Several films have already made a significant impact, earning praise for their creativity, performances, and cinematic achievements. While it is still too soon to crown a definitive. Best Movie of 2024: a handful of standout titles have emerged as early favorites, setting a high bar for the rest of the year.
1. “Dune: Part Two”
The highly anticipated sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi masterpiece, “Dune: Part Two,” has garnered widespread attention for its grand scale and breathtaking visuals. Picking up where the first movie left off, it continues the saga of Paul Atreides as he immerses himself in the Fremen’s culture on the desert planet of Arrakis. Critics have lauded the film for its immersive world-building, spectacular special effects, and compelling performances. With such high expectations following the success of the first part, “Dune: Part Two” seems poised to be a major contender for Best Picture at the upcoming awards season.
2. “The Brutalist”
A thought-provoking drama from director Scott Cooper, “The Brutalist” explores the life of a World War II veteran who returns to post-war America. The film has been recognized for its compelling narrative and deep emotional resonance, with standout performances from the cast, particularly Christian Bale. It’s a film that dives into themes of trauma, resilience, and the human experience, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year.
3. “Furiosa”
Set as a prequel to “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Furiosa” tells the origin story of the fierce character Furiosa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy. Directed by George Miller, the film promises to capture the same intensity, visual flair, and dystopian energy that made “Fury Road” a global phenomenon. Early buzz suggests that the film’s action sequences and world-building will live up to its predecessor’s legacy while expanding on the lore of the post-apocalyptic universe.
4. “Nosferatu” (2024 Remake)
Robert Eggers, known for his distinctive visual style in films like “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse,” takes on the gothic horror classic with a fresh remake of “Nosferatu.” The film reimagines the iconic vampire tale with a modern sensibility, blending psychological horror with mystical elements. Early reactions to the film highlight its eerie atmosphere, innovative cinematography, and Eggers’ ability to bring a fresh twist to a genre-defining story.
5. “One Life”
Starring Anthony Hopkins, “One Life” tells the true story of British humanitarian Nicholas Winton, who helped save hundreds of Jewish children from the Nazis before World War II. The film has been praised for its emotional depth and Hopkins’ masterful performance. It is a touching and powerful portrayal of selflessness and heroism during one of history’s darkest periods, making it a favorite for awards consideration in the drama category.
6. “Ghostlight”
A supernatural thriller that mixes psychological horror with suspense, “Ghostlight” has been making waves with its chilling narrative and atmospheric direction. Set in a haunted theater, the film delves into the lives of a group of people trapped by a malevolent force, blending supernatural horror with deeply emotional character arcs. Early reviews suggest it’s one of the more innovative horror films of the year, with a fresh approach to the genre.
7. “The Wild Robot”
Based on the popular novel by Peter Brown, “The Wild Robot” is an animated adventure film that blends heartwarming storytelling with futuristic themes. It tells the story of a robot stranded on a remote island, who begins to learn about survival, nature, and the meaning of life. Early reviews praise the film’s emotional depth, stunning animation, and its ability to appeal to both children and adults alike, making it one of the most promising family films of 2024.
These films have already established themselves as some of the most promising and critically acclaimed releases of 2024. “Dune: Part Two” stands as a likely frontrunner due to its epic scope and visual spectacle, while “The Brutalist” and “One Life” are winning hearts with their emotional depth and powerful performances. On the genre front, “Furiosa” and “Nosferatu” are anticipated to make a significant mark in action and horror, respectively. As the year progresses, more films will inevitably rise to challenge these early contenders, but for now, these are the movies leading the charge in 2024.
