Louisa’s 10 Best Movies of 2024

10. Memoir of a Snail

It’s been a long time since I’ve been moved by a piece of cinema as much as I was with “Memoir of a Snail,” a dark, profound, and highly personal stop-motion film from writer / director Adam Elliot . This work of animation confirms the power of the medium as a vessel for mature, deeply philosophical storytelling, and it’s just a beautiful film from start to finish.

Crafted with painstaking detail, the film is a bittersweet memoir of Grace Pudel (voice of Sarah Snook), a woman overcome with melancholy in 1970s Australia. When she was younger, Grace and her twin brother Gilbert (voice of Kodi Smit-McPhee) were separated and sent to grow up in starkly contrasting home environments. He was abused in a cruel Evangelical household while she found herself slowly withdrawing from the world. Isolated and sad, Grace’s life journey is one that’s filled with repeated heartbreak, but she still has a few passions in life (including romance novels, guinea pigs, and snails). This film tells her story.

The film exhibits the emotional resonance that animation can achieve when placed in the hands of a skilled storyteller. Intense and authentic, this is one for thoughtful adults rather than a throwaway for kids, especially since Elliot touches on themes of suffering, love, loss, and tragedy. This highly emotional film hit me, hard.

The gloomy visual style beautifully complements the gravity of the film’s themes. Each frame feels delicately and deliberately crafted like a piece of handmade art, capturing the melancholy of Grace’s life. It’s a world that’s bleak, yet also cozy when she’s within the confines of her small world.

The story continues to show Grace’s slow transformation through her unlikely friendship with the Pinky (voice of Jacki Weaver), an eccentric elderly woman. The pair share a healing bond that adds a bittersweet layer to a narrative that’s rich with tragedy and pain. There’s a lovely tenderness to the relationship between Pinky and Grace, which gives an authentic look at the importance of human connection in an increasingly harsh world.

Achingly beautiful and deeply profound, “Memoir of a Snail” is a very different type of animated film. Powerful and complex, this is nothing short of a masterwork in animated storytelling.

9. Swan Song

Ever since I was a little girl, I have wanted to be a ballerina. There was something about the elegant way the dancers moved and swayed that had me mesmerized at a young age, and it is a love that has followed me well into adulthood. Director Chelsea McMullan‘s documentary “Swan Song” captures not only the intoxicating, dreamlike beauty of ballet, but also offers a deeply immersive look into a complex world of choreography, dance, athleticism, and determination.

Focusing on the National Ballet of Canada’s 2022 production of Swan Lake (one of the most technically challenging and physically demanding ballets to stage), the film takes viewers behind the scenes alongside first-time ballet director (and legendary dancer) Karen Kain, her choreographer, as well as several women in the corps de ballet. No matter if you are a lover of the arts or not, this film will give you a new perspective of and a deeper appreciation for the multitude of components that go into making a beautiful production.

Through intimate access to several of the dancers, McMullan captures the sheer mental and physical exhaustion of the performers. There is an immense dedication and precision required of them, and she showcases their personal stories. While the subjects have diverse personalities and come from a wide range of backgrounds, they all share a passion for dance. These interviews offer a fascinating insight into the sacrifices they’ve made, the toll it takes on their bodies, and the overwhelming intensity of the pressure that is thrust upon them.

McMullan’s camera follows these dancers through grueling rehearsals, but also documents the hard work it takes from others behind the scenes to bring a ballet to life. Kain is meticulous in her directorial details, obsessing over things like if her corps should or should not buck a longstanding tradition of wearing pink tights. That may seem like a simple choice, but the film explains why it’s a huge deal to have these women dance with bare legs (and it’s not for the reason you think). This leads to one of the most compelling parts of the documentary: a brief exploration of social and racial issues prevalent in the ballet world.

The film tackles a lot in a short amount of time, but nothing feels too rushed or too slow. As the documentary progressed, I became more and more invested in its subjects. By the time opening night arrived, I found myself holding my breath with anticipation.

Beautifully shot and filmed in a cinema verité style, “Swan Song” is a gripping look at all facets of the creative process. It is among the best documentaries I’ve seen so far this year, providing a testament to the artistry and dedication that defines ballet. I thoroughly enjoyed my front row seat to a film that so perfectly captures the romance, the agony, the profound beauty, and the complexity of dance.

8. Monkey Man

Fans of elevated revenge action films are going to be flat-out dazzled by “Monkey Man,” the directorial debut of Dev Patel (who also co-wrote and stars as the titular character). Many actors are unsuccessful when attempting to make the transition from in front of the camera to behind it, but Patel has the talent to back it up tenfold. This story of vengeance is done so well that I have very few criticisms. It exceeds expectations in all respects.

The anonymous Kid (Patel) makes a living by sparring for cash in a seedy underground fight club. His gimmick includes wearing a gorilla mask and agreeing to take the fall to his more popular opponents. After enduring bloody beatings for years while carrying with him a terrible childhood trauma, Kid’s rage has grown to astronomical levels. When he discovers a way to infiltrate the city’s elaborate network of corrupt leaders who are responsible for his mother’s death, Kid makes it his personal mission to exact revenge. In the process, he becomes a savior of the people, an underdog who helps the powerless settle the score and right the wrongs that they’ve all endured at the hands of the elite.

It’s a simple story that works well for a revenge film, as Kid has a great motivation for unleashing his violent retribution. This makes him a hero you want to root for. He’s a murderer, but the people he kills most certainly had it coming. Patel (along with co-writers Paul Angunawela and John Collee) include culturally-appropriate thematic elements that make a statement on the current political climate in India, which lends a depth to the story that makes it as meaningful as it is entertaining.

Heavily influenced by “The Raid,” “John Wick,” and Korean cinema, eagle-eyed viewers will catch many references and homages to these films. Thankfully, Patel’s approach doesn’t feel like a sad imitation of similar revenge action movies. The production values are fantastic, and every element falls into place. Patel has a great visual style that feels like he’s approaching his direction as a fan who understands the language of cinema (particularly action). There is some really creative stuff here, from the inventive kills to the exciting stunts.

The fight choreography is nothing short of excellent, and the realistic makeup and stunt coordination combine to make the hand-to-hand brawls feel so authentic The sets and creative duels are absolutely terrific, and fans of the genre will not be disappointed.

The film has its share of violent, bloody mayhem, but it’s not as action-packed as you may be led to believe. There is a lot of story, but it’s a strong one. The fighting doesn’t start until a good 40 minutes into the film, so it’s a good thing that the dramatic elements work so well (the narrative lags briefly about halfway through, however).

The biggest surprise to come out of the film is that Patel actually has the talent to back up everything he attempts, from the stunt work (which resulted in multiple personal injuries), writing, direction, and acting. Lanky and thin, he’s an atypical action star, but he sells it here as a scrappy yet powerful fighter who is dismissed as “a kid from the gutter.” You will cheer when Kid embarks on his savage rampage of revenge, especially when this nobody eventually becomes a somebody. Turns out, Patel is a badass action star with an undeniable charm, which makes for a magic combination.

“Monkey Man” strikes the right balance between meaningful political commentary and full-speed fun, and Patel does both equally well. Topped off with its stylish, gritty atmosphere and high-energy action, this is the type of film that will get you energized about the genre.

7. Dead Talents Society

Co-writer and director John Hsu’s “Dead Talents Society” is a refreshingly inventive blend of horror, comedy, and heartfelt drama that breathes new life into the ghost story genre. With its clever twist on traditional horror tropes and a vibrant exploration of East Asian folklore, the film emerges as a wildly inventive, imaginative, bloody, and fun celebration of both the supernatural and the absurd. From the story to the cast to the costumes to the direction, I dug just about everything this movie has to offer.

The film’s fantastical setting, quirky characters, and plot pay homage to “Beetlejuice,” where ghosts must earn their keep by terrifying the living. In order to maintain their existence in the afterlife, the deceased must obtain a “haunter’s license” or face eternal oblivion when they completely disappear into thin air. When newly dead teenager Cho (Gingle Wang) discovers that she only has a 30 day deadline to secure this document, her world is turned into one of complete chaos. With help from her undead best friend (Ching-i Pai) and a couple of old-timers who are well-versed in the art of the scare, Cho learns the ropes of the afterlife.

The heart of the film comes from a dynamic cast of characters, including a charismatic ghost talent agent (Bo-lin Chen) and a former superstar phantom diva (Sandrine Pinna), who lead a ragtag group of misfit haunters. The chemistry between these characters fuels much of the movie’s charm, and the more desperate their efforts are to scare up terror within the living, the funnier things get. These are people you want to spend time with (or at least get haunted by). The cast plays so well off each other too, each tackling their role with complete sincerity. The tone isn’t over-the-top goofy, but grounded with a touching story about friendship, family, identity, and the very human desire to be remembered.

Hsu clearly has an affection for the genre, which makes his witty satire of horror conventions work so well. This is a very funny movie that trades in more intense scares for a more playful take on supernatural themes. Hsu skewers horror tropes while infusing his film with a fresh, creative perspective, creating a project that lovingly mocks its genre even as it pays homage to it. The film also incorporates Taiwanese urban legends into the story line, which adds an authentic cultural layer that enriches the narrative with folklore. I’ve never seen anything so ambitious come together quite as well as this, which is why it feels so exciting.

Hsu’s visual style is well-versed in both horror aesthetics and comedic timing. Stylish and vibrant, the set design and special effects are crafted to reflect the whimsical as well as the eerie nature of a modern day ghost story. The humor is consistently funny, with sharp dialogue and a parade of increasingly amusing spooky scenarios that are balanced with sincere, heartfelt moments. The emotions here are genuine, with touching scenes working in tandem with the parts that are laugh-out-loud funny.

With its engaging characters, witty script, vibrant direction, and supernatural shenanigans, everything about “Dead Talents Society” is absurdly clever. Horror fans, don’t miss this one.

6. A Different Man

Much like its lead character, there is a plethora of disquieting unrest boiling beneath the surface of “A Different Man,” writer / director Aaron Schimberg’s haunting exploration of identity, disability, and the value society places on the idea of beauty. The unsettling atmosphere and deliberate pacing work in tandem to create a film that’s as haunting as it is profound.

Struggling actor Edward Lemuel (Sebastian Stan) has been living with neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form throughout the body and on the skin. After he begins a relationship with his theater director neighbor Ingrid (Renate Reinsve), Edward grows increasingly unhappy with his disfigured appearance and undergoes a radical medical transformation that promises to make him what society deems “handsome.” It goes off without a hitch, except that Edward’s new face (and reinvented identity as a conceited jerk named Guy Moratz) lead him down a dark and obsessive path that eventually leads to tragedy.

It’s a fascinating vehicle for exploring big themes of self-worth, disability, and how society ties value to beauty, and Schimberg executes a familiar story in a new and different way. The narrative poses difficult questions about isolation and social status, especially when it comes to a person’s outward appearance.

Edward’s transformation certainly alters his physicality, but the film examines whether such a drastic change can truly liberate someone if they are still trapped by their inner turmoil. It’s chilling when Edward perpetuates the claim that his former self has committed suicide, which in itself is a chilling metaphor for the lengths people go to escape their perceived flaws while embracing a new version of themselves.

Isolation is a major theme in the narrative, and it’s distressing to watch Edward’s loneliness, sadness, and painful metamorphosis. On the flip side, there’s also a deep kindness at the core of the story that contrasts with his growing internalized anguish and desire to reclaim his lost sense of self. His early interactions with Ingrid are nothing short of lovely, which makes it all the more heartbreaking to see him throw away all the positives in his life.

Provocative and deeply poignant, “A Different Man” is a film about the masks we wear and the insecurities that can fester beneath the surface. It doesn’t offer easy answers, but it’s one that will stick with me for a while.

5. Bad Boys: Ride or Die

I had a blast watching “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” the fourth installment in the popular buddy comedy / action franchise that started off with a bang way back in 1995. Co-directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, back at the helm after 2020’s “Bad Boys for Life,” pay homage to the “Bad Boys” legacy while injecting new life into it. As a longtime fan, this film actually over delivers. It is everything I wanted and more. I feel like the word-of-mouth on this movie is going to be electric and if audiences decide to show up, it very well could be the movie that saves the summer box office.

When their former Captain and friend Conrad Howard (Joe Pantoliano) is implicated in a corruption scandal involving a dangerous cartel, Miami police officers Marcus (Martin Lawrence) and Mike (Will Smith) have to work to clear his name. After a series of unexpected events, the partners find themselves on the other end of the law. Now on the run as wanted criminals (and on a hit list of local gangs), Mike and Marcus must stay ahead of the cops and the cartel while rushing to solve the mystery of who wants to frame the late Captain Howard. With danger closing in and not knowing who to trust, the men must rely on their wits, their friendship, and their street-smart instincts to survive.

There is a lot that works well here, starting with a strong story where the stakes are high, the danger feels real, and the villain is formidable. The plot, which isn’t loaded with silly twists and turns, is actually plausible. It’s a rare combination in what could’ve been just another mindless summer blockbuster, and there’s a lot more meat on the bones, narrative-wise. The film also rekindles a love for what I now consider modern iconic characters. Marcus and Mike may be older, but their banter, camaraderie, and comedic timing all still feel relevant. Most of this is due to Smith and Lawrence being a terrific pair, bickering with a natural chemistry that comes across as effortless. You believe these two guys would give their lives for each other, which makes the story even stronger. It is such a pleasure to see these two back together again.

The R-rated action is among the best of the franchise, too, from high-speed chases to intense, bloody shootouts. There are a series of inventive scenes that are expertly choreographed and storyboarded, and it’s been a while since I’ve seen such fresh and original action sequences like the ones here. The creativity sets (and hits) a higher bar, and El Arbi and Fallah’s contemporary directorial approach is stylish, energetic, and results in adrenaline-fueled action scenes that are so well done that the film is a literal heart pounder. This is one of those stand up and cheer type of films that’s best experienced with an audience that’s also fired up to be there.

I absolutely loved everything about “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.” It’s the type of action film that’s done so well, you’ll leave the theater feeling that overwhelming sense of exhilaration that can only be described as a Hollywood high. If you love the genre, make it a priority to go see this one.

4. A Real Pain

I was enamored from start to finish by “A Real Pain,” the sophomore feature effort from writer-director Jesse Eisenberg. While I wasn’t a fan of his first foray into filmmaking (see 2022’s “When You Finish Saving the World“), Eisenberg finds total success here, with his highly personal story about the relationship between two mismatched cousins and their quest to learn more about their family’s history and in turn, themselves and each other.

After the death of their beloved grandmother, incompatible cousins David (Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) reunite for a trip through Poland to honor her wishes. Their European tour takes them through her storied history, from stops at her childhood home to the World War II concentration camp that claimed so many. The highly emotional trip causes old tensions to resurface between the two men, as deeply buried disagreements and trauma come back into the light.

The film is poignant and sincere, with a script that’s filled with humor, honesty, and wit. The characters are so well written (and beautifully acted), from the charismatic Benji (who masks his depression through charm) to the love and frustration David feels with his cousin. These two are sort of estranged yet also not, but there is a genuine love and mutual respect between them.

Culkin once again gives a phenomenal turn as Benji, and Eisenberg’s anxious affability makes him the natural choice to play David. These characters are just as strong as the story, and Eisenberg gets you engaged right away. Even the fellow travelers on the tour (Jennifer Grey, Daniel Oreskes, Kurt Egyiawan) are perfectly written and acted. While you never actually see grandma, after the film is over you feel like you knew her. That’s a testament to how expertly the movie is rendered.

“A Real Pain” is a standout film, and it was my favorite by a mile at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Every element of this project works in perfect tandem as Eisenberg captures the joy and pain of family with a beautiful authenticity.

3. Conclave

I can count on one hand the films that made me audibly gasp in the theater, and “Conclave” is one of those few. Directed by Edward Berger and based on the novel by Robert Harris, this surprising, shocking story offers a commanding exploration of the exceptionally secretive world of the Vatican’s electoral process. With a high-stakes story (along with a whopper of a twist), an effective original score (by Volker Bertelmann), intelligent screenplay (adapted by Peter Straughan), handsome cinematography (from Stéphane Fontaine), and standout performances from the cast, this is one of the most compelling (and guaranteed to be talked about) films of the year.

Set against the backdrop of the Pope’s unexpected death, the film tells the story of the subsequent conclave of Cardinals who gather from around the world to elect his successor from among themselves. Sequestered within the claustrophobic confines of the papal residence in Vatican City, alliances are formed and truths are unearthed as a few of the men plot to become the next Pope. As all contact with the outside world is forbidden, the Cardinals wrestle with who among them will shape the future of the Catholic Church and influence millions of lives globally. There are those who want a Church that will embrace progressive change, but there is also a very vocal and powerful contingent that hopes the new Pope will revert to more conservative, regressive policies.

Berger displays a keen eye for detail and a style that perfectly complements the story’s gravity, with every tense moment and game of chess taking on a critical urgency that reflects the weight of the decisions being made. The film’s portrayal of the complex, ritualistic procedures of the conclave is fascinating, and a great deal of that is due to the strong performances from the cast. Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, all portraying men who become key figures in the election, lend an intensity to the ideological battles at play. The men play off each other well, creating a dynamic that builds much of the dialogue-heavy film’s drama. In a supporting role, Isabella Rossellini gives one of the more memorable (and nuanced) performances as the silent but powerful Sister Agnes, a woman whose presence drives home the themes of tradition colliding with modernity.

This look at the intersection of faith, power, and politics is best enjoyed without prior spoilers to fully appreciate its dramatic impact, especially as it considers the role of religion in a rapidly evolving world. With a story that unfolds over a tension-filled 72 hours, “Conclave” expertly blends elements of political drama, religious ritual, and personal conflict into a stunningly effective film. This look at the intersection of faith, power, and politics is best enjoyed without prior spoilers to fully appreciate its dramatic impact, especially as it considers the role of religion in a rapidly evolving world.

2. Love Lies Bleeding

I absolutely adored the bold and audacious “Love Lies Bleeding,” director Rose Glass’ sordid story of romance, violence, and redemption. Combining a lesbian love story with a brawny thriller, this gritty, bloody, and brash film was one of my favorites to come out of this year’s Sundance Film Festival.

Lou (Kristen Stewart), a reclusive gym worker who spends her days mopping floors, unclogging toilets, and laminating membership cards, is barely surviving her small-town existence. Her world transforms in an instant when the transient bodybuilder Jackie (Katy O’Brian) crosses her path. Lou falls hard for those rock hard muscles, and she invites Jackie to move in with her. Ambitious to a fault, Jackie begins training for a competition in Las Vegas (and starts injecting steroids at the encouragement of Lou). The plan is for the two to take an epic road trip out West, but a startling act of violence involving Lou’s sister (Jena Malone) and brother-in-law (Dave Franco) changes everything. The truth about Lou’s criminal family is revealed, further complicating not only her romance with Jackie, but pulling both women into a web of absolute mayhem.

Glass has created a film with a deliciously pulpy, crime thriller vibe. Her bold and distinctive style is reflected with a voice that practically screams with an underlying rage and intensity (and one of the best uses of magical realism I’ve ever seen in a movie). Lou and Jackie are flawed people, but you just can’t help rooting for their relationship. They are capable and guilty of some very, very bad things, but goddamn if these two aren’t meant for each other with their explosive love story for the ages.

Stewart and O’Brian deliver stunning performances, embodying their characters with a ferocious spirit that reflects the lust and desire of their tumultuous relationship. Their chemistry is palpable and intense, which lends an additional layer of authenticity to the story. The supporting cast is nothing short of terrific too, with effective turns from Anna Baryshnikov, Ed Harris, Franco, and Malone.

Passionate and provocative, “Love Lies Bleeding” is the type of film that gets under your skin. Beneath the violence and revenge, it’s a queer love story that’s hopelessly and breathlessly romantic.

1. Flow

Director Gints Zilbalodis has created a visionary work of art with “Flow,” an absolutely jaw-dropping, stunning animated film that takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through both the natural and mystical realms. Following a courageous cat and an unlikely band of animal companions as they navigate a flooded, post-apocalyptic world, the film is an emotionally charged, visually immersive film that combines high stakes, environmental themes, and an unforgettable sense of adventure.

This is a film that completely drew me in from the very first frame, and not just with its beautiful animation, but with its deep, resonant story about survival, cooperation, and the fragility of our planet. This is one of the best films of the year, and it’s unlike anything I have ever seen before.

The story centers around a little black cat whose home is devastated by a catastrophic flood. Forced to flee after a devastating event (there are no humans to be found and only traces of them remain), he eventually finds refuge on an abandoned boat. The cat teams up with a menagerie of other animals, including a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog, all of whom have been displaced from their homes. Relying on trust, courage, and their collective wits to survive the increasingly dangerous environment, the animals must now work together to navigate the perilous waters in search of dry land.

What sets this story apart from other animated films is its compelling and unique approach to animal behavior. While the animals display primal instincts, the film also incorporates a fantasy element where they seem to take on more human-like qualities (thankfully none talk, and no words are spoken in the entire film).

Zilbalodis and his team focus on a more nuanced, naturalistic portrayal of these animals rather than having the characters engage in zany antics or delivering silly punchlines. There are subtle hints, like exploring the solitary nature of the cat while watching as he slowly learns the benefits of cooperating with others. One of the more interesting aspects of the story is when the animals form mini societies on their floating vessels, giving the film an intriguing balance between realism and imagination. Even through non-verbal communication, the interactions between the characters feel authentic, especially as their survival instincts kick in. This is incredibly thoughtful and sophisticated storytelling.

The visual style is breathtaking, as the film is set in a lush, flooded world. Everything feels so meticulously crafted in a way that evokes the haunting beauty and disquieting peril of a newly aquatic landscape. Just when you think the film can’t look any more spectacular, yet another scene comes along that’s even more stunning than the last. This is one for lovers of the art form of cinema.

The floodwaters that have taken over the planet become a character in their own right, creating an atmosphere of constant tension and uncertainty. Everything about this film kept me on the edge of my seat. This is a story of survival, and the animals struggle. This isn’t a story that’s all wrapped up in a neat little bow, and the environmental themes are a substantial, poignant meditation on climate change and the destruction of our planet’s ecosystems.

Zilbalodis wisely avoids making things too bleak or heavy-handed and finds moments of hope and warmth through the animals’ shared journey. There’s a beautiful message about cooperation and the power of friendship, especially in the face of insurmountable odds, that provides a constant (if faint) feeling of much appreciated optimism.

At its heart, “Flow” is a film about survival, trust, and community. Its narrative may be simple, but it’s filled with profound emotional depth. Whether you’re an animal lover or someone who enjoys a thoughtful ecological tale, this film offers something for everyone. It’s a beautifully crafted adventure that doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, but it also fills you with a sense of wonder and possibility.

By combining impressive visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and a powerful environmental message, “Flow” is as enchanting as it is thought-provoking. I was deeply moved by the film’s themes and captivated by not only the beauty of the animation, but also its overall spirit.

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