2024 has been a remarkable year for cinema, with a plethora of films that have captured audiences' attention. However, some exceptional TV series have also made their mark this year. For those interested in exploring the best TV series of 2024, click here. While blockbuster movies often dominate the conversation, several films have flown under the radar yet deserve your attention. Here’s a curated list of 10 underrated movies from 2024 that are well worth your time.
Table of Content
- 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
Late Night with the Devil
A unique horror project that stands out due to its unconventional concept and stylistic approach. Directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, the film draws inspiration from the atmosphere of 1970s talk shows, transforming it into a true work of art. The story revolves around the cult late-night show "Late Night with the Devil." As the show's ratings plummet, the host, grappling with the loss of his wife, decides to launch a special episode centered on the occult. This film is more than just a horror movie; it delves into the nature of fear, collective psychology, and the power of mass media. The directors vividly illustrate how modern technology and show business can manipulate human consciousness.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The fourth installment in the beloved franchise follows detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett as they confront a dangerous crime syndicate threatening their city. This new chapter sees them investigating corruption within the Miami police department, only to be framed and forced to operate outside the law. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence reprise their iconic roles, delivering dynamic action, humor, and a gripping storyline. The success of this installment has sparked rumors of a potential fifth film, though no official announcements have been made yet.
Blink Twice
A psychological thriller marking the directorial debut of actress Zoë Kravitz. The film follows Frida, a waitress determined to win over tech mogul and philanthropist Slater King. She infiltrates his inner circle and gains access to his private island, only to uncover harrowing truths that threaten her life. The film features a star-studded cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment. Some viewers have drawn parallels between the plot and recent controversies involving P. Diddy, though no direct references have been confirmed.
Monkey Man
An American action thriller marking actor Dev Patel’s directorial debut. Patel also stars as the protagonist in this film, which blends classic action elements with modern thrillers to deliver a dynamic plot with deep social undertones. Set in the fictional city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story follows Kid, nicknamed Monkey Man, who participates in underground fights. After his mother is brutally killed by corrupt leaders, his mission becomes clear: to dismantle India’s criminal underworld. Critics have praised the film as a bold work, offering both action-packed sequences and meaningful sociopolitical commentary.
The Beekeeper
Adam Clay, a former agent of the secretive organization The Beekeepers, leads a quiet life raising bees until his close friend Eloiza falls victim to online scammers, losing all her savings and ultimately taking her own life. Compelled to return to his dark past, Adam sets out to dismantle the cybercrime network responsible for the tragedy. The film, written by Kurt Wimmer and shot in both the UK and the US on a $40 million budget, stars Jason Statham, who performs most of the stunts himself, showcasing his dedication to the genre.
Trap
A thriller by director M. Night Shyamalan, known for The Sixth Sense. Shyamalan's mastery in cinematography, intriguing storylines, and outstanding sound design shines through in this film. The lead role is played by Josh Hartnett. The story follows Cooper, a firefighter, who takes his 12-year-old daughter to a concert by her favorite performer, Lady Raven. At the event, he notices a heavy presence of law enforcement and special forces, revealing that the concert is a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal known as "The Butcher." Viewers have praised Shyamalan for delivering an original story with an intense atmosphere.
Juror No. 2
An ordinary family man, Justin Kemp, becomes a juror in a murder trial where the defendant is accused of killing his girlfriend. As the plot unfolds, Justin realizes he is the one responsible for the incident, having hit someone with his car but thought it was a deer and drove away. Faced with a moral dilemma, Justin must decide whether to allow an innocent person to be convicted or confess to his crime. This legal thriller stars Nicholas Hoult and has been highly praised by critics for its gripping plot and Clint Eastwood's masterful direction.
The Wild Robot
The first animated film on our list, based on the novel by Peter Brown, follows Roz, a programmed robot stranded on a deserted island. Alone, Roz must adapt to the wild, learning to survive and communicate with the local animals. Initially feared by the wildlife, Roz eventually becomes part of the ecosystem. The film explores the harmony between technological progress and nature, challenging viewers to reflect on what truly defines humanity. Critics have highly praised the movie for its family-friendly appeal and its unique approach to animation, blending Roz's futuristic design with natural landscapes to create frames that resemble living paintings.
It's What's Inside
A sci-fi thriller by director Greg Jardin, combining elements of comedy, mystery, and horror. The film delves into themes of identity and human relationships in the digital age. A group of young friends gathers at a country house to celebrate a wedding, joined by an unexpected guest with a strange suitcase containing a device that allows people to swap consciousnesses. Initially used for fun, the device soon leads to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
Kinds of Kindness
A triptych film by Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, known for The Lobster and Poor Things. This film unites three independent stories, exploring human relationships, morality, and the surrealism of everyday life. The first story follows Robert, an office worker who has spent years obeying his boss's every command, only to take control of his own life after his boss's death. The second story is about a man who lost his wife under mysterious circumstances, only for her to return as an entirely different person. The third story focuses on members of a cult devoted to sex and inner purity, searching for a girl capable of resurrecting the dead at their guru's command.
Why Are These Films Worth Watching?
These films go beyond mere entertainment, offering profound insights into human emotions and unexpected plot twists. They provide fresh perspectives on familiar themes, reminding us that true cinematic gems often lie outside the mainstream. Each film on this list is a testament to the creativity and innovation that can be found in the world of cinema, making them essential viewing for any film enthusiast.
