Best of 2024: Brandon Schreur’s Top 10 Movies

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Here comes the time we all eagerly anticipate! The moment when film enthusiasts like us gather to compile our personal lists of top films from the past year. It’s always a tough task, but oh, the joy it brings! Let’s delve into the exciting lineup of the best movies of 2024.

In this version, I aimed to maintain the original meaning while using more conversational language and making the text easier to read.

Without a doubt, there are films I adored that didn’t make the cut but deserve recognition all the same. Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two is nothing short of epic and awe-inspiring, Megan Park’s My Old Ass and Adam Rehmeier’s Snack Shack are delightful coming-of-age tales, Clint Eastwood’s Juror #2 harks back to an era of films that are less common today, Wicked touched my heart profoundly, and Josh Margolin’s Thelma was a joyous watch. I could continue, but we have a list to attend to.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that I didn’t get to watch all the films I intended to this year. Unfortunately, “The Brutalist” won’t be screening nearby for a few more weeks, and “Nickel Boys” and “Queer” had such limited theater releases that I ended up missing them both. I’m looking forward to catching up with these movies as soon as possible.

Having said all that, here are the ten movies that came out in 2024 that I loved the most.

10. Strange Darling

I walked into the movie “Strange Darling” with little knowledge about it. When I found out it would be told in chapters, I let out a sigh. When I discovered these chapters would be presented out of sequence, my groan grew stronger. However, I continued to watch. Despite the potential for gimmickry, Strange Darling turned out to be an unpredictable thriller that kept me on my toes, never allowing me to accurately guess what was coming next. It’s a blast, features some outstanding acting, and boasts stunning cinematography by Giovanni Ribisi. I’m eagerly awaiting director JT Mollner’s next project now.

9. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

Whenever George Miller produces a new Mad Max film, I’m guaranteed to be among the first in line at the theater on opening weekend. To put it plainly, after its release, you can bet that I won’t stop talking about Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga for quite some time. Yes, there are aspects of prequel-itis present, but let me tell you, the performance by Chris Hemsworth and the epic 10-minute chase sequence in the middle? Those elements alone ensured that this movie would make my must-watch list without a shadow of a doubt.

8. I Saw the TV Glow

What I find captivating about “I Saw the TV Glow” – and believe me, I am deeply drawn to it – is that there are a multitude of perspectives from which to experience this film. You can watch it one time, observe it in a certain manner, re-watch it, and discover an entirely new meaning each time. This movie stimulates dialogue; it’s tragic and emotionally moving, it’s enigmatic and at times unsettling, it serves as an allegory for being transgender, and it delves into societal fixation on media. There is simply so much to unpack here, and it all comes together seamlessly!

7. Challengers

In terms of the most impressive final shot, the top honors would undoubtedly be given to the film “Challengers”. Similarly, if we’re discussing the best movie scores, “Challengers” would once again take the prize. Furthermore, if we’re recognizing films that demand a theater experience, without a doubt, it’s “Challengers”. The thrill of watching it is immense, featuring powerful performances and intriguing characters. To top it all off, its third act is so captivating that you’ll find yourself on your feet, ready to cheer!

6. Conclave

The intriguing, twisty film titled Conclave is quite entertaining! Since I wasn’t particularly fond of Edward Berger’s All Quiet on the Western Front, I approached this one with a bit of apprehension. However, I was pleasantly surprised by this gripping drama that combines aspects of both profound dramas and thrilling pulp tales. Ralph Fiennes delivers an outstanding performance in this movie, and his scene with Isabella Rossellini is particularly noteworthy – truly excellent!

5. Anora

Among the films I watched in 2017, The Florida Project stood out as my absolute favorite. I’m also quite fond of Tangerine and Red Rocket. Then, along comes Sean Baker with another masterpiece titled Anora. This movie manages to strike a perfect balance between being deeply emotional and tragically sad, yet somehow still manages to be hilariously funny at the same time. Mikey Madison is generating quite a buzz for her exceptional performance in this film, and rightfully so, as it’s a rare opportunity to witness such a captivating portrayal.

4. A Real Pain

I made an effort to catch the movie titled “A Real Pain” at the cinema. Unfortunately, I encountered a flat tire on my way there, which happened to be its final day showing in my town. I eventually watched it at home instead, and indeed found it quite compelling. Jesse Eisenberg skillfully balances comedy and drama throughout the film, with Kieran Culkin delivering hilarious moments one instant, then revealing the character’s hidden sadness the next – all while Eisenberg plays a convincing straight man. I can’t wait to rewatch this movie multiple times.

3. Sing Sing

Discussing remarkable acting roles, Colman Domingo in “Sing Sing” left me utterly spellbound. His performance was a subtle, personal kind that carried immense impact even in its stillness. The entire film, in fact, shares this trait – it’s quiet yet profoundly beautiful. Moreover, it features a cast of first-time professional actors who deliver performances that are nothing short of extraordinary. As such, “Sing Sing” might just be one of the most authentic films produced in 2024.

2. Hundreds of Beavers

As a devoted fan, I’m choosing not to reveal the exact number of times I’ve watched “Hundreds of Beavers” during the past year. Let me just say it’s been more than a handful! This movie is absolutely mind-boggling. Each time I press play, I find myself laughing from start to finish. The Looney Tunes-esque atmosphere combined with video game elements creates an unusual blend, but the two detective beavers bring it all together in a way that defies logic. Honestly, if someone had told me this would work as well as it does, I wouldn’t have believed them. But they’ve managed to make it better than I ever could have imagined.

1. The Substance

Upon entering the cinema, I’d already heard lots of good things regarding “The Substance”. Yet, similar to Strange Darling, my knowledge of its storyline was limited. But let me tell you, it surpassed all expectations! It offers a perfect blend of body horror, absurdist comedy, an outstanding performance by Demi Moore that truly cements her career, and explores themes like feminism and the reality of ageism in Hollywood. One standout moment is when Demi Moore stands before a mirror – simply magical! I can’t help but admire everything Coralie Fargeat achieved here; this film feels destined to be a topic of conversation for many years ahead.

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2025-01-07 01:41