I love movies – along with reading, they are one of my favorite ways to relax, unwind and immerse myself in another world.
We were treated to some truly innovative, heartwarming, action-packed and inspiring movies in 2024.
From comedies to action to drama, there’s a little something for everyone on this list. Let’s take a look back at my favorites!
Dune part 2 – after watching and adoring the first Dune in 2021, I eagerly awaited part two and this sci-fi masterpiece did not disappoint. If you look up “cinematic” in the dictionary, Dune part 2 starts playing. It is epic in scope, visuals, sound and the performances by its standout cast. Watching little Timmy Chalomet progress from boy into man on screen in this two-film (so far) franchise is a treasure. I have watched this multiple times – I love it.
Deadpool & Wolverine – if you’re looking for some good old wise-cracking, violent and highly inappropriate fun, then this movie is the one. I’ve loved Ryan Reynolds in all his Deadpool movies and this one takes things to the next level with the addition of Hugh Jackman’s prickly Wolverine character. It’s funny, feels good and the action NEVER stops. Those two did things in and to a minivan that I never thought I’d see on screen. There were many Marvel minutiae that went over my head, but it’s possible to enjoy the heck out of the movie even if you’re not a Marvel geek.
My Old Ass – I expected a comedy and instead found my way bawling through much of this movie. Don’t let that stop you, though – this is a fantastic film! The story touches on themes of family, becoming an adult and whether it’s better to love and lose or never love at all (I vote for love. Always. Every time.) It is funny, touching and heartwarming in all the right ways. The young performers were excellent and the often acerbic Aubrey Plaza was also great. I am still waiting for the right moment to sit my entire family down and have them watch this – it’s truly superb.
The Outrun – Find my full review of this beautiful film on Cinefied.com. In it, I wrote that the film is a must-watch for anyone whose life has been touched by alcoholism, mental illness or loneliness – and that’s probably everyone. It’s a truly gorgeous recovery story and lead actress Saoirse Ronan is transcendent in her role. It’s sad, inspiring, hard to watch at times and inspired in me a strong desire to visit Scotland. I highly, highly recommend this film.
Wicked part 1 – I’ve seen Wicked on Broadway three times, so you can imagine that I was more than a little excited for the big screen version. Even walking in with sky-high expectations, this musical adaptation still blew my hair back with sheer awesomeness! Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo gave luminous, career-defining performances and every member of the cast and crew should be lauded for their art. This movie is, in a word, perfection.
Abigail – After reading through all of my gushing about both big-budget and independent films, you deserve a treat. Abigail is a little movie that is fun, gory and unique. I love a movie that starts out as one thing and then becomes entirely another. Abigail is an action/horror movie in a particular sub-genre that I adore, but to say more would give away a vital twisty plot point. Just know that Abigail is good heart-pounding fun, with a few good jump scares and even a few dark laughs. Who knows, it might even dissuade young people from a life of crime.
As a reminder, you can always find my full movie reviews over on Cinefied.com, where I have a new one going up soon for The Piano Lesson, a beautiful film crafted by Denzel Washington’s adult children and other talented souls. That’s another 2024 must-watch!
What other movies did you love this year? I’m eager to hear your recommendations in the comments below or over on Facebook or Instagram.
