2024 delivered a cinematic bounty, but beyond the blockbusters, some truly exceptional films 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
A chilling horror film, masterfully directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, that evokes the unsettling atmosphere of 1970s late-night television. More than just jump scares, it explores the psychology of fear and the manipulative power of mass media. The film centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with personal loss, stages an occult-themed episode with unforeseen consequences.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The fourth installment of the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as they tackle a dangerous crime syndicate and internal corruption within the Miami Police Department. This action-packed thriller delivers the signature blend of humor and high-octane thrills that fans expect, fueling speculation about a potential fifth film.
Blink Twice
Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a gripping psychological thriller. The film follows a waitress who infiltrates the world of a tech mogul, only to uncover dangerous secrets that threaten her life. Featuring a stellar cast including Channing Tatum and Naomi Ackie, this film has drawn comparisons to real-life events, though unsubstantiated.
Monkey Man
Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role combines action and social commentary in this thrilling story set in a fictional Indian city. Patel plays "Kid," a fighter drawn into a battle against the criminal underworld after a personal tragedy. Critics lauded its blend of high-octane action and insightful social critique.
The Beekeeper
Jason Statham stars in this action thriller as a former agent who emerges from retirement to dismantle a cybercrime network responsible for a friend's suicide. Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and boasting a $40 million budget, this film showcases Statham's dedication with his performance of many of the stunts.
Trap
M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller with Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a carefully orchestrated trap to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, known for its masterful cinematography and unexpected twists, is on full display.
Juror No. 2
This legal thriller starring Nicholas Hoult and directed by Clint Eastwood follows an ordinary man who becomes a juror in a murder trial, only to realize he holds a devastating secret connected to the crime. The film explores the moral dilemmas faced by the juror as he wrestles with his conscience.
The Wild Robot
This animated adaptation of Peter Brown's novel tells the story of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island who learns to survive and interact with the island's wildlife. Visually stunning, the film explores the relationship between technology and nature, offering a thought-provoking message for the whole family.
It's What's Inside
A sci-fi thriller with comedic and horror elements, It's What's Inside explores the complexities of identity and relationships in the digital age. A group of friends uses a device to swap consciousnesses, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
Kinds of Kindness
Yorgos Lanthimos's triptych film explores human relationships and morality through three interconnected stories, showcasing his signature surrealist style. The film delves into themes of obedience, loss, and the bizarre nature of cult life.
Why These Films Matter
These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives and unexpected twists, challenging viewers to consider familiar themes from fresh perspectives. They are a testament to the power of independent cinema and a reminder that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.
