Missed the Biggest Movies of 2024?

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape, but some hidden gems escaped widespread notice. Here are 10 underrated films deserving your attention, a selection that goes beyond the usual blockbuster fare.

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, boasts a unique premise and striking 1970s talk show aesthetic. More than just scares, it explores fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of media, showcasing how modern technology can shape human consciousness. The story centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with grief, attempts a risky occult-themed episode to boost ratings.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The fourth installment of the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. This action-comedy thriller sees them battling a dangerous crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. The film's success has fueled speculation about a fifth movie.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. It follows a waitress who infiltrates the world of a tech mogul, only to uncover dangerous secrets. The film stars Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, and has drawn comparisons to real-life events, though no direct connection is confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role delivers a potent blend of action and social commentary. Set in a fictional Indian city, the film follows an underground fighter seeking revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. Critics lauded its dynamic action sequences and insightful social critique.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in this action thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). A former agent of a secretive organization, Adam Clay, returns to his dangerous past to take down a cybercrime network after a friend's tragic suicide resulting from online scams. Statham performed many of the stunts himself.

Trap

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

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller, starring Nicholas Hoult and directed by Clint Eastwood, presents a compelling moral dilemma. An ordinary juror realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of, forcing him to choose between letting an innocent person be convicted or confessing his own guilt.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz, the robot, learns to survive and interact with the island's wildlife, exploring themes of technological advancement and nature's harmony. Its 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 uses a consciousness-swapping device at a wedding, leading to unpredictable 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 aspects of everyday life. The film features three distinct narratives that intertwine to create a unique and thought-provoking experience.

Why These Films Matter

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide insightful explorations of human nature and unexpected plot twists. They offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes, reminding us that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.