My Top 10 Favorite Films of 2024
Every year movie goers are introduced to stories that thrill, inspire, terrify, and move us in ways we never expect. As someone who lives and breathes movies, 2024 was a solid year filled with films that pushed the boundaries of storytelling. From long-anticipated sequels and reboots to under-the-radar indie gems, this year had something for everyone.
Whether it was the heart-pounding tension of an Alien resurgence or the nostalgic magic of a Superman documentary, each film on this list left a distinct impression on me.
Some entertained with sheer spectacle and fun, while others resonated deeply, making me think about life, identity, and humanity in new ways.
Of course, there were also a few surprises—movies I didn’t expect to enjoy that ended up being some of my absolute favorites. That’s the beauty of film: it has a way of surprising us, taking us on journeys we didn’t even realize we needed.
As a fan of genre films, 2024 offered all kinds of different movies from terrifying horror and explosive action to heartfelt comedies and epic sci-fi spectacles. Some films lived up to the immense hype surrounding them, while others quietly emerged as dark horses, capturing my attention and earning their place on this list.
These are the movies that defined the year for me, the ones I couldn’t stop thinking about after the credits rolled. Each brought its own unique flavor to 2024, reminding me why I love going to the movies.
1. Alien: Romulus
Finally, we got another Alien movie that delivered some edge-of-your-seat thrills! Alien: Romulus takes us deep into the eerie corridors of a derelict space station where a group of young space colonizers face off against the universe's most terrifying life form. The suspense, atmosphere, and horror brought the franchise back to its roots, making it one of the most intense sci-fi experiences of the year.
2. Super/Man: A Christopher Reeve Story
As a lifelong fan of Christopher Reeve’s Superman, this heartfelt documentary melted my heart. Reeve’s rise to stardom and his resilience following his accident are nothing short of inspiring. From his iconic role as Superman to his advocacy for spinal cord injury research and disability rights, this film beautifully celebrates his legacy. It’s one of the most uplifting and moving stories I’ve watched this year.
3. Deadpool & Wolverine
What’s not to love about seeing Deadpool and Wolverine team up? Sure, it wasn’t flawless, but it was one of the most entertaining movie-going experiences of the year. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s chemistry was off the charts, and the story about saving Deadpool’s universe from the TVA was a wild, hilarious ride.
4. Snack Shack
For coming-of-age comedies, Snack Shack hit the sweet spot. This indie gem set in Nebraska City during the summer of 1991 is a hilarious and heartfelt tale of friendship, ambition, and teenage antics. It perfectly captured the nostalgia of youth, making it one of my favorite comedies of the year.
5. Furiosa
Despite its disappointing box office run, Furiosa was freakin’ awesome. The insane action sequences and chaotic energy made it an unforgettable experience. Watching young Furiosa navigate a post-apocalyptic wasteland and clash with two tyrants battling for dominance was as epic as I’d hoped it would be.
6. Dune: Part Two
Denis Villeneuve continued his masterful adaptation of Dune with a visually stunning sequel that brought the epic sci-fi saga to life. The stakes were higher, the battles were grander, and the journey of Paul Atreides was more compelling than ever. It’s a true work of art that left me in awe.
8. Land of Bad
I’m a sucker for military and special ops films, and Land of Bad did not disappoint. This high-stakes thriller about an ambushed extraction team kept me on the edge of my seat. Luke Hemsworth and Russell Crowe brought their A-game, making this one of the most intense and unexpectedly great films I saw this year.
8. Nosferatu
Robert Eggers’ remake of Nosferatu was absolutely terrifying and easily my favorite horror movie of the year. Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok was nightmarishly perfect, bringing a grotesque intensity to the character. This reimagined tale of obsession and horror in 19th-century Germany is chillingly beautiful, with every frame dripping with gothic dread.
9. The Substance
Out of all the movies I watched, The Substance stuck with me the longest. This mind-bending body horror about a product that promises to make people their best selves evoked such a strong reaction. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley were incredible in their dual roles, and the film’s eerie exploration of identity and self-image was unforgettable.
10. The Wild Robot
The Wild Robot was one of the most feel-good movies of the year, but it also packed an emotional punch. The story follows ROZZUM 7134, voiced beautifully by Lupita Nyong’o, who is activated by wildlife after a storm strands her on a deserted island. Despite her initial struggles to connect with the wary animals, Roz's journey of growth and redemption, especially her commitment to raising the gosling Brightbill after a tragic accident, hit me right in the heart.
Honorable Mention: Transformers One
This isn’t in my top ten, but I had to add it to the list. I was back and fourth between this movie and The Wild Robot. I didn’t expect much from this film, but Transformers One completely surprised me. The origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron was emotional, action-packed, and engaging. It’s rare for a prequel to hit all the right notes, but this one did, earning its spot on my list of favorites.
These films delivered thrills, laughs, scares, and awe in equal measure, making 2024 a fun year for cinema.
What are some of your favorite movies of 2024!?