2024 delivered a cinematic bounty! While some films dominated the headlines, several gems flew under the radar. This curated list highlights 10 underrated movies 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, is a stylistic masterpiece drawing inspiration from 1970s talk shows. More than just scares, it explores fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media, showcasing how entertainment can shape our consciousness. The plot centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with grief, attempts a ratings-boosting occult-themed episode.
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-comedy thriller pits the dynamic duo against a dangerous crime syndicate, leading them into a web of corruption within the Miami police department. Their investigation forces them to operate outside the law, resulting in a thrilling ride filled with humor and high-octane action. The film's success has sparked rumors of 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 perilous secrets on his private island. Starring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to recent real-life controversies, though no direct connections have been confirmed.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel’s directorial debut and starring role, Monkey Man, is a potent blend of action and social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (evoking Mumbai), the story follows "Kid," a.k.a. Monkey Man, an underground fighter who seeks revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. Critics lauded its dynamic action sequences and powerful sociopolitical message.
The Beekeeper
Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and starring Jason Statham, The Beekeeper follows Adam Clay, a former agent of the secretive organization "The Beekeepers," whose quiet life is shattered by a friend's suicide resulting from online scams. Driven by revenge, he re-enters the world of espionage to dismantle the cybercrime ring. Filmed in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, Statham performs many of his own stunts.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan delivers another twisty thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a carefully orchestrated trap to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan’s signature style, known for its masterful cinematography, intriguing plots, and exceptional sound design, is on full display.
Juror No. 2
Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, Juror No. 2 is a gripping legal thriller. Justin Kemp, an ordinary juror, discovers he’s responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of – a hit-and-run he mistakenly believed involved a deer. He faces a devastating moral dilemma: expose himself or allow an innocent person to be convicted.
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 delicate balance between technology and nature, prompting reflection on what defines humanity. Its unique animation style 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 consciousness-swapping device, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film delves into 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 life. The three interwoven stories examine themes of obedience, loss, and cult life, showcasing Lanthimos' signature blend of dark humor and unsettling realism.
Why You Should Watch These Films
These films offer more than entertainment; they provoke thought, explore complex emotions, and present unexpected narratives. They demonstrate that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream spotlight.
