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

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

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, is a stylistic masterpiece drawing inspiration from 1970s talk shows. It transcends typical horror, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulation of mass media through modern technology and show business. The story centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with grief, 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 Detectives Lowrey and Burnett. Facing a powerful crime syndicate and internal corruption, they find themselves operating outside the law. This action-packed thriller delivers the franchise's signature blend of humor and high-octane action, fueling speculation about a fifth film.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. Frida, a waitress, infiltrates the inner circle of tech mogul Slater King, uncovering dangerous secrets on his private island. Featuring a stellar cast including Channing Tatum and Naomi Ackie, the film has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, though no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role showcase a thrilling blend of classic action and modern suspense with strong social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story follows "Monkey Man," who battles the criminal underworld after his mother's murder. Critics lauded its blend of action and sociopolitical relevance.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). Former agent Adam Clay, now a beekeeper, is forced back into his dangerous past to dismantle a cybercrime network responsible for his friend's suicide. Statham's commitment to the role is evident in his performance of many of the stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller featuring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature masterful cinematography and sound design create a gripping atmosphere.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller stars Nicholas Hoult and boasts Clint Eastwood's direction. Juror Justin Kemp faces a moral dilemma when he realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of committing. The film is praised for its gripping narrative and exploration of moral conflict.

The Wild Robot

Based on Peter Brown's novel, this animated film follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz's journey of survival and interaction with the island's wildlife explores the relationship between technology and nature. The film's unique animation style is a visual treat.

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 at a wedding, leading to chaotic and dangerous consequences. The film explores 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. The three distinct narratives weave together a darkly comedic and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films offer more than simple entertainment; they delve into complex human emotions, unexpected plot twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They're a testament to the fact that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream spotlight.