Some of the best recently released movies prove that common critiques of the film industry don’t have as much merit as we think.
Far too often, I’ve heard that movies are too unimaginative. It’s less about telling an original, entertaining story and more about developing a franchise or an extended universe.
I understand this particular critique, especially given the prevalence of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but these films prove that there’s still incredible filmmaking being done this decade.
The Wild Robot
2024 was a surprisingly strong year for animated movies, with most fanfare rightfully going to Flow. Don’t let that distract you from the fact that The Wild Robot is just as strong a film. On the surface, it’s another family-friendly Dreamworks film with an ensemble cast.
The truth, though, is that it’s so much more and reminds us of why movies can be pure magic.
Palm Springs
Ironically, I’m starting with what’s essentially a modern riff on Groundhog Day, but Palm Springs is more than just the reimagining of a classic. Andy Samberg and Cristina Milioti’s chemistry helps carry an already impeccable script.
This is a movie that deserved more than a COVID-era streaming release. It has so much heart and depth where we honestly least expected it.
Knives Out
Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi is incredibly controversial, to say the least. When news broke that he was working on an Agatha Christie-style murder mystery, it felt like an afterthought.
Perhaps we judged you too harshly, Rian. Knives Out is so clever, so well written, and so impeccably directed that it’s some of the most fun you’ll ever have in movies.
Follow us on MSN for more of the content you love.
Bullet Train
Speaking of fun at the movies, Bullet Train transcends its complete lack of pre-release hype to become one of the best action films of the decade.
There was considerable online backlash over the film’s whitewashed cast (the film is based on a Japanese novel and stars Brad Pitt), but if you can look past that, you’re in for a treat.
The Holdovers
On the surface, The Holdovers seems like your stereotypical all important coming of age film with an extra side of Oscar bait.
In reality, I’d argue that The Holdovers is a modern day Dead Poets Society, thanks especially to the incredible performance from Paul Giamatti. Go in with an open mind, and you’ll come away impressed.
Prey
There have been so many awful reboots and sequels to iconic ’80s movies that it’s easy to lose count. A large number of them feel like it comes from either the Alien or Predator franchise.
Not only did we get an incredible Predator movie in 2022 with Prey, but the Alien franchise has also enjoyed a resurgence. It’s a wonder what can happen when filmmakers understand the source material.
The Menu
Have you ever watched a trailer for an upcoming movie and had no idea what the purpose was? That was a fair assessment leading into the release of 2022’s The Menu.
What seemed like an interesting, albeit somewhat confusing, premise turned into one of the most gripping and enjoyable satires of the modern era. It’s as delicious as that cheeseburger Anya Taylor-Joy enjoys at the film’s end.
Godzilla Minus One
Legendary’s Godzilla films had so much promise, but failed to deliver on the hype and expectations. Enter Takashi Yamazaki’s Godzilla Minus One, which proves that these films are at their best when they’re about the people just as much as they are about the monster.
Godzilla Minus One came out of nowhere, blew us away, and now we’re waiting for Godzilla Minus Zero later this year.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
In 2000, there was a Dungeons & Dragons adaptation that was pretty bad, and that’s putting it lightly. The 2023 adaptation, however, is one of the biggest sleeper hits of the decade.
It’s filled with the same style, personality, humor, and wit that have made D&D such an iconic tabletop experience. Even if you’re not a fan, Chris Pine will find a way to make you laugh.
Sinners
It’s receiving so much Oscar buzz for a reason.
Nominated for 16 Academy Awards, the most for any film in history, everyone expected Sinners to be another great entry from director Ryan Coogler. I don’t think anyone, however, expected it to be one of the best and most successful movies of 2025.
Follow us on MSN for more of the content you love.
Read More:
