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 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 Are These Films Worth Watching?

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking 1970s talk show aesthetic. It transcends typical horror tropes, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The film masterfully illustrates how modern technology and entertainment can influence human consciousness.

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. Facing a formidable crime syndicate and internal police corruption, they're forced to operate outside the law. This action-packed entry delivers thrilling action sequences, humor, and a compelling narrative featuring fan-favorite characters. 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 world of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets. Starring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to recent real-life controversies, although no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in Monkey Man blends classic action with modern thriller elements. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story centers on "Kid," a participant in underground fights who seeks revenge after his mother's murder. The film is lauded for its blend of action and insightful sociopolitical commentary.

The Beekeeper

Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and starring Jason Statham, The Beekeeper follows a former agent who returns to his dangerous past to dismantle a cybercrime network responsible for his friend's suicide. Filmed in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, Statham performs many of the stunts himself.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan directs this thriller starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature masterful cinematography, intriguing plot, and exceptional sound design create a gripping and suspenseful atmosphere.

Juror No. 2

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, Juror No. 2 follows Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial who harbors a dark secret: he's responsible for the victim's death. Faced with a moral dilemma, he must decide whether to let an innocent person be convicted or confess his own crime. The film is praised for its compelling narrative.

The Wild Robot

An animated adaptation of Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot tells the story of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island who learns to survive and interact with the local wildlife. Visually stunning, the film explores the relationship between technology and nature, prompting reflection on humanity's definition.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends at a wedding uses a device that allows consciousness swapping, 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 film exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal. The three interwoven stories offer unique perspectives on everyday life and its inherent complexities.

Why Are These Films Worth Watching?

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They are a testament to the fact that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.