2024 was an incredible year for cinema, with a mix of bold blockbusters, gripping indies, and even a few TV shows that felt cinematic in their storytelling. While I ambitiously set out to watch all the Golden Globe-nominated films, life had other plans. That said, I still experienced a wide variety of movies that left me entertained, moved, and occasionally frustrated. Here’s a detailed look at the films I watched in 2024 and what made them stand out (or fall short).
Heretic (2024) – 9.5/10
“Blueberry pie has never smelled so good.”
This was my most anticipated film of the year, and unlike some others (looking at you, Maxxxine), Heretic exceeded every expectation. Hugh Grant delivers what may be the finest performance of his career, seamlessly blending charm and menace. A clear frontrunner for Best Actor at every major award show, his portrayal lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.
The film combines stellar acting, haunting music, and an ideology that is as fascinating as it is unnerving. Director Alaric Hayes crafts a world so richly textured that every rewatch reveals something new. The “blueberry pie scene,” in particular, has already entered the pantheon of iconic cinematic moments.
Civil War (2024) – 9.5/10
“A chillingly beautiful look at humanity in chaos.”
Forget the politics—this film isn’t about why the war starts but instead delves into the raw human experience of a fractured nation. Through the eyes of a war photographer, the story unfolds with a stark neutrality that refuses to pick sides. The cinematography is jaw-dropping, juxtaposing breathtaking landscapes with the horrors of domestic conflict.
Civil War doesn’t just depict war—it forces you to feel its destabilizing effects. You leave the theater awed by its beauty but haunted by the potential reality of such a scenario.
Long Legs (2024) – 9.5/10
“Disturbing, beautiful, and layered.”
This psychological horror thriller is a tour de force. Nicolas Cage transforms into his character so thoroughly that you’ll forget he’s even in the film—a testament to his acting genius. Directed by a rising star in horror, the film is an intricate puzzle. Rewatching it reveals subtle, spine-chilling details, like a shadowy figure of Satan hidden in almost every scene.
Produced by NEON, the studio behind Parasite and Anora, Long Legs elevates arthouse horror to new heights. It’s an unforgettable cinematic experience that demands your full attention—and multiple viewings.
A Real Pain (2024) – 8/10
“Heartfelt and bittersweet.”
Who doesn’t love a good European sightseeing tour? Like My Life in Ruins, A Real Pain pairs humor with genuine emotion. While the film doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a sincere exploration of grief and self-discovery. Its ambiguous ending feels achingly real, leaving you to ponder the protagonist’s fate long after the credits roll.
Mufasa: The Lion King (2024) – 9/10
“A prequel worth roaring about.”
Disney’s latest Lion King entry is a revelation, far surpassing the 2019 live-action remake. Serving as both a prequel and a companion piece to the original, Mufasa explores the early lives of Mufasa and Scar (then known as Taka).
What sets this film apart is its nuanced portrayal of its central characters. Mufasa and Scar are both heroes and villains in their own right, adding layers to the classic story. Despite my initial skepticism, Mufasa surprised me with its emotional depth and fresh take on a beloved universe.
The Substance (2024) – 8.5/10
“A blood-soaked, chaotic thrill ride.”
This film is pure madness in the best way. Starting as a biting social commentary with cringe-worthy humor, it escalates into a third-act bloodbath that rivals Evil Dead. It’s a wild, unapologetically over-the-top spectacle that will leave horror fans cheering—and slightly nauseous.
Gladiator 2 (2024) – 8.5/10
“Historical drama with unexpected sharks.”
Ridley Scott returns to the world of Gladiator with a sequel that had no right to be as good as it is. While the “shark scene” raised some eyebrows, the film balances creative liberties with historical intrigue. It inspired me to research its historical elements, even if some were wildly inaccurate. The film is a triumph of spectacle and storytelling, proving that sequels can be just as powerful as the originals.
Y2K (2024) – 9/10
“A love letter to ‘90s kids.”
Kyle Mooney’s absurd, laugh-out-loud comedy captures the chaos and nostalgia of the 1999-2000 transition. Produced by A24, Y2K feels fresh and original, a rarity in today’s comedy landscape. Its absurdity is perfectly balanced by heartfelt moments, making it a film I could happily rewatch again and again.
Trap (2024) – 9/10
“The Shyamalan family delivers.”
Selena Night Shyamalan’s haunting music and M. Night’s masterful direction create a thriller full of twists, tension, and unforgettable performances—especially from Josh Hartnett. It’s a complex, layered film that starts slow but crescendos into an emotional rollercoaster.
The Watchers (2024) – 8/10
“A terrifying and inventive mythology.”
Directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, daughter of the legendary M. Night Shyamalan, The Watchers brings a fresh perspective to horror. The film dives into an eerie mythology rarely explored on screen, and I was hooked from the first sight of the ominous silhouettes of “the Watchers.”
Mysterious and unsettling, this movie was one of the year’s standouts for me. The blend of suspense, inventive storytelling, and moments of raw fear made it an unforgettable experience.
Joker 2 (2024) – 9.5/10
“A mirror to society’s flaws.”
This sequel refuses to play it safe, doubling down on the psychological and societal themes of the original. While its musical elements divided audiences, I found them a brilliant representation of Arthur Fleck’s delusions. It’s less about chaos and more about the man behind the mask—an indictment of a society that glorifies violence while ignoring human suffering.
Wicked Part 1 (2024) – 10/10
“A masterpiece of adaptation.”
Adapting the Broadway sensation into a two-part film was a gamble that paid off beautifully. With its extended runtime, Wicked Part 1 delves deeper into character development and backstory. The performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are breathtaking, and the music has never sounded better. I wept—joyful, cathartic tears that only a story this powerful can evoke.
Maxxxine (2024) – 7.5/10
“The weakest of Ti West’s trilogy.”
While Maxxxine didn’t quite live up to X or Pearl, it’s a fitting conclusion to the trilogy. It’s stylish and provocative but lacks the raw emotional power of its predecessors.
Brothers (2024) – 7/10
“A one-time watch that delivers fun but not much else.”
This film had all the ingredients for greatness: Brendan Fraser, Peter Dinklage, Josh Brolin, and Glenn Close, all in comedic roles. Brothers is a wild thrill ride packed with outlandish moments and entertaining performances. While it’s fun, it doesn’t quite land the comedic or action beats strongly enough to demand a rewatch.
Not to be confused with the phenomenal Brothers (2009) starring Tobey Maguire and Jake Gyllenhaal, this is a lighter, far less emotionally intense ride.
Red One (2024) – 7/10
“The Rock cooks, can you smell it?!?!”
As expected, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson brings his trademark charm to this action-packed holiday film. While it’s not groundbreaking, Red One feels destined to become a modern Christmas classic—perfect for cozy holiday rewatches with family.
Cobra Kai S6P2 (TV Show) – 10/10
“Television perfection.”
Cobra Kai has consistently been one of the best shows on TV, and its final episodes don’t disappoint. The characters, drama, and fight choreography remain as compelling as ever, and it’s bittersweet to say goodbye. Few shows stick the landing this well.
Transformers One (2024) – 9/10
“An animated origin story that blew me away.”
I went into this movie with low expectations, but Transformers One far exceeded them. This animated film serves as a spectacular origin story for Optimus Prime and Megatron, with an impressive voice cast and even a cameo by the iconic Steve Buscemi. It’s one of my favorite films of the year, proving that animation can elevate even well-worn franchises.
Woman of the Hour (2024) – 8.5/10
“Anna Kendrick shines as both actor and director.”
Based on true events, this tense thriller kept me on edge the entire time. Anna Kendrick delivers a stellar performance while also demonstrating her directorial chops. The movie builds to a gripping climax, making it one of the more memorable films of the year.
Never Let Go (2024) – 6.8/10
“Strong acting undermined by a confusing story.”
While the performances in this film are excellent, the lack of context surrounding the entity at the heart of the story hurts the overall experience. The ending feels like it’s aiming for something epic but falls short due to the viewer’s lack of understanding. A promising concept, but it didn’t quite come together.
Anora (2024) – 8.5/10
“A haunting, emotional experience.”
While the middle section drags during the search sequence, Anora redeems itself with a raw, emotional finale. The relationship between Anora and Vanya is unresolved but intentionally so, mirroring the fleeting and imperfect nature of life’s connections.
The final scene—a quiet moment with no music, just the sound of windshield wipers—lingers long after the credits roll. It’s an uncomfortable, unforgettable ending that forces you to reflect.
The Gentleman (TV Show) – 8/10
“Chaotic and endlessly entertaining.”
This show is a masterclass in how to keep an audience engaged. One mess leads to another as the characters scramble to clean up their lives, only to dig themselves deeper into trouble. It’s absurd, hilarious, and deeply satisfying.
Survive (2024) – 2/10
“A mess.”
Switching between English and French in a way that disrupts the flow, this survival drama failed to captivate me. The plot includes unnecessary twists and feels far too rushed to explore its themes effectively. It’s a film that I won’t be revisiting anytime soon.
Alien: Romulus (2024) – 8/10
“A stunning continuation of the Alien origins.”
From Prometheus to Romulus, this prequel series has redefined the Alien franchise for me. The zero-gravity acid blood scene is an absolute showstopper, and the focus on origin stories makes these films more digestible than the originals.
Landman (TV Show) – 9/10
“Gritty drama at its finest.”
Billy Bob Thornton anchors this gripping series with a powerhouse performance. Landman is one of my favorite shows of the year, balancing intense drama with sharp storytelling.
Dear Satan (2024) – 6.5/10
“Jack Black is the highlight of this holiday oddity.”
This quirky Christmas film won’t be joining the ranks of holiday classics, but Jack Black’s presence alone makes it worth a watch.
Creature Commandos (TV Show) – 9/10
“A monster-filled delight.”
This surprise hit won me over with its mix of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments. It’s essentially a Monster Squad version of Suicide Squad, and I’m fully on board with James Gunn’s vision for the DCU.
Agatha All Along (TV Show) – 8.5/10
“A delightful Marvel mystery.”
While its place in the larger MCU is unclear, Agatha All Along is a thoroughly enjoyable show. The song “Down the Witches Road” is still stuck in my head weeks later!
Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was (2024) – 10/10
“A masterpiece of storytelling.”
Jamie Foxx blends comedy, drama, and sincerity in this deeply personal one-man show. It’s an emotional rollercoaster and one I’ll revisit time and time again.
The Crow (Remake, 2024) – 3/10
“A soulless shadow of the original.”
Despite its talented cast, this poorly written remake fails to capture the spirit of the original. A standout action sequence near the climax isn’t enough to save this misfire.
Juror #2 (2024) – 8.5/10
“Morality vs. self-interest in a tense courtroom drama.”
This film explores the question, “Could you live with yourself?” with an intense final stare-down that encapsulates its moral stakes. Thought-provoking and gripping, Juror #2 is one of the year’s best dramas.
2024 was a year of incredible highs and a few frustrating lows, but it never failed to entertain. As we look ahead to 2025, I’m eager to see what new stories and characters will capture my imagination next.
Blink Twice – 8.5/10
“A twist ending that speaks to empowerment.”
Directed by Zoe Kravitz, Blink Twice delivers one of the most impactful twist endings of the year. The film’s conclusion revolves around a woman reclaiming her power from men who have exploited their positions of authority. In the current political climate, where women’s rights are often under attack by legislators and complicit “Stepford women,” this ending feels especially justified.
The final moments are both bittersweet and cathartic, emphasizing the sweet triumph of empowerment. It’s a bold, timely statement and a memorable standout of 2024 cinema.
A Different Man – 9/10
“A subtle, slow burn with a perfectly tied bow.”
The closing line of A Different Man—“Ah, my old friend, you haven’t changed a bit”—masterfully ties the film’s themes together, leaving an emotional resonance that lingers well after the credits roll.
Though the pacing is slower than I’d prefer, it mirrors the melancholic, introspective nature of the main character. The tone and emotional depth of the film are beautifully balanced, making it one of the more quietly powerful entries of the year.
Wild Robot – 9/10
“An emotional, heartwarming surprise.”
I regret putting Wild Robot on the back burner for so long. My unfamiliarity with the source material, coupled with the lack of publicity around the film, initially kept it off my radar. Ironically, the overwhelming audience praise made me hesitate further—my Pathological Demand Avoidance kicking in.
But after hearing how many viewers were moved to tears, I finally gave in and tested my emotional fortitude. Spoiler alert: I failed. I cried at two pivotal moments, though the film offers plenty of opportunities for both happy and sad tears.
Wild Robot is an unexpected gem that had me laughing, crying, and thoroughly charmed. It’s a heartfelt, deeply emotional film that exceeded all my expectations.
Kraven: The Hunter – 8/10
Given the film’s poor box office performance and lackluster theatrical trailer, my expectations for Kraven: The Hunter were incredibly low. I walked into the theater thinking I was about to watch the worst movie of the year—especially after reading that it performed worse than Madame Web, which I can confidently say is one of the worst movies I’ve ever attempted to sit through.
To my surprise, Kraven: The Hunter delivered in ways I didn’t expect. The characters are likable, the pacing is tight, and the graphic action sequences are intense and satisfying. The overall story and villains are intriguing, well-crafted, and executed with care. The twist endings left me wanting more and elevated the experience to something far greater than I had anticipated.
Fanboy moment: This movie showcased the coolest adaptation of The Rhino yet! Sorry, Paul Giamatti—you never really got the opportunity to shine. This version of Rhino felt like this world’s equivalent to DC’s Black Mask, but with an added punch thanks to the backstory of medically controlling the Rhino transformation. The visual effects stayed true to the cartoons and comics, avoiding the mechanical suit approach used in The Amazing Spider-Man 2. It felt raw, gritty, and exactly what the character needed.
Ultimately, Kraven: The Hunter stands as my favorite Sony Spider-Verse spinoff. Even the Venom films didn’t entertain me as much as this did. Unfortunately, despite how much it leaves you craving a Kraven sequel, its poor box office performance makes that dream feel unlikely.
The 2024 Golden Globes and The Killa⚡️Watt Awards
As the award season wraps up, it’s time to share my thoughts on the best of the year. While I appreciate the Golden Globes’ picks, I’m launching my own take with the Killa⚡️Watt Awards, highlighting my personal favorites in the top four categories. Next year, I’ll aim to dive even deeper into more categories—but for now, here are the winners.
Best Male Actor in a Film: Hugh Grant (Heretic)
A surprisingly layered and commanding performance from Grant, blending his usual charm with an unexpected edge.
Runner Up Best Male Actor was Sebastian Stan for his transformative work in A Different Man.
Best Female Actor in a Film: Cynthia Erivo (Wicked)
Cynthia Erivo’s performance in Wicked wasn’t just acting—it was a movement. She brought incredible depth and humanity to Elphaba, staying true to the character’s origins while elevating her in ways that resonated with today’s audience. The film’s themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and acceptance felt especially relevant, and Cynthia’s portrayal was at the heart of that impact.
Runner Up Best Female Actor Was Mikey Madison for her work in Anora
Worst Film of the Year: Emily Perez
Not only is Emily Perez a travesty of a film with horrible acting and trash music, but it also disrespects the LGBTQIA+ and Trans communities in ways that are frankly unforgivable in my opinion.
Best Film of the Year: Wicked
Wicked was a clear standout and, to me, the only logical choice for Best Film of the Year. The film blended its breathtaking visuals, incredible performances, and socially relevant storytelling into something truly magical.
New Year, New Movies!!!
If you haven’t seen all the movies listed, now’s the perfect time to get caught up because 2025 is already off to a hot start with both film and TV. A few incredible shows you can now binge in their entirety include:
• On Call (Prime Video): A gritty, high-stakes procedural that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• The Pitt (Max): A raw, thought-provoking drama that delves into the realities of life in a crumbling industrial town.
• The Curious Case of Natalia Grace Season 3 (Max): The show everyone’s talking about—this new season uncovers even more shocking twists in the bizarre real-life mystery.
• Goosebumps: The Vanishing (Disney+): A nostalgic yet fresh take on the classic series, delivering spine-tingling scares for all ages.
As for movies, my first anticipated release of 2025 is Back in Action, which finds Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz literally “back in action” after long hiatuses from the screen. Mark your calendars—this Netflix original drops on January 17th, and I can’t wait to see what the dynamic duo brings to the table!
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