Missed Movie Gems: 2024's Celluloid Classics Revisited

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape, but some hidden gems escaped widespread attention. This curated list highlights 10 underrated films deserving of your time.

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 These Films Deserve Recognition

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking 1970s talk show aesthetic. More than just scares, it explores fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media, showcasing how entertainment can shape our consciousness. The narrative centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with grief, attempts a ratings-boosting occult-themed episode.

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. Facing a powerful criminal organization and internal police corruption, they're forced to operate outside the law. This action-comedy delivers thrilling action sequences, humor, and a compelling story, fueling speculation about a fifth film.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. Frida, a waitress, attempts to win over tech magnate Slater King, infiltrating his world and uncovering dangerous secrets on his private island. Featuring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film's plot has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, though no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in this American action thriller blends classic action with contemporary social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story follows "Kid," aka Monkey Man, an underground fighter seeking revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. Critics praised its dynamic action and sociopolitical depth.

The Beekeeper

Former secret agent Adam Clay (Jason Statham) leads a peaceful life until a friend's suicide, caused by online scammers, forces him back into his dangerous past. Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and filmed in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, The Beekeeper showcases Statham's commitment to the genre through his performance of many stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, unaware it's a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature cinematography, storytelling, and sound design create a gripping atmosphere, earning praise for its originality.

Juror No. 2

Justin Kemp (Nicholas Hoult), an ordinary man serving on a jury, faces a moral dilemma when he realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this legal thriller is lauded for its intense plot and compelling narrative.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz learns to survive and interact with the island's wildlife, exploring themes of technological advancement and nature's harmony. The film's unique animation style, blending futuristic design with natural landscapes, is a highlight.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller combines comedy, mystery, and horror, exploring identity and relationships in the digital age. A group of friends uses a consciousness-swapping device, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents a triptych of interconnected stories exploring relationships, morality, and the surreal aspects of life. The film features three distinct narratives: an office worker who takes control of his life after his boss's death; a man whose wife returns as a changed person; and a sex cult searching for a girl who can resurrect the dead.

Why Watch These Films?

These films transcend simple entertainment, offering insightful explorations of human emotion and unexpected twists. They offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes, proving that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.