In a reflective discussion, the hosts dive into their favorite honorable mentions and the biggest disappointments of 2024. They analyze the marketing blunders of films like 'Gladiator 2' while joyfully praising gems like 'Caddo Lake.' Personal themes in cinema spark philosophical debates about life choices and nostalgia. They also explore mixed reactions to anticipated sequels and guess the future of film trends, blending excitement with skepticism for 2025's cinematic offerings.
The hosts reflect on notable films of 2024 that didn’t make their top lists, highlighting unique elements in 'Rebel Ridge' and 'Hitman.'
Significant socio-political themes in films like 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' and 'No Other Land' illustrate contemporary cinema's depth.
Excitement builds for 2025's upcoming films as panelists discuss potential high-profile sequels and original stories amidst reboot fatigue.
Deep dives
Honorable Mentions
The discussion emphasizes several notable films that didn’t make the hosts’ top 10 lists but were still appreciated. Jeff highlights 'Rebel Ridge' as an exciting action film with a unique take on disarming rather than lethal confrontations, drawing comparisons to 'John Wick.' Devindra brings up 'Hitman,' praising its fun performances and rich writing, despite its implausible elements. The conversation also touches on the indie film 'Caddo Lake,' which attempts to accomplish its thematic ambitions, though it may not appeal to all viewers.
Substantial Cinema from Recent Years
Two significant films mentioned are 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' and 'No Other Land,' both of which tackle impactful socio-political themes through their narratives. 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' is a family drama set during protests in Iran, shedding light on personal experiences amidst societal turmoil, while its director faced life-threatening risks to create it. On the other hand, 'No Other Land' captures the struggles of residents facing displacement due to Israeli settlements, marking it as a brave documentary effort. These films exemplify the poignant intersection of personal and political storytelling in contemporary cinema.
Non-Traditional Genre Exploration
The hosts delve into 'Long Legs,' a film that struck a chord with Jeff for its unique textures and genre-blending qualities. He finds it to be a memorable experience, combining elements of creepiness and humor, aided by strong performances. Meanwhile, the film 'A Quiet Place Day 1' gains recognition for its emotional depth, contrary to its prequel status, with Lupita Nyong'o's performance explored critically. This highlights an increasing trend of genre films pushing boundaries while delivering resonant narratives.
Underappreciated Works
As part of the conversation about underappreciated films, the talk shifts to 'Trap' and how it met mixed reviews despite its ambitious execution. Jeff expresses admiration for its audacity, while the panel reflects on the disappointment some felt due to its polarizing reception. Other films, such as 'Nosferatu' and 'Furiosa,' spark debate on their merits and audience reception. The hosts contribute to a rich conversation on the subjective nature of film appreciation, illustrating how diverse opinions shape the cinematic landscape.
Future of Cinema and Anticipation
Looking ahead, the discussion centers on 2025's most anticipated films, including '28 Years Later' and 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' This forecasts a promising year ahead for cinema amidst ongoing concerns about studio reboot fatigue and execution quality. The excitement around high-profile sequels and original content indicates a desire for innovative storytelling. The exchange encapsulates the eager anticipation and speculative nature of film buffs, showcasing how future cinematic offerings are being received even before their release.
David, Devindra, and Jeff continue their look back at the films of 2024 and discuss:
Honorable mentions
Biggest disappointments
Favorite piece of non-movie entertainment in 2024
Biggest movie they didn’t get
Biggest movie we didn’t get
Best movie of 2025
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