Although it’s impossible to predict what films will rise to the top of 2024’s best-in-show, various upcoming projects have cemented their names in the circle. Most selections on this list are of big-name or big-franchise appeal, garnering interest from sheer recognizability and familiarity. Though I wish my list featured a little more variety in the realm of indie and international cinema, I’m nevertheless excited to watch these 10 new releases this year.
10. “I Saw the TV Glow” — Jan. 18 (Sundance Film Festival)
“I Saw the TV Glow” is an upcoming horror film from A24 and one of two resident indie selections on the list. It’s the second feature film from non-binary American filmmaker Jane Schoenbrun following their breakout turn in experimental horror, “We’re All Going to the World’s Fair.” I’m interested to see Schoenbrun play with an inflated budget. Their art-driven, unconventional style meshes nicely with A24’s ambitious and unpredictable horror catalog. The film follows teenager Owen (Justice Smith), who is introduced to a mysterious TV show exposing the supernatural world beneath our own.
9. “Gladiator 2” — Nov. 22
The upcoming sequel to Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning action epic is set to release in November. The film stars Paul Mescal as Lucius — the son of Connie Nielsen’s Lucilla. The plot details are limited, but I expect a hero’s journey similar to its predecessor. I’m excited to see Mescal take over this role. He’s one of my favorite working actors after a heartbreakingly endearing performance in “Aftersun.” If it weren’t for Scott’s sputtering track record as of late with “House of Gucci” and “Napoleon,” it’d undoubtedly fall higher on the list.
8. “Deadpool 3” — Jul. 26
While middle school me would’ve been frothing at the mouth for any Deadpool content I could access, I’m slightly lukewarm on this one. Ryan Reynolds is great in this role, no doubt, but I’m worried the character may be stretched thin. The return of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine leaves a bad taste in my mouth, especially considering his perfectly bittersweet conclusion in “Logan.” Still, it’s the first time we’ll see X-Men characters brought to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. If there’s some life left in the franchise, I hope to see it realized here.
7. “Inside Out 2” — Jun. 14
“Inside Out 2” marks the third sequel on this list that I’m intrigued by, yet I have my reservations. I adore the original film and am excited to see our beloved emotions welcome anxiety and crew to Riley’s brain, but its inherent lack of novelty worries me. On top of that, legendary animation director Pete Docter is not returning to helm the project. Still, Riley’s teenage years should be interesting to explore. Despite some recent stinkers, Pixar can never be underestimated to produce something special. Trailer
6. “Civil War” — Apr. 26
“Civil War” is the latest feature film from “Ex Machina” and “Annihilation” writer/director Alex Garland. Known for blending science-fiction, horror and action, Garland is the main draw for the film. The interesting premise studies a group of war journalists attempting to survive while reporting the truth as the United States stands on the brink of civil war. I think the film succeeds only if it doesn’t take its conflict too seriously. I’m not looking for a hyper-realistic look into the bleak future of the country but rather a fun, twisted thriller that touches on political themes. Trailer
5. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” — May. 24
“Furiosa” is George Miller’s follow-up and prequel to the award-winning technical beast “Mad Max: Fury Road.” The film follows the trials and tribulations of a young Furiosa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy. I expect flooring visuals, incredible action sequences and a fierce lead performance. While I doubt it will live up to its predecessor, Miller certainly knows what he’s doing with this franchise. Trailer
4. “Challengers” — Apr. 26
“Challengers” has been on my radar for a while now. Originally expected to be released last year, Luca Guadagnino’s latest was pushed back due to the Hollywood strikes. The story follows a tennis-player-turned-coach (Zendaya) who encourages her husband (Mike Faist) to compete in a low-level tournament to improve his morale. When he encounters his former best friend and wife’s former boyfriend in a match, a complicated triangle of relationships is put to the test. Guadagnino, creator of “Call Me By Your Name” and “Bones and All,” is known for portraying bold, complex relationships. I expect wicked twists, steamy encounters and a whole lot of drama. Trailer
3. “Dune: Part Two” — Mar. 1
Denis Villeneuve’s long-awaited sequel needs no introduction. “Dune” blew audiences away in 2021 with its larger-than-life visual atmosphere and breathtaking technical production. One of the primary complaints about the film was a feeling of incompleteness, which is sure to be remedied with a grander, action-packed and more climactic second entry. Now that the world and characters are fully established, the film should demand less time for set-up and fully dive into the meat of what makes this franchise so special — giant sandworms, large-scale battle sequences, space romance and interplanetary dispute. Trailer
2. “Nosferatu” — Dec. 25
Robert Eggers is at the helm to reimagine one of the most influential horror flicks ever. Sign me up. The original “Nosferatu” was a monumental German classic released in 1922. Its unique take on Dracula is the perfect candidate for a modern remake. Bill Skarsgård, who has made a name for himself playing creepy weirdos, is back for more. Eggers has become a prolific storyteller, exploring the dark side of cinema with “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse.” His technical prowess and layered character-building are sure to be on full display.
1. “Mickey 17” — Delayed indefinitely (previously Mar. 29)
“Mickey 17” lands the top spot and quite easily. A science-fiction film from Bong Joon-ho starring Robert Pattinson, simply put, sounds like the greatest thing ever. It’s Bong’s first film since taking over the world with “Parasite” in 2019. Though unfortunately delayed indefinitely, I still expect a 2024 release and am beyond excited to witness it in theaters. For the rest of his life, Bong has earned the right to toy with any genre at any scale. How lucky are we?
