Top Films of 2024 So Far (January-March)
Believe it or not, we’re already a quarter of the way through 2024. With the year racing by, I wanted to take a moment to highlight five standout films that have captivated audiences and critics alike. These films have the potential to make my top-of-the-year list come December.
5. Dune: Part Two
At number five, we have the colossal Dune: Part Two. This film, the second in the Dune Trilogy directed by Denis Villeneuve, has lived up to its immense expectations. Although Villeneuve hasn’t confirmed a third installment, the success of Dune: Part Two at the box office and its acclaim from critics and fans make a third film almost a certainty.
Dune: Part Two delivers the action that some felt was missing in the first film, featuring epic battles, rituals, and stunning visuals. One of the most lauded scenes is Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) riding a sandworm, a sequence praised by legendary directors like Steven Spielberg and Christopher Nolan. The cinematography on Giedi Prime, utilizing infrared cameras, gives a unique, reptilian quality to the Harkonnens, enhancing the film’s visual appeal. While the pacing might feel relentless at times, the film’s grandeur and beauty are undeniable.
4. Exhibiting Forgiveness
In stark contrast to the grandiosity of Dune, Exhibiting Forgiveness takes the fourth spot. This indie film, which premiered at Sundance, is a deeply personal exploration by artist Kaphar. Although it hasn’t yet found wide distribution, its emotional depth and visual artistry make it a must-watch.
Kaphar, known for his work in prestigious galleries like MoMA, brings a nuanced narrative that doesn’t offer a simple resolution to forgiveness or trauma. Instead, it presents a tapestry of human experiences, showing that forgiveness is a deeply individual process. This film’s beauty lies in its raw and heartfelt portrayal of human emotions, making it a standout in the indie film circuit.
3. As We Speak
Coming in at number three is As We Speak, a compelling documentary inspired by the book Rap on Trial. Directed by J.M. Harper, this film explores the controversial practice of using rap lyrics as evidence in criminal trials.
Harper’s documentary stands out by avoiding the typical talking-head format, instead using creative narrative techniques and artistic flair reminiscent of his work on Netflix’s jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy. The film features Kemba, a rapper from the Bronx, as he navigates the intersections of art and the legal system. The documentary underscores the long history of art as an outlet for expressing human experiences, often misunderstood or weaponized against its creators. Available on Paramount+, As We Speak offers a fresh and thought-provoking take on a critical issue.
2. Didi
Didi, a coming-of-age film from Sean Wang, secures the second spot on this list. Starring Izaac Wang, this film blends elements from mid90s and Riceboy Sleeps to create a poignant story about cultural identity and adolescence. Set in 2008, Didi captures the essence of the era with its portrayal of online chats, skateboarding, and high school life.
Izaac Wang delivers a remarkable performance, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to his role. The film, which premiered at Sundance, is set for a wide theatrical release on July 26th. Didi is a beautifully crafted film that resonates with anyone who has experienced the challenges of growing up between different cultures.
1. A Real Pain
Topping the list is A Real Pain, a film by Jesse Eisenberg. This semi-autobiographical project, starring Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin, explores the complex emotions surrounding personal and historical pain. The story follows two cousins traveling to Poland to visit the town where their grandmother, a Holocaust survivor, lived.
Eisenberg and Culkin deliver stellar performances, with Culkin’s portrayal of a charismatic yet self-destructive character standing out as one of the best of the year. A Real Pain uses the backdrop of historical tragedy to delve into the everyday struggles of its characters, offering a nuanced look at how individuals cope with their own pain. This film, another Sundance highlight, showcases Eisenberg’s talent both in front of and behind the camera.
More Videos HERE
Full Written Reviews HERE
