The summer box office season is winding down, and while there were some costly flops like ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ and ‘The Fall Guy,’ the best movies of the summer proved that cinema still has a lot of life left. Here are five of the most memorable films that entertained audiences this summer, offering a mix of blockbusters and hidden gems:
5. A Quiet Place: Day One
Neither of this summer’s alien-related movies could claim to be wholly original. But while ‘Alien: Romulus’ was enjoyable, ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ stands out for the sheer tension it creates. The film effectively introduces us to Samira (Lupita Nyong’o) and Eric (Joseph Quinn), two strangers thrown together during an alien invasion. As they navigate a world of terror and loss, the film creates a sense of dread that permeates every scene. It’s a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, human connection can offer a glimmer of hope, even if a happy ending is never guaranteed.
4. I Saw the TV Glow
‘I Saw the TV Glow’ is likely to become a cult classic, despite its limited theatrical release. Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine star as Owen and Maddy, two teens obsessed with a TV show called ‘The Pink Opaque,’ which explores time travel and existential themes. When Maddy reappears in Owen’s life years after disappearing, she claims the show is more real than they think. Owen must confront the line between reality and fiction, questioning his own sanity as he dives deeper into the mysteries of the show.
3. Inside Out 2
Pixar continues to dominate the animated film landscape with its ability to create characters that resonate with audiences of all ages. ‘Inside Out 2’ is no exception, offering a heartwarming and relatable story about Riley Andersen (Kensington Tallman), a 13-year-old girl whose internal world is populated by personified emotions. As Riley navigates adolescence, her emotions, including Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Liza Lapira), and Fear (Tony Hale), are thrown into turmoil by the arrival of new emotions like Anxiety (Maya Hawke). The film explores the complex interplay between our internal and external lives, showcasing how our emotions shape who we are.
2. Deadpool & Wolverine
While not the most critically acclaimed MCU film, ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ delivers exactly what audiences wanted: a hilarious and action-packed team-up between two beloved characters. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman bring their signature wit and charm to the roles, creating a dynamic duo that will have fans laughing and cheering. The film’s success can be attributed to the nostalgia it evokes for fans of the 20th Century Fox Marvel movies and its fresh take on the superhero buddy comedy genre. It’s a reminder that sometimes, pure entertainment is all you need.
1. Hit Man
Glen Powell delivers a standout performance in Richard Linklater’s ‘Hit Man,’ a hidden gem that deserves a wider audience. Powell plays Gary Johnson, an undercover cop who pretends to be a hitman to catch criminals. However, his mission becomes complicated when he meets Madison Figueroa Masters (Adria Arjona), a woman who wants him to kill her abusive husband. Gary finds himself torn between his duty and his growing affection for Madison, creating a complex and entertaining rom-com with a unique twist. The film showcases Powell’s comedic range and Linklater’s masterful ability to blend humor and drama. It’s a reminder that some of the best movies of the summer might be hiding in plain sight.
Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking sci-fi thriller, a hilarious action comedy, or an emotionally resonant animated film, the best summer 2024 movies offer something for everyone. These films showcase the power of cinema to entertain, inspire, and connect us with characters and stories that resonate on a personal level. So, grab your popcorn and settle in for a cinematic experience you won’t soon forget.
