2024 delivered a cinematic bounty, but beyond the blockbusters, some truly exceptional films flew under the radar. Here are ten underrated movies that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
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 See These Films
Late Night with the Devil
This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, isn't your typical scare-fest. Inspired by 1970s talk show aesthetics, it's a visually striking and conceptually unique exploration of fear, mass psychology, and the manipulative power of media, cleverly demonstrating how show business and technology can be used to influence human consciousness. The story centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with personal loss, stages an occult-themed episode in a desperate bid to boost ratings.
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 time, they confront a dangerous criminal organization and uncover corruption within the Miami police department, forcing them to operate outside the law. High-octane action, signature humor, and the enduring chemistry between the leads make this a worthy addition to the series. The film's success has even sparked whispers of a fifth installment.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a gripping psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the inner circle of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets on his private island. Starring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to recent real-life controversies, adding another layer of intrigue.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in this American action thriller blends classic action sequences with a contemporary thriller narrative, infused with potent social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (evoking Mumbai), the story follows Kid, nicknamed "Monkey Man," an underground fighter who seeks revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. Critics lauded the film's blend of action and social relevance.
The Beekeeper
Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and starring Jason Statham, The Beekeeper follows Adam Clay, a former agent of a clandestine organization, who is forced to confront his past when a friend's suicide is linked to an online scam ring. Shot in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, Statham's dedication to the role is evident in his performance of many of the stunts.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan's Trap features Josh Hartnett and showcases the director's signature style: masterful cinematography, a captivating storyline, and exceptional sound design. The film centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap set to apprehend a notorious criminal. Shyamalan delivers another unique and intense narrative.
Juror No. 2
This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, follows Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial who harbors a dark secret: he's responsible for the victim's death. Faced with a devastating moral dilemma, Justin must decide whether to let an innocent person be convicted or confess his own crime. Critics praised the film's gripping plot and Eastwood's masterful direction.
The Wild Robot
An animated adaptation of Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot tells the story of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island who learns to survive and interact with the local wildlife. The film beautifully explores the intersection of technology and nature, prompting reflection on what defines humanity. Its unique animation style, blending Roz's futuristic design with natural landscapes, is a visual 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 at a wedding uses a device that allows them to swap consciousnesses, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film explores themes of identity and relationships in the digital age.
Kinds of Kindness
Yorgos Lanthimos's (The Lobster, Poor Things) Kinds of Kindness is a triptych of interconnected stories exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal aspects of everyday life. The three narratives offer distinct yet thematically linked perspectives on human behavior.
Why These Films Matter
These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking explorations of human emotion and unexpected narrative twists. They challenge conventional storytelling and remind us that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.
