Time to return to the screen: Movies you missed in 2024

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several exceptional films flew under the radar. This curated list highlights ten 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 These Films Deserve Recognition

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, is a stylistic masterpiece. Inspired by the aesthetic of 1970s talk shows, it transcends typical horror tropes, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The narrative 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 in the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as Detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. This action-comedy thriller finds the dynamic duo battling a formidable crime syndicate while 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 gripping psychological thriller. Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment star in this story of a waitress who infiltrates the world of a tech mogul, uncovering dangerous secrets in the process. The film's plot has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, though no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role elevates this action thriller. Set in a fictional Indian city reminiscent of Mumbai, the film follows "Kid," aka Monkey Man, an underground fighter seeking revenge against corrupt officials after his mother's murder. The film blends high-octane action with insightful social commentary.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). The story follows Adam Clay, a former agent of a clandestine organization, who is drawn back into the world of espionage after his friend's suicide, driven by online scams. Statham's commitment to the role is evident in his performance of many of the film's stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, starring Josh Hartnett. The narrative centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a cleverly orchestrated trap to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, characterized by masterful cinematography and sound design, is on full display.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, presents a compelling moral dilemma. Justin Kemp, an ordinary juror, finds himself entangled in a murder trial, realizing he is connected to the crime. The film explores the weighty consequences of his actions and the difficult choice he must make.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, is a visually stunning adaptation. The story follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island, who learns to survive and interact with the local wildlife. The film beautifully portrays the delicate balance between technology and nature.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a consciousness-swapping device, leading to unpredictable 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 of interconnected stories exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal aspects of daily life. The film weaves together three distinct narratives, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives and unexpected twists. They challenge conventional storytelling and offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes, proving that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.