As the credits begin rolling and everyone in the movie theater begins to leave, one question lingers: Did I really enjoy that movie? It is often difficult to distinguish a good movie from a bad one, as everyone’s opinions are so subjective. That being said, the top movies from 2024 have varied from romance, to drama, to comedy, to action, to science fiction. This broad mix has allowed millions of people from around the world to experience a unique viewing experience each and every time they step into that movie theater.
- Inside Out 2: The long-awaited sequel to the beloved Inside Out came out this past June and quickly became a massive success. The story follows Riley, now a teenager, as she navigates through new emotions like anxiety, embarrassment, envy, and ennui. As Riley grapples with the challenges of growing up, the film helps relay a message about staying true to oneself. It resonates with not only younger viewers, but also with teenagers who are able to relate to Riley’s experiences with growing up.
- Deadpool & Wolverine: After a six-year wait since Deadpool 2, fans were thrilled for Deadpool & Wolverine, starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. Although the movie begins with Deadpool being a regular person again, he is quickly thrown into action after a villain threatens to destroy Deadpool’s universe and Wolverine is no longer around to help get the job done. This action-packed comedy also has cameos from stars like Blake Lively, Chris Evans, Jennifer Garner, Wesley Snipes, and Channing Tatum. Although the film lacks serious undertones seen in other Marvel movies, it was still overall a success for the Deadpool franchise.
- Despicable Me 4: The Minions and Gru returned this past June and audiences were over the moon with the outcome of this new movie. This time, Gru and his family must leave their home due to a supervillain seeking revenge on Gru. The family is forced to have different identities in order to keep their connection to the Anti-Villain League a secret. Adding to the excitement, Pharrell Williams’s uplifting and joyful songs bring the audience to their feet while watching an action-packed movie. Fans of all ages, from young children to adults, enjoyed watching Gru fight supervillains again and the Minions run around trying to save the world, too. Ultimately, as the movie ended and the audience got to witness another unforgettable experience, it is safe to say that there will be yet another movie with the Minions and Gru in the future.
- Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: After more than two decades since the release of the iconic Beetlejuice film, the sequel brings back Lydia, now a mother to Astrid (played by Jenna Ortega). The story follows Lydia and Astrid’s relationship as they are back in Lydia’s hometown for Astrid’s father’s funeral. Beetlejuice himself also makes a return. The movie adds a romantic subplot with Astrid and a local boy. This sequel encapsulates director Tim Burton’s unique animation style. Fans of the original Beetlejuice will enjoy this sequel’s modern approach to the ‘80s classic.
- Dune: Part Two: Zendaya and Timothee Chalamet take the screens once again in the breathtaking sequel to Dune, released this past March. This science fiction sensation takes place directly after the ending of the first film, leaving the audience immersed in their seats from the very beginning. The addition of Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan and Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen adds more intriguing narratives to the story. As the movie explores the Fremen’s connection to the desert, it also portrays the rise and fall of empires. There are also themes of romance and betrayal throughout the film, especially in the relationships between Paul, Princess Irulan, and Chani. Ultimately, this sequel surpassed audiences’ expectations with its stunning cinematography, acting, and script.
- Twisters: Building on the iconic ‘90s movie Twister, Twisters follows fearless tornado chasers. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Anthony Ramos, and Glen Powell all take the screen by storm (literally) with their charming appearances and quick-witted remarks. Edgar-Jones plays Kate, a character who is captivated by the beauty of twisters, while Ramos’ Javi is mesmerized by both Kate’s beauty and twisters. The story jumps five years ahead, when a tornado threatens Kate’s hometown, and she now is finally able to research it like she has always wanted. On top of that, the relationship between Kate and Powell’s character, Tyler Owens, keeps audiences hooked throughout the film. Packed with action, comedy, and romance, Twisters leaves audiences entertained.
- Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire: The infamous massive lizard and big ape that have fought against each other for centuries finally return in the highly anticipated sequel to the 2021 Godzilla vs. Kong. As the movie begins, the audience is quickly immersed by the two colossal creatures that equally despise each other. Aside from the terrifying creatures, the human characters also play an important role in the film’s narrative. Dr. Illene Andrews and Bernie Hayes, for instance, are deeply involved in the conflict as Godzilla’s and Kong’s inevitable destruction threatens their lives. Throughout this action-packed movie, fans get to witness the separation between the two characters as their enormous size and powers are too much to handle when together.
- Kung Fu Panda 4: Jack Black returns as the charming panda Po in the latest movie of the Kung Fu Panda series. Named the Dragon Warrior, Po is now not only a student but also a teacher for the younger generation in his village. Po faces a new challenge by a chameleon voiced by Viola Davis. She constantly tries to undermine Po and everything he has worked for. Throughout the movie, there are numerous action-packed fight scenes, including hilarious one-liners.
- Bad Boys: Ride or Die: The ultimate action-packed, crime-fighting saga is back for yet another movie in the Bad Boys series. Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett take on a dangerous mission as Miami detectives. As the fourth movie in the franchise, fans were ecstatic when the movie was released this past June. After a life-changing medical incident with Burnett’s character, investigations begin. The pair (Lowrey and Burnett) are determined to prove their deceased Captain Howard’s innocence, no matter what it takes. The detectives handle numerous fights while searching for evidence. The movie includes a phenomenal cast that draws the audience more and more into the movie. Will Smith’s and Martin Lawrence’s amazing performances bring fire and spark into the movie.
- Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes: Set in a futuristic alternate universe, apes have taken over the world and humans now have to deal with the consequences. This film is considered a standalone sequel to War for the Planet of the Apes, released in 2017. Despite their dominance, the apes remain deeply divided. “The Masked Apes” are the ones who dominate the region, while “The Order of Caesar” are the opposing clan who practice staying peaceful toward everyone. The story follows the dueling clans and the circumstances surrounding them whilst exploring one of the apes named Noa and her journey in the ape kingdom.
