Another year has passed, bringing a diverse array of movies that have left us enamored, disenchanted, or hopeful due to their untapped potential. The most rewarding part is that there are always films that leave a lasting impact. Despite a slow start, particularly from a box office perspective, the year eventually unfolded with a wide variety of storytelling brilliance and creativity that reignited our love for movies. While 2024 may be remembered as one of the weaker years of the decade due to the films released in theaters following the aftermath of the previous year’s Hollywood strikes, there’s still that amazed feeling of walking out of the theater, elated to have experienced something extraordinary that we can’t wait to recommend to others.

Firstly, I want to thank everyone who took the time to read my reviews, even though it may seem like I didn’t write many of them. This past year wasn’t the best for me; I faced some personal challenges that affected my creativity. That being said, it’s nice to reflect on the movies that left a lasting impression on me, especially during the fall when they provided comfort. I’ve watched 90 new releases, and while I know I may have missed some streaming films, I think I only missed about three in theaters. However, reflecting on my list, I see a good balance of different genres and experiences. So, from compelling independent films to anticipated blockbusters, here are my top ten favorite movies of 2024:

Honorable Mentions: Strange Darling, Nosferatu, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, Heretic, Challengers, Inside Out 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, Wallace & Gromit: Vengence Most Fowl, The Fall Guy, Hit Man, A Different Man, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

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10. ‘The Brutalist’  

While ambition didn’t work for Francis Ford Coppola with his disastrous passion project Megalopolis, it did, however, work in favor of Brady Corbet with his sweeping three-hour drama The Brutalist. A film like this could’ve been off-putting based on the runtime alone. Still, you get an engrossing tale of Adrien Brody’s László Tóth attempting to make a better life while tasked to build a monumental building by Guy Pearce’s industrialist tycoon. The life of an immigrant striving to achieve the American dream often comes with a harsh reality check. However, this journey is a significant accomplishment, which Corbet captures beautifully through the eyes of the protagonist in a drama that could’ve come out of the ’70s for all I know. While it may not appeal to everyone, The Brutalist delivers impressive cinematography, a captivating story, and an Oscar-worthy performance from Brody. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

9. ‘Better Man’

Better Man achieved two things, along with several other movies on my list: it was tailor-made for me and surpassed my high expectations as a musical. The biographical musical about the famous U.K. singer Robbie Williams could have taken a strange turn, especially with a CGI chimpanzee portraying him. However, through a unique lens, it infuses the story with life, demonstrating that this subgenre doesn’t have to follow a conventional path to deliver what the audience desires. This film offers the right entertainment for those unfamiliar with the singer and humanizes a person longing for love within his passion. The vibrant musical sequences, set to his most iconic songs, engage the audience while depicting the cost of fame. Whether American audiences will embrace this film remains uncertain, but Better Man deserves more attention now than ever. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

8. ‘Sing Sing’

After premiering at TIFF last year, the buzz surrounding Sing Sing is well-deserved. This prison drama is so remarkable that it’s disappointing that A24 has yet to release it on VOD. Based on the real-life Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program, which allows incarcerated men to perform in plays during their sentences, the film evokes a sense of freedom within the confines of the titular prison. Director and co-writer Greg Kwedar (whom I had the pleasure of meeting and talking to this past fall) infused Sing Sing with such raw authenticity. Most of the cast portray themselves as inmates, bringing to life the experiences of those who have endured hardships within the prison system. The impact of the film stayed with me for months after viewing it. Colman Domingo delivers the strongest performance I’ve remembered all year as Divine G (my favorite performance of the year) inside a nuanced story that offers an opportunity to have the powers of the arts change somebody’s life. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

7. ‘Saturday Night’

There’s often a film that receives positive reviews but struggles to attract an audience at the box office, leaving it to be quickly forgotten. This year, that film is Jason Reitman’s underrated biopic, Saturday Night. As a fan of the long-running sketch series, I find it fascinating how the film captures and chronicles the journey leading up to its taping of the first episode from 1975. Regardless of the accuracy of its behind-the-scenes details, Saturday Night powerfully illustrates the thrilling race against time, showcasing the clash of hard work and chaos between its characters in the quest to bring a dream to life. With its hilarious and fast-paced narrative and stacked ensemble cast, highlighted by Gabriel LaBelle’s standout performance as Lorne Michaels, this delightful and nostalgic film is a must-see that should not be overlooked. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

6. ‘Wicked’

Wicked could have easily been another disappointing adaptation of a popular Broadway musical after years of development. However, thanks to Jon M. Chu, it turned out to be a major surprise and one of the best films in its genre that’ll be endlessly watchable. For those unfamiliar with the prequel to The Wizard of Oz, like me, this adaptation brings a refreshing and unexpected experience. Viewers will be captivated by the growing friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, drawing them in with a sense of excitement that prompts repeat listenings of the songs. The performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande exemplify perfect casting, and both actresses are genuinely impressed by the film’s outstanding production design, which vividly brings the world of Oz to life. Leaving on the highest of notes with the “Defying Gravity” climax that’ll have us anxious to wait to see what For Good has in store in the fall, Wicked is a much-needed film of the fall for those caught in a cloud of depression. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

5. ‘The Substance’

The decision to cave in and finally watch The Substance after strong word of mouth was worth it when Coralie Fargeat delivered the most original horror/ sci-fi satire that hasn’t left my mind since. It’s not just another body horror film but a film that provokes thought about the expectations of perfection and the realistic struggles of ageism women go through in Hollywood. The sacrifice depicted here comes at a heightened cost, as actions lead to dire consequences. These events unfolding are so twisted that I couldn’t look away. However, it’s important to note that this film isn’t easy to watch, particularly during its chaotic third act, and won’t work for others but forget them. Despite this, what Fargeat aimed to convey until the final frame is incredibly intriguing. Demi Moore’s comeback performance as Elisabeth Sparkle will be remembered for years to come, and Margaret Qualley’s outstanding portrayal of her counterpart, Sue, deserves recognition for a Best Supporting Actress nomination. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

4. ‘A Real Pain’

While his first feature film, When You’re Finished Saving the World, didn’t leave a strong impression on me, Jesse Eisenberg made a mark with his buddy dramedy A Real Pain, establishing him as an actor-turned-filmmaker to watch. Following him and co-star Kieran Culkin as estranged cousins on a journey across Poland to honor their late grandmother, this heartfelt story not only offers some of the most genuine laughs of the year but also poignantly explores how life can drive families apart, especially in the context of grief and the changing dynamics of once-close relatives. Both stars had some of the best chemistry of the year, with Culkin stealing the show as the unpredictable yet heartbreaking Benji in an Oscar-worthy performance. More importantly, A Real Pain resonated with me more than most since my grandmother died right when this came out. It’s one that probably didn’t get a lot of attention during its run, but hopefully, the buzz will gain much attention come awards season. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

3. ‘Anora’

Has writer-director-editor Sean Baker outdone himself with his best film, which earned the right to be part of the Criterion Collection? Absolutely. Anora is an original and classic mashup that combines elements of Pretty Woman with the intensity of a Safdie brothers film to create something truly remarkable. What begins as an atypical Cinderella story follows stripper Ani, who is focused on love once she meets the son of a Russian oligarch. The film unfolds into an unpredictable night on the town as she navigates the challenges of dealing with her husband’s father’s Russian goons while trying to secure an annulment. Baker infuses this story with an energy that remains vibrant throughout its 140-minute runtime, making me laugh while also revealing the character of Ani and what it truly means to be loved. Mikey Madison’s name will surely be a topic of discussion in the coming years, as her outstanding performance in the title role deserves all the accolades. While it’s uncertain if his next film will surpass Anora, it’s clear he knows what he’s doing. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

2. ‘The Wild Robot’

No other film this year moved me emotionally like The Wild Robot. While I anticipated enjoying DreamWorks’ and Chris Sanders’ adaptation of Peter Brown’s novel on a technical level, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it is one of the best animated films the studio has released in years. The animation is stunning, immersing you in a watercolor nature world reminiscent of Studio Ghibli; Kris Bowers’ score is iconic, the story full of heart and humor, and a one-of-a-kind vocal performance from none other than Lupita Nyong’o as Roz. Beneath its story of a technologically advanced robot surviving in a world filled with animals, The Wild Robot deeply resonates with parents by exploring the struggles and joys of motherhood through the relationship between Roz and her adopted son, Brightbill. It portrays the creation of a surrogate family with those around them, culminating in an emotional sci-fi tale for families that will likely be regarded as a true classic by the end of the decade. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE

1. ‘Dune: Part Two’

I can’t say I’m too surprised that no other blockbuster has come close to defeating Dune: Part Two since March. If these films were made by anyone else, it would have sparked a different conversation. However, Denis Villeneuve consistently creates large cinematic experiences that are worth experiencing repeatedly. The first Dune topped my favorites list of 2021, and this sequel elevates our journey into Frank Herbert’s world of Arrakis to new heights with its visually stunning follow-up through its nearly three-hour runtime. This film offers a richer storytelling experience while continuing to follow Paul Atreides’ quest to determine if he is this messiah (Lisan al Gaib) the Freman will follow for a chance of hope. All the intrigue set up in the first part stands out and is followed through here. Both times I saw this in IMAX, within the same week, I experienced something unmatched that made it feel great to be a continued fan of Villeneuve and the world-building he can envision.

At the same time, this offers everything one could ask for: stunning cinematography by Greig Frasier, more action (the sandworm-riding sequence is exceptional), impressive visual effects, and an unforgettable ensemble, including Timothée Chalamet as Paul, Zendaya as Chani, and Austin Butler as Fryd-Rautha. Even if I had never read the novel, I still would’ve loved these adaptations regardless. For my money, Dune: Part Two will be remembered as one of the greatest sci-fi sequels in cinematic history, rivaling all-time classics like The Empire Strikes Back and Aliens. Whenever the third installment is released, and if Villeneuve returns, it indeed has the potential to be another epic like what we have here. Full Review—> RIGHT HERE