Another fantastic year for cinema has come to an end, and 2024 brought some truly creative and thought-provoking films. The year was filled with blockbuster sequels, prequels, and adaptations, such as Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part II and Jon M. Chu's Wicked: Part I. It was also notable for new ideas with films such as Luca Guadagnino's Challengers and JT Mollner's thriller Strange Darling. After the enormous box office success of 2023's Barbenheimer phenomenon, audiences eagerly anticipated their favorite new releases.
The excitement didn't stop with theatrical films; streaming platforms also delivered standout titles throughout the year. While streaming originals often face skepticism—viewed as lesser endeavors compared to big-screen outings—2024 has dismantled this notion, showcasing incredibly well-crafted films like All Quiet on the Western Front and I'm Thinking of Ending Things.
Here are some of the best streaming original movies of 2024, mixing the accessible with the critically acclaimed.
10. You’ll Never Find Me (Shudder) – A slow-burn horror film directed by Josiah Allen and Indianna Bell, unravels tension as an older man and a young woman confront their realities during a stormy night. The film’s claustrophobic setting builds suspense adeptly, leading to shocking revelations about both characters.
9. Carry-On (Netflix) – This surprise action thriller follows TSA agent Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton) embroiled in life-or-death stakes on Christmas Eve. The fast-paced narrative and strong performances promise audiences thrilling holiday entertainment.
8. My Old Ass (Prime Video) – Megan Park’s coming-of-age comedy presents young Elliot during her summer before college as she meets her older self after experimentation with mushrooms. It’s both hilarious and heartfelt, showcasing the meaning of living authentically, regardless of age.
7. Rebel Ridge (Netflix) – Jeremy Saulnier's impactful crime drama focuses on Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre), who battles police corruption to clear his cousin's name. The film’s sophisticated portrayal of action maintains tension without unnecessary violence, illustrating gripping storytelling.
6. Woman of the Hour (Netflix) – Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut tells the horrifying true story of the Dating Game serial killer, emphasizing respect for victims through restrained yet powerful storytelling techniques. Kendrick’s approach captures the unsettling essence without graphically depicting violence.
5. Oddity (Shudder) – This supernatural horror film follows clairvoyant Darcy as she unravels the truth behind her sister's murder one year after it happens. Its haunting atmosphere and expert pacing make for engaging storytelling.
4. Late Night With the Devil (Shudder) – Set during the taping of a late-night show, this film cleverly intertwines supernatural horror narratives with the stark realities of cult dangers, impressively standing out visually and thematically.
3. Hit Man (Netflix) – This new release pivots on the concept of faux hitmen and criminal collaboration. Glen Powell shines with witty characterizations, subverting expectations for comedy within action genres.
2. Exhuma (Shudder) – South Korean cinema's prowess continues with this supernatural folk horror film. The narrative not only operates within the ghost story framework but also offers commentary on historical injustices, making it poignant and impactful.
1. It’s What’s Inside (Netflix) – Greg Jardin’s electrifying debut follows friends roped back together for shared trauma, culminating in psychological twists reminiscent of films like Coherence. The unique editing and colors provide more than just visual spectacle—they transform the narrative entirely.
This year also saw considerable cinematic releases on IMAX screens. Although the format itself has been around since 1970, Hollywood has embraced it extensively over the last quarter-century, showcasing films with unique visual storytelling capabilities. Here are the best 2024 movies to experience on IMAX.
1. Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros) – Denis Villeneuve’s return to Arrakis provides viewers with sweeping visuals and exhilarating experiences. His careful conversion to the IMAX format enriches scenes, immersing audience members fully this time around. The film emphasized real-world locations blended with CGI to create epic landscapes, establishing new benchmarks for future sci-fi spectacles.
2. Furiosa (Warner Bros) – While some critics deem it not as groundbreaking as its predecessor, Mad Max: Fury Road, George Miller’s new film still dazzles on IMAX screens with practical effects. The reality of the action sequences enhances its visceral thrill, pulling viewers deeply within its post-apocalyptic narrative.
3. Inside Out 2 (Pixar) – The visual innovation associated with this film pulls audiences within the realms of Riley's psyche, leveraging the IMAX format to amplify emotionally charged experiences, blending the limitations of human emotion with imaginative animation.
4. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (20th Century) – The film provides stunning visuals as it explores its unique storyline, marking it as a worthy continuation of the beloved franchise. The narrative's scope lends itself well to IMAX’s capabilities, especially during dynamic sequences.
5. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire – Though it may not be the strongest of the MonsterVerse franchise, its action sequences and larger-than-life brawls are ideal for the IMAX experience, offering the visual spectacle audiences crave.
Overall, the cinematic offerings of 2024, whether streaming or experienced live at theaters, have reiterated the vast capabilities of film as art. Audiences can take comfort knowing their options, whether at home or within the grand halls of IMAX cinemas, remain plentiful and engaging.