2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape, but some hidden gems deserve recognition beyond the mainstream buzz. This list highlights 10 underrated films 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 These Films Deserve 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 transcends typical horror tropes, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass 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. They confront a dangerous criminal organization, navigating internal police corruption and operating outside the law. The film delivers the expected blend of action, humor, and compelling character dynamics, fueling speculation about a fifth film.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, this psychological thriller follows Frida's attempts to win over tech magnate Slater King. Her infiltration of his inner circle on a private island unveils unsettling truths and jeopardizes her life. The film features a strong cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, and has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in this American action thriller seamlessly blends classic action with modern suspense and poignant social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story follows "Kid," aka Monkey Man, an underground fighter seeking revenge after his mother's murder at the hands of corrupt officials. Critics lauded its blend of action and sociopolitical relevance.
The Beekeeper
Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and directed by a yet-unnamed director. Former agent Adam Clay, now a beekeeper, is drawn back into his dangerous past to dismantle a cybercrime ring responsible for his friend's suicide. The $40 million production, filmed in the UK and US, showcases Statham's commitment with his performance of many of the stunts.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan's latest thriller, starring Josh Hartnett, showcases his signature masterful visuals, storytelling, and sound design. The narrative centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a notorious criminal. The film is praised for its originality and suspenseful atmosphere.
Juror No. 2
This legal thriller stars Nicholas Hoult and is directed by Clint Eastwood. Justin Kemp, an ordinary juror in a murder trial, grapples with a devastating secret: he's responsible for the victim's death. He faces the moral dilemma of letting an innocent person be convicted or confessing his own crime. Critics praised the film's gripping plot and Eastwood's direction.
The Wild Robot
This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz's journey of survival and interaction with the island's wildlife explores the relationship between technology and nature, prompting reflection on humanity's definition. The film's unique animation style is a highlight, blending futuristic design with natural beauty.
It's What's Inside
Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror, exploring identity and relationships in the digital age. A group of friends at a wedding encounter a device that allows consciousness swapping, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
Kinds of Kindness
Yorgos Lanthimos's triptych film explores human relationships, morality, and the surreal aspects of daily life through three interwoven stories. The narratives involve an office worker who takes control of his life after his boss's death, a man whose wife returns as a changed person, and a sex cult searching for someone to resurrect the dead.
Why These Films Matter
These films offer more than entertainment; they provide insightful explorations of human emotion and unexpected narrative twists. They offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes, proving that cinematic gems often reside beyond the mainstream spotlight.
