As the year winds to a close, we thought it fitting to reflect on the cinematic highlights of 2024. This period has seen a plethora of unique cinematic expressions, featuring compelling action thrillers, riveting dramas, and noteworthy sequels illuminating our screens.
It is worth noting that this year’s box office has seen a remarkable surge in the popularity of animation and horror flicks. Meanwhile, superhero genre manages to hold its ground, albeit tenuously, but nonetheless firmly in the arena.
So, what are the standout films that have graced our screens this year? Our tactic to determine this involved a light-hearted bribe of popcorn to each member of our movies and TV team, who then put forth their top ten films of the year.
Following these individual nominations, the task fell to the senior team to streamline and finalize this list. They embarked on a rigorous process, one filled with passionate debates that occasionally rose to high decibels, as they sought to assemble a list encapsulating the most compelling films of the year.
Recognizing that not all exceptional films could possibly earn recognition here, we nonetheless aimed to reflect as comprehensive a range of top-notch cinema as possible. Unfortunately, if any of these outstanding movies escaped your notice while in theaters, it’s safe to say you’ve missed out.
As we proceed, please note there are more still to come; names like ‘Mufasa’, ‘Sonic 3’, and ‘Kraven’ are just a few poised for release. With this flux, our list will certainly require revisiting as the year progresses.
Among our top 25 films of 2024, you’ll find masterpieces that span the spectrum of cinematic brilliance. These include ‘Dune: Part Two’, ‘Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle’, ‘Rebel Ridge’, ‘The Apprentice’, and ‘Kinds of Kindness’.
‘Maria’, ‘Gladiator 2’, ‘Blink Twice’, ‘Hit Man’, ‘Conclave’, and ‘Strange Darling’ are others that have left their mark. These films have found their way into the annals of cinematic history, and they deserve your time and attention if they haven’t already captured them.
Additionally, ‘I Saw the TV Glow’, ‘The First Omen’, ‘Furiosa’, ‘Twisters’, and ‘The Wild Robot’ have joined the list, bringing with them fresh perspectives and compelling narratives. These are not just films, but visual embodiments of storytelling and creativity that have been brought to life on the big screen.
Finally, ‘Woman of the Hour’, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, ‘Anora’, ‘Longlegs’, and ‘Wicked’, together with ‘The Substance’, ‘Love Lies Bleeding’, ‘Challengers’, and ‘Terrifier 3’, complete our top 25. Each flick holds its own unique charm and artistic richness that contribute to the bouquet of this year’s cinematic beauty.
Collectively, these films represent the diverse display of talent, innovation, and captivating performances that have characterized 2024’s cinematic offerings. They take us on unforgettable journeys through all the facets that make up the world of cinema — intelligent scripts, meticulous direction, stunning cinematography, emotive performances, and much more.
This collection truly captures the breadth and depth of this year’s cinematic panorama. These films offer a reflection of our times, a showcase of creativity, and a testament to the hard work and dedication needed to create such captivating works of art.
From thought-provoking dramas to mesmerizing action flicks, the cinematic magic of 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary. They may not be perennial favorites for every movie-goer, but their contributions to the world of cinema are undeniably significant.
Despite the inherent subjectivity in defining the ‘best of the cinema’, we’ve attempted to summarize a year characterized by a vibrant variety of stories, unparalleled creativity, and truly exceptional filmmaking. We celebrate these films not just for their cinematic excellence, but for the power they have to entertain, provoke thought, and inspire.