensus labels it “potentially” Moores best work, but we believe there’s no doubt about it. This is undeniably her masterpiece, and one of the most outstanding film performances of 2024.

Michael Keaton, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Cast: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega

Director: Tim Burton

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 104 minutes

Where to watch: Max

Remarkable movie performances aren’t always the ones that win Oscars, but rather those that leave lasting impressions on our hearts. In this sense, Michael Keaton’s comeback to one of his iconic roles in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is nothing short of unforgettable.

It wasn’t Michael Keaton’s fault that his comeback as Batman in “The Flash” didn’t succeed, given that he was the standout performer in a lackluster movie. However, we had concerns that the issues that surfaced when he put on the cape and cowl once more would also recur with his reprisal of the famous black-and-white striped suit. But boy, were our fears misplaced. Despite not playing Beetlejuice for close to forty years, Keaton slipped back into the role seamlessly, as if he’d been doing it nightly.

As a die-hard fan, I must say that Michael Keaton completely immerses himself in the character of Beetlejuice, making it hard for us not to forget we’re watching an actor at all. In fact, I truly believe there’s no other performer who could have pulled off this role – be it in the 1988 original or the 2024 sequel. Although the famous “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” line was just okay, Keaton’s performance turned it into one of the most enduring legacy sequels. Despite earning a massive $450 million at the worldwide box office, I don’t think Keaton will be receiving any awards recognition. But who needs awards when getting to witness his reprisal of Beetlejuice is a treat in itself?

Glen Powell, Hitman

Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio

Director: Richard Linklater

Rating: R

Runtime: 115 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix

A frequent lament among film enthusiasts is that there are no more movie stars around, longing for the golden age of cinema. However, this statement lacks factual basis; you just need to explore different platforms. For instance, Glen Powell has emerged as a promising new talent in Tinseltown, making his mark in the most modern way possible – on Netflix. His impressive leading role in “Hitman” is one of the rare exceptions on our list that premiered on a streaming service, and rightfully so – it’s among the top performances this year.

Drawing from real-life events, the movie features Powell portraying Gary Johnson, an eccentric professor with a fondness for cats, who poses as an assassin to ensnare potential criminals in “murder-for-hire” traps for the law enforcement. I never knew such a role existed, but here we are. Johnson’s covert activities create complications when he deviates from his usual plan to aid a charming woman (Adria Arjona) who desires to eliminate her scoundrel husband.

In a remarkable display of talent, Powell charms and captivates as Johnson in 2024, transforming a potentially unlikable character into someone you can’t help but cheer for. Notably, he portrays not only the primary character but also all the personas that Johnson assumes. However, it’s essential to understand that Powell isn’t playing these individual characters; instead, he is portraying Johnson as he enacts them. This dual performance is a significant achievement, making Powell’s outstanding portrayal one of the standout performances of 2024.

Cynthia Erivo, Wicked

Cast: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum

Director: John M. Chu

Rating: R

Runtime: 160 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

Cynthia Erivo’s strong reaction to a fan-made “Wicked” poster tribute, which she deemed “painful” and “inappropriate,” almost overshadowed the positive energy from fans. However, her remarkable performance (and the skill of her public relations and management teams) have successfully shifted the focus back, placing it squarely on her groundbreaking, captivating portrayal of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, where it rightfully belongs.

It’s quite challenging for an actor to move from the Broadway stage to Hollywood success, yet Erivo manages this feat by taking on a legendary role previously played by numerous actresses – Elphaba. She gives Elphaba depth, poise, and empathy, turning a character recognized as the 4th greatest villain by the American Film Institute (only Hannibal Lecter, Darth Vader, and the shark from “Jaws” ranked higher) into a sympathetic protagonist. Her ability to perform powerhouse numbers like “Defying Gravity” certainly adds to her appeal.

In the company of her screen counterpart Glinda the Good Witch portrayed by Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba effortlessly makes the lengthy nearly-three-hour show seem like a swift flight on a broomstick. Moreover, she skillfully outshines fellow actors Jeff Goldblum and Peter Dinklage, an accomplishment that we initially deemed unattainable. To use a figure of speech, her performance is so captivating it seems to disregard the laws of gravity.

Daisy Edgar-Jones, Twisters

Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos

Director: Lee Isaac Chung

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 122 minutes

Where to watch: Peacock

In simpler terms, some people believe that exceptional acting involves portraying the genuine essence of human experiences in a captivating, honest, and believable manner. However, we propose that outstanding acting can also mean making viewers believe you’re fleeing from a non-existent tornado or convincing them you’re from a small-town in Oklahoma when you’re actually from London, England. Daisy Edgar-Jones, for instance, has demonstrated both skills remarkably well.

Following her captivating lead role in 2022’s “Where The Crawdads Sing,” Daisy Edgar-Jones has proven in 2024’s “Twisters” that she can also headline a major Hollywood blockbuster. The threat of tornadoes might have enticed the audience to the cinemas (not to mention Glen Powell’s remarkable screen presence), but it was Edgar-Jones’ convincing performance that made us feel as if we were truly living the experience.

In a less skilled performance, an actor might struggle amidst the special effects, causing viewers to grow restless and fidget while anticipating the next major action scene. Yet, as Dr. Kate Carter, portrayed by Edgar-Jones, maintains your interest in her character’s tale from start to finish, regardless of whether the weather is tumultuous or serene. Her acting elevates “Twisters” above a mere money-making sequel, making it one of those exceptional sequels released two decades after the original that actually enhances the franchise.

Hugh Grant, Heretic

Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East

Directors: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods

Rating: R

Runtime: 100 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

Taking on roles that contrast their usual characters can be quite daring for well-known actors, often leading to disaster. However, Hugh Grant is an exception; he convincingly pulls off the role of the sinister Mr. Reed in “Heretic.” Known as a heartthrob in the ’90s and early 2000s for his roles in romantic comedies like “Four Weddings & A Funeral,” “Notting Hill,” and “Love, Actually,” Grant demonstrates his versatility in this darker role.

In “Heretic,” he skillfully transforms his on-screen identity into the chilling and ominous character of Mr. Reed, making it hard to remember his days as a romantic leading man. Interestingly, it’s that very innocent, guileless persona he masterfully employs in portraying the psychopathic Mr. Reed, enticing two young Mormon missionaries into his house with the allure of blueberry pie, only to later shock them (and us) by ensnaring them in a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Significant praise goes to co-writers and co-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods for their clever decision. However, our greatest accolades are reserved for Grant, who transformed what could have been a typical instance of “stunt casting” into an unnervingly haunting portrayal that stays with you. The issue is, you might find it challenging to approach Grant’s romantic comedies in the same light-hearted manner after this performance.

Adrien Brody, The Brutalist

Cast: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce

Directors: Brady Corbet

Rating: R

Runtime: 205 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

In 2002, at an age barely reaching 30, Adrien Brody clinched the Academy Award for Best Actor, remarkably close to his 30th birthday, for his role in “The Pianist” directed by Roman Polanski. However, he didn’t fully leverage this promising start. He appeared in M. Night Shyamalan’s less-than-impressive film “The Village” in 2004, vied with a titular ape for Naomi Watts’ affection in Peter Jackson’s “King Kong” in 2005, fought Yautjas in the 2010 release “Predators,” and was part of Wes Anderson’s cast in three films. Yet, his career trajectory failed to match the heights suggested by his early Oscar win.

Twenty years on since making history, this actor reaffirms his status as one of his generation’s top talents in “The Brutalist.” Here, Brody portrays László Tóth, a gifted Hungarian-Jewish architect who flees postwar Europe, but finds himself oppressed by the rigid moral industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren, brilliantly played by Guy Pearce in yet another standout performance of the year.

In a running time of approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes, including a 15-minute break, the film “The Brutalist” might be considered long by some viewers. However, Brody’s outstanding, heartfelt portrayal of Tóth gives the movie depth as he vividly portrays the struggles of immigrant life. Adrien Brody was the ideal choice to lead this film, demonstrating his exceptional talent once more. We’re thrilled to see him continue excelling in his craft.

Angelina Jolie, Maria

Cast: Angelina Jolie, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alba Rohrwacher

Directors: Pablo Larraín

Rating: R

Runtime: 123 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix

On occasion, one can pay the highest praise to an actor by stating their performance surpasses the quality of the film itself. A prime example of this is Angelina Jolie in the movie “Maria,” which narrates the heart-wrenching true tale of Maria Callas, renowned as the world’s greatest opera singer, during her last years in Paris.

As a passionate gamer, I can relate this to my gaming experiences. On the surface, “Maria” appears to be just another award-bait biopic that everyone seems to buzz about during awards season, but ends up being overlooked by many – much like those high-score chasing games that look promising but turn out to be repetitive and forgettable. However, what sets “Maria” apart from the rest is Angelina Jolie’s exceptional performance, which transforms a potential weepy melodrama into an emotionally impactful and moving film experience.

It’s a welcome return to form for Jolie, who seems to get most of her press these days for either her admirable humanitarian work or her romantic relationships. Whatever flaws it has as a film, “Maria” is also a reminder that Jolie is one of the best to do it, perhaps ever. As Tomris Laffly of RogerEbert.com put it, this is Jolie’s “career-best performance,” which is reason enough to watch “Maria.”

Ralph Fiennes, Conclave

Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow

Directors: Edward Berger

Rating: R

Runtime: 120 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

Throughout most of his professional journey, Ralph Fiennes has consistently brought significant worth to the cinema industry. Regardless if he’s portraying a main character (“The Menu,” “The Grand Budapest Hotel”) or a secondary one (James Bond and Harry Potter series), or appearing in subpar movies (“Clash of the Titans”) or masterpieces like “Schindler’s List,” you can always count on Fiennes to deliver an exceptional performance. Simply put, he’s incredibly skilled at what he does.

In “Conclave,” Ralph Fiennes delivers an exceptional performance that elevates the otherwise middlebrow mystery-thriller, preventing it from becoming a stereotypical anti-Catholic portrayal of the papacy. As Cardinal Lawrence, Fiennes embodies a dedicated and noble character tasked with leading the clandestine conclave to select a new Pope following the death of a beloved religious leader. Amidst the secrecy of this ancient ritual, Cardinal Lawrence uncovers a tangled web of lies and hidden truths that could potentially bring down one of the world’s longest-lasting institutions.

If it resembles a Dan Brown novel, you’re on the right track because it was adapted from a book by Robert Harris. Fiennes’ co-stars Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow play their roles with dramatic flair, much like consuming Communion wafers without blessing. However, Fiennes sets himself apart by bringing a unique depth to the material through his sincerity and intensity, resulting in what is described as “career-defining work” by Rotten Tomatoes critics.

Colman Domingo, Sing Sing

Cast: Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Clarence Maclin

Directors: Greg Kwedar

Rating: R

Runtime: 107 minutes

Where to watch: Apple TV+

As a gamer, I’ve been spotting Colman Domingo more and more lately, thanks to his impressive supporting roles in films like “If Beale Street Could Talk,” “The Color Purple,” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” He also left quite an impact on shows like “Law & Order” and “Fear The Walking Dead.” But after knocking it out of the park with his leading role in “Sing Sing,” this versatile artist, who’s proving himself as a force to be reckoned with in acting, directing, and playwriting, might just become a name that everyone knows.

In this true-life inspired movie, Domingo portrays Divine G, a disillusioned man serving time at New York’s Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison for a crime he didn’t perpetrate. Through the Rehabilitation Through The Arts program and under the tutelage of stage director Brent Buell (Paul Raci), who is also one of the authors whose works formed the basis of this film, Divine G unearths and nurtures his love for theater as he simultaneously seeks to clear his name.

According to Wendy Ide of “The Guardian”, Colman Domingo is at the pinnacle of his impressive abilities, with her praising his performance as magnetic. We wholeheartedly concur with this assessment. Following his first Academy Award nomination in 2024 for “Rustin,” it seems inevitable that he will secure another nomination and potentially even win the award for his exceptional portrayal in “Sing Sing.

Nell Tiger Free, The First Omen

Cast: Nell Tiger Free, Maria Caballero, Nicole Sorace

Directors: Arkasha Stevenson

Rating: R

Runtime: 119 minutes

Where to watch: Hulu

In 2024, many horror films hit theaters, with Hollywood viewing this genre as a reliable and cost-effective method for attracting audiences. It’s understandable if you missed “The First Omen,” which was released in April, but it’s worth noting that this film is one of the top horror movies of 2024, largely due to its leading actress, Nell Tiger Free.

Prequels often struggle in the horror genre, as audiences typically don’t feel invested in the origins of frightening events. However, “The First Omen” stands out by unearthing chills within a decades-old film series. This is largely due to director Arkasha Stevenson’s talent for creating tension and ambiance, and actress Free’s convincing portrayal of Margaret Daino, a spiritually troubled American novitiate.

The captivating sincerity of Free, at just 24 years old during filming, is truly remarkable. Portrayals of evil often veer into camp, even with seasoned professionals. For instance, James Earl Jones in “The Exorcist II: The Heretic,” George C. Scott in “The Exorcist III: Legion,” or Sam Neill in “Omen III: The Final Conflict.” However, it’s recommended not to watch these films. Instead, consider spending your time on Free’s performance in “The First Omen,” a film that was under-appreciated during its theatrical release, earning only $50 million worldwide. You’ll not only enjoy a strong horror movie, but one of the year’s best performances.

Mikey Madison, Anora

Cast: Mikey Madison, Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov

Director: Sean Baker

Rating: R

Runtime: 149 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

You might not recognize Mikey Madison unless you’re deeply into the latest “Scream” films or watched “Better Things” during its five-season stint on FX. However, after witnessing her mesmerizing lead role in “Anora,” she’s bound to leave an impression. In this film, Madison portrays Ani, a Brooklyn sex worker who unexpectedly marries the sensitive offspring of a Russian oligarch (Mark Eydelshteyn). But just as the vows are about to be exchanged in Russian, Ani’s honeymoon is disrupted by his parents’ enforcers.

The Cinderella story about “a sex worker with a heart of gold” is a reliable way to mint a new movie star (just ask “Pretty Woman” Julia Roberts). However, it’s also super cliché. Writer-director Sean Baker managed to breathe new life into this tired setup by deploying a breathless pace centered around the perfect star in Madison, who “mixes toughness and vulnerability in a star-making performance,” according to Robin Holabird of KUNR (Reno, NV).

Madison may hail from Los Angeles, but you truly believe she comes from the mean streets of Brooklyn and would do anything she can to escape them. It’s a gutsy, passionate, bravura performance that helped “Anora” net the coveted Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. We suspect there’ll be Oscar noms in Madison’s future as well.

Guy Pearce, The Brutalist

Cast: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce

Directors: Brady Corbet

Rating: R

Runtime: 205 minutes

Where to watch: In theaters

It might surprise you (and it certainly did us) to learn that highly acclaimed Australian actor Guy Pearce has never received an Academy Award, nor has he ever been nominated – not for “L.A. Confidential,” “The Proposition,” or any other film. However, his nomination for “Memento” by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Horror Films should perhaps not be overlooked, as we value this recognition more than an Oscar. Despite Pearce appearing to be one of the most undervalued actors in contemporary cinema, his exceptional performance as Harrison Lee Van Buren in “The Brutalist” may finally earn him the accolades he deserves.

In a surprising twist, the self-made billionaire Van Buren, often disinterested in art and culture, surprisingly turns into a patron for Adrien Brody’s Hungarian immigrant architect, László Toth. However, Van Buren feigns ignorance and later unveils himself as the chilling embodiment of the American Dream gone awry – a ruthless, calculating millionaire manipulator who personifies the cold, unforgiving nature of Brutalism in architecture, aptly named “The Brutalist.

Witnessing these two massive actors engage in an intense face-off, showcasing their exceptional talents in multiple one-on-one scenes, significantly enhances the suspenseful experience of “The Brutalist,” even though the movie runs for over three hours. In this film, Brody takes center stage, but it’s Pearce’s haunting portrayal of a man who feels no remorse for the pain he inflicts on others that truly defines the dark core of the narrative.

Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Perez

Cast: Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez

Directors: Jacques Audiard

Rating: R

Runtime: 132 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix:

Zoe Saldaña is a cinematic powerhouse, raking in approximately $15.4 billion worldwide, making her a standalone franchise. She graces three of the top six highest-grossing films ever made – “Avatar” (#1), “Avengers: Endgame” (#2), “Avatar: The Way of Water” (#3), and “Avengers: Infinity War” (#6) – and also appeared in “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.” Simply amazing! With her impressive box office successes, she has the freedom to explore more daring creative ventures.

In the series titled “Emilia Perez,” Zoe Saldana portrays Rita Mora Castro, a Mexican lawyer stuck in an unpromising position. She is recruited by Emilia Perez, played by Karla Sofía Gascón, a cartel leader, to stage her own death. This role not only challenges Saldana’s acting abilities but also allows her to use her native Spanish, enhancing the authenticity of her multifaceted portrayal.

As a gamer immersed in the captivating world of “Emilia Perez”, I can confidently say that Zoe Saldaña’s performance in this game-turned-movie is undeniably among the finest of the year, regardless of whether it qualifies as lead or supporting. While “Emilia Perez” might not rival the commercial success of Zoe’s other blockbusters, it’s a role that deserves recognition and could potentially earn her an Academy Award nomination, if not even a win.

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2024-12-10 15:31