Are we all set to bid 2024 goodbye? Kind of, yes—but looking back, what a phenomenal year it’s been for pop culture. From groundbreaking films to viral moments that took over timelines, this year had us hooked, laughing, crying, and hitting repeat. Cinema, in particular, absolutely delivered, whether it was women directors stealing the spotlight, films that felt tailor-made for the chronically online, or popcorn films that made us hoot in the cinema halls (yes, Paul Mescal in that skirt), 2024 served us everything. 

Kiran Rao brought chaos and feminism to the screen with Lapaata Ladies, turning a bride mix-up into a hilarious, heartwarming celebration of independence. Payal Kapadia left us teary-eyed and inspired with All We Imagine as Light. This beautifully told story turned something as simple as a rice cooker into a symbol of hope. And then there was Mothers’ Instinct, a dark and twisted film that turned suburban friendship into a psychological chess game.

And let’s not forget CTRL, a mind-bending thriller about tech, heartbreak, and reinvention that had us questioning everything we do online. Blockbusters did their thing, too. Dune 2 took epic to a whole new level, while Inside Out 2 proved Pixar still knows exactly how to mess with our emotions.

So, here’s the rundown of the movies that made 2024 a year to remember.

1. Amar Singh Chamkila

Imtiaz Ali’s biopic on Punjabi music legend Amar Singh Chamkila is a powerful exploration of fame, artistic freedom, and tragedy. The film captures Chamkila’s meteoric rise, the controversies surrounding his bold lyrics, and his untimely assassination. With evocative storytelling, stunning visuals of rural Punjab, and soul-stirring music, Chamkila is a moving tribute to a revolutionary artist.

2. Lapaata Ladies

Kiran Rao’s quirky comedy-drama unfolds in a fictional North Indian village where a bride mix-up sparks chaos and self-discovery. Blending sharp humour with societal commentary, the film portrays layered characters navigating empowerment and unexpected friendships. Lapaata Ladies offers a refreshing take on small-town narratives.

3. All We Imagine as Light

Set in Mumbai, Payal Kapadia’s award winner drama follows two Malayali nurses navigating love, identity, and resilience. The story’s emotional depth is heightened by its poetic cinematography and nuanced performances. A symbolic rice cooker, gifted from Germany, serves as a metaphor for hope and connection in this tender tale.

4. How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies

This dark Thai comedy-drama explores family, greed, and redemption. When Mengju’s grandson, M, hatches a scheme to inherit her fortune, he uncovers the true value of love and legacy. With equal parts humour and heartbreak, this unconventional film shines with cultural authenticity and bold storytelling.

5. The Goat Life

Based on Benyamin’s acclaimed novel Aadujeevitham, this Malayalam survival drama depicts the harrowing journey of Najeeb, a migrant worker stranded in Saudi Arabia. As he battles isolation and hardship in the desert, the film offers a profound view on resilience and hope, with the stark landscapes mirroring his inner turmoil.

6. Maharaja

Pa. Ranjith’s revenge thriller is a gripping tale of justice and redemption. A barber seeks retribution after his daughter’s assault, exposing societal injustices. With powerful performances, visceral action sequences, and thought-provoking commentary, Maharaja is both intense and deeply moving.

7. Girls Will Be Girls

This heartfelt coming-of-age film explores the complex relationship between high-achieving teenager Mira and her spirited mother Anila. With humour and warmth, it tackles love, ambition, and societal expectations, offering a fresh take on family dynamics.

8. CTRL

In this techno-thriller, influencer Nella Awasthi discovers that her new AI app, CTRL, is manipulating her life. As she uncovers a conspiracy tied to a tech giant, Nella fights to expose the truth. Blending suspense and social commentary, CTRL is a gripping reflection on digital identity.

9. Wicked

This retelling of the Wizard of Oz focuses on Elphaba, the misunderstood “Wicked Witch of the West.” From her troubled childhood to her defiance of the corrupt Wizard, Wicked reimagines a classic tale with emotional depth and stunning visuals.

10. Dune: Part Two

Denis Villeneuve’s epic sequel follows Paul Atreides as he leads the Fremen in their struggle for Arrakis and its spice resources. With breathtaking visuals and a compelling narrative, Dune: Part Two is a monumental sci-fi experience exploring power, destiny, and sacrifice.

11. Challengers

Luca Guadagnino's tennis throuple drama weaves love, rivalry, and ambition into a taut narrative. As three former friends navigate their tangled pasts, their emotional confrontations culminate in a gripping finale both on and off the court.

12. Civil War

Set in a near-future America, this gritty drama follows war photographer Lee Smith as she documents the devastating conflict between a totalitarian government and secessionist forces. Civil War is a haunting exploration of loss, resilience, and the power of truth.

13. The Substance

A former actress discovers a youth serum with horrifying consequences in this psychological thriller. The Substance is a chilling exploration of vanity, identity, and the price of perfection, culminating in a shocking and tragic climax. A feminist body horror, we stan. Oscars we will be watching.

14. Anora

This gritty tale follows Ani, a young Brooklyn stripper, as she navigates a dangerous marriage to a Russian oligarch’s son. With themes of survival and self-discovery, Anora is a gripping portrait of resilience in the face of manipulation and violence.

15. Emilia Pérez

This poignant drama tells the story of a cartel boss who transitions into a new life as Emilia Pérez, seeking redemption for past crimes. With themes of family, guilt, and forgiveness, Emilia Pérez is a moving exploration of identity and legacy.

16. Mothers’ Instinct

In 1960s America, a tragic accident unravels the bond between two mothers. As suspicion and manipulation escalate, Mothers’ Instinct builds to a tense and devastating conclusion, exploring themes of grief and betrayal.

17. Wild Robot

This adaptation of Peter Brown’s novel follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island, as she forges bonds with its animal inhabitants. Balancing heartwarming moments with thrilling action, Wild Robot is a touching tale of community and belonging.

18. Inside Out 2

Pixar returns with Inside Out 2, chronicling Riley’s emotional challenges as a teenager. With new emotions joining the mix, the film is a humorous and heartfelt exploration of self-love and growth.

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