Returning to the Big Screen: Missed Movie Gems of 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, boasts a unique premise and striking visual style. Inspired by 1970s talk shows, it transcends genre conventions, offering a thoughtful exploration of fear, collective psychology, and media's influence on consciousness. The narrative centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with personal loss, attempts a ratings-boosting occult-themed episode.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The fourth installment in the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as Detectives Lowrey and Burnett. This action-comedy thriller pits the dynamic duo against a formidable crime syndicate, leading them down a path of corruption and self-imposed exile from the Miami Police Department. The film's success has fueled speculation about a fifth installment.

Blink Twice

Marking Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, this psychological thriller follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the inner circle of tech mogul Slater King. Her ambition leads her to his private island, where she uncovers dangerous secrets that threaten her life. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut is a high-octane action thriller starring Patel himself. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story follows "Kid," aka Monkey Man, an underground fighter who seeks vengeance against corrupt officials after his mother's murder. The film blends thrilling action sequences with compelling social commentary.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). Adam Clay, a former agent of the clandestine organization "The Beekeepers," is forced to confront his past when a friend's suicide, caused by online scammers, compels him to dismantle the cybercrime ring responsible.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller starring Josh Hartnett. The film centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap orchestrated to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, marked by masterful cinematography and sound design, creates a gripping atmosphere.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller starring Nicholas Hoult and directed by Clint Eastwood follows Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial. As the case unfolds, Justin confronts a devastating secret from his past – a hit-and-run accident he never reported – forcing him into a moral dilemma.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, tells the story of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz's journey of survival and integration into the island's ecosystem explores themes of technological advancement, nature, and the definition of humanity. The film's unique animation style is a visual highlight.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends at a wedding encounter a device that allows consciousness swapping, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film delves into 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. Three interwoven stories examine themes of obedience, loss, and cult-like devotion.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They represent a diverse range of cinematic storytelling that often gets overshadowed by mainstream releases.