2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While some films dominated the headlines, many equally compelling movies flew under the radar. Here are ten underrated films deserving of your attention:
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 You Should Watch These Films
Late Night with the Devil
This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking visuals inspired by 1970s talk shows. It transcends the typical horror genre, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the influence of mass media. The filmmakers masterfully depict how modern technology and entertainment can manipulate 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 adventure finds the duo battling a dangerous crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. The film's success has sparked speculation about a fifth installment.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the inner circle of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in this action thriller blends classic action with contemporary social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story centers on "Kid," a.k.a. Monkey Man, who fights his way through the city's criminal underworld after his mother's murder.
The Beekeeper
Former agent Adam Clay (Jason Statham) leads a quiet life until a friend's suicide, caused by online scammers, forces him back into his dangerous past. Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and filmed in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, this action thriller showcases Statham's commitment to the genre with his own stunt work.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller starring Josh Hartnett. The story follows 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 shines through in the film's cinematography, storytelling, and sound design.
Juror No. 2
This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, centers on Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial who discovers he's responsible for the victim's death. The film explores the moral dilemma he faces and is praised for its gripping narrative.
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 integration into the island's ecosystem explores the relationship between technology and nature. The film's unique animation style is a visual highlight.
It's What's Inside
Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a device that allows consciousness swapping, leading to unexpected and dangerous consequences. The film explores themes of identity and relationships in the digital age.
Kinds of Kindness
Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents a triptych film exploring human relationships and the surreal aspects of daily life through three interwoven stories. Each segment offers a unique perspective on morality and human connection.
Why Watch These Films?
These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They are a testament to the fact that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.
