A24, the beloved indie film studio, had quite the successful 2024, celebrating numerous hits and fresh releases as audiences eagerly anticipate even more captivating content this year. Kicking off the year with 'Problemista,' A24 continued to impress with films like 'Love Lies Bleeding,' 'Babygirl,' and 'The Brutalist.'
'Babygirl' features Nicole Kidman as Romy, a powerful CEO grappling with her desires as she embarks on a tumultuous affair with intern Samuel, played by Harris Dickinson. The film expertly blends themes of dominance, submission, and the struggles of balancing professional and personal life. According to Mashable's Kristy Puchko, 'Babygirl' is 'one of the sexiest, most thrilling films of the year.'
Meanwhile, 'The Brutalist,' clocking in at three and a half hours, tells the story of László Tóth, played by Adrien Brody, who navigates his life as a Jewish architect post-World War II, exploring complex themes of identity and ambition. 'The Brutalist' will be available for digital purchase or rental on February 25.
The A24 catalog does not stop there; the adaptation of William S. Burroughs's novel 'Queer' is another highlight, showcasing Daniel Craig as William Lee, entangled in the vibrant yet tumultuous world of 1950s Mexico City. 'Queer' debuted theatrically on November 27, 2024, and is available for digital rent or purchase.
Netflix also made headlines with their recent acquisition of 'Train Dreams,' shot largely in Eastern Washington. Celebrated actor Joel Edgerton stars alongside Felicity Jones, and the film is adapted from Denis Johnson's 2011 novel, chronicling the life of a day laborer traversing the Inland Northwest. The release of 'Train Dreams' demonstrates Netflix’s commitment to bolstering its library with quality content, reportedly closing the deal for several million.
Across the pond, several exciting films also hit UK cinemas this week. Mike Leigh's 'Hard Truths' stands out with Marianne Jean-Baptiste leading as Pansy, exploring familial tensions, anxiety, and grief within the backdrop of London. Critics have praised the film as Leigh's highly empathetic exploration of sisterhood.
New to UK screens, 'Companion' combines dark comedy with horror, charting the emotional turmoil experienced by Iris, played by Sophie Thatcher, as she navigates relationships complicated by AI companionship and toxic masculinity. It's described as both whimsically humorous and unsettling.
For enthusiasts of behind-the-scenes drama, Jason Reitman’s 'Saturday Night Chaos' transports viewers to the very first airing of 'Saturday Night Live' on October 11, 1975. This film captures the chaotic onset of the iconic variety show and the antics of rookie producer Lorne Michaels.
Other notable films still entertaining audiences include 'We Live in Time,' which will be streaming on Max starting February 7, featuring the romance and challenges faced by the main characters, Almut and Tobias, portrayed by Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield.
A24 continues to make its mark with films like 'I Saw the TV Glow,' deemed “one of the most overpowering and uniquely despondent works” of the indie film scene, and 'MaXXXine,' the final installment of the X trilogy starring Mia Goth. Both films are available on Max.
Additional films to look out for include 'Heretic,' featuring Hugh Grant, with no streaming date announced yet but now available for digital rental, and 'A Different Man,' which explores identity, representation, and transformation.
A24’s lineup, combined with strategic acquisitions like 'Train Dreams,' suggests 2025 promises to be another exciting year for cinema lovers. With potential Oscar contenders among this year’s offerings and trending discussions about powerful narratives, film enthusiasts have plenty to explore.