2024 has been nothing short of eventful for pop culture and film, providing audiences with memorable moments, viral sensations, and significant artistic achievements. From box office hits to powerful performances, this year has seen the intersection of multiple forms of entertainment taking center stage.
The film industry rolled out some impressive titles, most notable among them the blockbuster adaptation of Wicked. Featuring powerhouse performances from Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this anticipated film has garnered huge commercial success. According to CNN, Wicked raked in $580 million at the global box office and achieved the third highest-grossing opening weekend of 2024, just behind Deadpool & Wolverine and Inside Out 2. The film didn’t just perform well commercially but has also received commendations, being nominated for four Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
“Wicked, one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, arrives on your screen as a generation-defining cinematic sensation,” stated Universal Pictures' press release. Anticipation remains high as the film is set for its streaming debut on December 31, 2024, alongside bonus content like deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes features.
But 2024 wasn’t solely dominated by theatrical releases. Music also took the spotlight, with collaborations shaking up the charts. A standout moment was the highly-anticipated joint effort between Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga on the single “Die With A Smile.” Critics hailed it as pure pop perfection, seamlessly blending their unique styles. The accompanying music video has rapidly become a sensation, making waves on social media and expected to become part of wedding playlists nationwide.
Paul Mescal’s role as the lead in Gladiator II also attracted attention, putting his impressive physicality front and center. Audiences flocked to see him deliver intense performances, supported by Denzel Washington's campy villainy, as noted by one enthusiastic reviewer.
2024 has also seen the rise of viral moments, such as the surge of celebrity lookalike contests, with the Timothée Chalamet equivalent pulling the most traction. Attended by the actual Chalamet, the event has exploded, leading to other competitions for celebrities like Zayn Malik, broadening the entertainment spectacle.
This trend mirrors the whimsical, unpredictable side of the entertainment world, emphasizing how audiences are always searching for novelty and connection within celebrity culture.
Another key highlight of 2024 was the press tour for Wicked, where Erivo and Grande captivated audiences with their emotional performances and off-screen chemistry, creating viral moments during interviews. Their genuine display of emotion helped blur the lines between the characters they portrayed and their authentic selves, resulting in softer portrayals of celebrity life.
Chappell Roan has marked 2024 as her breakout year, setting new standards for what it means to navigate fame today. Known for her boundary-setting with fans, she has quickly established herself as both an artist and role model for the new generation, indicating cultural progress.
Equally compelling is how trends caught fire through platforms like TikTok. This year, Jools Lebron popularized terms like “very demure,” igniting viral trends centered on self-awareness and social consciousness. This socio-cultural phenomenon encapsulates the quirky, relatable aspect of how people are increasingly engaging with pop culture.
And let’s not forget Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo who became the internet's darling this year. Born at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Moo Deng captured hearts online, with memes and merchandise proliferated, solidifying her position as the cherished mascot of 2024.
Finally, the 2024 Summer Olympics illustrated how sports can blend with entertainment, where spectators fawned over the athleticism and aesthetics of athletes. Often, headlines focused more on the appearances of athletes than their performances, showcasing the ever-growing intersection of sport and celebrity culture. Vivid discussions about their attractiveness have gained prominence, emphasizing the thirst for both talent and personality.
Summing up, 2024 was vibrant for pop culture and film, showcasing powerful stories, unexpected collaborations, provocative narratives, and unexpected viral sensations. It pulled together diverse genres and forms, offering rich content to audiences worldwide.
What will the new year bring? Only time will tell, but based on this year’s trends, we can expect nothing less than more surprises, excitement, and perhaps even viral sensations.
