10 Hidden Gems From A24 You Need To See

Ever since the initial release of “A Glimpse Inside the Mind of Charles Swan III” in 2012, I’ve been part of a studio that has garnered an astounding level of popularity. Since then, we’ve been responsible for creating and distributing numerous critically acclaimed films, which are renowned for their distinctive style, voice, and dedication to presenting stories that might not find a home with mainstream studios due to their unconventional nature.

Despite the acclaim garnered by movies such as Everything Everywhere All at Once and Uncut Gems, produced by A24, it’s important to note that there are numerous other A24 films that haven’t received as much recognition. These lesser-known movies share the same bold tone and innovative visual storytelling with their more popular counterparts, creating a cinematic experience that lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.

An Absurd But Poignant Look at Relationships

Director Yorgos Lanthimos often explores unusual perspectives on human nature, connections, and relationships through his films. In the movie The Lobster, an absurd yet chilling future is envisioned where individuals who are single must find a partner or face transformation into an animal, compelled to live in the wilderness.

In the movie, a character named David finds himself in an unusual situation: if he doesn’t find a romantic partner within 45 days, he will be turned into a lobster, which is his preference. The film offers a unique blend of humor, insight, and emotional depth as it explores societal expectations surrounding marriage and the judgments passed on those who remain single. Despite receiving generally positive reviews, this A24 production isn’t as well-known as some of its counterparts among audiences.

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The movie centers around a man named David, who is given an unusual ultimatum – find a romantic partner within 45 days or risk being transformed into a lobster, his preferred form. The film combines humor, wisdom, and poignancy in its examination of societal pressure to marry and the stigma attached to those choosing not to commit. Although it has received positive reviews, this A24 production remains relatively unknown compared to other titles from the studio.

This Graphic Film Is Intentionally Horrific to Watch

It’s surprising that this movie, scoring 90% on Rotten Tomatoes and 7/10 on IMDB, hasn’t been more widely discussed as one of the top films from the last ten years. One reason for its underappreciation might be its challenging themes and heavy violence. The story centers around a punk rock band who find themselves confined to a room after witnessing a brutal crime.

As a movie critic, I must say that the film “Green Room” left me absolutely gripped from start to finish. In this gritty, edge-of-your-seat thriller, I found myself among a group of individuals pitted against a ruthless white supremacist gang. To stay alive, we had to rely on each other and outwit our formidable adversaries.

The suspense in this film is palpable, permeating every scene. The violence and gore may be intense, but they serve to amplify the movie’s messages and themes. A24 has a knack for producing horror movies that are not just terrifyingly entertaining but also thought-provoking, and “Green Room” is no exception. It masterfully employs a nightmarish situation to elicit shock and horror from its viewers.

The Film Chronicles Interpersonal and International Crisis

Stepping into the role of a film critic, let me share my thoughts on a captivating movie set in ’60s London, where the looming Cuban Missile Crisis casts an ominous shadow over daily life. This gripping tale follows Ginger and Rosa, two teenage friends whose bond is tested by the turbulent times they live in, as well as their evolving emotions towards love, life, and each other. The talented Elle Fanning and Alice Englert breathe life into these complex characters, who despite their differing values and personalities, remain deeply connected at their core.

This movie was acquired by A24 following its screenings at the Telluride Film Festival, New York Film Festival, and Toronto International Film Festival back in 2012. Remarkably, Ginger & Rosa paved the way for future A24 teen dramas like Lady Bird and Eighth Grade. The film serves as a mirror, depicting stories of adolescence, and it offers an intriguing account of how a friendship can crumble in the face of apprehension and uncertainty.

Both Warmth and Heartbreak Radiate Off of This Film

2024 was a bountiful year for cinema, boasting masterpieces such as Anora (a gripping drama), The Substance (a chilling horror), and Dune: Part Two (an exhilarating sci-fi film). Amidst this stellar lineup, the captivating tale of We Live in Time managed to fly under the radar. This intriguing narrative revolves around an extraordinary bond that ignites between Almut and Tobias following a difficult encounter. To add depth to their relationship exploration, the movie employs an innovative nonlinear storytelling approach.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but express my awe for the captivating on-screen duo of Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh. Their chemistry is so palpable it feels as if we’re peeking into their real lives, almost forgetting we’re watching a movie. The narrative weaves an emotional tapestry, where every moment, skillfully acted and artfully lit, transports us deep into the lives of these characters, making each scene feel profoundly real and resonant.

This Film Proved That A24 Could Fit Action Into Its Brand

Under the direction of Denis Villeneuve, renowned for his action and sci-fi movies, “Enemy” stands out as an early demonstration of A24’s broad film portfolio. In this movie, Jake Gyllenhaal plays dual roles, portraying both Anthony, a college professor, and the enigmatic figure named Adam who bears a striking resemblance to him.

The film delves deep into themes of control, self-discovery, and self-destruction through a series of powerful, thought-provoking scenes, culminating in a gripping finale. This surreal and reflective movie challenges viewers to contemplate their own lives sincerely and truthfully. Boasting compelling performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Mélanie Laurent, Sarah Gadon, and Isabella Rossellini, Enemy leaves audiences in awe with its captivating intensity.

A Devastatingly Beautiful Portrayal of Loss

A less conspicuous movie amidst a flurry of blockbuster hits, Tuesday delves into the heartrending theme of acceptance through loss, portrayed artistically on screen. Notably, Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers a poignant portrayal, embodying a mother struggling with her teenage daughter’s impending demise due to a terminal illness. As the story unfolds, they encounter death in an unusual form – a talking parrot.

The bond between mother and daughter forms the core of the entire movie, radiating an immense amount of love despite their challenging circumstances. Daina Oniunas-Pusić’s first directorial venture, Tuesday, captivates audiences with its introspective narrative, shedding fresh light on topics like loss, legacy, and resilience amidst tragedy. It’s a demanding viewing experience, but essential for understanding how A24 approaches the portrayal of grief.

An Unforgettable Adventure Across Los Angeles

As a cinephile, I’d put it this way: I’m drawn to the A24 adaptation of John Green’s “Paper Towns”, where Andrew Garfield takes on the role of Sam, a man with an unyielding quest to find the elusive woman who has stolen his heart. This captivating film is directed by the talented David Robert Mitchell and shares a similar atmosphere as it employs distinct cinematic techniques to create a unique world.

The movie’s peculiar charm aligns well with the A24 collection, though it may not have garnered as much acclaim as “It Follows”. Regardless, “Under the Silver Lake” deserves recognition for its ability to draw viewers into the obsessive and determined mindset of the protagonist, unwilling to abandon his mission. The film serves as a thought-provoking exploration of how one can succumb to the depths of deception and enigma, particularly when seeking an escape from a mundane and unexceptional existence.

This Film Understands the Potent Stress of Familial Reunion

In “Krisha,” we follow the character Krisha, played by Trey Edward Shults’ real-life aunt, Krisha Fairchild, as she navigates the strained dynamics in a family when she unexpectedly returns after being absent for many years. The director himself, Trey Edward Shults, acts in a fictionalized version of himself within this narrative. Filmed with a meager budget of $30,000, the movie captures an air of authenticity that resonates deeply with viewers due to its relatable portrayal of family dynamics.

As a cinephile, I find “Krisha” to be an exceptional debut for director Trey Edward Shults, who would later direct critically acclaimed films like “It Comes at Night” and “Waves.” Interestingly, he’s also slated to direct The Weeknd’s cinematic adaptation of his latest album. Given that many of Shults’s works revolve around family dynamics, the essence of his distinctive style is vividly portrayed in “Krisha,” offering a profound exploration of the isolation one can experience within their own family unit.

An Important Film About Finding Belonging in the Vast World

This film, at first glance, appears to be a heartwarming tale about a boy and his extraordinary bond with an elderly horse. However, it delves deeper into the philosophical realm, exploring the aimless feelings often experienced during adolescence and providing insights on personal growth and becoming a genuine, good person. In the narrative, a young lad named Charley embarks on a journey across the Pacific Northwest after forging a unique connection with a horse named Lean on Pete, who faces imminent slaughter.

As they venture into the unfamiliar, drawing sustenance from strangers, Charlie’s bond with Pete deepens, while his ties to his family and old acquaintances back home weaken. The story, derived from Willy Vlautin’s eponymous novel, emphasizes the vital role of empathy in overcoming despair. Charlie Plummer delivers a profound and impactful portrayal, with the indestructible bond between him and Pete evident in every scene, propelling the narrative forward.

It’s Bewildering That This Film Hasn’t Accumulated More Attention

In different A24 productions like “Low Tide” and “Eighth Grade”, Daniel Zolghadri captivates viewers with his performance as Robert, a teenager abandoning school to chase his dream of being a cartoonist. Soon, he develops an intense fascination for Wallace, a once-prominent but now struggling comic artist, leading him into questionable predicaments repeatedly.

The movie was filmed using Super 16 mm film, lending it a rough, nostalgic aesthetic that enhances its comedic impact. Director and performer Owen Kline demonstrates a knack for the bizarre, skillfully interweaving emotional intensity with humor. The film debuted alongside other A24 productions such as Aftersun and Talk to Me, although it was these latter films that received broader recognition, thus explaining why Funny Pages isn’t as well-known within the A24 catalog. Nonetheless, the movie is highly recommended for viewing and deserves recognition alongside other titles as one of A24’s finest offerings.

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2025-04-22 22:08