2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several underrated films deserve recognition. Here are ten movies that might have slipped under your radar, but are well worth your time.
Table of Contents
- Late Night with the Devil
- Bad Boys: Ride or Die
- Blink Twice
- Monkey Man
- The Beekeeper
- Trap
- Juror No. 2
- The Wild Robot
- It's What's Inside
- Kinds of Kindness
- Why You Should Watch These Films
Late Night with the Devil
This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking visuals inspired by 1970s talk shows. It transcends typical horror tropes, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The film masterfully illustrates how modern technology and entertainment can influence human consciousness.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The fourth installment in the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. This action-packed adventure sees them battling a dangerous crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. The film’s success has fueled speculation about a fifth installment.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz makes her directorial debut with this psychological thriller. The film follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the world of tech mogul Slater King, uncovering dangerous secrets along the way. Featuring a strong cast including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, Blink Twice offers a compelling narrative.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel’s directorial debut, Monkey Man, is an American action thriller set in a fictional Indian city. Patel stars as Kid, a participant in underground fights who seeks revenge after his mother's murder. The film blends action with sociopolitical commentary.
The Beekeeper
Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). Former agent Adam Clay, now a beekeeper, is drawn back into his dangerous past to dismantle a cybercrime network responsible for his friend's death.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, unaware that it's a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature style shines through in this gripping narrative.
Juror No. 2
Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, this legal thriller centers on Justin Kemp, a juror who discovers he’s responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of. The film explores the moral dilemma he faces.
The Wild Robot
Based on Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot is an animated film about Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island who learns to survive and interact with the local wildlife. The film beautifully blends animation and nature, exploring themes of technological advancement and environmental harmony.
It's What's Inside
Greg Jardin directs this sci-fi thriller, blending comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a device that allows them to swap consciousnesses, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
Kinds of Kindness
Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents this triptych film, exploring human relationships and morality through three interconnected stories. The film's surrealism offers a unique perspective on everyday life.
Why These Films Are Worth Watching
These films offer more than just entertainment; they delve into complex human emotions and unexpected plot twists. They provide refreshing perspectives on familiar themes, proving that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.