Pre-Covid, I loved going to the movies. Post, not so much. In fact, not only am I not munching on popcorn and watching the credits roll on the big screen, I’m not watching very many movies period. I’ve turned into a TV watcher instead–the fabulous app, TVTIME, confirms that, yes, I enjoyed lots of mysteries and thrillers in 2024. I haven’t kept track of the films (new or old) I saw, but I suspect it’s less than a couple dozen. Of those, what did I love? (And here, I’m listing films that were new to me, not beloved gems we rewatched–let me tell you, The Terminator really holds up well as does Mulan. Also recommend Diner, Mystic River, and any of The Hunger Games films.)
I adored Memoir of a Snail. I don’t usually love stop motion, but this film, oh, it stole my heart. This tiny film, about a set of twins that are separated as children, is intellectually dense, believably joyful, and startlingly moving. If you like animation, this one is superb.
We recently watched, for the first time, both Dune movies and found them quite good. Dune Two, is, to me, the better of the two simply because it tells a story in a way the first, a film designed to set up the story, does not. The cinematography, sound, and acting are all top-knotch in Dune as are its piercing allegory to our time.
Though I found Twisters a slog, I do love me some Glenn Powell. Hit Man, a wry and wily tale by indie fave Linkletter, that showcases all of Powell’s many talents, is an utter winner. This is a sexy, funny, and winning film and I loved it.
Wicked–and, yes, I’m still irked it’s a two parter AND I think Erivo and Grande are a bit old for their roles–was transportive. I’m so happy I actually WENT to the movies and saw it on the big screen. I suspect I’ll love Part Two less–the play’s plot has never matched its music–but I give Part One high marks for sheer enjoyment.
It was a rife year for rom coms and I really enjoyed Upgraded. Sure, it’s just a rom com but this one stays in its lane beautifully, has two great actresses (Lena Olin and Marisa Tomei) helping the plot along, and treated its audience as brainy. What more could you want from the genre? (Not as good, but better than I expected is Find Me Falling.)
I didn’t watch The Holdovers–a 2023 release–until this year and I loved it so it’s on my list. This, nominally, holiday film should become a classic. It’s smart, insightful, and–and this is my jam–celebrates caring for one another without mawkishness. The three leads are excellent in their roles and the setting is dead on. Just thinking about it makes me smile.
Again, I don’t know why Anna Kendrick isn’t a bigger star. She’s just so good. Here, she directs and stars and nails both roles. This is a film that knows EXACTLY what it’s like to be a woman walking to her car in a deserted parking lot after dark–you’ll find yourself clutching your keys between your fingers–or smiling prettily as you outsmart a sexist man who’s sure you’re a pushover or just not very bright. The fact that this is, mostly, a true story gives the film a stronger punch.
As I said, I’ve missed many films this year–I have a list I’ll stream when they drop! What should be on it? What were your favorite movies of 2024?