Time to return to the screen: Movies you missed in 2024

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several underrated films deserve recognition. This list highlights 10 such movies.

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 These Films Deserve Your Attention

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking 1970s talk show aesthetic. It's not just a scare-fest; it's a thoughtful exploration of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of media. The filmmakers masterfully depict 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 chapter sees them battling a dangerous criminal syndicate and uncovering corruption within the Miami police force. The film delivers the expected blend of exhilarating action, humor, and compelling character development, fueling speculation about a fifth film.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the world of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets. Featuring a strong cast including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, although no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut, Monkey Man, is an American action thriller starring Patel himself. Set in a fictional Indian city reminiscent of Mumbai, the story follows "Kid," who participates in underground fights and seeks revenge after his mother's murder. The film blends action with insightful social commentary.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in The Beekeeper, a thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (known for Equilibrium). Statham plays Adam Clay, a former agent who returns to his dangerous past to take down a cybercrime ring responsible for his friend's suicide. The film, with a $40 million budget, showcases Statham's dedication with his performance of many of the stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. The film centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, known for its cinematography, storytelling, and sound design, is on full display.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, follows Justin Kemp, a juror who realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of committing. He faces a moral dilemma: let an innocent person be convicted or confess his own guilt. The film is praised for its gripping narrative.

The Wild Robot

Based on Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot is an animated film about a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz, the robot protagonist, learns to survive and interact with the island's wildlife. The film beautifully explores the relationship between technology and nature, sparking reflection on what defines humanity. Its unique animation style is a highlight.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller, It's What's Inside, blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a device to swap consciousnesses, leading to unexpected and dangerous consequences. The film delves into themes of identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos (known for The Lobster and Poor Things) presents Kinds of Kindness, a triptych film. Three interwoven stories explore human relationships, morality, and the surreal aspects of everyday life, showcasing Lanthimos' signature style.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide insightful explorations of human nature, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They're a reminder that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.