The summer movie season has come to an end, leaving behind a trail of blockbuster hits and critical flops. While the biggest movies might have garnered the most attention, there were several gems that slipped under the radar. These five underrated summer 2024 films deserve a second look, offering unique experiences beyond the typical popcorn entertainment.
5. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Set nearly a decade after the critically acclaimed *Mad Max: Fury Road*, *Furiosa* had a tough act to follow. While it didn’t quite reach the same heights as its predecessor, it’s far from the disaster its box office numbers suggest. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a strong performance as the titular character, showcasing her action star potential. The film boasts captivating action sequences, particularly the extended chase scene involving Furiosa and a band of raiders. While Chris Hemsworth’s villainous performance might not be taken seriously by some, Taylor-Joy’s strong presence and the film’s overall visual spectacle make it a worthwhile watch.
4. Bad Boys: Ride or Die
After Will Smith’s public controversy, many questioned whether audiences would embrace his return to the action genre. However, *Bad Boys: Ride or Die* proved that Smith’s charm and the franchise’s established fanbase could still draw viewers in. While not as exhilarating as its predecessor, *Bad Boys for Life*, *Ride or Die* takes the stakes higher, making the mission personal for Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) as they strive to clear the name of their late captain. The film also introduces Armando Aretas (Jacob Scipio), Mike’s son, who emerges as a potential action star for future installments.
3. Alien: Romulus
Director Fede Álvarez took on the *Alien* franchise with a mission to revive the series’ horror roots. *Alien: Romulus* delivers on that promise, delivering familiar elements from previous films, including the unsettling creature that closes the story. However, Álvarez puts a unique spin on the classic *Alien* formula, amping up the terror of the facehuggers and Xenomorphs. The film also pays homage to the original *Alien* and even to *Prometheus*, which is often overlooked in the franchise. *Alien: Romulus* may not reinvent the wheel, but it proves that the *Alien* franchise still has life left in it.
2. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Continuing the legacy of the critically acclaimed *Planet of the Apes* reboot trilogy, *Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes* builds upon the foundation laid by Rupert Wyatt and Matt Reeves. With a new hero, Noa (Owen Teague), and a complex relationship with a human girl named Mae (Freya Allan), the film explores a fascinating dynamic between humans and apes. Kevin Durand delivers a captivating performance as the villainous Proximus Caesar, a character who twists the teachings of Caesar for personal gain. The compelling dynamic between Noa, Mae, and Proximus makes for a captivating narrative.
1. The Fall Guy
*The Fall Guy*, a film based on a relatively obscure television series, faced a disappointing box office run, leading to its status as a summer flop. However, beneath the commercial failure lies a surprisingly entertaining action comedy that deserves recognition. Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt deliver strong performances, injecting humor and heart into the story. The film takes liberties with the source material, which works to its advantage, creating a unique spin on the classic action comedy formula. While it might not appeal to everyone, *The Fall Guy* stands out as the most underrated film of summer 2024, offering a fun, nostalgic experience reminiscent of action comedies from the 1980s and 1990s.
