Unveiling Unsung Cinematic Gems: Missed Movies of '24

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape. While blockbuster hits dominated headlines, several underrated gems deserve recognition. This list highlights 10 films that deserve a spot on your watchlist.

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 These Films Deserve Your Attention

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, boasts a unique premise and striking visuals, drawing inspiration from 1970s talk shows. It's not just a scare-fest; it's a thoughtful exploration of fear, group psychology, and the influence of mass media. The film masterfully portrays how modern technology and entertainment can manipulate human consciousness.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The fourth installment of 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 powerful crime syndicate, leading to a thrilling investigation and a thrilling showdown. The film's success has sparked talk of a fifth installment, though nothing is confirmed.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. It follows Frida, a waitress who infiltrates the world of tech mogul Slater King, only to uncover dangerous secrets. The all-star cast, including Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, adds to the film's intrigue. The plot has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, although no direct connections have been verified.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial debut and starring role in Monkey Man blends classic action with modern thriller elements. Set in a fictional Indian city reminiscent of Mumbai, the film follows Kid ("Monkey Man"), an underground fighter who seeks revenge after his mother's murder. The film is praised for its blend of high-octane action and insightful social commentary.

The Beekeeper

Jason Statham stars in The Beekeeper, a thriller written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium). A former agent of the secretive "Beekeepers" organization, Adam Clay, is forced to confront his past when a friend's suicide is linked to online scammers. The $40 million production, filmed in the UK and US, showcases Statham's commitment to the genre with his performance of many of the stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter 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 compelling storytelling and atmospheric cinematography, is on full display.

Juror No. 2

This legal thriller, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, follows Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial. He faces a devastating moral dilemma when he realizes his involvement in the crime. The film is lauded for its gripping narrative and the director's masterful execution.

The Wild Robot

Based on Peter Brown's novel, The Wild Robot is an animated film about Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. The film explores themes of adaptation, survival, and the relationship between technology and nature. Its unique animation style is visually stunning.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller, It's What's Inside, combines comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends uses a device that allows them to swap consciousnesses, leading to unforeseen and dangerous consequences. The film explores identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents Kinds of Kindness, a triptych of interconnected stories exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal. The three narratives offer distinct yet thematically linked perspectives on life's complexities.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films transcend simple entertainment, offering thought-provoking narratives and unexpected twists. They provide fresh perspectives on familiar themes, proving that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.