Movies have a way of telling unique stories, transforming reality, and bringing people together. From thriller comedies to teen romances, 2024 had it all. Here are 14 movies that tell the story of 2024:
14. “It Ends with Us”
“It Ends with Us” is the film based off of famous young adult author Colleen Hoover’s novel. It is directed by Justin Baldoni who plays a main character in the film, Ryle Kincaid, and features famous actress Blake Lively playing the protagonist, Lily Bloom. A love story turned abusive with a love triangle thrown in between encompasses this film’s plot. It is safe to say I am not a fan of this movie retelling as the direction and script lacked nuance and seemed too Disney channel for a movie with a deep message. Fans of Colleen Hoover agree as there was widespread disappointment in both the cast, costume, and movie after it was released this past year. However, the film still deserves a spot on this list as it is a one time watch with Hoover’s plot carrying the film, earning it number 14.
13. “The Return”
“The Return” is a drama adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey” highlighting the last few scenes of the novel with Oddyseus washing up on the infamous shores of Ithaca. This drama film is directed by Uberto Pasoli and features Ralph Fiennes as Oddyseus and Juliette Binoche who plays Penelope, his wife. While the movie is a watchable adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, it isn’t without its flaws. The story is told at a slow pace with average performances depicting the rest of Homer’s characters. However, Fiennes and Binoche carry the story forward earning “The Return” a spot at number 13.
12. “Heretic”
“Heretic” is a classic American horror story starting seemingly normal as any horror movie would. Two female missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints enter the home of Mr. Reed while his wife is making a blueberry pie in the kitchen. One creepy conversation about Mormon faith later, the girls realize there is no blueberry pie, no phone signal, and a locked front door. This is where the movie begins. “Heretic” is a must watch for fans of eerie suspense movies directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. With its thought provoking religious plot and dark mood, you might be wondering why this interesting movie is placed at 12. That’s because this film is not for everyone. It’s not your classic “Scream” or “It” horror movie as the premise of the movie is about religion; if you’re religious you may find this movie offensive and not be fully into the plot, lowering its horror appeal.
11. “The Union”
A Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry film can’t be short of amazing, while “The Union” isn’t quite there, it still earned its spot at number 11. The film features a secret organization known as “The Union” in which Berry is sent out to recruit Wahlberg for help in their next crucial mission. My previous statement that this movie isn’t amazing is in comparison to previous Wahlberg and Berry films, however, this film is still a complete family entertainer. It has spy action elements mixed with comedy and a thrilling plot with twists. It isn’t “Boogie Nights,” a Wahlberg legend or “Monster’s Ball,” a Berry classic but it’s the perfect movie to throw on when the family can’t decide what to watch on a Friday night; making it the perfect movie to take up number 11.
10. “The Substance”
“The Substance” is a captivating drama horror film written and directed by Coralie Fargeat featuring Demi Moore famous for “Charlie’s Angels.” The film’s story captures a washed out movie star longing to return to her glory days when she was young. She finds a black market substance to make her appear young again, however, with drastic side effects uncovered throughout the movie. The film is as it seems. A good plot, a good director, and a good actress. The movie is good and definitely one worth adding to your list of recommendations for friends and family, but is nowhere near a record breaking American classic. In fact, it may even be the opposite as the movie faced quite a lot of criticism for its message. Opponents claim the film is shallow as it entertains Hollywood’s obsession with female beauty standards and the fear of aging, taking a step in the opposite direction of feminism. However, with this debate aside, the movie is a good one. No complaints with the script or acting so it has to take number 10 on my list.
9. “Love Lies Bleeding”
“Love Lies Bleeding” is quite literally what the title implies: a romantic thriller film. The movie is an international film between the United States and the United Kingdom directed by Rose Glass, and features famous actors such as Kristen Stewart, Katy O’Brian, Jena Malone, and more. The movie encompasses romance, drug abuse, physical abuse, and death making you explore various different themes. What is the line between obsession and love? How far can addiction take you? Where does your fear overpower your strength? Overall, this film is captivating and thrilling showcasing Stewart’s growth from “The Vampire Diaries” to present. However, the reason this movie takes number 9 on my list and not further down is because it is not everyone’s cup of tea. Certain people can find this movie pointless, while others find it to take them on a wild ride of emotions. So, regardless of your specific preference, overall “Love Lies Bleeding” is a well made movie worthy of taking number 9.
8. “Smile 2”
This movie list is making it seem like I’m a fan of horror movies, but 2024 just knew how to make the best seat gripping films. Coming in at number 8 is “Smile 2” which not only took the movie world by storm but also social media. This film is the sequel to “Smile” released in 2022 with the same director and actors, Parken Finn and Naomi Scott respectively. There is not much to say about this movie except for that it has great gore, thrilling scenes, and an amazing performance done by Scott. However, it is a one time watch as most horror movies which is why it is not placed top 5 in this list but is still quite a film.
7. “Challengers”
This wouldn’t be a 2024 movie list without “Challengers,”which was all the rave in the teenage world, starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist. This movie is directed by Luca Guadagnino who has an interesting take on this romantic tennis movie with slow intense shots and an interesting style on how to create tension both in romance and tennis. Although this movie isn’t everybody’s first choice, the pick of actors and new directing style make this a must watch for anybody looking for a unique movie, earning its place as number 7.
6. “Inside Out 2”
A delightful break to the drama horror movies we have seen so far on this list, “Inside Out 2” is a must watch movie. A perfect sequel to “Inside Out,” it features Rylie, now a teenager, navigating new emotions, new friends, and entering highschool. Although it isn’t a classic horror movie, it still has you gripping your seat and wondering what’s next. A family classic at number 6 that is your next watch when you’re hosting Easter this year.
5. “Deadpool & Wolverine”
Disney really did it this 2024 with two films in the top 6 of the list. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is produced by Marvel Studios and directed by Shawn Levy. The plot of the movie deals with Deadpool pairing up with Wolverine to save the multiverse, like most Marvel movies are. The combination of witty humor, intense action and drama make this movie a marvel must watch and the beginning of the top 5 of this last. However, the plot follows the classic marvel plot: saving the multiverse!; with only slight nuance. Although, this plot works, and makes for good movies which is why it is top 5, but is the only thing that prevents this film from being farther up the list.
4. “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes”
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is part of “The Planet of the Apes” franchise directed by Wes Ball. At this part of the story, the movie begins with the apes becoming the dominant species after Caesar’s death and the remaining humans have become wild. I dare to say this movie is a masterpiece with amazing effects and CGI of the apes and incredible thought provoking storyline, it shows a young ape questioning his choices, past, and life that lies ahead. I binged the entire series this summer and was taken aback by this film, a must watch right below top 3.
3. “A Real Pain”
I spoke so highly of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” you must be wondering why it didn’t make the top 3. That’s because these three movies, starting with “A Real Pain” top this year’s movie list in a never before seen way. “A Real Pain” is directed by Jesse Eisenburg who stars in the film alongside Kieran Culkin. The crux of the movie is essentially two opposite Jewish American cousins who travel to Poland to honor their late grandmother. This movie is one of a kind that we see every couple of years. I say this because we learn something greater from this film rather than simply entertainment; we see how real pain manifests, we see a glimpse into a deeply relatable and nuanced film with outstanding performances, and we see true life that makes us look at our own and the relationships (broken or not) around us.
2. “Monkey Man”
“Monkey Man” is directed by Dev Patel who features as the protagonist as well geared for an insane character development in this film. The movie starts off in a small village in India with a kid inspired by his mother’s tales of Hanuman, a Hindu monkey god. After witnessing his mother’s death, the kid has vengeance on his hands which follows him to his adult life which is then explored in the movie. Patel did an amazing job directing this film as the plot is simple: revenge, but the way this film was directed is so captivating you don’t take your eyes off of the screen. This puts this movie right under the number one film this year.
1. “Dune: Part Two”
I think we all expected this movie to take number one this year. There’s nothing I can say that you don’t already know about how amazing this film truly is. The visuals, the plot, the acting, the script. I should probably tell you a little about the film as well. “Dune: Part Two” is directed by Denis Villeneuve and is the sequel to “Dune: Part One.” It features famous actors such as Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet to name a few and begins after the destruction of House Atreides where Paul Atreides teams up with the Fremen and Chani to take revenge against the group that ruined his family. “Dune: Part Two” is a blockbuster hit as it crafts a captivating story with striking special effects. There’s nothing more I can say about this film than watch it.