This year has been nothing less than insane. Every hour there seems to be new breaking news, another exposed politician and, of course, a new movie hitting AMC theaters. From good to bad, scary to heartbreaking and completely ridiculous to hilarious, 2024 was a packed year for movies. So, in no particular order, here are the top movies of 2024.
Twisters
Easily one of the best rides of the year, “Twisters” is sheer fun from start to end. This 2024 remake of the 1996 classic draws on its predecessor, but Glen Powell’s charm and the excellent soundtrack put it over the top. “Twisters” follows Kate Carter, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, as she tries to implement new and groundbreaking technology to help better track storms, with the potential to save countless lives in Oklahoma. She works alongside her old friend Javi, played by Anthony Ramos, and newcomer YouTuber Tyler, played by Glen Powell, using her old technology to minimize the destruction of the tornadoes in the nearby areas. This feel-good film was a summer hit, but it will soon be a classic family movie night addition.
“Twisters” is now streaming on Peacock.
Anora
Perhaps the clear Oscar Best Picture contender, “Anora” has stunned both at festivals and in the theaters. Following Brooklyn adult entertainer, Ani, played by Mikey Madison, and her blooming relationship, marriage and eventual divorce from Russian rich boy, Vanya, played by Mark Eydelshteyn, this Cinderella story is full of smart writing, unique characters and an exciting story. The complex characters throughout the film are easy to become completely enamored with. Written and directed by Sean Baker, the film is a jarring ride, from Vanya’s growing attachment to Ani, to the duo’s Vegas eloping and finally, a citywide manhunt for Vanya after running out on the two’s marriage. “Anora” is a thrilling ride, moving between comedy and heartbreak with ease. This film sticks in your bones, due much in part to the stellar acting performances from Madison and Eydelshteyn, witty writing and a unique narrative.
“Anora” is now playing in theaters.
Challengers
Way back in May, Zendaya, Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist treated us to a steamy match full of tennis, lovers and enemies from start to finish. “Challengers” follows a complex love triangle between three tennis players Tashi, Patrick and Art, played by Zendaya, Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist, respectively. The film jumps around in time, from the first meeting between Tashi and the boys to Tashi and Art’s rocky marriage and tennis partnership. Unlike most love triangles, this seductive film plays with the relationships between Tashi and Patrick, Tashi and Art, and Patrick and Art. The leads and different, intense relationships we bounce between in this film are enticing. Overall, the film features impressive cinematography and choreography, and the fast pace and sexual energy pushes the film forward.
“Challengers” is now streaming on Prime Video.
We Live In Time
Do you know the perfect way to crack an egg? “We Live In Time” follows the unchronological telling of Almut, played by Florence Pugh, and Tobias, played by Andrew Garfield, as they meet, fall in love, start a family and work through the tragic events of Almut’s cancer. This film, much like “Anora,” is about the daily lives of everyday people, but the characters are unique enough that “We Live In Time” doesn’t feel like a copy-paste rom-dramedy. Almut is a fully fleshed character, whose ovarian cancer diagnosis hits right in the gut. Garfield and Pugh have a deep chemistry, the simple but profound love between the leads being one of the most intense connections that draws in audiences.
“We Live in Time” is now playing in theaters.
Wicked
A late contender but well deserved, “Wicked” stunned in theaters over Thanksgiving weekend. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, “Wicked” was quick to break box office records, becoming the highest grossing film based on a Broadway musical in just over a week. The film features stunning choreography, impressive acting performances and timely messages that audiences have quickly grown attached to. Erivo in particular excels in this on-screen role — her acting performance is best in intimate and intense close-ups. Coupled with Grande’s precise physical comedy and incredible cinematography by Alice Brooks, “Wicked” is worth the almost three-hour-long experience.
“Wicked” is now playing in theaters.
