Well, well, well, what a year it’s been! 2024 brought us a new lineup of movies that either had us on the edge of our seats or wished we’d just stayed home with a Netflix subscription.
Grab your popcorn, because we’re about to toast (and roast) this hot mess of brilliance and absolute disaster. Let’s break it down, shall we?
When Animation Steals the Spotlight
2024 was THE year that animated movies proved they’re not just for kids. “Inside Out 2” hit us straight in the feels, forcing us to cry-laugh (mostly cry) and question everything about the teenage brain (thanks, Riley).
If you didn’t see “Despicable Me 4”, you clearly missed out on a whole lot of chaos! More Minions, more mischief, and we loved every second of it. Gru and his little yellow troublemakers still know how to steal the show (and our hearts).
And who could forget “Kung Fu Panda 4” where Po served up wisdom, reminding us that a little heart, humour, and dumplings can save the world? And Disney’s “Moana 2” sailed in – a long-awaited wave of nostalgia with a splash of twist!
Bigger, Badder, Bloodier: The Year of Explosive Action
If your idea of a good time involves explosions, monsters, and heroes (or anti-heroes), 2024 delivered in spades.
The frenemies duo of “Deadpool & Wolverine” broke the fourth wall (and every rule of decency) and had fans roaring with laughter and wincing with gore. It was sharp, sarcastic, and unapologetically rude – everything we love about a good Deadpool flick. “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”? Epic monster battles, mind-blowing CGI, and the kind of spectacle that makes you wonder if bigger really IS better. Spoiler alert: it is!
But the action didn’t stop there. Marvel gave another dose of anti-hero fun, with the ever-unpredictable Venom and Eddie Brock’s chaotic bromance in “Venom: The Last Dance”, while “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” treated us to the fiery fury we’ve been craving since Fury Road. And, of course, “Gladiator II” delivered yet more bloody glory – because who doesn’t love a good fight to the death in the Colosseum?
The Dark Side of Cinema: Movies That Gave Us Nightmares
Now let’s talk Horror… “Terrifier 3” went so far into the realm of gore that we’re still wondering if it crossed a line or started a new genre. Either way, it had fans screaming (and possibly running for cover). Meanwhile “Alien: Romulus” made us rethink what it means to feel trapped in space. It was claustrophobic, terrifying, and everything we love about the franchise.
For those of you who prefer your scares served with a side of mystery, “Immaculate” was your go-to, because who doesn’t love a psychological thriller that keeps you up at night?
Legends on Screen: The Musicals and Biopics That Shined Bright
2024 brought the noise when it came to musicals and biopics. “Wicked” made its way from Broadway to the big screen, bringing its iconic magic to a whole new audience. But “Joker: Folie à Deux”? Ahem, let’s just say Gotham and jazz hands don’t exactly mix… Not every musical hits the right note, right?
But biopics? They hit home. “Bob Marley: One Love” was pure rhythm and soul, a celebration of a legend’s life. And “Back to Black” took us deep into Amy Winehouse’s tumultuous world, leaving us emotionally gutted in the best possible way. These films weren’t just stories; they were powerful tributes to unforgettable icons.
Bollywood & Beyond: Lights, Desi Drama & Action!
Bollywood brought the drama as usual but with some surprising twists. “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” continued its legacy of chills and laughs, while “Kalki 2898 AD” pushed the boundaries of sci-fi spectacle.
But the real standout for Mauritius? “The Heist” made history with Nad Sham as the first Mauritian lead in a Bollywood blockbuster. You better believe the pride was real!
Blockbusters vs. Flops: The Hits and Misses
Now, for the tea! While films like “Dune: Part Two” and “Mufasa: The Lion King” roared at the box office, some big names fell flat. “Joker: Folie à Deux” confused more than it captivated, “Madame Web” was a tangled mess, and “Borderlands”… well, it couldn’t live up to its high-flying video game roots. Better luck next time, Hollywood!
But there’s one film that deserves an honourable mention not just for its storyline but for the controversies surrounding its release: “It Ends With Us”. This adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s beloved novel was meant to be a heartfelt love story, with a powerful message about domestic violence. But the real drama wasn’t on-screen, it was all behind the scenes! Tensions between stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni (who also directed the film) turned the press tour into a full-on awkward spectacle. Who needs a plot twist when you’ve got a full-blown Hollywood soap opera, don’t you think?
That’s a Wrap!
“And with that, the 2024 season comes to an end” – time to lower the curtain! This year was a blockbuster buffet: some served up cinematic highs, while others left us craving more. So, what’s your takeaway? Which movies had you eating up every scene, and which ones made you wish you’d burned your ticket?
