10 Really Good A24 Movies You Must Watch
A24 has released some of the most impactful films of the decade, tackling complex, even unsettling themes that push the boundaries of traditional cinema. Whether it's drama, horror, or comedy, nothing is beyond their reach. In addition to creating aesthetically captivating works, A24 collaborates with visionary directors, each with a unique artistic signature, resulting in unforgettable films.
Here’s a list of movies that I had the pleasure of discovering and felt compelled to share. Whether you're into horror or comedy, everything here will immerse you in the distinct world of A24 films !
Moonlight (2016)
Moonlight is an intimate portrait of Chiron, a Black boy from a poor Miami neighborhood, explored through three stages of his life: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Throughout the film, we follow Chiron’s search for identity as he confronts violence and the hardships imposed by his environment. This film masterfully portrays both pain and tenderness on screen, offering a deeply moving and authentic exploration of the complexities of black masculinity and sexuality.
Past Lives (2023)
Past Lives tells the story of Nora and Hae Sung, two childhood friends in South Korea whose lives take a sharp turn when Nora’s family emigrates to Canada. As years pass, they go their separate ways, but a deep connection remains. Two decades later, as Nora lives in New York and is married, Hae Sung reconnects with her, stirring memories and prompting them to reflect on what their lives might have been together. This is one of the best love stories of the year, perfectly exploring themes of fate and the timeless question, “What if?”
The Florida Project (2017)
This film follows the summer of Moonee, a six-year-old girl living in a motel called "The Magic Castle" with her young mother, Halley. Moonee spends her days playing with friends, getting into mischief, and exploring the world with the innocence of childhood. Through its colorful shots and various camera angles, the film captures both the wonder and innocence of childhood, while subtly contrasting it with the harsh reality Moonee and her mother face as they live in poverty. It’s one of the most touching films I’ve ever seen.
Waves (2019)
Waves tells the story of a family who seemed to have it all, until they are struck by a heartbreaking tragedy. This film explores the intensity of pain and the quest for redemption with such depth that it’s impossible to remain indifferent to such a powerful cinematic work.
Hereditary (2018)
Hereditary follows a family grieving the death of their grandmother, a woman with a very mysterious past. Shortly after the funeral, strange events begin to occur around the family, revealing terrifying secrets about their origins and the legacy passed down to them. Balancing horror and drama, this film will leave you speechless, plunging you into a spiral of psychological terror and macabre revelations.
The Lobster (2015)
In a world where being single is illegal, anyone who is single is sent to a hotel for a 45-day program, during which they must find a soulmate or be transformed into an animal of their choice. On the other side, a group called the Loners enforces a strict punishment for any romantic relationship, advocating total independence and the suppression of emotional ties. Through its dark humor, this dystopian film questions the social norms surrounding romantic relationships.
Midsommar (2019)
Midsommar follows a group of friends who travel to Sweden to take part in a summer festival that occurs only once every 90 years in a remote community. What starts as an idyllic retreat quickly turns into a nightmare as the village's rituals become increasingly disturbing. Through its contrast between a sunny setting and growing tension, Midsommar offers a cinematic experience that is both captivating and disturbing.
Pearl (2022)
Pearl is the prequel to Ti West’s “X” movie and focuses on the character Pearl, revealing the roots of her murderous madness. Set in 1918 during World War I, Pearl lives on an isolated farm with her domineering mother and severely ill father, whom she must care for. Dreaming of becoming a world-famous star, her ambitions are constantly crushed by her obligations and her mother's cruelty, leading her down a spiral of madness. Don’t worry, there’s no need to have seen the first film, X, to appreciate this gripping movie !
American Honey (2016)
American Honey follows the story of Star, an 18-year-old girl who decides to leave her dysfunctional family to join a group of young misfits traveling across the Midwest selling magazine subscriptions. Through this road trip filled with parties, encounters, and love, she finds the freedom she’s always dreamed of. A film that is both touching and pleasant to watch.
Zola (2020)
The film is based on a 148-tweet thread posted in 2015 by Aziah "Zola" King. It tells the story of Zola, a waitress and dancer, who meets Stefani at the restaurant where she works. Stefani invites her to spend a weekend in Florida, promising easy money by dancing at strip clubs. What seemed like a promising getaway quickly turns into a nightmare when Zola discovers the real reasons behind the trip. Between betrayal and violence, this film plunges us into a whirlwind of tension and disillusionment.
