I Know What Your Favorite Movie Of 2024 Says About You

Custom image by Ana Nieves

2024 has had quite an interesting mix of films to come out. Whether at the theaters or on streaming, there has been a lot to enjoy and be entertained by. Blockbuster sequels like Denis Villeneuve's Dune II, or Ridley Scott's Gladiator II brought spectacular action with beautiful cinematography. Clever thrillers like Anora and The Substance showcased some exceptional breakthrough performances from the likes of Mikey Madison and Margaret Qualley.

With a sprinkling of romantic comedy, beloved family animation, and a highly anticipated musical, there have been movies to cater to any tastes. The way viewers take in their films is also something that can add more to the experience. Sitting in the comfort of one's own home watching a streaming release can be a great experience. Others prefer to venture out to see the effect on the big screen, surrounded by other film buffs who share their passion. There's no wrong option to take in a cinematic experience, and each film has a lot to say about the audiences it appeals to.

10 Dune: Part Two

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

The second installment in the science fiction saga was a huge hit in 2024. Grossing over $700 million worldwide, Dune 2 brought audiences back after the first installment and attracted new fans as well. There's a lot to like about this world of mythology and political intrigue. With a host of captivating characters played by some of Hollywood's most talented actors, the story is told with a lot of care and creativity. Anyone who loves to see an artistically shot film with a complex storyline would be transfixed by every shot in this epic movie.

The dynamic between Paul (Timothée Chalemet) and Chani (Zendaya) adds even more depth and color to the story that's so deeply focused on the pursuit of power and domination. The score by Hans Zimmer is disturbingly beautiful, and the set design and costumes are some of the best of the year. Anyone who has picked Dune: Part Two as their favorite movie of the year enjoys impressive cinematography, a stellar cast of up-and-coming stars, and, of course, sandworms.

9 Anora

Directed by Sean Baker

Winner of the Palme d'Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, this witty comedy-drama has cemented Mikey Madison as one of the most exciting up-and-coming movie stars. For anyone who appreciated her scene-stealing turns in Scream and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, seeing her take center stage in such a strong and confident way, will be extremely exciting. The story of a New York sex worker who gets involved with the young son of a Russian oligarch is told with wit, humor, and a surprising amount of heart and depth.

For those who enjoyed Pretty Woman, Silver Linings Playbook, or Before Sunset, Anora would hit the same spot. The focus is on a wild and complicated female protagonist, who lets her emotions take over, even if they lead her into trouble. It's fascinating to explore how the search for a semblance of happiness in a reality that's far from perfect can make people act in dangerous ways. With nominations in the biggest categories at the Golden Globes, this film is sure to appeal to those who want to keep their finger on the pulse of awards season.

8 The Idea of You

Directed by Michael Showalter

A sleeper hit on Amazon Prime, this romantic comedy stars Anne Hathaway and Nicolas Galitzine. 2024 has seen an influx of films that focus on May/December relationships, like Babygirl and A Family Affair, and this one has a very charming take on the genre. Based on a fan fiction story of a pop star and glamorous gallery owner, the film navigates the pitfalls of dating one of the most famous heartthrobs on the planet. The chemistry between the two leads is enthralling, and the soundtrack is surprisingly great.

The film is right for anyone who enjoys a solid rom-com that's not devoid of sensuality and tension. Any pop culture fan will enjoy trying to spot Easter eggs to any real-world inspirations, and any fashion connoisseur will have their fill of great costumes. Hathaway is feeling relaxed and confident in her role, and it's great to see Galitzine's star on the rise, thanks in some part to The Idea of You.

7 Inside Out 2

Directed by Kelsey Mann

After the original Inside Out earned over $800 million worldwide and won an Academy Award, a sequel was inevitable. However, the quality of a sequel can vary, so it was a pleasant relief that this film met or even surpassed many people's expectations. A hit with critics and audiences young and old, this charming animated film resonates with so many. Mixing some beloved characters with great new additions, Inside Out 2 stirs up all the emotions.

Just as Joy (Amy Poehler) learned how to work together with Sadness (Phyllis Smith), it was time for Anxiety (Maya Hawke) and Envy (Ayo Edebiri) to enter the scene. As the emotions navigate Riley's changing hormones and priorities, the movie does a great job of showing just how tumultuous of a time it can be in a person’s life. The audience for this film includes just about everyone, so whoever picked this as their top 2024 film, clearly enjoys a heartfelt story with a dose of top-notch Pixar humor.

6 The Substance

Directed by Coralie Fargeat

One of the more mind-bending films of the year, The Substance is not for the faint of heart (or stomach). Addressing the topics of women's aging and the pressure to stay a certain size and look a certain way, it takes the notion of "self-care" to new levels. It won the award for best screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival and gave Demi Moore one of her most challenging roles to date. Margaret Qualley is also allowed to shine as the alter-ego Sue.

Fans of a high-concept drama thriller with plenty of gore and something to say were drawn to this stylized production. Seeing the disdain and disregard grow, for the bodies that are meant to work together, is a clear yet effective metaphor for how the beauty industry affects people. Depicting it in such a shocking way serves as a warning not to go too far in the pursuit of perfection.

5 Deadpool & Wolverine

Directed by Shawn Levy

Made for fans, by the fans, this endlessly fun film sees Deadpool step into the MCU in style and with a lot of friends. Filled with crossovers, Easter eggs, and a lot of naughty humor. The friendship between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman is evident at every level, as the two eponymous characters tease each other, fight, and form an unbreakable bond that carries the story through various multiverses. The level of cameos is elite, with Chris Evans eliciting gasps, and a few set pieces causing a stir.

Those who picked Deadpool & Wolverine as their favorite film of the year are obviously fans of superhero movies, but not just the MCU. The nostalgia over the early 2000s Marvel movies also made Deadpool & Wolverine a must-see for those who grew up on the pre-MCU Marvel films. Deadpool & Wolverine was full of action, comedy, and chemistry delivered by the two main actors, as well as the fan service paid with the homages to various fallen heroes of the many interconnected franchises.

4 Twisters

Directed by Lee Isaac Chung

Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar Jones sizzled as the two leads of this high-octane action movie. Serving as a sort of sequel to the 1996 classic, Twisters sees a group of adventurous meteorologists chasing tornadoes in the pursuit of knowledge. It takes all the best parts of the nostalgic original and reinserts it into the 21st century most naturally and comfortably. The technologically advanced CGI is so much more impressive, and thankfully it lost none of its comedic moments.

Fans of this movie, no doubt, appreciate a classic adventure film with a lot of high-speed chases and life-or-death situations. The young cast creates a lot of convincing chemistry, with viewers rooting for the team at every twist and turn. With climate change such a hot topic, it's good to have films like this, that start the conversation but can entertain at the same time.

3 Challengers

Directed by Luca Guadagnino

Packed with tension, lust, and a very stylistic depiction of a tennis match, Challengers is for fans of sports and romance. The score by Trent Reznor adds so much to the atmosphere, and Guadagnino follows the ball and the rackets with precision and purpose. Audiences feel immersed in the story on the court as much as all the love triangle drama behind the scenes. The three leads have a lot of palpable chemistry which is the cause of all the friction. It's easy to get as caught up in their issues as it is on the score of the match itself.

In a humorous turn of events, Zendaya follows the lead of Kirsten Dunst and Emma Stone as a Spider-Man love interest to then star in a tennis-themed film. While Wimbledon was charming and The Battle of the Sexes was a compelling drama, Challengers is of a much higher quality altogether. Those who enjoyed this film the most this year undoubtedly enjoy intense romance stories.

2 Gladiator 2

Directed by Ridley Scott

Made over 20 years after the original Gladiator starring Russell Crowe, this outing sees Paul Mescal enter the arena. The story is a continuation of the events in the 2000s film and follows a not-dissimilar trajectory. Mescal's dedication to the role is impressive and his intensity makes the narrative soar. It's clear how much technology has progressed since the first movie came out, with shots even more sweeping than before, and the fight scenes are as bloody as ever.

Gladiator II will most certainly appeal to anyone who enjoyed the first installment, but the cast of modern and legacy actors is a draw to younger audiences as well. With Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Denzel Washington bringing flair and flamboyance to this epic production, it remains to be seen whether this one will leave a lasting impression on viewers for the next 20 years.

1 Wicked

Directed by Jon M. Chu

Fans of the stage play flocked to this epic production which has already made nearly half a billion dollars at the worldwide box office. Cynthia Erivo perfectly embodies the struggles and plights of Elphaba, with a knockout voice. Ariana Grande delivers an unforgettable Galinda and both have already been nominated for Golden Globes with plenty of Oscar buzz. The dreamy cinematography takes viewers into Oz as they stop themselves from singing along out loud to every song.

Wicked has undoubtedly topped many movie fans' favorite lists and, for those who enjoy a larger-than-life musical with a stellar cast, it's not surprising. With a second part on the way next year, Wicked is sure to stay at the center of the cultural zeitgeist for a while. With beautiful costumes, a fairy tale set design, and an extremely catchy score, it's no wonder Wicked was one of the most popular films of 2024.