Number 5: The Fall Guy – Directed by David Leitch, this action comedy tells the story of professional stuntman Colt Seavers, portrayed by Ryan Gosling (coasting off his “Ken” fame), signing onto a new movie with the hopes of rekindling a romance with its director, portrayed by Emily Blunt. Unfortunately, the film’s lead actor disappears, and Colt soon finds himself in the midst of the action. Between the chemistry of the two leads, impressive action sequences and much more, The Fall Guy is an epic summer blockbuster that reminds us of why we go to the movies. It is such a shame that the film underperformed at the box office. Number 4: Furiosa – A Mad Max Saga: Speaking of films
that should have had a better financial showing, Furiosa is the long-awaited prequel to the acclaimed Mad Max: Fury Road (my personal favorite of the Mad Max franchise) that explores the violent origins of the titularwarrioress. To begin, George Miller knows how to make great action movies! The same style that elevated Fury Road is also seen here. Anya Taylor-Joy plays a convincing protagonist, blending the proper amount of broken humanity and callousness that makes Furiosa a great character. In addition, audiences are treated to Chris Hemsworth in an against-type but welcome turn as the antagonistic Dr. Dementus. Number 3: Longlegs – Now migrating from action to horror is the sleeper hit, Longlegs, a movie worth watching, simply for Nicolas Cage’s creepy acting. This procedural thriller centers around an FBI agent investigating a serial killer case spanning decades, seemingly pointing to the enigmatic title character. Cage delivers a truly horrifying performance, making masterful use of his limited screen time. While not reaching the heights of the 90s thrillers it pays homage to, Longlegs still ranks as one of 2024’s better cinematic offerings. Number 2: The Substance – Yet another horror movie on the list is The Substance, starring Demi Moore in a truly Oscar-worthy role. Moore portrays aging celebrity Elisabeth Sparkle who buys a black- market drug known as “The Substance” in an attempt to regain the fame she desperately craves, unaware of the drastic consequences. The raw intensity she brings to the role had me hooked the entire time. The movie itself is an experience, to say the very least. Serving as a 21st-century iteration of The Picture of Dorian Gray, this film is a
disturbing, yet striking critique on vanity, superficiality, and the impossible standards of beauty society imposes on women. A body horror film at its finest, The Substance is not meant for the squeamish, especially its grotesque third act. You’ve been warned… Number 1: Deadpool and Wolverine – Yes, it’s a bit of a cliché and mainstream, but I am a die-hard Deadpool, Marvel, and in general, superhero fan, which is why it was great to see a film that celebrates (and satirizes) those elements. Ryan Reynolds was, of course, hysterical as the red-suited, foul-mouthed antihero, but as usual, he incorporated the right amount of serious moments as well. His chemistry with co-star and friend, Hugh Jackman, was great, as expected. And of course, the bevy of cameos and easter eggs was a well-received treat. Deadpool and Wolverine was worth the wait and left me wanting more from the “Merc with a Mouth,” making it my favorite film of 2024.
