Top Movies of 2024 Ranked by Film Critics

The movies of 2024 have offered a mix of cinematic triumphs and challenges, with filmmakers pushing boundaries and navigating hurdles to bring stories to the screen, as AP film writers Jake Coyle and Lindsey Bahr highlight their top picks for the year.

Jake Coyle’s favorite, “All We Imagine As Light,” is a masterpiece set in modern Mumbai that combines gritty realism with dreamlike poetry, making it a must-watch gem. Another standout is “Nickel Boys,” an adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel following the journey of two Black teenagers that is visually inventive and rich with empathy.

“Anora,” a Sean Baker creation, offers a thrilling mix of comedy, drama, and tragedy that showcases the diverse reasons we love going to the movies. “I Saw the TV Glow,” a film by Jane Schoenbrun, is a coming-of-age story set in the 1990s with a killer soundtrack that delves into transcendent themes.

“The Green Border,” directed by Agnieszka Holland, is a searing migrant drama that reflects the crisis at the Poland-Belarus border, highlighting important societal issues. On the lighter side, “The Fall Guy” is a fun, action-packed movie that celebrates stunt performers and stars Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.

“The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” directed by Mohammad Rasoulof, is a powerful Iranian film that delves into social upheaval through a family drama, while “Ghostlight” and “Sing Sing” both capture the healing power of theater with compassion and authenticity in their performances.

Overall, the best movies of 2024 showcase diverse stories, innovative storytelling, and standout performances that have managed to shine through in a year filled with challenges and industry changes. Whether you’re into gritty dramas, heartfelt comedies, or action-packed adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this year’s offerings.