A24 stands out as a cinematic powerhouse, delivering some of the most captivating films and television shows. Renowned for its unique, artistic approach to filmmaking, A24 has carved a niche in the horror genre, presenting fans with masterpieces like I Saw the TV Glow, Hereditary, and the eagerly awaited Bring Her Back. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or new to A24’s brilliance, this list of must-watch films is perfect for your next binge-session.
10. Enemy
- Genre: Psychological Thriller
- Release Date: March 14, 2014
- Director: Denis Villeneuve
- Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Mélanie Laurent, Sarah Gadon, Isabella Rossellini
- Running Time: 90 minutes
- IMDb: 6.1/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 73%
Enemy is a phenomenal psychological thriller that showcases Jake Gyllenhaal in dual roles—Anthony and Adam. This gripping narrative, based on the novel “The Double“, faltered at the box office but developed a cult status over time. If you appreciate complex, character-driven stories, don’t miss this one.
It follows the lives of two lookalikes—Adam and Anthony. Initially, it’s Adam who becomes obsessed with Anthony, but as their paths cross, the plot thickens, leading to unsettling revelations.
9. Hereditary
- Genre: Psychological Horror
- Release Date: June 8, 2018
- Director: Ari Aster
- Cast: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Ann Dowd, Gabriel Byrne
- Running Time: 127 minutes
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 90%
Hereditary is not just another horror film; it’s an exploration of grief and family trauma. This unsettling psychological horror film unfolds around the Graham family as they grapple with the passing of their secretive matriarch. As the family’s hidden secrets emerge, the atmosphere becomes thick with tension and dread, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
8. Lady Bird
- Genre: Comedy
- Release Date: November 3, 2017
- Director: Greta Gerwig
- Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts, Lucas Hedges, Timothée Chalamet
- Running Time: 94 minutes
- IMDb: 7.4/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 99%
Greta Gerwig’s debut feature Lady Bird received immense acclaim, resonating with many for its authentic portrayal of the mother-daughter relationship. The film’s exploration of adolescence and self-identity strikes a chord with viewers, making it a timeless piece.
Set in Sacramento, it follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson as she navigates the challenges of her senior year, yearning to break free from her small-town life while navigating her complex relationship with her mother.
7. The Lighthouse
- Genre: Mystery
- Release Date: October 18, 2019
- Director: Robert Eggers
- Cast: Robert Pattinson, Willem Dafoe
- Running Time: 109 minutes
- IMDb: 7.4/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 90%
Director Robert Eggers delves deep into the psyche of its characters in The Lighthouse. The film, though made on a relatively small budget, has garnered acclaim for its unique visuals and awe-inspiring performances. It tells the story of two lighthouse keepers, Thomas Wake and Ephraim Winslow, whose lived experiences and growing paranoia lead to harrowing events.
6. Moonlight
- Genre: Drama
- Release Date: October 21, 2016
- Director: Barry Jenkins
- Cast: Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, Janelle Monáe, Ashton Sanders
- Running Time: 111 minutes
- IMDb: 7.4/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 98%
Moonlight is a poignant exploration of identity, shedding light on the experiences of a young Black man navigating life’s challenges. This heart-wrenching narrative spans three pivotal stages in his life—childhood, adolescence, and adulthood—highlighting themes of love, acceptance, and the quest for self-identity.
This film is a must-watch, not only for its storytelling but also for its groundbreaking achievements, including the Academy Award for Best Picture.
5. Waves
- Genre: Drama
- Release Date: December 6, 2019
- Director: Trey Edward Shults
- Cast: Taylor Russell, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Alexa Demie
- Running Time: 135 minutes
- IMDb: 7.5/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 84%
Waves is a thought-provoking film that chronicles a suburban African American family as they navigate grief following a tragic event. The narrative is emotional, with moments of heartache and hope, forcing viewers to connect with the character’s struggles.
4. The Farewell
- Genre: Comedy-Drama
- Release Date: October 21, 2016
- Director: Lulu Wang
- Cast: Awkwafina, Tzi Ma, Diana Lin
- Running Time: 100 minutes
- IMDb: 7.5/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 97%
The Farewell offers a perfect blend of humor and heartfelt moments, drawing viewers into the intricacies of family and culture. It revolves around a family who decides to hide their grandmother’s terminal illness from her, instead opting to stage a wedding. This touching narrative resonates deeply, particularly among those who can relate to family dynamics.
3. The Florida Project
- Genre: Drama
- Release Date: October 6, 2017
- Director: Sean Baker
- Cast: Willem Dafoe, Brooklynn Kimberly Prince
- Running Time: 111 minutes
- IMDb: 7.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
The Florida Project is often described as a breathtaking masterpiece. The film presents a slice of life in a budget motel near Disney World, focusing on a six-year-old girl named Moonee and her struggles with her mother’s unemployment. It draws on poignant themes and a slow yet impactful narrative, reminding viewers of childhood innocence amidst harsh realities.
2. Ex Machina
- Genre: Science-Fiction
- Release Date: April 10, 2015
- Director: Alex Garland
- Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander, Oscar Isaac
- Running Time: 108 minutes
- IMDb: 7.7/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
1. Room
- Genre: Survival Psychological Drama
- Release Date: October 16, 2015
- Director: Lenny Abrahamson
- Cast: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay
- Running Time: 118 minutes
- IMDb: 8.1/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 93%
Room is a deeply moving film adapted from the novel of the same name. It tells the haunting story of a mother and her son, Jack, who have been held captive in a small room for years. After their escape, Jack struggles to adapt to a world he barely understands. This powerful narrative dives into themes of trauma and resilience, ensuring that viewers are emotionally invested from start to finish.
As you explore these stunning films, take a moment to reflect on how storytelling can reshape our understanding of the world. Each of these films offers a unique perspective that resonates on multiple levels. For more recommendations and insights into the world of cinema, check out Moyens I/O.