The Top 10 Films of 2024

As a movie enthusiast with over three decades of film-watching under my belt, I must say that this year has been quite a treat for us cinephiles! The array of films you’ve listed here showcases an impressive blend of storytelling, acting, and technical prowess that truly highlights the power of cinema.

It’s amazing how quickly time flies; another movie year has passed us by. On the whole, it was a mix of intrigue and underwhelm for cinematic offerings. As is usual, there were some unexpected gems and quite a few films that didn’t live up to expectations. There were plenty of box office hits, equally many flops that seemed unwarranted, and a slew of indie films making the rounds during awards season. The first three quarters were lackluster, but the final quarter managed to redeem the year.

Currently, we’re in late December – the season when film critics embark on our entertaining yet somewhat frivolous tradition of selecting the top ten movies from the past year. Interestingly, there seems to be a surprising uniformity among early top ten lists and awards nominations (more so than usual). However, I am quite pleased to present a list that breaks away from the norm. Now, let’s get down to business and discuss it.

As always, let me start by showing some love to my #11-20….

#20 – “The Wait”
#19 – “Thelma”
#18 – “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”
#17 – “Late Night with the Devil”
#16 – “On the Wandering Paths”
#15 – “Alien: Romulus”
#14 – “Bonhoeffer”
#13 – “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter One”
#12 – “Gladiator II”
#11 – “Juror #2”

Now without further ado, here are my Top 10 Films of 2024.….

“Review of ‘The Bikeriders’

On September 5th, director Tim Fehlbaum has created a captivating nail-biting thriller for this year. This tense newsroom drama unfolds the gritty work of the ABC Sports team during the Munich Summer Olympics’ hostage crisis in 1972. The film “September 5” kept me hooked with its dedicated cast, authentic depiction of ABC’s studio next to the Olympic village, the heart-stopping realism of its narrative, and the compassion that runs throughout. Make sure not to miss out on this one! [REVIEW]

In my opinion as a movie reviewer, “I’m Still Here” is a gripping biographical drama that should be at the top of every Best Actress list, but unfortunately isn’t. Directed by Walter Salles, this film tells an enthralling true story set amidst Brazil’s 21-year military dictatorship. The screenplay, penned by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega, is searing and poignant, following a wife and mother on her relentless search for her missing husband while shielding her children from harm.

Justin Kurzel’s “The Order” – A Stunning Surprise of the 2024 Cinematic Year

Regardless of having only three previous films under his belt, Robert Eggers has undeniably carved out a unique niche as a visionary filmmaker, characterized by an unmissable style. His latest offering, “Nosferatu,” not only affirms this reputation but amplifies it significantly. This movie is quintessentially a Robert Eggers production, from its breathtaking visuals to its expertly managed tone. What stands out most is his respectful yet innovative approach to the 1922 horror classic by F. W. Murnau, seamlessly integrating his own dark interpretations. The ensemble cast, featuring Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Bill Skarsgård, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Willem Dafoe, Ralph Ineson, and Emma Corrin, adds immense depth to the film. [REVIEW]

In a standout performance for the year, an exceptional ensemble unites to bring yet another remarkable cinematic adaptation of August Wilson’s stage play, “The Piano Lesson.” Making his directorial debut, Malcolm Washington oversees a powerhouse cast headed by his brother, John David, alongside Danielle Deadwyler, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Potts, Ray Fisher, Corey Hawkins, Erykah Badu, and Stephan James. This 1936 Pittsburgh-set drama, with hints of the supernatural, offers a genuine, lived-in story that held me spellbound from start to finish. [REVIEW]

Francis Ford Coppola’s epic masterpiece, ‘Megalopolis’, has evoked a spectrum of reactions ranging from admiration to puzzlement to contempt. This film, clearly a labor of personal passion, was never destined for universal approval. However, ‘Megalopolis’ is an imaginative journey that allows Coppola to break free from any constraints and preconceptions. His work is as captivating as it is baffling; as intriguing as it is perplexing. It is undeniably a visionary piece intended for deep contemplation. I found myself enamored with every quirky and lavish moment of it.

In a surprising turn of events, I didn’t anticipate success with Timothée Chalamet portraying Bob Dylan. However, upon watching “A Complete Unknown”, I was enlightened about my misconceptions. Chalamet delivers one of the year’s standout performances in James Mangold’s compelling biography of the American music icon. The exceptional supporting cast, including Monica Barbaro, Boyd Holbrook, Elle Fanning, and Edward Norton, breathe life into this captivating piece of music history. Alongside Chalamet, they compose and play their own songs, skillfully recreating the 1960s New York folk scene. [REVIEW]

“Longlegs” Review: This year hasn’t seen a horror film linger in my mind as much as “Longlegs”. Penned and directed by Osgood Perkins, it’s a masterfully crafted, visually captivating, and genuinely unsettling horror-thriller. The narrative seamlessly blends psychological elements with supernatural forces, taking us on an edge-of-the-seat journey. “Longlegs” showcases some of the year’s finest cinematography, courtesy of DP Andrés Arochi Tinajero, and a standout lead performance from Maika Monroe. And let’s not forget Nicholas Cage. In a season rich with horror gems, “Longlegs” stands tall as the superior chiller.

“Review of ‘Dune: Part Two’

2024-12-27 18:56

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