2024 turned out to be an excellent year for films, and even though it started slow, the year came through for audiences and critics. Yes, we didn’t get anything close to ‘Barbenheimer,’ but several titles gave us an enthralling time at the cinemas. From big blockbusters to small indie gems, this year saw some fantastic stories on the big screen, delivering a narrative that delivered a narrative that was both poignant and powerful. From visually stunning masterpieces to character-driven dramas exploring human relationships’ complexities, 2024 offered a diverse range of cinematic experiences that left a lasting impact.
So, let’s take a look at 25 movies that floored me this year.
25) Come Closer
Tom Nesher’s Come Closer is a standout gem. This Israel-Italian drama chronicles the journey of two young women named Eden and Maya, and how they get close to each other after they lose someone special. It explores grief in such a unique and profound way. Despite it being a debut feature for Nesher, the filmmaker crafted a narrative that feels both deeply personal and resonant. And stars Lia Elalouf and Daria Rosenn’s great acting performances elevate the viewing experience.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Come Closer’ Review: Tom Nesher’s Triumphant Debut
Interview: Interview: Tom Nesher on ‘Come Closer’ and Finding Love In Hopelessness
24) Fairy Folk
When it comes to Indian cinema, it is rare to see a movie defined as an “improv comedy.” However, with Fairy Folk, filmmaker Karan Gour made it clear that unique things can be done if you know what you are doing and have a good story to tell. The movie tells the story of Mohit (Mukul Chadda) and Ritika (Rasika Dugal), whose relationship has stagnated. But things changed when they encountered a mystical wooden being in the middle of the night. As an improv comedy, the film allows the actors to react spontaneously to the narrative. This method delivers a raw, emotionally resonant depiction of Mohit and Ritika’s challenges, with the actors’ limited knowledge of the plot’s direction adding genuine vulnerability and unpredictability to their performances.
23) Juror #2
Many questioned if Clint Eastwood still had the ability to entertain audiences with hard-hitting stories. In 2024, he just gave them a befitting reply with Juror #2. This gripping courtroom drama showcases why Eastwood is one of the legendary voices in the world of cinema and explores themes of morality, justice, and personal responsibility. Eastwood’s mind-blowing direction keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, ensuring that every sequence is confined with intensity. Nicholas Hoult delivers a career-defining performance as a conflicted juror and portrays a man’s inner turmoil torn between what is right and protecting his rights. And Toni Collette sparkles as the determined prosecutor.
22) Girls Will Be Girls
This year, female Indian filmmakers broke the shackles and gave some of the best movies of this generation. One of those movies was Shuchi Talati’s Girls Will Be Girls, an audacious coming-of-age drama that explores female desire, and the delicate complications of a mother-daughter relationship. Most importantly, the movie beautifully inspects themes that Indian films never explored in the past. Kani Kusruti is a force to be reckoned with in this film and comes forward with a memorable performance. Preeti Panigrahi doesn’t let you feel that it is her first-ever acting role (in a feature film) and brings authenticity to her Mira.
21) The Girl With The Needle
Magnus von Horn is known for hard-hitting stories, including The Here After and Sweat, but none of his projects have been as uncompromising as The Girl With The Needle. The movie, which takes inspiration from the story of the Danish serial killer named Dagmar Overybye, explores how the murderer manipulated mothers into having their unwanted children in her care. As soon as that happened, she used to kill those innocent children. The filmmaker’s storytelling is masterful, balancing tension and introspection while never losing its focus on the character’s journey. The performances by Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm are nothing short of phenomenal. Visually, it is one of the most gorgeously shot movies of the year, and not a lot of films this year, come close to it. And the distressing narrative lingers with the audience.
Read Our Full Review: ‘The Girl With the Needle’ Movie Review (Cannes)
20) Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
In 2015, George Miller captivated audiences worldwide with the groundbreaking Mad Max: Fury Road, and when it was announced that the Australian filmmaker would be expanding the universe with a film on Furiosa. Nine years later, in 2024, he made true on that promise and returned to the franchise with Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, with Anya Taylor-Joy portraying the titular character. It is one of the rare prequels that keeps the same intensity as its predecessor and delivers a thrilling journey inside the post-apocalyptic world. It explores themes like freedom, identity, and resistance against tyrannical forces. Taylor-Joy is magnificent as Furiosa and makes her journey with a raw intensity that makes the character compelling. And Chris Hemsworth elevates it all with a twisted performance as Dementus.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ Movie Review (Cannes)
19) Amar Singh Chamkila
It’s not easy to make a movie about a real person who has been one of the most influential voices of a generation. However, making a film about a controversial person is even more challenging. Imtiaz Ali’s Amar Singh Chamkila is one of the exceptional titles that boldly steps into this challenging territory and delivers an unflinching portrayal of Punjab’s iconic yet polarizing musician. The movie stands out for its fearless storytelling and captures the true essence of a man who shattered all the stereotypes to revolutionize music in India, especially Punjab. Apart from exploring fame and societal taboos, the magnetic performance by Diljit Dosanjh makes this film a study in biographical acting. He captures Amar Singh Chamkila’s vulnerability and defiance brilliantly, and the film sets the benchmark on how biographical movies should be made in India.
18) A Different Man
2024 has been a year of unusual small films taking audiences by storm, but none matches the haunting brilliance and emotional depth of A Different Man. Directed by Aaron Schimberg, the movie chronicles the journey of Edward Lemuel (played by Sebastian Stan in one of the best performances of the year), a struggling actor with neurofibromatosis. The film does a terrific job of daring to explore the fragile intersection of identity, and societal perception with both empathy and boldness. But this film is not just a profound exploration of identity, it is an enthralling ride that keeps audiences hooked with its dark humor and unpredictable twists. Adam Pearson as Oswald knocks it out of the park with a truly spectacular performance. It’s a film that doesn’t just tell a story—it holds up a mirror, asking us to consider how we see ourselves and others.
Read Our Full Review: ‘A Different Man’ Movie Review: Schimberg’s Fascinating Metatextual Black Satire
17) Hard Truths
There’s something about Mike Leigh that makes everyone excited whenever he announces his next project. Although it took him four years to release his latest feature, Hard Truths, the wait was more than worth it. Leigh delivers an extraordinary examination of the human condition. Set against the backdrop of London’s muted cityscape, the film paints an intimate portrait of Pansy (played by the brilliant Marianne Jean-Baptiste), a middle-aged woman navigating the weight of her mental health and the strain it places on her relationships. At the heart of the film lies the dynamic between Pansy and Chantelle (Michele Austin), which Leigh beautifully observes. Additionally, Leigh’s signature improvisational style brings a raw authenticity to each sequence. He’s crafted another timeless piece of cinema that is a deeply rewarding experience.
16) Hit Man
Imagine a hitman who’s more about philosophy than firing bullets, and you have hired him for an important yet deadly task. What can go wrong, right? In Hit Man, filmmaker Richard Linklater turns this premise on its head when philosophical words and witty dialogue collide with life-or-death stakes. Glen Powell is enchanting and effortless in the role, while Adria Arjona is equally brilliant. Hit Man is one of the best and most brilliantly written thrillers in recent years and is a testament to Linklater’s genius. If someone does not know his previous films, just watch Boyhood and then this film, you’ll get to see the range and vision he possesses as a storyteller.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Hit Man’ Cements Glen Powell’s Movie Star Status
15) Queer
It has been a wonderful year for Luca Guadagnino, with the filmmaker delivering two remarkable films, Challengers and Queer. While Challengers dazzled with its convoluted narrative, it was Queer that truly stands out as his most profound and captivating work. The film chronicles the journey of William Lee (played by Daniel Craig) who gets obsessed with a young man named Eugene Allerton (played by Drew Starkey) and calls him for a trip. However, things change rapidly as they start spending time together. Craig, once again in Queer, proves why he is one of the best actors of this generation.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Queer’ Movie Review (Venice)
14) Strange Darling
When it comes to the premise of Strange Darling, there’s nothing extraordinary. But JT Mollner knew how to nab the attention of viewers, so he decided to give us a film that defies the idea of orthodox storytelling. This weirdly audacious movie, which is presented in six chapters and an epilogue, takes a non-linear approach and tells the story of a serial killer trying to prey on his victim. But things take a U-turn when reality kicks in and the identity of the serial killer is revealed. Although there are a number of reasons why this film is a tour de force in storytelling, the decision to go non-linear with its narrative is truly inspiring, as it keeps viewers engaged in piecing together the fragmented story. Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner deliver powerhouse performances, bringing depth and intensity that takes the film to a whole new level. Truly, an unsettling film that breaks all the traditional rules of storytelling.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Strange Darling’ Review – A Twisted, Blood Soaked Noir
13) The Seed of Sacred Fig
This Iranian film is as riveting and resilient as its director. Mohammad Rasoulof has been a vocal critic of the Iranian Government and escaped Iran when he received an eight-year prison sentence. The movie premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival and won the Special Jury Prize. But why did the movie create such a controversy? Because it involved real images of the protests that broke out in Iran in 2022-2023. Although the film tells a fictional story, it doesn’t take much time for viewers to realize that they are seeing what’s actually happening in that part of the world. Moreover, Rasoulof does a magnificent job of blending two genres and delivering a tale that showcases how extremism instills fear in people. The performances are exceptional, especially Soheila Golestani. With The Seed of Sacred Fig, Rasoulof has once again shown that people have the power to change the world for good.
12) Sing Sing
Another small independent film that wowed everyone with its sweeping saga and masterful execution. Greg Kwedar’s Sing Sing is the perfect example of how a good narrative can be turned into something so effective that it leaves viewers flabbergasted. The film primarily focuses on a man named Divine G, who has been imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Although his prison sentence doesn’t start on a good note, he finds peace and purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other inmates. Despite the bleak backdrop, the film radiates an undeniable warmth, driven by a heart brimming with compassion and a spirit that refuses to be stifled. Its narrative finds moments of profound humanity and resilience, creating a delicate balance between sorrow and hope. Once again, Colman Domingo doesn’t leave a stone unturned to showcase why he is one of the most underrated actors of this generation. His portrayal is not only emotionally nuanced but also deeply empathetic.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Sing Sing’ Movie Review – An Excellent Drama (Edinburgh)
11) Dune: Part Two
Dennis Villeneuve returned to the franchise after a gap of three years and came up with an even grander one that deepens the epic tale of power, destiny, and betrayal. It’s not easy to make a sequel that outshines the first film in various aspects and makes viewers excited about what’s to come. For the uninitiated, the second film in the franchise sees Paul uniting with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge on the people who annihilated his family. As he does, he uncovers deeper truths about his family and the individuals he must face. That’s where Dune: Part Two works tremendously. It not only gives you what you want from it, satisfies you with the result, and leaves you eagerly anticipating the next chapter by setting the stage for even greater stakes. Timothée Chalamet shines as Paul Atreides, Zendaya is brilliant, and Austin Butler mesmerizes with his breathtaking performance as a complex and twisted villain. However, Rebecca Fergusson steals the show with her multi-layered performance. Dune: Part Two is one of the obscure films where everything is just sort of perfectly placed.
Read Our Full Review: Dune: Part Two Review: A Spellbinding Follow-Up Full of Action and Subversion
10) Nickel Boys
If you are familiar with RaMell Ross’s documentary work, you know he can tell hard-hitting stories. In 2024, Ross came forward with a hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-prize novel of the same name and told the tale rooted in the darkness of American history. The filmmaker does an extraordinary job of bringing a lyrical and observational style to the movie. His direction is both raw and poetic, capturing the suffocating environment of the reform school while juxtaposing it with moments of tenderness and humanity. The cinematography from Jomo Fray is astounding. Meanwhile, every performance in this film raises the stakes and keeps you glued to your seats. With its powerful performances, evocative visuals, and searing storytelling, Nickel Boys cements RaMell Ross as one of the most important filmmakers of our time.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Nickel Boys’ Review: An Important Piece of Cinema (LFF)
9) A Real Pain
At its core, A Real Pain is a heartwarming story about family, connection, and memory. The film chronicles the journey of two brothers – David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) – as they reconnect on a journey to Poland. Although the trip is taken to honor their late grandmother’s memory, as the story moves ahead, it becomes clear that the journey is more about them reconnecting on different levels and getting to know each other’s lives as an adult. The film isn’t just a series of travel misadventures or family spats. It’s a deeply emotional exploration of grief, identity, and the unspoken dynamics of family. Eisenberg has clearly evolved as a filmmaker and a storyteller, and it shows on the screen. Meanwhile, Culkin is a force to be reckoned with in this film. He infused the character with a chaotic energy that’s both frustrating and endearing, perfectly capturing Benji’s manic highs and vulnerable lows. Overall, A Real Pain finds its strength in quiet moments of connection.
Read Our Full Review: A Real Pain Review: Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin deliver a moving film
8) Conclave
There have been several films about the Vatican and the Pope, but none of them have been tackled in such a flashy way. In Conclave, director Edward Berger offers a gripping dive into the shadowy corridors of Vatican politics. From the very first frame, the film makes it clear that it refuses to caricature the Church. Even though it acknowledges the flaws of the institution, the movie never chooses to examine the system itself and primarily focuses on the failings of the individuals. This approach works wonderfully for the narrative, featuring a distinctively personal story filled with twists. The performance from Ralph Fiennes is magnetic and makes it clear that he can portray any given character. It’s a film that lingers—not because it shocks or sensationalizes, but because it holds up a mirror to the contradictions of human nature.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Conclave’ Review: A Riveting Vatican Thriller Destined for Year-End Accolades
7) Nosferatu
The 1922 version of Nosferatu changed the landscape of the cinema industry and is considered one of the greatest films of all time. Despite significant advancements in filmmaking since its release, F.W. Murnau’s film remains a powerful and influential work, captivating both critics and audiences alike. More than 100 years later, the 2024 reimagining of this classic by Robert Eggers, while paying homage to its predecessor, offers a contemporary perspective on the enduring themes of fear, isolation, and the seductive allure of the unknown. One of the brightest aspects of Eggers’ version is how it manufactures a terrifying atmosphere and manages to sustain it as the narrative moves ahead. All the scares are literally horrifying, and grab you by the throat, and never let you go. The magnificent performances by Lily Rose-Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Bill Skarsgard, Willem Dafoe, Emma Corrin, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson take the film to a whole new level, especially Rose-Depp. In some of the sequences, she outclasses the entire cast and puts up a phenomenal performance.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Nosferatu’ Reimagines the Female Voice – Film Review
6) The Substance
This year we saw the rise of a filmmaker whose vision enraptures the world, delivering an unforgettable movie-going experience that sparks conversations and leaves a lasting impact. Yes, we are talking about Coralie Fargeat and her brilliant creation, titled The Substance. It is a cinematic triumph that transcends traditional storytelling. The filmmaker takes a bold route in exploring themes such as identity, beauty, morality, and the human condition, prompting audiences to confront their own beliefs and challenge societal norms. Demi Moore is magnificent in her portrayal of a woman desperate to regain her popularity by taking the magical potion called The Substance. Meanwhile, Margaret Qualley is equally amazing. The Substance is not just a film; it’s an artistic statement, a thought-provoking journey that stays with you well beyond the final frame.
Read Our Full Review: ‘The Substance’ Movie Review: A Singular and Unapologetic Piece of Cinema
5) Longlegs
Sometimes movies can give you nightmares just by being unsettling and disturbing throughout its duration. Ever since NEON dropped the first look for Osgood Perkins’ psychological horror film Longlegs, we got an idea that it was going to be an unnerving ride. But when it arrived in theaters, the film shattered all the expectations. From the very first frame, Perkins lays the perfect foundation for the things to come. The chilling introduction sets the tone for the rest of the film, establishing a sense of dread that lingers throughout. Nicolas Cage steals the as the creepy-looking serial killer Longlegs. The Oscar-winning actor perfectly captures the essence of the character and delivers an intense performance that will be remembered for several years to come. On the other hand, Maika Monroe’s portrayal of Special Agent Lee Harker is nothing short of miraculous. It is a slow-burn psychological horror that is filled with a richly layered story and complex characters. Moreover, it is a profound exploration of the human psyche’s deepest corners.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Longlegs’ Movie Review: A Confident, Acid-Coated Occult Procedural
4) Jazzy
One movie that truly deserved more recognition this year was Morissa Maltz’s Jazzy. What sets Jazzy apart is Maltz’s remarkable ability to blend fiction and documentary elements, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. The film’s visual language is stunning, and the conversations between Jazzy and Syriah feel natural and resonate with viewers on a personal level. On the other hand, Maltz’s decision to present the story through a documentary-style lens adds layers of depth grounding the narrative in a cultural and geographic specificity that feels rare in contemporary cinema. This film is a poignant reminder of how humans connect on different levels.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Jazzy’ Review: Movie Captures the Raw, Unfiltered Essence of Childhood Friendship
Interview: Morrisa Maltz and ‘Jazzy’ stars on Capturing Childhood, Friendship, and Growth
3) Anora
This Sean Baker flick is truly a mind-blowing tale that peels back the layers of humanity with unflinching honesty. In Anora, the filmmaker gives an unfiltered look into the life of its titular character and takes viewers on a journey filled with a lot of laughter and emotions. Baker’s surreal direction pulls you into the world of Anora and leaves you questioning reality at every turn. Mikey Madison delivers the best, THE BEST, performance of the year and strikes a perfect balance of vulnerability and resilience. Meanwhile, Yura Borisov is equally brilliant. It is a deeply human tale, exploring themes of resilience, love, and the pursuit of individuality with Baker’s signature raw and heartfelt storytelling.
Read Our Full Review: ‘Anora’ Review: The Best American Movie So Far This Decade (Cannes)
2) The Brutalist
This movie is a reminder that having a low budget doesn’t mean that it would be low in quality as well. Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist is a phenomenal achievement in cinema and it could only be felt if you see it on the biggest screen possible. The direction of this movie operates on an ambitious and expansive level, capturing the scope of a true epic. Corbet masterfully constructs a cinematic experience that feels deeply rooted in the era (the 1940s and 50s) it seeks to depict. Every detail, from the sweeping visuals to the deliberate pacing, evokes a sense of timelessness, as though the movie itself is a product of the time it portrays rather than a modern re-creation. Adrien Brody delivers a landmark performance as a Holocaust survivor navigating his arrival in America while striving to make a name for himself. Meanwhile, Guy Pearce is equally brilliant. On the other hand, Felicity Jones is mesmerizing. Overall, the film weaves a story that feels authentic and deeply personal.
Read Our Full Review: ‘The Brutalist’ Movie Review (Venice)
1) All We Imagine As Light
2024 has been the year of new-age filmmakers telling stories that touch hearts and every corner of the human body. Among them is Payal Kapadia, who delivers a breathtaking tale of reality and illusion in All We Imagine As Light. The story focuses on three women who are trying to live their lives in Mumbai. At its core, the film is a deeply personal journey, peeling back the layers of its characters to reveal their raw vulnerabilities, unspoken desires, and quiet fears, making their struggles feel achingly real and relatable. This brilliant story is brought to life by the amazing cast. Their performances make the film a profoundly emotional and heartfelt experience. It’s rare to find an Indian film that holds its own among the greats of world cinema, but Payal Kapadia achieves just that. She beautifully captures universal emotions while staying true to her unique and deeply personal vision. All We Imagine As Light is a moving reminder of cinema’s power to delve into the complexities of the human experience with honesty and grace.
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