As we venture into 2024 we can all look back to a fresh slate of cinematic magic. From heartwarming coming-of-age dramas to thrillers that kept you on the edge of your seat, there are lots of amazing movies in store for us these past few years.
So if you’re a passionate moviegoer and want to get ahead of the curve, take a look at our top ten picks for best films in the last five years – featuring surefire award winners and must-watch sleeper hits!
The French Dispatch
For tears of joy and sadness. The French Dispatch is a comedy-drama film directed by Wes Anderson, celebrated for his distinctive visual and narrative style. Set in the 20th century, the film centers on the eclectic staff of an American newspaper, The French Dispatch, based in the fictional French city of Ennui-sur-Blasé. This unique cinematic experience weaves together humor and poignancy, creating a tapestry that is both for laughs and tears.
Structured as an anthology, the movie features multiple stories inspired by real-life events and characters, echoing the stylistic and narrative approach of The New Yorker magazine. Each segment is a standalone story that contributes to the overarching narrative, portraying a vivid and multifaceted picture of the newspaper’s operations and its colorful characters. Anderson’s storytelling is meticulous, often described as whimsical and richly detailed, providing a feast for the eyes and the mind.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Frances McDormand, Timothée Chalamet, Benicio del Toro, Adrien Brody, and many more. Each actor brings a unique flavor to their role, enhancing the film’s narrative depth and emotional resonance. Bill Murray plays the editor-in-chief, a role that ties the various stories together, while Tilda Swinton, Frances McDormand, and others portray journalists and characters within the stories they cover.
Dune
What a monumental film this is. It has captivated audiences and critics alike, establishing itself as a classic in the science fiction genre. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, known for his meticulous approach to storytelling and visual aesthetics, this adaptation brings Frank Herbert’s 1965 seminal novel to life with breathtaking fidelity and grandeur.
Set in a distant future where interstellar travel and planetary colonization are possible, Dune explores the intense political and social dynamics among noble houses vying for control of the desert planet Arrakis. This arid world is the sole source of the spice melange, a substance with extraordinary properties that enhance human abilities and are essential for space travel. The narrative revolves around House Atreides, led by Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac), who is granted stewardship of Arrakis, only to find themselves entangled in a deadly struggle for power.
At the heart of the story is Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet. Paul is a young nobleman who is thrust into a complex web of political intrigue, ecological challenges, and a destiny foretold in ancient prophecies. As Paul navigates these treacherous waters, he must harness his latent abilities and leadership qualities to survive and fulfill his potential. Chalamet’s portrayal of Paul Atreides has been widely praised for capturing the character’s depth and evolution throughout the film.
Dune delves deeply into themes of power, religion, and environmentalism, reflecting Herbert’s intricate world-building. The film explores the intricate relationships between the various factions, the influence of the mystical Bene Gesserit sisterhood, and the ecological significance of Arrakis’ desert ecosystem. Villeneuve’s adaptation does justice to these complex themes, offering viewers a richly textured narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
The Matrix 4
The Matrix 4 is a science fiction film directed by Lana Wachowski. The film is a sequel to the 1999 film The Matrix and stars Keanu Reeves as Neo. Officially titled The Matrix Resurrections with Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity. Set in a cyberpunk future where humans are unknowingly trapped in a simulated reality, Neo once again finds himself questioning the nature of his existence and battling to liberate humanity from the control of intelligent machines.
The Matrix Resurrections picks up years after the events of the original trilogy. Neo, once again portrayed by Reeves, finds himself questioning the nature of his reality and fighting to free humanity from the enslavement of the Matrix. Alongside him is Trinity, with Moss reprising her iconic role. Together, they navigate a world of digital deception and technological tyranny, reigniting their rebellion against the machine overlords.
The Matrix series has always been renowned for its philosophical depth, exploring complex themes such as reality, identity, and the nature of human existence. The Matrix Resurrections continues this tradition, delving into the existential questions that define the franchise. It examines the blurred lines between the real and the artificial, the quest for self-discovery, and the fight against oppressive systems.
One of the standout features of the original Matrix films was their revolutionary visual effects and pioneering use of CGI. The Matrix Resurrections promises to uphold this legacy, with updated visual effects that push the boundaries of modern filmmaking. The iconic “bullet time” effect, innovative fight choreography, and mind-bending digital landscapes are expected to return, enhanced with the latest technological advancements.
Star Wars: Episode IX
Star Wars: Episode IX is a science fiction film directed by J.J. Abrams. The film is the third and final installment of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, following The Force Awakens (2015) and The Last Jedi (2017). The film brings back characters like Rey, Kylo Ren, Finn, and Poe Dameron as they face the remnants of the First Order and the return of Emperor Palpatine.
Balancing epic space battles and personal character arcs, the story seeks to provide closure to the overarching narrative of the Skywalker family while integrating themes of legacy, redemption, and hope. The movie aims to satisfy long-time fans and wrap up the nine-film saga with emotional and action-packed moments.
The film reunites the core characters of the sequel trilogy, featuring Rey (Daisy Ridley) as she continues her journey of self-discovery while grappling with her lineage and powers, and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), the conflicted son of Leia Organa and Han Solo, who faces his destiny and inner darkness. Finn (John Boyega), a former stormtrooper, finds his purpose within the Resistance, while Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), the skilled pilot, leads the fight against the First Order. Their journey becomes even more complicated with the resurrection of Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid), a sinister force long thought to be gone, who orchestrates the final conflict from the shadows.
Avengers: Infinity War Part II
What a movie! Avengers: Endgame, originally referred to as Avengers: Infinity War Part II, is directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. It serves as the climactic conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Infinity Saga. Picking up after the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the surviving Avengers and their allies assemble to reverse the destruction wrought by Thanos.
The film begins in the aftermath of Thanos’s catastrophic snap, which eradicated half of all life in the universe. The surviving Avengers, including Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), are left to grapple with their loss and the seemingly insurmountable challenge of reversing the snap. Their journey takes them across time and space, revisiting pivotal moments in their collective histories to gather the Infinity Stones and restore balance to the universe.
Avengers: Endgame features a stellar ensemble cast led by Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, and Scarlett Johansson. Each actor delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man is particularly noteworthy, offering a poignant conclusion to his character’s arc that began in 2008. Evans as Steve Rogers/Captain America embodies the themes of resilience and leadership, while Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow showcases sacrifice and strength.
The film masterfully explores themes of sacrifice, teamwork, and resilience. The characters are faced with their greatest challenges yet, pushing them to their physical and emotional limits. Endgame delves into the sacrifices required to achieve great goals, epitomized by several key characters’ ultimate decisions. Teamwork is highlighted through the Avengers’ collaboration and the unity of various factions within the MCU. Resilience is a constant theme as the heroes confront their failures and losses, finding the strength to continue fighting.
Incredibles 2
Incredibles 2 is a computer-animated superhero film directed by Brad Bird. The film is a sequel to The Incredibles (2004) and follows the Parr family as they try to balance their superhero lives with their normal lives. It explores the challenges of balancing superhero duties with family life, focusing on Elastigirl’s mission to restore public confidence in superheroes while Mr. Incredible manages domestic responsibilities.
The narrative picks up where the original film left off, with the Parr family navigating the complexities of their dual lives as superheroes and ordinary citizens. Elastigirl (voiced by Holly Hunter) steps into the spotlight, tasked with a mission to restore public confidence in superheroes. This role reversal from the first film places her at the center of the action, showcasing her abilities and leadership while tackling societal perceptions of heroism.
Meanwhile, Mr. Incredible (voiced by Craig T. Nelson) faces the daunting task of managing domestic responsibilities. His challenges range from dealing with teenage angst from Violet, who is grappling with her identity and social life, to handling the hyperactive Dash and the unpredictable powers of baby Jack-Jack. This domestic subplot offers a humorous yet heartfelt exploration of modern parenthood and the everyday heroics involved in raising a family.
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, directed by J.A. Bayona, is a sequel to Jurassic World (2015). The film sees the return of Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard as Owen Grady and Claire Dearing. The story follows their efforts to rescue dinosaurs from an impending volcanic eruption on Isla Nublar, leading to the discovery of a conspiracy that threatens the entire planet.
Balancing thrilling action sequences with ethical questions about cloning and animal rights, Fallen Kingdom expands the franchise’s scope, setting the stage for further adventures while delving into darker and more complex themes.
The narrative kicks off with Owen and Claire returning to Isla Nublar, driven by a mission to save the remaining dinosaurs from an impending volcanic eruption. This rescue operation is fraught with danger and moral quandaries, as they strive to save the creatures they once sought to contain. The eruption threatens to obliterate the island and its prehistoric inhabitants, raising questions about the ethical implications of their actions.
This sequel significantly expands the scope of the Jurassic World franchise. By delving into darker and more intricate themes, it sets the stage for further adventures and deepens the narrative complexity. The shift from a survival story to one that addresses global threats and ethical considerations broadens the franchise’s horizons, preparing audiences for more sophisticated storytelling in future installments.
Mission: Impossible 6
Mission: Impossible – Fallout, the sixth installment in the series, is directed by Christopher McQuarrie. The film stars Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, who faces a race against time to prevent a global catastrophe following a mission gone wrong.
The film’s plot centers around the urgent mission to recover stolen plutonium, which could be used to create devastating nuclear weapons. As Hunt and his team embark on this perilous quest, they must navigate a web of betrayals and shifting alliances within the IMF team and with both new and old adversaries. The narrative complexity and interwoven character arcs add depth to the high-stakes action, making Fallout not just an action movie but a gripping espionage thriller.
One of the defining features of the Mission: Impossible series is its breathtaking action sequences and stunts, often performed by Cruise himself. Fallout is no exception, featuring some of the most daring and memorable stunts in the franchise. From a high-altitude HALO jump to a helicopter chase through the mountains, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its relentless pace and spectacular set pieces. Cruise’s commitment to performing his stunts adds a layer of authenticity and excitement, setting a high bar for action films.
Aquaman
Aquaman, directed by James Wan, stars Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry, also known as Aquaman. The film explores Arthur’s journey to embrace his destiny as the ruler of Atlantis, a hidden underwater kingdom. Faced with the threat of war from his half-brother Orm, Arthur must retrieve the legendary Trident of Atlan to unite the seven underwater kingdoms and prevent conflict with the surface world.
Blending superhero action with elements of fantasy and adventure, Aquaman showcases stunning visual effects, imaginative world-building, and themes of identity and responsibility, establishing itself as a vibrant and entertaining entry in the DC Extended Universe.
The film follows Arthur Curry, who is initially reluctant to embrace his royal lineage. Raised on the surface by his human father, Arthur is half-human, half-Atlantean, and struggles with his dual identity. However, the looming threat of war from his ambitious half-brother Orm (Patrick Wilson) forces Arthur to confront his destiny. Orm, also known as Ocean Master, seeks to unite the underwater kingdoms to wage war against the surface world, which he blames for polluting the oceans.
At its core, Aquaman explores themes of identity and responsibility. Arthur’s journey is not just about claiming a throne but also about understanding who he is and where he belongs. The film delves into his internal struggle and the responsibilities that come with his powers and heritage. This narrative arc resonates with the audience, making Arthur’s transformation from a reluctant hero to a confident king compelling and relatable.
Of course not everyone will agree that these are the ten best cinema movies in the last five years, but this is our list and we are sticking by it. See you in the comments.
