Best of 2024: Jonathan Sim’s Top 10 Movies of the Year

As the year draws to a close, we’re wrapping up another fantastic cinematic chapter. Ranging from profound character explorations to pulse-pounding genre masterpieces, this year’s top films have captivated our minds, fueled discussions, and rekindled our love for the movie theater experience. Here are ComingSoon critic Jonathan Sim’s list of the top 10 movies from 2024 that left an indelible mark on film enthusiasts everywhere.

10. Day of the Fight

Jack Huston’s first directorial effort delivers a powerful emotional impact. The movie, titled “Day of the Fight,” is skillfully made with an independent vibe that harks back to timeless character-focused films such as Rocky and Raging Bull. I had the privilege of watching it at a screening where Martin Scorsese introduced both the film and its cast, and it truly stands out as remarkable.

This movie, rich in emotional depth, unfolds within a single day. Michael Pitt portrays a boxer preparing for the fight of his life, following an incident years ago that landed him in prison. The performances are heartfelt and moving, with Steve Buscemi, Ron Perlman, and Joe Pesci contributing to an exceptional supporting cast. “Day of the Fight” serves as a heartfelt tribute to a vanished era of cinematography, taking us through a man’s journey and his connections with everyone he cherishes, providing a glimpse into his past relationships.

9. Her Story (好东西)

This film, known as “Her Story,” is often compared to Barbie from the West, both being productions that explore modern feminist ideas in a marketable manner within their respective cultures. The creative mind behind this production, Shao Yihui, skillfully crafts a heartwarming and humorous movie experience. The dialogue is sharp and insightful as she weaves together a comedic yet poignant story. The plot follows multiple narratives but primarily focuses on the dynamic relationship between a single mother and a younger woman, both grappling with life’s unexpected twists and turns.

One of my favorite movie scenes from this year features a clever series of sounds that capture the essence of motherhood, and I find it particularly touching.

8. Ghostlight

The indie drama “From Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson,” skillfully immerses viewers in its world through compelling characters. Initially, these characters may seem unconventional and hard to like due to their erratic emotional behavior. However, as the story unfolds, we gradually understand their actions, traced back to a heart-wrenching family tragedy that has left deep scars. I found myself captivated by every revelation.

This movie tells an emotional story about art’s healing power, as a father pours his sorrow into a community theater performance of Romeo & Juliet. It wasn’t until after watching that I discovered the family portrayed in the film are real-life actors – quite fitting considering their convincing performances. Keith Kupferer, who may ring a bell as the man shouting “He should turn himself in!” in The Dark Knight, gives an outstanding performance, particularly in scenes where his character struggles to act and eventually learns to do so over time.

7. September 5

A gripping examination of journalistic morals, September 5 delivers as a riveting thriller. The story unfolds within the confines of a shadowy broadcasting station, providing a unique vantage point on a disturbing incident in the past. It recounts the Munich massacre during the 1972 Olympics, but instead of offering an impartial view, it shows the events through the lens of the ABC Sports Team who were suddenly faced with the challenge of shifting from reporting live sports to reporting a real-time terrorist attack.

Movie director Tim Fehlbaum and his crew meticulously conducted comprehensive research to ensure the film’s portrayal was as authentic as possible, skillfully blending scripted sequences with historical footage. The movie leaves a profound impact, causing viewers to feel tense as they anxiously await each unfolding event.

6. The Wild Robot

As a passionate gamer, let me tell you about one of the standout films this year – “The Wild Robot”. This movie is essentially a heartfelt ode to parenthood, presented in the captivating realm of sci-fi animation. The brilliant Chris Sanders, the mastermind behind it, has once again crafted an enchanting, beautifully animated film that frequently resembles a vibrant painting from a child’s storybook. From start to finish, it’s nothing short of breathtaking. In this tale, Lupita Nyong’o brings ROZ, a robot, to life – a character who takes in a gosling and plays a pivotal role in bringing together an entire community of animals.

Similar to several movies on this compilation, this film is an emotionally compelling production that skillfully strikes chords across various emotional spectra, effectively eliciting both laughter and poignancy from its well-crafted characters.

5. Young Woman and the Sea

In the movie “Young Woman and the Sea”, Daisy Ridley delivers a captivating performance, portraying a dedicated swimmer striving to conquer the English Channel. This inspiring narrative depicts resilience in the face of challenges and the struggle for recognition in an era when female athletes were often overlooked.

In a remarkable display of talent, Ridley – known for her role in the acclaimed Magpie and Star Wars – demonstrates she’s more than just a household name, captivating viewers with a character that evokes affection and concern in an inspiring sports drama. This performance has the potential to strike a chord in everyone. Director Joachim Rønning exceeds expectations in this production.

4. Anora

In simpler terms, Sean Baker’s latest film, which seems to be his most widely-appealing work to date, might just be his best. It’s an exuberant movie featuring a standout performance by Mikey Madison, one that could catapult her into stardom. The story revolves around the turbulent romance between Ani, a sex worker, and Vanya, a wealthy individual, which takes an unexpected twist when his family attempts to nullify their marriage.

This movie is incredibly lively, humorous, and wild. The actors give their all, making each scene feel authentic, even during the most extraordinary events. However, it becomes more subdued towards the end, providing a conclusion that doesn’t entirely linger with you.

3. Juror #2

1990s blockbuster material, “Juror #2” would have been if it had been released back then. The film, directed by Clint Eastwood, a 94-year-old industry legend, skillfully blends the taut tension of “12 Angry Men” and the courtroom intensity of “A Few Good Men.” With a plot where a juror discovers he’s unwittingly involved in a murder trial, it’s a premise that should have packed stadiums.

Jonathan Abrams’s captivating screenplay keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering what unfolds next. Nicholas Hoult delivers another outstanding performance this year, masterfully portraying a man torn between protecting his family and not condemning an innocent person for his own transgression. Engrossing and powerfully enacted, this movie is now available on Max for those seeking a classic courtroom drama experience.

2. White Bird

In 2017, Lionsgate released the movie Wonder, which was made with a budget of $20 million and grossed an impressive $315 million at the box office. This massive hit, featuring Jacob Tremblay as a young boy with a unique facial condition, inspired a sequel/prequel this year. However, when I mention this exceptional film (which I genuinely enjoyed more than Wonder) to others, they often seem unfamiliar with it.

The movie “White Bird: A Wonder Story” has earned just $8.5 million, which is significantly less than 3% of its predecessor’s earnings, a disappointing fact. In this sequel, the antagonist Julian (Bryce Gheisar) listens to a tale from his grandmother, portrayed by Helen Mirren, about her experiences as a young Jewish girl avoiding capture during World War II. The story highlights how one act of kindness can profoundly impact someone’s life. Ariella Glaser gives an outstanding performance in this beautifully crafted film directed by Marc Forster.

In a scene, a young lad and lassie act as if they’re driving a car, and Forster and cameraman Matthias Koenigswieser transform this seemingly ordinary moment into something awe-inspiring. The graphic novel is brilliantly brought to life by writer Mark Bomback, making this film an unmissable watch. This war drama powerfully underscores the enduring significance of compassion amidst a harsh reality, tugging at one’s heartstrings.

1. The Substance

Few films can match the level of commitment and exceeding expectations in their outlandish plotlines like The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat. This movie stands alone in its exceptional blend of style and depth, making it truly remarkable. Demi Moore takes on the role of a once-prominent actress seeking a rejuvenating experimental treatment, portrayed by Margaret Qualley. However, the film delves into the consequences when this procedure is manipulated for ill purposes.

As a gamer, let me tell you, this film is an unbelievable, mind-blowing body horror masterpiece that’ll have your eyes glued to the screen – even when you wish they weren’t! The acting in this flick is top-notch and every scene is packed with pure, raw intensity. Nothing else from 2024 comes close to capturing the sheer insanity of this movie, making it the must-see event of the year.

Notable Recognitions: Will and Harper, Dune: Part Two, Carry On, Superman: The Chronicles of Christopher Reeve, Memoir of a Snail – A Sluggish Tale, A Real Agony, Rewind, Assassination, Magpie – A Thief Among Us, Airplane Heist 1971.

2025-01-08 01:40