2024's Unscreened Films: Dive Back In

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 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 visuals inspired by 1970s talk shows. It transcends typical horror tropes, exploring themes of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The filmmakers masterfully demonstrate how modern technology and entertainment can shape human consciousness.

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-packed chapter sees them battling a formidable crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. The film delivers signature action, humor, and a compelling narrative centered on these iconic characters. The success of this installment has fueled speculation about a fifth film.

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. Featuring a strong cast including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, though 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 follows Kid, nicknamed Monkey Man, an underground fighter who seeks revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. Critics lauded the film's blend of action and sociopolitical commentary.

The Beekeeper

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

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. The story centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature filmmaking style, including masterful cinematography and sound design, creates a gripping atmosphere.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, follows Justin Kemp, a juror who realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of. Faced with a moral dilemma, he must decide whether to let an innocent person be convicted or confess his own guilt. Critics praised the film's gripping plot and Eastwood's direction.

The Wild Robot

Based on Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot is an animated film about Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The film explores themes of technological progress and nature's harmony, offering a unique animation style that blends Roz's futuristic design with stunning natural landscapes. It's a family-friendly film with critical acclaim.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller, It's What's Inside, combines comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses 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. The three interwoven stories offer unique perspectives on everyday life and its 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 often be found beyond the mainstream.