2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While some films dominated the headlines, several gems flew under the radar. This 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 1970s talk show aesthetic. It transcends typical horror, exploring themes of fear, collective psychology, and the manipulative power of mass media. The film masterfully illustrates how modern technology and show business can influence human consciousness. The narrative centers on a struggling late-night host who, grappling with his wife's death, attempts a ratings boost with an occult-themed episode.

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-comedy thriller features the dynamic duo tackling a dangerous crime syndicate and navigating internal corruption within the Miami police department. The film's success has sparked rumors of a fifth installment.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller starring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment. The plot follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the inner circle of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover perilous secrets on his private island. The film's narrative has drawn comparisons to recent real-life controversies, though no direct connections have been confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in Monkey Man blends action and social commentary. Set in the fictional Indian city of Yatan (reminiscent of Mumbai), the film follows "Kid," nicknamed Monkey Man, an underground fighter seeking revenge against corrupt leaders after his mother's murder. The film is praised for its dynamic action sequences and insightful social commentary.

The Beekeeper

Written by Kurt Wimmer (known for Equilibrium) and starring Jason Statham, The Beekeeper follows Adam Clay, a former agent of a secretive organization, forced back into action after his friend's suicide, caused by online scammers. The film, boasting a $40 million budget, features Statham performing many of his own stunts.

Trap

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

Juror No. 2

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, Juror No. 2 is a legal thriller. Justin Kemp, an ordinary juror, finds himself in a moral quandary when he realizes he's responsible for the crime the defendant is accused of committing. The film is praised for its gripping plot and Eastwood's masterful direction.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The film explores the relationship between technology and nature, showcasing Roz's adaptation and interaction with the island's wildlife. 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 consciousness-swapping device, leading to unpredictable and dangerous consequences. The film explores themes of identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos's triptych film explores human relationships, morality, and the surreal. The film comprises three interwoven stories focusing on an office worker, a man whose wife returns as a changed person, and a sex cult searching for a girl who can resurrect the dead.

Why Are These Films Worth Watching?

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide insightful explorations of human emotion and unexpected narrative twists. They present fresh perspectives on familiar themes, reminding us that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.