The popular new movies of 2024
The year 2024 is already shaping up to be a thrilling one for cinema enthusiasts. With a plethora of highly anticipated releases, it seems we’re in for another stellar year following the successes of 2023. From long-awaited sequels to the revival of beloved franchises, there’s no shortage of excitement at the multiplex.
Sequels, Revivals, and New Releases
Denis Villeneuve returns with the much-anticipated sequel to Dune, promising to expand upon the rich universe established in its predecessor. Meanwhile, George Miller takes us back to the chaotic world of Mad Max with Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, reviving the adrenaline-fueled excitement of the franchise.
But it’s not just sequels and revivals that are drawing attention. The resurrection of the Alien franchise promises to reignite the terror and intrigue that made the original films iconic. And with a slew of other big-screen offerings on the horizon, there’s something for every taste and preference.
Global Releases and UK Premieres
While some of these films made their debut in the US in late 2023 to qualify for awards consideration, our list is based on UK release dates, ensuring we capture the best worldwide releases from January to December. This ensures a comprehensive look at the cinematic landscape, encompassing a diverse array of films from around the globe.
Highlights of 2024
Among the standout releases so far are All of Us Strangers, a poignant exploration of love and connection, Yorgos Lanthimos’s uproarious Poor Things, and Luca Guadagnino’s tantalizing tennis psychodrama Challengers. These films showcase the breadth and depth of storytelling present in today’s cinema, offering audiences a variety of experiences to enjoy.
Stay Tuned for Updates
As the year progresses, we’ll continue to update our list with worthy new releases, ensuring you stay informed about the latest and greatest in cinema. So, be sure to bookmark this article and keep an eye out for future updates as we navigate through what promises to be a truly remarkable year at the movies.
Unveiling Banal Evil: Jonathan Glazer’s Holocaust Masterpiece
In the realm of artistry, a great artist possesses the ability to shed new light on even the most familiar of subjects. Jonathan Glazer’s latest cinematic endeavor achieves just that, offering a radical perspective on a topic as harrowing and well-trodden as the Holocaust. Drawing inspiration from Hannah Arendt’s poignant phrase, “the banality of evil,” Glazer’s film delves deep into the heart of darkness to reveal the chilling reality of banal evil.
A Vision of Cursed Domesticity
At the center of Glazer’s masterpiece is the family life of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, portrayed with haunting authenticity by Christian Friedel. Through Glazer’s lens, Höss’s domestic existence with his wife, played by Sandra Hüller, unfolds as a vision of cursed domesticity. Within the confines of their home, the horrors of the Holocaust loom ominously, casting a shadow over even the most mundane of activities.
The Power of Sound
One of the most striking elements of Glazer’s film is the masterful use of sound design by Johnnie Burn. While the visual depiction of atrocities remains largely unseen, Burn’s soundscape brings the horror vividly to life through audio cues. The incessant yelling of guards and the crack of rifle shots punctuate scenes of seemingly ordinary life, serving as a haunting reminder of the atrocities occurring just beyond the confines of the frame.
A Contemporary “Come and See”
Glazer’s film has been aptly compared to Elem Klimov’s seminal work, “Come and See,” offering a similarly visceral and unflinching portrayal of wartime atrocities. However, Glazer’s film is firmly rooted in the context of the 2020s, offering a contemporary perspective on the enduring legacy of the Holocaust. Through his artistry, Glazer challenges audiences to confront the banality of evil in all its chilling reality.
In conclusion, Jonathan Glazer’s Holocaust masterpiece stands as a testament to the power of art to illuminate the darkest corners of human history. By offering a radical new perspective on the banality of evil, Glazer invites audiences to confront the horrors of the past and reflect on their relevance in the present day.
Exploring Yorgos Lanthimos’s Provocative Adaptation: “The Victorian Frankenstein Riff”
Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his unconventional storytelling and unique cinematic vision, has once again stirred controversy with his latest adaptation of Scottish writer Alasdair Gray’s cult 1992 novel. Titled by some as a “sensual coming-of-age journey on helium” and by others as a “problematic story of sexual exploitation,” Lanthimos’s film has sparked intense debate among audiences and critics alike.
A Master of Lopsided Visions
With acclaimed films like “Dogtooth,” “The Lobster,” and “The Favourite” under his belt, Lanthimos has earned a reputation as a master of crafting off-kilter narratives that challenge conventional norms and expectations. His latest endeavor continues this trend, offering a lopsided, not-for-everyone vision of the human experience that is both provocative and polarizing.
A Victorian Frankenstein Riff
Lanthimos’s adaptation takes inspiration from the classic tale of Frankenstein but infuses it with a Victorian twist. In this reimagining, the magnetic Emma Stone portrays a lustier-than-normal version of the monster, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the familiar narrative. The result is a film that defies categorization, blurring the lines between genres and expectations.
Controversy and Acclaim
Despite its divisive reception, Lanthimos’s film has not gone unnoticed by the industry. Surprising many, it has managed to garner an impressive 11 Oscar nominations, cementing its place as one of the most talked-about films of the year. Its ability to simultaneously provoke and captivate audiences speaks to Lanthimos’s skill as a filmmaker and storyteller.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Yorgos Lanthimos’s adaptation stands as a testament to his willingness to push boundaries and challenge audiences’ perceptions. Whether viewed as a sensual coming-of-age journey or a problematic exploration of sexual exploitation, there’s no denying the impact of Lanthimos’s singular vision. As the conversation surrounding the film continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: Lanthimos has once again proven himself to be a filmmaker unafraid to venture into uncharted territory.
Poor Things: Yorgos Lanthimos’s Victorian Romp
Yorgos Lanthimos, renowned for his daring and unconventional filmmaking, takes on the task of adapting Alasdair Gray’s underread 1992 novel, “Poor Things,” into a visually stunning and thematically rich cinematic experience. Set in Victorian England, Lanthimos’s interpretation of Gray’s work is a bold and ebullient romp that deftly balances humor, darkness, and social commentary.
A Riotous Comedy
“Poor Things” emerges as the funniest film of the year thus far, a testament to Lanthimos’s ability to infuse even the darkest subject matter with a sense of levity. The film’s pointed picaresque narrative is filled with belly laughs and coarse humor, serving as a clever disguise for the deeper themes lurking beneath the surface.
A Mutation of Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’
Poor Things
Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley’s classic tale, “Poor Things” embarks on a squelchy and bone-sawing journey of scientific exploration. Dr. Godwin Baxter, portrayed with eerie charm by Willem Dafoe, reanimates the corpse of a woman, played by Emma Stone, creating a truly off-kilter parent-child relationship that forms the heart of the story.
A Candide-Like Odyssey of Female Liberation
As the narrative unfolds, “Poor Things” morphs into a ‘Candide’-like odyssey of female liberation, filled with sex, swearing, and the struggle against controlling men. Against the backdrop of various European cities, Bella’s journey becomes a poignant exploration of autonomy and self-discovery in a society dominated by patriarchal norms.
Visual Splendor and Surrealism
Lanthimos’s masterful direction, coupled with Robbie Ryan’s cinematography, creates a visually striking world that oscillates between vibrant color and crisp black and white. The use of fish-eye lenses adds to the film’s surreal atmosphere, inviting viewers into a giant Victorian goldfish bowl filled with wonder and weirdness.
“Poor Things” emerges as a feminist coming-of-age story, a monster movie, and a bawdy, foul-mouthed sex romp all rolled into one. Lanthimos’s adept handling of these disparate elements results in a brilliant and surprising hybrid that defies categorization.
In conclusion, “Poor Things” stands as a testament to Lanthimos’s talent as a filmmaker and storyteller. Through his singular vision, he transforms Gray’s novel into a masterpiece that challenges societal norms, explores the complexities of human relationships, and celebrates the power of individual agency.
Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Two” Unveiled: Continuing the Epic Saga
Award-winning filmmaker Denis Villeneuve takes audiences on a thrilling journey once again with “Dune: Part Two,” the highly anticipated follow-up to the six-time Academy Award-winning “Dune” released in 2021. Continuing the adaptation of Frank Herbert’s celebrated novel, this epic film promises to captivate audiences with its expanded ensemble cast and mythic narrative.
A Stellar Cast Returns
“Dune: Part Two” reunites audiences with familiar faces and introduces new stars to the fold. Returning to the saga are acclaimed actors such as Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, and Oscar winner Javier Bardem. Joining the ensemble are newcomers including Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Léa Seydoux, Souheila Yacoub, Stellan Skarsgård, and Oscar nominee Charlotte Rampling.
Dune: Part Two
Continuing the Mythic Journey
The film delves deeper into the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he joins forces with Chani and the Fremen in his quest for revenge against those who destroyed his family. Faced with monumental choices that could alter the fate of the universe, Paul grapples with love, duty, and the weight of his prophetic visions.
Creative Collaboration
Villeneuve directs “Dune: Part Two” from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jon Spaihts, staying true to Herbert’s seminal novel. The film is produced by a team including Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, and Villeneuve himself, with an esteemed group of executive producers. Villeneuve reunites with his “Dune” creative team, including Oscar-winning director of photography Greig Fraser, production designer Patrice Vermette, and composer Hans Zimmer.
A Cinematic Spectacle
As with its predecessor, “Dune: Part Two” promises to be a visual and auditory feast for audiences. From breathtaking landscapes to intricate costumes and mesmerizing visual effects, the film transports viewers to the rich and immersive world of Herbert’s creation.
Release and Distribution
Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures present “Dune: Part Two,” slated for release in theaters and IMAX nationwide on March 1, 2024, with international screenings beginning on February 28, 2024. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film is poised to continue the epic legacy of its predecessor and leave audiences eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.
In conclusion, “Dune: Part Two” promises to be a cinematic event of epic proportions, combining stellar performances, visionary direction, and stunning visuals to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.