Article by Robbie Fleming
2024 was a strange yet fascinating year for cinema. Superhero films seemed to fall out of favor, movie stars made a triumphant return to prominence, and horror saw a major resurgence. With such a unique lineup, I decided to take my favorites one step beyond a traditional top 10 and give you my top 16 films of 2024 instead. Starting with my favourite international films, let’s dive in!
Top 5 Favourite International Films of The Year: 2024 Edition
It saddens me to say this, but 2024 was a relatively weak year for international cinema. While there were some noteworthy gems, the overall selection left me struggling to compile a proper top 5 list. For a moment, I thought I might not even be able to create a list that felt representative. Thankfully, after much thought, I managed to work something out.
For this list, I chose one standout film per country, each of which I feel best showcases the cinematic culture of its homeland. My goal was to highlight movies that not only captured the artistry and storytelling traditions of their respective countries but also gave a voice to the languages and cultures often overshadowed by English-language cinema.
While Flow from Latvia is a remarkable animated film, I ultimately decided not to include it on the list. As much as I admire its visual artistry and emotional depth, the absence of dialogue felt like it didn’t fully align with the spirit of this list, which aims to celebrate spoken languages and stories from around the world.
With that said, let’s dive into my top 5 international films of 2024 and celebrate the incredible diversity of global cinema.
5. The Devil’s Bath
Country: Austria
Languages Spoken: German
Directors: Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala
Studio: Filmladen
UK Release date: June 28th 2024
Kicking off this list is the best International Horror I’ve seen this year: The Devil’s Bath, which hails from Austria. This film first caught my eye thanks to a video from Spooky Astronauts, where Emma, the channel’s creator, mentioned it as one of her favourite horror films of the year. That endorsement alone made it a must-watch for me.
The Devil’s Bath stands out thanks to its stunning visuals, which make it both interesting and unique. The cinematography is absolutely beautiful, skillfully bringing out the best in the film’s imagery while delivering some fascinating shots that immerse us in its world. The production design is another highlight, pulling viewers into a raw and gritty environment that feels both haunting and authentic.
The story primarily focuses on one character—the leading protagonist, Agnes—and the performance by Anja Plaschg is nothing short of captivating. Although Plaschg is best known as a musician, she proves her acting chops here by carrying the film with ease, owning the screen and the role like a seasoned performer. That said, the supporting cast isn’t quite as memorable. It’s a missed opportunity that a more well-known actor, perhaps someone like Christoph Waltz (who’s also Austrian), wasn’t cast to support Plaschg. Their inclusion could have elevated the film even further.
From a storytelling perspective, The Devil’s Bath works best as a character study, exploring Agnes’s feelings of alienation in her husband’s world. However, the film does lack a traditional plot, leaning more into being what I’d call a ‘vibes film.’ While this approach succeeds in creating a compelling atmosphere and focusing on the setting, it might feel too abstract or meandering for some viewers.
One of the standout elements, though, is the chilling score—composed by none other than Anja Plaschg herself. Her talents as a musician truly shine, crafting a haunting soundtrack that perfectly complements the film’s tone and horror elements. Plaschg undoubtedly proves herself as the film’s MVP, excelling both in her performance and musical contributions.
Overall, The Devil’s Bath is an intriguing Austrian horror film that excels with its cinematography, production design, and Plaschg’s exceptional performance and score. While the direction is strong, the film relies heavily on its protagonist and atmosphere rather than a structured plot, which might not work for everyone. That said, it’s undeniably a well-crafted movie that all horror fans should check out
4. Monster
Country: Japan
Languages Spoken: Japanese
Directors: Hirokazu Kore-eda
Studio: Gaga / Toho
UK Release date: March 15th 2024
In 4th place we have Hirokazu Kore-eda’s "Monster," a film that continues his exploration of human relationships and societal issues. The film, which received a wider release in the UK and USA in 2024 after its initial release in Japan in 2023, centres around a conflict between a teacher, played by Eita Nagayama, and his student, played by Sōya Kurokawa. It employs a Rashomon-style narrative, presenting both sides of the story and immersing the audience in the characters' perspectives.
"Rashomon" is one of my favourite films from Japan because of its innovative storytelling technique, which has inspired countless narratives worldwide. "Monster" uses the Rashomon effect brilliantly, making the audience question the nature of truth and perspective by putting them in the shoes of the characters. Yuji Sakamoto’s screenplay is masterfully crafted, providing a strong foundation for Kore-eda to bring to life through his visual storytelling.
This film stands out as my favourite work by Kore-eda. While I found "Shoplifters" and "Broker" to be less engaging, "Monster" captivated me from start to finish. Unlike those films, Kore-eda did not write the screenplay for "Monster," and this collaboration highlights his strength as a director. He brings Sakamoto’s screenplay to life beautifully, demonstrating his superior skills in direction. The cinematography, handled with precision, draws you into the story, while Kore-eda’s own sharp editing allows the film to flow naturally, letting its intricate structure stand out.
"Monster" also marks the final scoring project by the legendary composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, who passed away two months before the film's release. His score is a standout element, perfectly complementing the film's tone. Sakamoto poured his heart and soul into this composition, leaving a lasting legacy with this poignant and emotive soundtrack.
The performances in "Monster" are uniformly strong. Emerging star Soya Kurokawa delivers a remarkable performance as a troubled student, commanding attention whenever he is on screen. Sakura Ando, simultaneously working on "Godzilla Minus One," gives a powerful performance as the mother, solidifying her status as a top actress. Eita Nagayama and Hinata Hiiragi also provide compelling support, enriching the film with their nuanced portrayals.
Overall, "Monster" is a must-watch for fans of Japanese cinema, Kore-eda’s oeuvre, or films that utilize the Rashomon Effect. The compelling story, exceptional performances, striking visual style, haunting score, meticulous editing, and Kore-eda's masterful direction all contribute to making "Monster" a standout film of 2024.
3. Emilia Perez
Country: France
Languages Spoken: Spanish / English
Directors: Jacques Audiard
Studio: Netflix
UK Release date: November 1st 2024
In third place, we have whats appearing to be the big awards villain of this season, Emilia Perez. This is what I think will win Best International Film but I have noticed this film has been getting a lot of criticism recently for its portrayal of Mexican culture and transgender people. However, I tend to look at this from a filmmaking perspective so heres what I personally think to it
I’ll admit that the story started off a bit slow but became more engaging as it progressed. It's a bold choice to make a film with this premise, but I think it works well as a story and effectively uses the musical format. I also appreciate how it explores strong social themes, like gender transition and starting over from scratch.
The musical numbers are interesting and serve the story well. Although I'm not familiar with the opera it's based on, I was glad to see a diverse range of musical styles. The film being a musical adds a unique touch, as it's rare to see a crime film in this genre. I can see this becoming quite popular with musical fans.
Zoe Saldana gave the film's best performance, and while I imagine she'll be nominated for Supporting Actress, you could argue she's a co-lead since the story unfolds from her character's point of view. Karla Sofia Gascón gave a powerful performance in the lead role, while Selena Gomez stole the show whenever she appeared. I can see Saldana, Gascón, and Gomez receiving a lot of nominations at various award shows this year.
The directing was also fantastic, as the film has a strong artistic style. The cinematography captured some standout shots reminiscent of classic musicals. I also liked the editing, which smoothly transitions between the narrative and musical segments. Jacques Audiard did an excellent job of adapting it for the screen and making it as cinematic as possible.
Overall, Emilia Perez is a great film that shines thanks to its unique style, direction, story, musical numbers, and performances. I think it has the potential to win big on the awards circuit, and it genuinely deserves the praise it's receiving. Upon a second watch, I wasn’t as big on it but I still think as a piece of cinema, its a good film worth checking out.
2. Kill
Country: India
Languages Spoken: Hindu / English
Directors: Nikhil Nagesh Bhat
Studio: Lionsgate
UK Release date: July 5, 2024
In second place is the action thriller Kill, hailing from India. Indian cinema has increasingly found its way into the global spotlight, especially after the phenomenal success of RRR in 2022. The widespread acclaim for RRR piqued my curiosity about Indian cinema, leading me to discover Kill. Having heard promising buzz about the film, I was eager to dive in—and it absolutely delivered.
Kill follows two commandos fighting off an army of bandits aboard a train bound for New Delhi. While the film starts at a measured pace, the second half explodes into relentless action. The creativity in the stunts and action sequences is extraordinary, paired with a gripping character arc for the protagonist that elevates the stakes.
Lakshya, in his film acting debut, delivers an outstanding performance, carrying the film with remarkable energy and depth. The supporting cast is equally impressive, bringing vibrant and memorable portrayals to their roles. Nikhil Nagesh Bhat's direction and the film's gritty visual style ground the narrative in a thrilling sense of realism. Unlike the over-the-top flair of a movie like Bullet Train, Kill excels with a more grounded and intense approach to action.
If you're a fan of action films and are curious about experiencing a fresh perspective from another cinematic tradition, Kill is an absolute must-watch. Here's hoping it garners as much love and attention for Indian cinema as RRR did.
1. Kneecap
Country: Ireland
Languages Spoken: Irish / English
Directors: Rich Pepperit
Studio: Curzon
UK Release date: 23 August 2024
And taking the top spot as my favorite international film of 2024 is Kneecap. Hailing from Ireland, this unique music biopic tells the incredible story of the real-life Irish rap group Kneecap and their meteoric rise to fame. What sets this film apart from the typical music biopic formula is its raw authenticity—the group members themselves step into their own shoes, playing their younger versions and delivering performances filled with genuine emotion and unfiltered charm. No A-list actors, no elaborate Hollywood embellishments, and certainly no CGI animals here—just the unvarnished truth, as told by those who lived it.
Kneecap thrives on its gripping storytelling and sharp sense of humor, which is woven seamlessly into the narrative. The band’s journey from their humble beginnings to becoming a cultural phenomenon is brought to life with a mix of wit, heart, and unrelenting energy. The humor is razor-sharp, reflecting the band’s unapologetic style and rebellious nature, while the dramatic beats resonate deeply, adding emotional weight to their struggles and triumphs.
A huge part of the film’s appeal lies in the music itself. Kneecap’s songs are not just a backdrop to the story—they’re an integral part of it, revealing the band’s unique identity and the cultural significance of their work. The soundtrack pulsates with energy, capturing the raw spirit of the group while immersing the audience in the world of Irish-language rap. For those unfamiliar with Kneecap, the film serves as an eye-opening introduction to their genre-bending artistry and fearless storytelling through music.
Adding further depth to the film is a standout supporting performance by Michael Fassbender, who plays a pivotal role in the band’s journey. Fassbender brings his characteristic intensity and charisma to the screen, perfectly complementing the band’s dynamic energy and providing a dramatic counterbalance to their offbeat humor.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Kneecap is its celebration of Irish culture, particularly the use of the Irish language. The dialogue and lyrics are infused with Gaeilge, giving audiences a rare glimpse into a vibrant and underrepresented culture. It’s not just a film about a band—it’s a film about identity, heritage, and the power of art to challenge norms and bring communities together.
Whether you’re a fan of rap music, a lover of biopics, or someone curious about Irish cinema, Kneecap is an unforgettable experience. It’s a film that’s bold, unapologetic, and uniquely Irish, offering a refreshing take on the genre and leaving a lasting impression. This isn’t just a movie—it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of those who dare to speak their truth.
Before you continue with this article, please take a moment to read the following:
Keziah Hyde Media is a non-profit, independent media organisation. We don't display ads on our site and strive to make our media accessible to everyone. But it's only sustainable with your help. For as little as £2 per month you can help build our platform and grow our team. You also get exclusive benefits for your small contribution from bonus features to a private forum. Just click the link to get started.
Top 11 Films of The Year:
2024 Edition
11. Kneecap
Kicking off this list is Kneecap, my favorite international film of the year. This Irish music biopic tells the story of the real-life rap group Kneecap, with the band members playing themselves—a choice that adds raw authenticity. The plot is compelling, the humor is razor-sharp, and the music serves as both the film’s heartbeat and cultural statement. Michael Fassbender delivers a brilliant supporting performance, and the film’s use of the Irish language adds an underrepresented cultural layer. Whether you’re a rap fan or just love fresh storytelling, Kneecap is a must-watch.
10. Challengers
Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers lands at number 10, delivering a gripping tennis drama with a standout performance from Zendaya. Her role cements her status as a true movie star, while Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist add layers to this compelling love triangle. With Justin Kuritzkes’ sharp screenplay, stunning cinematography, and a tension-filled score, Challengers is a film that will be talked about for years.
9. Wicked
The biggest film of the year, Wicked, takes ninth place. I was skeptical at first, but I ended up loving it—even more than the 1930s Wizard of Oz. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande shine in their roles, and the production design, costumes, and effects are breathtaking. While the cinematography sometimes felt reminiscent of an MCU film, the story and performances more than made up for it. With a satisfying balance between resolution and anticipation for the sequel, Wicked proves to be a magical experience.
8. A Different Man
This eerie, genre-blending film is one of 2024’s most underrated gems. A Different Man explores the consequences of transformation in a haunting and unsettling way. Sebastian Stan delivers a career-best performance, while Adam Pearson steals every scene he’s in. Aaron Schimberg’s direction is reminiscent of a surreal blend between Terry Gilliam and Pedro Almodóvar, making for a deeply compelling experience that deserves more recognition.
7. Sing Sing
Colman Domingo continues his stellar run with Sing Sing, a prison drama about inmates finding redemption through theater. Featuring real-life former inmates, the film exudes authenticity, with Clarence Maclin delivering a breakout performance. Sing Sing is one of the most emotionally resonant dramas of the year, proving that storytelling can transcend the confines of its setting.
6. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
George Miller returns with another adrenaline-fueled masterpiece in Furiosa. As a prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road, this film expands the world with stunning visuals, an epic storyline, and a mesmerizing performance from Anya Taylor-Joy. Chris Hemsworth delivers the franchise’s best villain yet, making Furiosa an action epic worthy of its predecessor.
5. The Wild Robot
My favorite animated film of the year, The Wild Robot, blends breathtaking hand-drawn and 3D animation to create a visually stunning experience. DreamWorks delivers its best film yet, featuring an emotional story, brilliant voice performances (especially from Lupita Nyong’o), and an evocative score by Kris Bowers. If it doesn’t win Best Animated Feature at the Oscars, I’ll be shocked.
4. Gladiator II
Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II is the most entertaining blockbuster of 2024. While I had initial doubts about a sequel, the film exceeded expectations, expanding the story in a gripping way. Denzel Washington is the highlight, stealing every scene with a commanding performance. The action is spectacular, the cinematography is stunning, and the film manages to feel both fresh and nostalgic.
3. A Real Pain
Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain is one of the best-written films of the year. This heartfelt dramedy follows two cousins on a trip to Poland, balancing humor and deep emotion perfectly. Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin’s chemistry is phenomenal, with Culkin’s chaotic energy making for some of the film’s best moments. Beautifully shot and sharply written, A Real Pain is a film I’ll be revisiting often.
2. The Substance
The best horror film of 2024, The Substance blends body horror with a biting social commentary on ageism and body image. Demi Moore delivers a career-best performance, Margaret Qualley is fantastic, and Dennis Quaid nails the sleazy executive role. Coralie Fargeat’s direction is visually stunning, evoking the precision of Stanley Kubrick. The effects and makeup work are top-tier, making The Substance a must-see for horror fans.
1. The Brutalist
Topping the list is The Brutalist, Brady Corbet’s sweeping post-war drama. This three-hour epic follows a Hungarian-born Jewish architect’s journey in America, tackling themes of ambition, sacrifice, and reinvention. With stunning cinematography by Lol Crawley, a powerful score by Daniel Blumberg, and impeccable production design, The Brutalist is a cinematic achievement. Adrien Brody gives one of his best performances in years, while Guy Pearce, Felicity Jones, and the rest of the ensemble cast shine. Corbet cements himself as a modern-day David Lean, delivering a film that is as grand as it is intimate.
2024 was filled with surprises, from the rise of horror to the resurgence of movie stars and the decline of superhero fatigue. With so many fantastic films, narrowing it down to 11 was no easy feat. What were your favorite films of the year? Let me know in the comments!
Thanks for reading. If you liked what you read and would like to read more please share this article so that others can read it too, it’s free and helps us reach more people.
If you would like to support us you can by going to www.keziahhydemedia.com/donate and for as little as £2 per month you can help build our platform and grow our team. You also get exclusive benefits for your small contribution from bonus features to a private forum. Just click the link to get started.
Keziah Hyde Media is a non-profit, independent media organisation. We don't display ads on our site and strive to make our media accessible to everyone. But it's only sustainable with your help.
Comments