Best Movies of 2024: The 7 Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
- Veeeeeee...
- Jan 10
- 19 min read
Updated: Oct 23
It's a wrap for 2024, and as we gear up for new releases and more from the creatives we love, we ought to do a quick recap of the year that was. That's in terms of movies, of which there were a few memorable ones from 2024. Here's what I think were some of the best movies we saw in 2024 so that if you missed out on any, you can catch up and start the year on a fresh slate. I have indicated the genre because this list has practically everything in it, get ready get ready (insert THAT meme here...)
2024's Most Memorable Releases
Quick Picks: Find Your Perfect 2024 Movie
🎭 Best Overall: On Air (Kenyan Cinema)
🎬 Best Action: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
👨👩👧 Best Family Film: Inside Out 2
🦸 Best Superhero Movie: Deadpool & Wolverine
🤖 Best Animation: Transformers One
⚔️ Best Fantasy Adventure: Damsel
Table of Contents
About This List: Our Selection Process
As a team of film enthusiasts at Geekspeak Radio, we collectively watched and discussed over 200 films released in 2024. On a Tuesday afternoon in our studio, we came together to debate, defend, and ultimately choose the films that stood out not just for their entertainment value, but for their impact, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.
Our Criteria:
Storytelling Excellence: Does the narrative engage and satisfy?
Technical Achievement: Cinematography, sound design, editing, visual effects
Cultural Impact: Did it spark conversations or move the needle?
Rewatchability: Would we recommend it to friends and watch it again?
Representation: Does it showcase diverse voices and perspectives?
Each team member nominated one film, and several titles received multiple mentions—a testament to their quality. What emerged is a list spanning genres, budgets, and audiences, proving 2024 was a phenomenal year for cinema.
1. On Air (2024) - A Kenyan Thriller That Demands Your Attention
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Genre: Thriller/True Story
Runtime: 105 minutes
Director: Edwin Nyongesa (Edu G)
Where to Watch: [Kenyan cinemas, select streaming platforms]
Language: English, Swahili
Why It Topped Our List
On Air wasn't just the most-mentioned film in our roundtable—it was the film that sparked the most passionate discussion. This Kenyan thriller, based on true events from 2011, proves that powerful cinema doesn't require a Hollywood budget, just compelling storytelling and skilled execution.
The Story
Without spoiling the experience, On Air follows events that unfolded at a Nairobi radio station, creating a tense, real-time thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. What makes it exceptional is its restraint—director Edwin Nyongesa understands that sometimes what you don't show is more powerful than what you do.
What Makes It Special
Authenticity: Being based on real events that many Kenyan audiences remember adds layers of emotional weight. The film doesn't sensationalize or dramatize unnecessarily—it trusts the inherent drama of the situation.
Performance: The cast delivers performances that feel genuine and lived-in. There's no scenery chewing or over-the-top reactions, just people responding authentically to extraordinary circumstances.
Technical Execution: Despite budget constraints compared to Hollywood productions, the cinematography, sound design, and editing are all top-notch. The film uses its limitations as strengths, creating intimacy and tension through its focused approach.
Cultural Significance: On Air represents the growing sophistication of Kenyan cinema. It's a film that can stand alongside international thrillers while maintaining its distinctly East African perspective.
Who Should Watch
Thriller fans who appreciate tension over gore
Anyone interested in East African cinema and its evolution
True story enthusiasts who want authentic storytelling
Film students studying efficient, impactful filmmaking
Content Notes: Intense situations, some language, themes of violence (not graphic)
Read our full non-spoiler review: Here
2. Damsel (2024) - Subverting Fairy Tale Expectations
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 56% Critics, 65% Audience
Genre: Action/Adventure/Fantasy
Runtime: 110 minutes
Director: Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Ray Winstone, Angela Bassett
Where to Watch: Netflix
Why It Made Our List
Damsel takes the "princess needs saving" trope and flips it into a survival thriller with teeth—literally, since there's a dragon involved. While the title suggests a helpless maiden, what we get is a resourceful protagonist fighting for her life in ways that feel fresh and engaging.
The Story
Elodie (Millie Bobby Brown) agrees to marry a prince to help her struggling family, only to discover she's been selected not as a bride, but as a sacrifice to appease a dragon. Thrown into a pit, she must use her wits, determination, and whatever resources she can find to survive and escape.
What Works
Millie Bobby Brown's Performance: She carries the film on her shoulders—literally, as she's alone for much of the runtime. Her physicality and emotional range keep you invested even when the script gets thin.
Subversion of Tropes: The film takes joy in dismantling fairy tale expectations. The "rescue" never comes because Elodie doesn't need rescuing—she needs to save herself.
Production Design: The dragon's lair and medieval setting are gorgeously rendered. Netflix clearly invested in making this look like a theatrical release, and it shows.
The Dragon: When we finally see the full creature, it's impressive. The CGI work holds up, and the dragon has presence and personality beyond just being a monster.
What Could Be Better
Predictability: Once you understand the premise, the plot beats are fairly telegraphed. There aren't many genuine surprises in how the story unfolds.
Secondary Characters: Everyone who isn't Elodie feels underwritten. Angela Bassett and Robin Wright are great actors given limited material.
Pacing: The middle section drags a bit as Elodie navigates the caves. Some tighter editing could have helped.
Who Should Watch
Fantasy adventure fans looking for female-led action
Millie Bobby Brown enthusiasts (she's excellent here)
Families with teens (appropriate for 13+)
Anyone tired of passive princess narratives
Content Notes: Fantasy violence, some intense scenes with the dragon, thematic elements of sacrifice
Similar Films: If you enjoyed this, try: The Princess (2022), Hunger Games series, Brave (2012)
3. Inside Out 2 (2024) - Pixar's Emotional Masterclass Continues
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 91% Critics, 96% Audience
Genre: Animation/Family/Comedy/Adventure
Runtime: 96 minutes
Director: Kelsey Mann
Where to Watch: Theaters (theatrical run), Disney+ (later in 2024)
Box Office: $1.46 billion worldwide (one of 2024's biggest hits)
Why It Made Our List
If you thought Pixar couldn't recapture the magic of the original Inside Out, think again. Inside Out 2 isn't just a worthy sequel—it's arguably even more impactful because it tackles something the first film didn't: the messy, complicated emotions of adolescence and the introduction of anxiety as a driving force.
The Story
Riley is now a teenager, and her emotional headquarters is about to get some new residents. Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust have been managing things pretty well, but the arrival of new emotions—including Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui—throws everything into chaos.
As Riley navigates the social pressures of teenage life, friendship dynamics, and the pressure to fit in, her emotions must learn to work together in new ways. But Anxiety has her own ideas about how to protect Riley, and they don't involve letting the old emotions maintain control.
What Makes It Exceptional
Anxiety as a Character: This is the film's masterstroke. Anxiety isn't portrayed as a villain but as an emotion trying to help Riley—just going about it in the wrong way. The personification is spot-on: frantic, exhausting, well-meaning, and ultimately overwhelming. Anyone who's dealt with anxiety will see themselves in this character.
Emotional Intelligence: Like its predecessor, Inside Out 2 doesn't talk down to its audience. It presents complex psychological concepts—defense mechanisms, panic attacks, sense of self—in ways that resonate with both children and adults.
The Animation: Pixar continues to push boundaries. The abstract sequences representing Riley's evolving sense of self are visually stunning and conceptually sophisticated.
Genuine Stakes: This isn't just "Riley has a bad day." The film explores how we construct our identity, how we handle uncertainty, and what happens when we try to control our emotions rather than experience them. Heavy stuff for an animated film, but Pixar never loses sight of hope and growth.
The Message: The film beautifully illustrates that all emotions—even the uncomfortable ones like anxiety—have value and purpose. You can't (and shouldn't try to) eliminate emotions; you need to integrate them into a healthy whole.
Why It Resonates
For Kids: They'll love the colorful characters, the adventure, and the humor. They'll also start recognizing and naming their own emotions more effectively.
For Parents: You'll cry. Multiple times. Because you'll see your own parenting anxieties, your child's struggles, and the universal experience of watching someone you love navigate difficult emotions.
For Therapists: This is genuinely useful for explaining emotional regulation and anxiety management. Many therapists have reported using clips in their practice.
Educational Value
Inside Out 2 is one of those rare films that's both entertaining and genuinely educational. It teaches:
Emotional vocabulary (naming what you feel)
Emotional regulation (managing without suppressing)
Anxiety management (recognizing spiraling thoughts)
Identity formation (you're more than one thing)
Growth mindset (changing is okay)
The Voice Cast
Returning:
Amy Poehler (Joy) - Still the heart of the film
Phyllis Smith (Sadness) - Perfect as always
Lewis Black (Anger) - Gets some great moments
New:
Maya Hawke (Anxiety) - Career-defining voice performance
Ayo Edebiri (Envy) - Brings warmth and humor
Adèle Exarchopoulos (Ennui) - Hilariously deadpan
Paul Walter Hauser (Embarrassment) - Surprisingly touching
Who Should Watch
Everyone. Seriously.
Families with children 7+ - Teachable moments galore
Teens - Will see themselves represented authentically
Parents - Will understand their kids (and themselves) better
Adults - Will ugly cry and learn something about emotional health
Therapists/Educators - Perfect tool for discussing emotional wellbeing
Content Notes: Some intense emotional moments that might be heavy for very young children. The depiction of a panic attack is realistic and could be triggering for some viewers with anxiety disorders, though it ultimately resolves in a healthy way.
Critical Reception & Impact
Inside Out 2 didn't just succeed commercially (becoming one of 2024's highest-grossing films)—it sparked important conversations about mental health, especially among young people. Schools have used it in lessons about emotional intelligence. Therapists recommend it. And audiences genuinely feel seen and understood by it.
Bottom Line: Inside Out 2 is Pixar at its best—emotionally intelligent, visually stunning, genuinely funny, and deeply meaningful. It's the rare sequel that justifies its existence and might even surpass the original.
Perfect for: Family movie night with discussion afterward, emotional education, anyone dealing with anxiety, Pixar fans, everyone
4. Transformers One (2024) - An Origin Story Done Right
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 89% Critics, 98% Audience
Genre: Animation/Action/Family/Sci-Fi
Runtime: 104 minutes
Director: Josh Cooley
Starring (Voice Cast): Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson
Where to Watch: Theaters (theatrical run), Paramount+ (streaming)
Why It Made Our List
One of our team members called Transformers One "the movie the franchise always deserved," and it's hard to argue. After years of Michael Bay's explosive but narratively thin live-action films, this animated origin story reminds us why we fell in love with Transformers in the first place: the story of friendship, betrayal, and how heroes and villains are made.
The Story
Long before they were Optimus Prime and Megatron, they were Orion Pax and D-16—two mining bots on Cybertron who dared to dream of something more. This is the story of how best friends became bitter enemies, how a society's lies shaped two destinies, and how the great Cybertronian civil war began.
What Makes It Exceptional
The Friendship: The film's greatest achievement is making you believe in—and mourn—the friendship between Orion and D-16. You watch two bots who genuinely care for each other gradually drift apart due to ideological differences and painful revelations. It's heartbreaking because you know where it ends.
Character Development: This isn't just backstory for the sake of backstory. We see the specific moments and choices that shape both characters. Orion's optimism and belief in systems, D-16's growing disillusionment and rage—both feel earned and tragic.
The Animation: Gorgeous. The art design pays homage to G1 (Generation 1) Transformers while feeling fresh and cinematic. Cybertron looks like a living, breathing world with history and culture.
The Voice Cast: Chris Hemsworth brings vulnerability and determination to Orion Pax. But Brian Tyree Henry as D-16/Megatron steals the show—his transformation from idealistic miner to revolutionary is gutting.
The Soundtrack: Original score enhances every emotional beat and action sequence. The sound design for the transformations is chef's kiss—you feel every clang and whir.
Action Sequences: When the film goes into action mode, it delivers spectacularly. The gladiator battle, the surface expedition, the final confrontation—all are gorgeously choreographed and easy to follow (unlike many of the live-action films).
Themes That Resonate
Systems of Oppression: The film has a surprising amount to say about how societies control populations through lies and limiting access to resources/knowledge.
Radicalization: D-16's arc is a study in how pain and betrayal can lead someone down darker paths, even when their initial grievances are legitimate.
The Cost of Idealism: Orion's unwavering belief that the system can be reformed from within is both his strength and his limitation.
When Friends Become Enemies: The central tragedy—how two people who love each other can end up on opposite sides—resonates far beyond robots punching each other.
For Die-Hard Fans
If you're a Transformers fan, this film is loaded with:
G1 references and Easter eggs
Origin stories for beloved characters (Bumblebee's voice!)
Cybertron lore expanded meaningfully
Respect for the source material while updating for modern audiences
For Newcomers
If you've never engaged with Transformers beyond "robots that turn into cars":
You don't need prior knowledge
The story stands on its own
It's genuinely great sci-fi storytelling
You'll understand why this franchise endures
Who Should Watch
Transformers fans (obviously—this is for you)
Animation enthusiasts who appreciate top-tier craft
Families with kids 8+ (some intense action, themes of betrayal)
Anyone who loves a good tragedy (because that's ultimately what this is)
Sci-fi fans interested in world-building
Content Notes: Sci-fi action violence (robots fighting), themes of betrayal and revolution, some intense sequences
Similar Films: If you enjoyed this, try: The Lion King (similar tragic friendship-to-enmity arc), Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (innovative animation), Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (superhero origin done right)
Bottom Line: Transformers One is the best Transformers movie since the original 1986 animated film, and it's not even close. It's proof that with good writing, strong voice acting, and respect for the material, these robots can tell genuinely moving stories.
5. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) - George Miller's Epic Prequel
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 90% Critics, 83% Audience
Genre: Action/Adventure/Post-Apocalyptic
Runtime: 148 minutes (2 hours 28 minutes)
Director: George Miller
Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke
Where to Watch: Theaters (theatrical run), Max (streaming)
Box Office: $173 million worldwide
Why It Made Our List
George Miller is 79 years old and still making some of the most visually stunning, narratively complex action films in cinema. Furiosa is a prequel to Fury Road, but it's not just fan service—it's a fully realized epic that stands on its own while enriching everything we loved about its predecessor.
The Story
Before she was the hardened Imperator we met in Fury Road, Furiosa was a child stolen from the Green Place—a mythical paradise in the wasteland. This is the story of her fifteen-year journey from kidnapped child to the woman who would eventually defy Immortan Joe. It's a revenge saga, a coming-of-age story, and a meditation on what survival costs.
What Makes It Extraordinary
Anya Taylor-Joy: She had the unenviable task of following Charlize Theron's iconic performance, but she makes the role her own. Her Furiosa is quieter, more calculating, burning with controlled rage rather than explosive fury. It's a star-making performance.
Chris Hemsworth as Dementus: Holy hell. Hemsworth is unrecognizable as the charismatic, cruel, and oddly philosophical warlord Dementus. He brings unexpected humor and pathos to a character who could have been a one-note villain. His final scene is haunting.
The Action: Miller, at nearly 80, is still the undisputed master of action cinema. The chase sequences, the war rig battles, the creative violence—every set piece is meticulously choreographed and practically executed. CGI is minimal; the stunts are real, and you can feel it.
The World-Building: Where Fury Road was a sprint through the wasteland, Furiosa is a sprawling journey that lets us see more of this world—the Bullet Farm, Gas Town, the trading routes, the politics between warlords. It's Mad Max as epic rather than chase film.
Themes of Revenge: The film doesn't glorify vengeance. It shows its cost, its futility, and how it can consume you. Furiosa's journey is as much about deciding what kind of person she'll become as it is about getting payback.
Miller's Visual Poetry: No filmmaker today uses the frame like George Miller. Every shot could be a painting. The color grading, the composition, the use of CGI to enhance rather than replace practical effects—it's masterful.
Structure & Pacing
At 2.5 hours, Furiosa is a longer sit than Fury Road's brisk 2 hours. It's structured in chapters spanning years, which gives it an epic scope but occasionally slows the momentum. However, the runtime is justified—this is a story that needs space to breathe, to show how Furiosa becomes who we know.
Comparisons to Fury Road
Fury Road was a symphony of motion—one extended chase told with precision and visual flair.Furiosa is a sprawling epic—a character study with room for reflection, world-building, and multiple storylines.
They're different films with different goals, and both succeed beautifully. Fury Road is perfect for rewatching because of its momentum. Furiosa rewards patience and attention with deeper characterization and world expansion.
The Ending (No Spoilers)
The film ends right where Fury Road begins, but it recontextualizes everything. Knowing what Furiosa sacrificed and endured makes her actions in Fury Road even more powerful. It's one of those rare prequels that enhances the original.
Who Should Watch
Mad Max fans (you're already sold)
Action cinema enthusiasts who appreciate craft
Anyone who loved Fury Road and wants more of that world
Fans of revenge stories with moral complexity
Anya Taylor-Joy fans
Who Might Struggle:
Those expecting Fury Road's non-stop pace (this is more measured)
Viewers uncomfortable with intense violence
Anyone not into post-apocalyptic settings
Content Notes: Intense action violence, some brutal imagery, themes of kidnapping and exploitation, language
Similar Films: If you enjoyed this, try: The Revenant (revenge in harsh landscape), Apocalypto (survival against odds), Fury Road (obviously), The Northman (epic revenge saga)
Bottom Line: Furiosa is proof that George Miller, nearly 80, is still at the peak of his powers. It's a worthy addition to the Mad Max saga and one of the best action films of the decade. The fact that it's both a visual spectacle AND a character study is remarkable.
6. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) - Marvel's Meta-Textual Masterpiece
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 79% Critics, 95% Audience
Genre: Action/Comedy/Superhero
Runtime: 128 minutes
Director: Shawn Levy
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman
Where to Watch: Theaters (theatrical run), Disney+ (later in 2024)
Box Office: $1.3+ billion worldwide (highest-grossing R-rated film ever)
Why It Made Our List
After a string of underwhelming MCU entries, Deadpool & Wolverine reminded everyone why superhero movies can be fun. It's irreverent, self-aware, genuinely funny, and surprisingly emotional. Plus, it gives us the Wolverine we deserved after Logan.
The Story
Wade Wilson (Deadpool) is living a quiet life when the Time Variance Authority recruits him for a mission that could save his timeline. To succeed, he needs help from a reluctant Wolverine from another universe—one who failed his world's X-Men and carries that guilt. Together, they must navigate the multiverse, fight forgettable villains, crack meta jokes, and maybe save reality.
What Works
The Chemistry: Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have electric chemistry. Their banter feels natural, their fights are brutal and hilarious, and their eventual respect for each other is earned.
Hugh Jackman's Return: After the perfect send-off in Logan, bringing Wolverine back was risky. But the film justifies it by making this a different Logan—one who failed and needs redemption. Jackman is fully committed, and it shows.
The Humor: The fourth-wall breaks, Disney jokes, Fox acquisition references, and MCU self-mockery land consistently. The film knows exactly what it is and leans into it.
Action Sequences: The fights are creative, brutal, and often hilarious. The opening fight set to Madonna's "Like a Prayer" is instant classic territory.
Emotional Beats: Amidst all the jokes and violence, there are genuine moments of emotion—Wade's love for Vanessa, Logan's guilt, the theme of found family. The film earns its heart.
Multiverse Done Right: Unlike some recent MCU entries, Deadpool & Wolverine uses the multiverse for character exploration and fan service that feels earned, not obligatory.
What Could Be Better
The Plot: Let's be honest—the story is the weakest element. The villain's motivations are thin, the stakes feel arbitrary, and the third act is predictable. But that's not really what we're here for.
Pacing: At over 2 hours, some scenes could be trimmed. A few jokes overstay their welcome, and the middle section drags slightly.
MCU Integration: While the film works standalone, it requires some familiarity with MCU lore (TVA, multiverse concepts) and Fox X-Men history to fully appreciate.
The Meta-Textual Elements
Deadpool & Wolverine is constantly commenting on:
Disney's acquisition of Fox
MCU's recent struggles
Superhero fatigue
Corporate synergy
Audience expectations
Previous X-Men films (good and bad)
If you enjoy movies that critique their own existence while delivering on genre expectations, this is catnip.
The Cameos (Mild Spoilers)
The film is loaded with surprise appearances from Fox's Marvel past. Without spoiling exactly who shows up, expect:
Fan-favorite characters from previous X-Men films
Nods to failed Fox Marvel projects
Deep-cut references that reward long-time fans
Genuine "holy shit" moments
Who Should Watch
Deadpool fans (you already bought tickets)
X-Men fans longing for Fox-era nostalgia
MCU fans who need a fun palate cleanser
Hugh Jackman enthusiasts
Anyone who enjoys R-rated comedy action
Who Should Skip:
Viewers offended by crude humor and violence
Those unfamiliar with Deadpool's style
Anyone expecting deep, meaningful superhero storytelling
Young children (it's R-rated for good reason)
Content Notes: Strong language throughout, graphic violence, sexual references and humor, drug references, crude humor
Similar Films: If you enjoyed this, try: The Suicide Squad (irreverent superhero action), Free Guy (Ryan Reynolds meta-comedy), Thor: Ragnarok (superhero comedy done well), previous Deadpool films
Bottom Line: Deadpool & Wolverine won't change your life or redefine cinema, but it will entertain the hell out of you. It's exactly what it promises: a violent, funny, self-aware romp with two beloved characters. Sometimes, that's exactly what we need.
How We Selected These Films
The Roundtable Process
In early January, our Geekspeak Radio team gathered for our annual "best of" discussion. Each contributor had watched dozens of 2024 releases and came prepared with nominations. Here's how we narrowed hundreds of films to this essential seven:
Step 1: Individual Nominations
Each team member nominated one film they believed exemplified 2024's best cinema.
Step 2: Group Discussion
We defended our choices, discussing why each film mattered beyond personal preference.
Step 3: Consensus Building
Films that received multiple nominations (On Air, Inside Out 2) automatically made the list. For remaining slots, we debated based on our criteria.
Step 4: Final Curation
We ensured the list represented diverse genres, budgets, and audiences—not just our personal favorites.
Why These Films?
Genre Diversity: We have animation, action, thriller, fantasy, and superhero representation.
Budget Range: From Kenya's modestly-budgeted On Air to Disney/Pixar's Inside Out 2 to Warner Bros.' Furiosa.
Audience Breadth: Family films, adult thrillers, teen-friendly adventures, R-rated action; something for everyone.
Cultural Significance: We prioritized films that sparked conversations, pushed boundaries, or represented underserved perspectives.
Craft Excellence: Each film demonstrates technical proficiency and storytelling skill.
Honorable Mentions: Films That Almost Made the List
Dune: Part Two - Denis Villeneuve's conclusion to the first half of Frank Herbert's epic deserves recognition for its visual grandeur and faithful adaptation.
The Wild Robot - DreamWorks' touching story about an AI finding purpose touched hearts and minds.
Wicked - The musical adaptation brought Broadway magic to screens with stunning performances.
A Quiet Place: Day One - Lupita Nyong'o elevated this prequel with a powerful performance.
The Substance - Demi Moore's body horror comeback is unforgettable, though definitely not for everyone.
2024 in Retrospect: Trends and Observations
What Defined 2024 Cinema
The Return of Theatrical Experience: After years of streaming dominance, 2024 saw audiences return to theaters for event films (Inside Out 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, Furiosa).
Animation's Continued Excellence: Animated films weren't just for kids—they tackled mental health, identity, and complex themes.
Franchise Fatigue—Mostly: While superhero films struggled overall, the ones that succeeded (Deadpool & Wolverine) did so by being self-aware and different.
Rise of Regional Cinema: Films like On Air prove that compelling stories transcend borders and budgets.
Sequels and Prequels Done Right: 2024 showed that franchise extensions can justify their existence with quality storytelling (Inside Out 2, Furiosa).
What Struggled
Generic Superhero Films: The MCU's dominance continues to wane with forgettable entries.
Unnecessary Remakes: Multiple Disney live-action remakes underperformed.
Overlong Runtimes: Too many films couldn't justify their 2.5+ hour lengths.
What's Next: Looking Ahead to 2025
Based on 2024's trends, we predict 2025 will bring:
More focus on original stories vs. franchises
Continued strength in animation
Greater platform for international cinema
Shorter theatrical windows
Emphasis on "event" films worth theater prices
Films We're Excited For in 2025:
Captain America: Brave New World
Snow White (live-action)
One Battle After Another
Black Phone 2
By the Numbers: 2024 Box Office
Overall, 2024 was an excellent year for animation and international cinema, but struggled with original storytelling compared to 2023's Barbenheimer phenomenon.
Highest-Grossing Films:
Inside Out 2 - $1.46 billion
Deadpool & Wolverine - $1.3 billion
Dune: Part Two - $711 million
Despicable Me 4 - $969 million
Moana 2 - $386 million (still in theaters)
Observations:
Animation dominated the top spots
R-rated success with Deadpool & Wolverine
Original IP struggled at box office
Franchise films remained king
Streaming vs. Theatrical: Where to Watch
Best Theatrical Experiences (See in Cinema if Possible)
Furiosa - Epic scale demands big screen
Inside Out 2 - Perfect family theater outing
Transformers One - Animation shines on large format
On Air - Support Kenyan cinema in theaters
Great for Home Viewing
Deadpool & Wolverine - Rewatch with friends
Damsel - Netflix original, optimized for home
Discussion Questions: Let's Talk
We want to hear from you! Join the conversation:
Q1: Which 2024 film surprised you most (good or bad)?
Q2: Do you agree with our #1 pick (On Air), or would you choose differently?
Q3: What film do you think we unfairly left off this list?
Q4: Which 2024 movie will you rewatch most?
Q5: What trend from 2024 do you want to see continue in 2025?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below—we read every one!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why aren't Apocalypes Z and Superman on this list?
A: We focused on films that sparked the most discussion in our roundtable and represented diverse genres/perspectives. Many excellent films didn't make the cut simply due to space.
Q: Where can I watch these films in Kenya?
A: Theatrical releases are available at Prestige Plaza, Century Cinemax, and other Nairobi venues. Streaming availability varies; we've noted platforms where available.
Q: Are these ranked in order?
A: Not strictly. While On Air topped our list, films 2-6 are all excellent and ranked loosely by how often they were mentioned.
Q: Will you do a "Worst of 2024" list?
A: We prefer to celebrate good cinema rather than dwell on failures, but we may address disappointing releases in a separate piece.
Q: What about Kenyan films beyond On Air?
A: We're planning a dedicated "Best Kenyan Films of 2024" feature. Stay tuned!
Related Content You'll Love
From Our Archives:
More Year-End Content:
Best Movie Soundtracks of 2024 (Coming soon)
Most Anticipated Films of 2025 (Coming soon)
Box Office Winners & Losers: 2024 Analysis (Coming soon)
Your Turn: Create Your Own List
Challenge: Make your own top 7 films of 2024 using our template:
Your #1 Film: _______________
Why: _______________
Best Action: _______________
Best Drama: _______________
Best Comedy: _______________
Best Animation: _______________
Biggest Surprise: _______________
Most Underrated: _______________
Share your list with us on Instagram with #BestOf2024 and tag us!
Support the Films You Love
How to Make a Difference:
💬 Leave Reviews - Help others discover great films
📱 Share on Social Media - Amplify films that deserve attention
🎟️ Buy/Rent Legally - Support creators directly. where possible
🗣️ Tell Friends - Word of mouth is powerful
Especially: Support local Kenyan cinema because the more successful these films are, the more get made.
Final Thoughts: What 2024 Taught Us
Cinema is Evolving: The lines between streaming and theatrical continue to blur, but great stories still find their audience regardless of platform.
Audiences Crave Quality: When studios make excellent films (Inside Out 2, Furiosa), audiences show up. Franchise fatigue is real, but quality transcends IP exhaustion.
Representation Matters: Seeing On Air succeed proves that authentic, local stories resonate beyond their immediate context. Kenyan cinema is rising, and we're here for it.
Animation Isn't Just for Kids: 2024 reinforced that animation can tackle any subject with as much depth as live-action.
The Theater Experience Endures: Despite years of doom-saying, people still love going to movies—they just need films worth the trip.
About the Reviewers
This list was curated by the Geekspeak Radio team, Kenya's leading entertainment and pop culture platform. Our diverse team of film enthusiasts, critics, and culture writers brings over 15 years of combined experience covering cinema from Hollywood blockbusters to Kenyan indie productions.
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Lead Writer: Veekey M
Entertainment writer and film critic with over 10 years of experience analyzing movies, pop culture, and storytelling. Specializes in narrative structure, genre films, and East African cinema.
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