Movies 2024
So I'm just continuing my tradition here. I'm not bothering with IMDb release data because that only ends in messy discussions, and who cares about any of that when these posts are about promoting great movies to other film fans? These are the finest 2024 additions to my list of favorites, all films that deserve a loving audience. A special mention goes to Philippe McKie's Dreams on Fire, not just my favorite film of the year, but also my favorite film-related event of the year as we were able to meet up in Montreal for coffee and some juicy tidbits about the film's production. As always, if you need more than 10 recommendations, check out the lists of previous years:
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008.
10. Moon Garden by Ryan Stevens Harris
Films like Moon Garden don't come around too often, which makes it even harder to stomach that they can be so difficult to track down. People who prefer more narrative features should probably skip this one, hardcore genre fans who care about mood and creativity will find something to their liking here. The excellent cinematography combined with a lush score, a dedicated crew, and impeccable technical skills make this film a fantastical adventure like no other. I hope Harris can consolidate budgets for his next projects because he is exactly the kind of talent cinema needs.
09. The Box Man [Hako Otoko] by Gakuryu Ishii
The Box Man is the film where Ishii finally combines the different niches of cinema he's been exploring throughout his career. It's a precarious balance and I don't think this is his definitive masterpiece quite yet, but it's certainly a unique experience and that's something I crave these days. Great performances, a stylishly gritty presentation, pleasant befuddlement, and plenty to chew on once the credits start rolling. The Box Man has it all, just make sure you heed the film's warning/mantra. Don't obsess over the box man, or you'll become the box man.
08. Escape from the 21st Century [Cong 21 Shi Ji an Quan Che Li] by Yang Li
On the one hand, Escape from the 21st Century is a rather accessible film, as it offers a fun genre mashup with elements that should speak to a variety of crowds. But the maximalist styling and the breakneck pace aren't going to be for everyone. They're right up my alley though, and I wish more directors would have the creative freedom to do what Li does. The concept is cool and the pacing is mad, but it's the bonkers cinematography, the constant onslaught of new ideas, and the smart details sprinkled throughout that make this my kind of film. I hope Li's next one won't take as long to materialize.
07. Who Were We [Watakushidomo Wa] by Tetsuya Tomina
It's been a while since I've last enjoyed a good mood film, so Tomina's Who Were We felt like it came at the right time. Despite my reservations about the wonky aspect ratio, this turned out to be an accomplished film that stands out in just about every area that matters, from styling to performances to pacing, everything is polished to perfection. It's a film that should do well among more serious film fans and people who like subdued dramas. Distribution is going to be the only big hurdle here, so fingers crossed that this one will eventually get the release it deserves.
06. Piety [La Piedad] by Eduardo Casanova
Piety is exactly the confirmation I was looking for. It strengthens Casanova's signature while also showing the necessary versatility to ensure a prolonged career in film. The cinematography is crazy, the performances are all-in and the score is fitting. Add to that a wildly entertaining and unique premise, and you have a film that lingers. If he commits, I think Casanova could be around for quite a while, but even if he bows out now, he has two films to his name that will be fondly remembered by all those who appreciate cinema that dares to be different from the norm.
05. The Fifth Thoracic Vertebra by Park Sye-young
Films like these don't come around very often. The Fifth Thoracic Vertebra is the work of someone with a clear vision, the talent to execute it, and the business savvy (or plain relentlessness) to bring a project like this to fruition. It's a neat mix of indie, arthouse, and horror elements, and it's nice to finally see South Korea venture in this direction. I'll be keeping my eye on Park, he seems like the kind of director who will be able to build on this success, but even if he never makes another film, it's good to know he at least contributed one masterpiece.
04. Memoir of a Snail by Adam Elliot
Memoirs of a Snail may not be a sequel, but it's a direct spiritual successor to Mary and Max, offering the exact same appeal in a different narrative with different characters. That's my only reason for scoring the film a bit lower, as I feel 15 years was more than enough time to tweak the formula a tiny bit more, and give it a more contemporary edge. I realize it's extreme nitpicking with so much loveliness on display, and fans of Elliot shouldn't be worried when seeking out his latest. It's an absolute delight from start to finish and one of the best stop-motion films I've seen in ages.
03. The Substance by Coralie Fargeat
Revenge was a great little genre flick that showcased Fargeat's budding talent, The Substance is the ultimate proof that she has it in her to become one of the greats. It's a bold, inventive, and provoking film, sporting superb performances and a lush presentation, adding to rather than stealing from the work of geniuses that came before her. I'm not sure where Fargeat has to go from here, The Substance is a tough film to follow up, but I'm sure she won't disappoint. And even if she does, bringing a film like this to theaters has bought her more than enough credit to survive a couple of mishaps in the future.
02. Mononoke Movie: Paper Umbrella [Gekijouban Mononoke Karakasa] by Kenji Nakamura
I miss the time when films like Mononoke were easier to come by. They've never been dominant, but at least you could count on the anime industry to deliver multiple ones each year. Now, having even one per year is exceptional (thank God China has stepped in to soften the blow). Luckily, Mononoke didn't miss the mark. It's an overwhelming sensory experience, sporting insane visuals, and a splendid score, bringing to life an elaborate and complex story that warrants multiple watches. I can't wait to see what the sequels bring, but no doubt this first film is poised to become a future classic.
01. Dreams on Fire by Philippe McKie
My expectations for Dreams on Fire were quite minimal going in, but it quickly establishes itself as a film that transcends its genre limitations. Thanks to the lush cinematography, the superb score, and several beautiful dance choreographies this is way more than the umpteenth inspirational sports flick. McKie is a talented man who truly feels at home in Japan, and whose style is visibly influenced by Japanese media (those aerial shots of Tokyo just ooze late 80s/early 90s anime). He's a young, talented voice with a strong and bold vision, and his first feature film deserves a bigger audience.