2024 has been a true treat for moviegoers! This year has been filled with incredible diversity: from grandiose space epics and frantic post-apocalyptic races to poignant human dramas and elegant historical adaptations. Every viewer has found something special. We've analyzed expectations and early IMDb ratings and compiled a list of the ten most promising films, which are already being called the year's favorites. Get your viewing list ready—an unforgettable journey into the world of cinema awaits!
«Substance»
IMDb Rating: 7.2
A gripping and provocative sci-fi horror from director Coralie Farge that strikes a nerve with modern society's obsession with youth and perfection. Demi Moore delivers one of her finest performances yet, playing an aging celebrity who takes a desperate step: taking a black-market drug capable of creating a perfect, youthful version of herself. However, as expected, this "substance" turns into a nightmare, and her new version, played by Margaret Qualley, takes on a terrifying life of its own.
«Brutalist»
IMDb Rating: 7.3
A gritty, stylish, and brutally honest film that explores the dark corners of human nature and the art world. The protagonist is a talented but obsessive architect or artist (depending on the interpretation of the story), whose desire to create a perfect yet terrifying work borders on self-destruction. His journey is a confrontation with his inner demons, critics who misunderstand his genius, and a society that rejects his brutal truth. The film is likely to feature a minimalist yet powerful visual aesthetic, where every line and shadow serves to reveal character.
«Conclave»
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Immerse yourself in a tense political-religious thriller set behind closed doors at the Vatican. Following the death of the Pope, cardinals from around the world gather for a conclave to secretly elect a new head of the Catholic Church. However, what should be a strict ritual turns into a field for complex intrigue, clashing ambitions, and the uncovering of long-held secrets. Each character has their own past and interests, and external pressure only intensifies the tension. This film is the perfect blend of historical accuracy, detective investigation, and psychological drama, where the main weapon is not a gun, but a clever word and a hidden hint.
«Anora»
IMDb Rating: 7.4
A witty, lively, and incredibly cheerful comedy from director Sean Baker, it looks at modern life without embellishment, but with a huge dose of humanity and humor. The main character, a young stripper from Brooklyn, impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch, which instantly turns her life into a whirlwind of incredible events. When news reaches Russia, the groom's parents rush to New York, determined to annul the union by any means necessary. What follows? A tense clash of cultures, absurd situations, unexpected twists, and, of course, genuine emotions.
«Wicked: The Tale of the Witch of the West»
IMDb Rating: 7.4
The Magic of Oz returns to the big screen in a stunningly colorful and musical adaptation of the celebrated Broadway musical. Experience the story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, from a completely new and surprising perspective. This is a tale of friendship forged during school days at Shiz University, of misunderstanding, betrayal, and, ultimately, how a kind soul can be forced to choose a path that will make them an outcast. Featuring stunning vocal performances, fantastic costumes, and sets that transport you to a magical world, this film is a true feast for the eyes and ears.
«Ghost Light»
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Dan, a withdrawn and distant man, unexpectedly finds himself cast in an amateur production of Romeo and Juliet. Initially skeptical, his skepticism gradually gives way to hope as he begins to feel how art heals his soul and helps him cope with his emotions. Moreover, it becomes the key to restoring a family relationship that was on the brink of collapse.
«Furiosa: The Mad Max Chronicles»
IMDb Rating: 7.5
George Miller blows our minds again, returning us to his crazy, dusty, and incredibly creative post-apocalyptic world. This time, the story takes us back in time to reveal how young Furiosa was kidnapped from her green oasis and ended up in the clutches of cruel tyrants. It's an epic, life-long journey filled with incredible stunts, crazy car chases, and visual inventions that seem impossible. Annie Taylor-Joy flawlessly embodies the rage, pain, and indomitable will of her character, who, through years of trials, transforms into the legendary warrior we know.
«The Count of Monte Cristo»
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Alexandre Dumas's celebrated novel is brought to life in this lavish and dynamic film adaptation! The story of the young sailor Edmond Dantès, falsely accused of being sent to the gloomy Château d'If prison, is familiar to many, but here it is told with incredible scope. After a daring victory, he masterfully transforms into the mysterious and immensely wealthy Count of Monte Cristo and returns to exact a cunning and sophisticated revenge. The film's stunning sets and costumes immerse viewers in the atmosphere of 19th-century France. This is a classic tale of betrayal, lost time, and justice, filled with intrigue, romance, and unexpected twists. Although some fans of the book have noted deviations from the original, the film grips from the very first minutes and doesn't let go until the final credits roll.
«I'm still here»
IMDb Rating: 8.1
This film is a true hymn to the strength of the human spirit, a poignant story based on true events. The story centers on Eunice Paiva, whose life is shattered in an instant after her husband's sudden disappearance during the dark years of Brazil's military dictatorship. Fernanda Torres delivers a stunning, understated performance, showing how an ordinary woman, a mother of five, finds incredible resilience. Rather than accept her loss, she embarks on a difficult, dangerous fight for justice in a society rife with fear and lawlessness. The film spans decades, depicting not only the pain of loss but also the quiet heroism of everyday life and raising children in uncertain times. It's a deeply emotional journey that provokes reflection on the value of family, memory, and justice.
«Dune: Part Two»
IMDb rating: 8.4
Immerse yourself in Denis Villeneuve's epic sequel to the saga, which surpasses all expectations. Set on the mysterious planet Arrakis, Paul Atreides, brilliantly portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, finally unites with the warlike Fremen people. Along with the relentless Chani (Zendaya), he launches daring raids against the powerful House Harkonnen, seeking the galaxy's most valuable spice. The film captivates not just with its massive battles, but also with its philosophical depth, exploring themes of fate, power, and ecology. Every frame is a work of art: from endless sand dunes traversed by giant worms to futuristic architectural marvels. The sinister Baron Vladimir Harkonnen and his cunning nephew Feyd-Rautha create a sense of tangible, unrelenting menace. The tension builds with each passing minute, leading to a dramatic finale that will determine the fate of the entire universe.
Conclusion
The 2024 film market was quite rich, and many worthy films were left off this list only due to slightly lower ratings, but they are definitely worth your attention on days when you're looking for something special:
For horror fans: Robert Eggers' gothic remake of Nosferatu, starring Lily-Rose Depp and Nicholas Hoult, as well as the mystical thriller The Heretic.
For action fans: the daring Stuntmen with Ryan Gosling, Guy Ritchie's historical thriller The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Affairs, the comic book action film Borderlands, and the dark The Crow.
For a diverse viewing experience: the tense thriller "The Beekeeper" starring Jason Statham, the action comedy "Deadpool & Wolverine," reuniting Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, the psychological drama "Maternal Instinct," and the comedy-adventure "Arthur, You're the King."
2024 has given us more than just a selection of films, but a whole palette of emotions, genres, and experiences. From the heights of space to the depths of the human soul, each of these films has left its own unique mark. Whatever your genre, this year is sure to surprise you. So feel free to create your own viewing list, invite your friends, or settle in for a solo viewing—an unforgettable journey into the world of great cinema awaits.