Time to return to the screen: Movies you missed in 2024

2024 delivered a cinematic bounty! While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several under-the-radar gems deserve your attention. Here are 10 underrated films you shouldn't miss:

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 visuals inspired by 1970s talk shows. It's more than just scares; it's a thoughtful exploration of fear, group psychology, and the influence of mass media, showcasing how entertainment can manipulate human consciousness. The story centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with personal loss, 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 features the dynamic duo tackling a dangerous crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. Its success has fueled speculation about a fifth film.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a gripping psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the world of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets on his private island. The film stars Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment.

Monkey Man

Actor Dev Patel makes his directorial debut with this action thriller, starring himself as Kid, aka Monkey Man. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the film blends classic action with contemporary thriller elements and insightful social commentary. Kid's quest for revenge against corrupt leaders drives the narrative.

The Beekeeper

Former secret agent Adam Clay (Jason Statham) finds his peaceful life disrupted when a friend's suicide, caused by online scammers, forces him back into the world of espionage to dismantle the cybercrime ring. Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and boasting a $40 million budget, this action film features Statham performing many of his own stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller starring Josh Hartnett. Trap centers on a firefighter who takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a cleverly disguised operation to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, known for its masterful cinematography and sound design, is on full display.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller stars Nicholas Hoult as Justin Kemp, an ordinary juror who finds himself entangled in a moral dilemma. During a murder trial, he realizes he's responsible for the victim's death, forcing him to choose between letting an innocent person be convicted or confessing his own crime. Clint Eastwood's direction is highly praised.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The film beautifully portrays Roz's journey of adaptation, survival, and interaction with the island's wildlife. It explores themes of technology, nature, and the definition of humanity, with stunning visuals praised by critics.

It's What's Inside

Director Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends at a wedding celebration discovers a device that allows consciousness swapping, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film explores identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents a triptych of interconnected stories exploring human relationships, morality, and surrealism. The three narratives weave together to offer a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

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 are a testament to the fact that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.