2024 proved to be a landmark year for cinema, offering a mix of groundbreaking blockbusters and thought-provoking independent films. Here’s a look at five of the year’s most culturally influential films, spanning genres from sci-fi epics to musicals.
1. Dune: Part Two
Denis Villeneuve’s sequel to Dune continued to captivate audiences with its vast desert landscapes and intense political intrigue.
Starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, and with newcomers like Austin Butler as the menacing Fayed-Rotha, the film deepened the saga of Paul Atreides.
The combination of stunning visuals and thematic weight cemented Dune: Part Two as a box office triumph.
2. Wicked
The adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical lived up to expectations. Starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, Wicked brought its magical tale of friendship and identity to life.
The film sparked a new interest in musical theater and inspired discussions and jokes online—from its dazzling sets to its chart-topping soundtrack.
3. Challengers
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this romantic tennis drama stars Zendaya as Tashi, a retired athlete navigating a complicated love triangle.
The film’s mix of competitive sports and intense relationships resonated with audiences, sparking conversations about ambition and personal sacrifice.
4. The Substance
“The Substance” (2024), directed by Coralie Farge, is a dark body horror film that delves into themes of identity, vanity, and the societal pressures surrounding youth and beauty.
Starring Demi Moore as Elizabeth Sparkle and Margaret Qualley as Sue, the film explores the effects of a revolutionary drug that allows users to create a younger, idealized version of themselves, with the trick being to alternate their bodies weekly. As the balance is disrupted, the narrative spirals into chaos, reflecting the dangers of pursuing perfection at the expense of self-acceptance.
5. Anora
Directed by Sean Baker, Anora tells the gripping story of a Brooklyn socialite (played by Mikey Madison) who marries into the family of a wealthy Russian oligarch, only to find herself entangled in a web of culture, interpersonal relationships, and power struggles. Starring Yura Borisov as her complex and morally ambiguous husband, the film combines Baker's signature realism with moments of dark humor and heartfelt drama. Praised for its unflinching storytelling and sharp commentary on class and privilege. | BGNES
