2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several exceptional films flew under the radar. This curated list highlights 10 underrated movies deserving of your attention.

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 Are These Films Worth Watching?

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking visuals inspired by 1970s talk shows. It transcends the typical horror genre, exploring themes of fear, collective psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The filmmakers masterfully illustrate how modern technology and entertainment can shape human consciousness.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The fourth installment in the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. This action-packed adventure pits them against a formidable crime syndicate, leading them to uncover corruption within the Miami police department and operate outside the law. The film's success has sparked rumors of a fifth installment.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a gripping psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the world of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous truths that threaten her life. Featuring a stellar cast including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to recent real-life controversies.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in Monkey Man blends classic action with modern thriller elements. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the story centers on "Kid," a fighter who seeks revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. The film is lauded for its action sequences and insightful sociopolitical commentary.

The Beekeeper

Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and starring Jason Statham, The Beekeeper follows Adam Clay, a former agent who is drawn back into his dangerous past to dismantle a cybercrime network after his friend's suicide. Filmed in the UK and US with a $40 million budget, Statham's commitment to the role is evident in his performance of many of the stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. The film centers on a firefighter who attends a concert with his daughter, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a notorious criminal. Shyamalan's signature style, known for its masterful cinematography and sound design, is on full display.

Juror No. 2

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, Juror No. 2 is a legal thriller that explores a juror's moral dilemma. Justin Kemp, an ordinary man, realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of, forcing him to choose between justice and confession.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz's journey of survival and interaction with the island's wildlife explores the relationship between technology and nature, prompting reflection on what defines humanity. The film's unique animation style is a highlight.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller, It's What's Inside, blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a device to swap consciousnesses, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film delves into themes of identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents a triptych film exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal. The three interwoven stories offer unique perspectives on everyday life and its complexities.

Why Are These Films Worth Watching?

These films offer more than simple entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They are a testament to the fact that cinematic gems often reside beyond the mainstream spotlight.