Nosferatu is more than just a remake—it is a profound meditation on the nature of horror itself. Eggers uses the vampire mythos to explore the fragility of human existence and the seductive allure of darkness. The film’s deliberate pacing allows its themes to resonate, rewarding patient viewers with moments of breathtaking terror and poignant beauty.
With Nosferatu, Robert Eggers has not only honored a cinematic classic but has also cemented his place as one of the greatest auteurs of his generation. This is a gothic masterpiece that will linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll—a must-see for horror aficionados and cinephiles alike.
8. Civil War
When you go to the theatre to see a brand new Alex Garland movie, you know that it’s not going to be a conventional movie by any means. Even his most accessible movie in my opinion – Ex Machina – is still an absolutely enthralling and bizarre dive into science fiction. The same can also be said about his follow-up film Annihilation. And although I know that a lot of people out there loathe Men with a passion, I personally think it’s an excellent horror film that never fails to get under my skin, even if it’s maybe not as good as it was the first time I saw it.
Although I was familiarized with Garland’s filmography before seeing his latest film Civil War, nothing could’ve truly prepared me for the emotionally taxing and genuinely depressing journey the movie was going to take me on. It’s the kind of movie that, as soon as the credits are finished rolling, you feel absolutely disgusted to your core but you also recognize that the film that you just watched is a total work-of-art. Truth be told, Civil War will be a difficult movie to rewatch because of its imagery and subject matter. But it’s also one of the best movies of the year, and one of the best war movies ever made.
It stands out as a profound commentary on the fabric of American society. Additionally, it delves into politics through the lens of a dystopian war drama. Set in a future America where divisions have escalated into a full-blown Second Civil War, the film intricately explores themes of loyalty, ideology, and the price of freedom through the journey of a team of journalists navigating the ravaged landscape. With a cast led by Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Sonoya Mizuno, and Nick Offerman, the film delivers a powerfully resonant narrative that captivates from start to finish.
Civil War is a masterful addition to the genre of dystopian war films. It offers a riveting, albeit bleak, vision of America’s future that resonates with the current global political climate. With standout performances, particularly from Dunst and Moura, and Garland’s expert direction, the film achieves a rare balance of thrilling entertainment and thoughtful commentary.
7. The Substance
The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat, is a daring and grotesque exploration of identity, self-worth, and the double-edged sword of fame. This satirical body horror film carves a raw and terrifying narrative about Hollywood’s relentless obsession with youth, as seen through Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading star whose journey into physical transformation spirals into a nightmare. Fargeat’s unflinching direction and a phenomenal performance by Demi Moore as Elisabeth bring both brutal honesty and layered complexity to a film that’s as grotesque as it is poignant.
At its core, The Substance delves into the most primal and self-destructive tendencies of human nature. Elisabeth, an aging celebrity grappling with her declining fame, becomes ensnared by a serum that promises a youthful doppelgänger. When she agrees to inject “The Substance,” she doesn’t just create a younger version of herself—she births a new entity named Sue, played brilliantly by Margaret Qualley. The initial elation Elisabeth feels quickly morphs into envy and hatred, as Sue’s glamorous persona eclipses her own, igniting a vicious psychological battle between the two selves. Here, Fargeat masterfully illustrates that beneath the pursuit of eternal youth lies an insidious cost that cuts at one’s identity and sense of self.
Margaret Qualley, as Sue, contrasts Elisabeth’s fragility with a vibrant, unrestrained sensuality. Qualley’s Sue revels in her new life, flaunting the allure and freedom that Elisabeth has lost to time. The transformation scenes are visceral and uncomfortable, each shift in power reminding us of the fragility of identity and self-image. Qualley embodies this role with both zest and haunting detachment, making Sue’s descent into a self-obsessed, paranoid figure all the more chilling. Her role illustrates the youthful recklessness Elisabeth has tried so hard to retain, embodying her desire to be loved and admired by society in a skin that is not truly her own.
Beyond the visual and narrative prowess, The Substance tackles thought-provoking themes. Fargeat doesn’t merely criticize Hollywood’s ageism and obsession with youth; she digs deeper, examining how identity becomes corrupted when a person’s sense of self-worth is tied solely to external validation. Elisabeth’s choice to use The Substance symbolizes the sacrifice of her personal identity and humanity to conform to an idealized, commodified version of herself. Her interactions with Sue, particularly as their conflict escalates, reflect the universal internal struggle between self-acceptance and societal expectation. This exploration of identity and autonomy becomes even more haunting as the film progresses, leaving viewers questioning whether Elisabeth’s decline is a reflection of society’s relentless pursuit of beauty or the loss of self that comes when one’s worth is measured by appearance alone.
6. Smile 2
Parker Finn returns with Smile 2, a sequel that deepens the psychological and supernatural horror introduced in Smile. This time, the story centers on pop star Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott, as she spirals into a nightmarish world of terror leading up to her comeback tour. Balancing eerie scares with an exploration of trauma and fame, Smile 2 builds on its predecessor’s disturbing themes while delivering a fresh and visceral horror experience.
Naomi Scott shines as Skye Riley, offering a deeply empathetic and tormented performance. From the outset, Skye’s journey feels emotionally raw. As a Grammy-winning pop star trying to rehabilitate her image after a tumultuous public struggle with addiction and personal loss, Scott’s portrayal perfectly captures the fragility of a woman trying to regain control over her life—only to be pulled into the jaws of a supernatural curse. Scott’s ability to depict Skye’s downward spiral, from a confident performer to someone unraveling at the seams, makes the film compelling.
What makes Smile 2 particularly effective is its balance between psychological tension and supernatural dread. Finn excels at taking the familiar trope of cursed individuals seeing eerie smiles and twisting it into something more sinister. The film explores how trauma, guilt, and unresolved emotional pain manifest as the Smile Entity’s curse, making it feel as much a psychological allegory as it is a supernatural one.
Skye’s internal struggles—her guilt over the death of her boyfriend, Paul, and her strained relationships with loved ones—mirror her external encounters with the entity. The hallucinations she suffers are not just terrifying because of their visual horror, but because they tap into the vulnerability and isolation she feels in her everyday life. Parker Finn uses these elements to build a sense of creeping dread that makes the scares all the more unsettling.
Smile 2 is a worthy follow-up to the original, expanding on the curse’s mythology while delivering a chilling, character-driven horror experience. Naomi Scott’s performance elevates the film, anchoring it in a deeply personal and terrifying exploration of fame, guilt, and trauma. With unsettling imagery, a strong cast, and Parker Finn’s masterful direction, Smile 2 cements itself as a standout psychological horror film. Though not without its flaws, it offers a terrifying journey that will leave audiences thinking long after the final scene.
5. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Tim Burton’s long-anticipated sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, is a masterful blend of dark fantasy, horror, and comedy that captures the anarchic spirit of the original while offering a fresh narrative that thrills from start to finish. The return to the bizarre world of the afterlife is nothing short of spectacular, with Burton’s unique vision driving the film’s aesthetic, tone, and humor, making it an instant classic that stands on its own while paying homage to its predecessor.
Set thirty-six years after the events of the first film, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice reintroduces us to Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), who has transitioned from the goth teenager we knew into the host of a supernatural talk show called Ghost House. Lydia is now the anchor between the worlds of the living and the dead, a theme that resonates throughout the film. This time, the plot revolves around Lydia’s encounters with the mischievous and chaotic Betelgeuse (Michael Keaton), who is still as outrageous and unpredictable as ever.
One of the film’s standout features is its ability to balance horror and comedy. The scares are well-timed and effective, often undercut by moments of absurdity that remind the audience not to take things too seriously. This balance is a hallmark of Burton’s style, and it’s executed brilliantly here. The film’s horror elements are more playful than terrifying, making it accessible to a wide audience, including those who might not typically enjoy horror films.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a triumphant return to form for Tim Burton, delivering a film that is visually stunning, hilariously dark, and emotionally resonant. It captures the anarchic spirit of the original while offering something new and exciting for a modern audience. With outstanding performances, particularly from Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, and a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, this sequel is a worthy addition to the Beetlejuice franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of the ghost with the most, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a must-see film that will leave you laughing, gasping, and eagerly awaiting another trip to the afterlife.
4. Lisa Frankenstein
Lisa Frankenstein is an explosive mixture of hilarity, spookiness, and uncanny allure. The film impressively weaves an absorbing storyline of odd friendship and exploration of personal identity. As an alluring twist on the conventional Frankenstein narrative, it stylishly stands out amidst the wave of contemporary horror comedies.
From its charming, unique characters to its engagingly nuanced narrative, the film demands respect for its calculated diversion from the established tropes of the genre. Kathryn Newton stars as Lisa Swallows, an outcast with a peculiar affection for the macabre, exhibiting an exquisite ability to balance a brilliant comedic sensibility and understated emotional gravitas in a teenage girl longing for a deeper connection.
Cole Sprouse impresses as ‘The Creature,’ the dismembered Victorian-era corpse Lisa unwittingly resurrects. He explores the intricacies of the character with finesse, adding both poignancy and hilarity in an excellent portrayal of this initially feared but later admired entity.
Zelda Williams’ directorial debut is refreshingly inventive. Her take on Diablo Cody’s wonderful script brings the tale to life in an array of bubblegum pink aesthetics peppered with horror. It sets an electrifying stage for the whimsically unconventional story of friendship, acceptance, and growth.
Lisa Frankenstein is, therefore, not merely a successful horror comedy but an unforgettably eccentric experience. It packs just the right balance of charm, horror, wit, and genuine heart. It results in a delightful blend that remains refreshingly authentic despite its otherworldly narrative. Zelda Williams’ directorial debut sets a high bar, leaving viewers eager to see more from her brilliant imagination.
Every aspect of Lisa Frankenstein contributes to a beautiful canvas of high school troubles, hilarity, and touching camaraderie. All of this amidst bizarre occurrences, perfectly summarizing teenage life’s messiness and its hauntingly beautiful facets. This amazing horror comedy has both the allure and strength to be a potential cult classic. As such, Lisa Frankenstein proves a deliciously good film. It’s painted with colors of laughter, shrieks, and pastel-hued life lessons that leaves the audience gasping for more.
3. Dune: Part Two
Denis Villeneuve‘s Dune: Part Two achieves cinematic excellence with remarkable finesse. It is an epic science fiction saga that is breathtaking in scope and execution. As the continuation of the narrative initiated in Dune (2021), this sequel cements itself as a crowning achievement in Villeneuve’s directorial career, showcasing a visionary’s grasp over complex storytelling, stunning visuals, and profound themes.
At the heart of Dune: Part Two is Timothée Chalamet‘s Paul Atreides, whose journey from a dispossessed noble to the messianic Muad’Dib is portrayed with a compelling mixture of vulnerability and resolve. Chalamet delivers a performance that is both introspective and commanding. He perfectly captures Paul’s internal struggle with his destiny and the weight of impending war. Zendaya‘s Chani emerges as more than just a love interest; she is a formidable warrior, deeply connected to her planet and people. Her chemistry with Chalamet is palpable, offering a nuanced exploration of love amidst turmoil.
The film’s thematic richness is one of its most striking attributes. At its core, Dune: Part Two grapples with destiny, power, and the consequences of both. Paul’s ascension does not depict as an unalloyed triumph but as a complex negotiation of personal ambition, political strategy, and spiritual belief. The film thoughtfully interrogates the myth of the messiah. It presents a nuanced critique of hero-worship and the inevitable cost of transformational change.
Villeneuve’s direction is masterful, balancing the intricate plotlines and expansive world-building without sacrificing character development or thematic depth. The screenplay, co-written with Jon Spaihts, deftly weaves together the political intrigue, spiritual journey, and human drama at the heart of Frank Herbert‘s novel. The result is a narrative that is both faithful to its source material and boldly imaginative in its execution.
Dune: Part Two is not just a sequel; it is a testament to the power of visionary filmmaking. Denis Villeneuve has crafted a work that is epic in scale, yet deeply personal. This film solidifies Dune as a landmark in science fiction cinema. It offers a narrative experience that is as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally resonant. It is a rare gem that not only entertains but also challenges and inspires. In an age of fleeting entertainments, Dune: Part Two stands as a monument to the enduring power of storytelling.
2. Alien: Romulus
Xenomorph in 20th Century Studios’ ALIEN: ROMULUS. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Álvarez, is a thrilling new chapter in the Alien franchise, deftly balancing the elements of science fiction, action, and horror that have defined this iconic series. Serving as a standalone interquel between Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986), this film plunges viewers into a claustrophobic nightmare that both honors its predecessors and stakes its own claim within the franchise.
The film is set against the desolate and oppressive backdrop of space, in which a group of young space colonists stumble upon a derelict space station that harbors a deadly secret. The story begins with a drone space probe discovering an organic object among the wreckage of the USCSS Nostromo. At a secret facility, the dormant Xenomorph within the object has become unleashed, posing a lethal potential.
The narrative focuses on Rain Carradine (Cailee Spaeny), an orphan working on the mining colony Jackson’s Star. Rain’s adoptive brother Andy (David Jonsson), a reprogrammed synthetic, is central to her survival. When Rain’s contract is unexpectedly extended, she teams up with her ex-boyfriend Tyler (Archie Renaux), his pregnant sister Kay (Isabela Merced), his cousin Bjorn (Spike Fearn), and Bjorn’s girlfriend Navarro (Aileen Wu) to escape to the more hospitable planet Yvaga. The group’s goal: salvage cryonic stasis chambers from a derelict spacecraft.
Fede Álvarez’s direction is masterful, capturing the essence of Ridley Scott’s original vision while injecting fresh elements that keep the franchise alive and relevant. The visual effects are top-notch, with the Xenomorphs rendered in terrifying detail. The derelict space station Romulus is a character in itself, its labyrinthine structure and decaying interiors heightening the sense of dread.
Álvarez skillfully uses lighting and sound to build suspense, making excellent use of shadows and silence to keep audiences on edge. The film’s action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, maintaining a relentless pace that never feels rushed or overwhelming.
Alien: Romulus is a gripping addition to the beloved saga, blending horror, action, and sci-fi elements in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. Álvarez has created a film that pays homage to its roots while forging its own path, with strong performances, stunning visuals, and a story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
1. Inside Out 2
JOY AND ANXIETY — Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” returns to the mind of freshly minted teenager Riley just as a new Emotion shows up unexpectedly. Much to Joy’s surprise, Anxiety isn’t the type who will take a back seat either. Featuring the voices of Amy Poehler as Joy and Maya Hawke as Anxiety, “Inside Out 2” releases only in theaters Summer 2024.© 2023 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.
Inside Out 2 is a cinematic triumph that masterfully continues the journey into the intricate landscape of human emotions, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. The film delves deeper into the complexities of adolescence, introducing new emotions and challenges as Riley navigates her teenage years.
Set two years after the original, Riley is now a 13-year-old high school student facing the multifaceted experiences of adolescence. The narrative introduces new emotions—Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui—each contributing to Riley’s evolving emotional landscape. This expansion enriches the storyline, offering a nuanced portrayal of the emotional turbulence characteristic of teenage life.
The film’s animation is nothing short of spectacular. Pixar’s attention to detail brings the abstract world of Riley’s mind to life with vibrant colors and imaginative landscapes. The personification of emotions is rendered with such creativity and precision that each character’s design reflects their unique role in Riley’s psyche. The animation seamlessly complements the narrative, enhancing the storytelling by providing a visual representation of complex emotional concepts.
The voice cast delivers exceptional performances, breathing life into the personified emotions. Amy Poehler returns as Joy, bringing her characteristic optimism, while new additions like Maya Hawke as Anxiety add depth to the ensemble. The interactions among the emotions are portrayed with authenticity, capturing the internal conflicts that arise as Riley matures. The chemistry among the cast ensures that each emotion is distinct yet integral to the collective portrayal of Riley’s inner world.
The true standout moment in the film, at least for me, is the depiction of Riley’s anxiety attack during a pivotal scene. This sequence is a testament to the filmmakers’ commitment to portraying mental health with sensitivity and accuracy. The animation during this scene becomes more erratic, mirroring the overwhelming sensations of an anxiety attack. The sound design intensifies, with a crescendo of dissonant tones that evoke the escalating panic Riley experiences. As someone who suffers with anxiety severely, this scene had me crying in the theatre. No other film has done something this powerful for me in ages.
It’s a remarkable scene in an all-around remarkable film in general. It expands upon the original’s exploration of emotions, offering a profound and relatable depiction of growing up. The film’s thoughtful narrative, combined with its stunning animation, compelling voice performances, and evocative score, make it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
