In 2024 as far Screen One sees it. It has been a golden year for film, offering something for every kind of moviegoer. From innovative animation to deeply emotional biographical dramas and thrilling action spectacles, this year proved why cinema remains a vital and unifying art form. While compiling our Top 20 list, narrowing down the top 10 was no easy feat—every film here left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike.
As a reminder, all films included were released in UK cinemas between January 1 and December 31, 2024. Now, let’s dive into the best of the best and see what made the top 10 so unforgettable.
10. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
Director: Gil Kenan
Why It’s Great:
Because it’s Ghostbusters and despite what anyone else thinks we absolutely love these movies and this one felt like a Real Ghostbusters episode on the big screen.
The Ghostbusters legacy got a chilling upgrade with Frozen Empire. Gil Kenan’s sequel to Afterlife injects fresh energy into the franchise, blending nostalgia with inventive storytelling. With an ancient icy force taking over New York City, the stakes have never been higher—or colder. The returning cast, led by Paul Rudd and McKenna Grace, delivers fantastic performances, while the special effects and humor ensure this is as much fun as it is thrilling.
9. Transformers One
Director: Josh Cooley
Why It’s Great:
Because Transformers hasn’t been this original and refreshing since the first Transformers Movie.
An origin story like no other, Transformers One explores the roots of the civil war between Autobots and Decepticons on Cybertron. Josh Cooley’s vibrant animation and a top-tier voice cast, including Chris Hemsworth as Optimus Prime and Scarlett Johansson as Elita, breathe new life into this franchise. Combining breathtaking visuals with a heartfelt narrative, this film is a must-watch for fans old and new.
8. Heretic
Directors: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods
Why It’s Great:
Becuase Hugh Grant.
Heretic is a tense, atmospheric horror film that delves into themes of faith and survival. Following two missionaries who unwittingly knock on the door of a diabolical figure (Hugh Grant in a chilling turn), this cat-and-mouse thriller keeps you on edge from start to finish. The taut direction by Beck and Woods, combined with standout performances from Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, makes this one of the year’s most gripping films.
7. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Director: Tim Burton
Why It’s Great:
Becuase one of our favourite movies of the 80s returned and not only that it was much better than expectations.
Tim Burton’s long-awaited return to the Beetlejuice universe is a triumph of whimsical chaos. Michael Keaton’s Beetlejuice is as riotous as ever, while newcomers Jenna Ortega and Justin Theroux bring fresh energy to the macabre comedy. With Burton back to his creative best, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is equal parts hilarious, strange, and heartwarming—a sequel that truly justifies its existence.
6. Conclave
Director: Edward Berger
Why It’s Great:
Because not only are performances a,mazing, but the story and the end reveal are show stopping.
In Conclave, Edward Berger crafts a gripping political thriller set within the Vatican’s inner sanctum. As secrets and allegiances unravel during the election of a new pope, the film becomes a masterclass in tension and intrigue. Ralph Fiennes anchors the ensemble cast with a powerhouse performance, making this a thought-provoking exploration of power, morality, and faith.
5. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Directors: Ian Bonhôte, Peter Ettedgui
Why It’s Great:
Becuase it’s simply the best documentary of 2024 and the most moving. An emotional rollercoaster
This deeply moving documentary celebrates the life and legacy of Christopher Reeve, showcasing his journey from iconic superhero to real-life hero. Through heartfelt interviews with his children and co-stars, the film captures the resilience and optimism that defined Reeve’s life after his tragic accident. Super/Man is an inspiring and beautifully crafted tribute to an extraordinary man whose impact endures.
4. Better Man
Director: Michael Gracey
Why It’s Great:
Because unlike the other Wikipedia pop star movies this one is raw, enrgetic and feels real. (Despite Robbie playing himself as an ape)
The life of Robbie Williams is given a dazzling cinematic treatment in Better Man. Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) merges fantasy and biography, creating a visually stunning exploration of the highs and lows of fame. With emotional honesty and thrilling musical numbers, this film cements Williams’ legacy while delivering a cinematic experience that’s as entertaining as it is poignant.
3. Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In
Director: Soi Cheang
Why It’s Great:
Becuase it’s the best and most intense martial arts movies since the Raid.
Set in the infamous Kowloon Walled City, this action-packed neo-noir martial arts epic is a visual and emotional powerhouse. With breathtaking fight choreography and a gritty narrative, Twilight of the Warriors delivers both spectacle and substance. Louis Koo and Richie Jen give standout performances, making this a must-see for action aficionados.
2. Wicked
Director: Jon M. Chu
Why It’s Great:
Becuase it’s one of the best big screen adaptations of a stage musical ever seen.
The highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical doesn’t disappoint. Wicked brings the magical world of Oz to life with stunning visuals, a stirring score, and powerhouse performances from Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo as Glinda and Elphaba. Jon M. Chu balances spectacle with heartfelt storytelling, delivering a film that feels both fresh and faithful to its source material.
1. The Wild Robot
Director: Chris Sanders
Why It’s Great:
Becuase it’s simply the best animation to come along in years. Absolutely spellbinding and beautiful.
Topping our list is The Wild Robot, an animated masterpiece that seamlessly blends adventure, emotion, and environmental themes. Chris Sanders crafts a visually stunning tale about a robot’s journey to find her place in the natural world. With a voice cast led by Lupita Nyong’o and Pedro Pascal, this film resonates on both a personal and universal level. It’s a beautiful, thought-provoking story that captivates audiences of all ages, solidifying its place as the best film of 2024.
2024 reminded us why we love cinema. From daring new entries to heartfelt tributes and imaginative spectacles, this year’s films challenged, entertained, and inspired us in equal measure. These 20 films exemplify the power of storytelling and are a testament to the creativity and dedication of filmmakers worldwide. Here’s to another fantastic year ahead at the movies!
