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News / Oct 18, 2024

Ten of Our Favourite Movies of the Year

This past year has been a thrilling ride for movie lovers, with both fresh faces and iconic characters making a huge impact on the big screen. From the intense drama of Joker: Folie à Deux to the epic monster clash in Godzilla, and the highly anticipated Deadpool 3 featuring Wolverine, the film industry has delivered some unforgettable moments. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout movies from this year that you won’t want to miss!



All of Us Strangers


'This emotionally resonant film, starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, masterfully explores love and loss. Directed by Andrew Haigh, it intertwines the present and past as Adam navigates a budding relationship with his neighbour while confronting childhood trauma. The performances are poignant, especially Scott's, while the cinematography beautifully captures intimate moments. With a haunting score and fluid editing, it creates a narrative that lingers in the heart, celebrating enduring connections.' 

By Ryan R.

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Bonus! View our interview with Paul Mescal, Andrew Scott & Claire Foy here! 


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Poor Things 

'Emma Stone boasts an Academy Award-winning performance as Bella Baxter. After her unusual corpse is acquired, Willem Dafoe's troubling Dr. Godwin Baxter reanimates it using the juvenile brain of her unborn child. This curious sci-fi tale explores a rapidly developing mind lustful for new experiences, yet it carries an undertone of exploitation, shedding light on a more pessimistic message. An unsettling allegory of a woman’s struggle to liberate herself from oppression emerges.'

By Jacob N.

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Joker: Folie à Deux

'In Joker: Folie à Deux, Joaquin Phoenix returns to deepen his portrayal of one of cinema's most iconic villains. True to its French title, the film sees Arthur Fleck's time in Arkham Asylum unravel into a chaotic love affair with the enigmatic Harley Quinn, played with magnetic intensity by Lady Gaga. Gaga's performance further cements her cinematic prowess, offering a fresh, captivating take on the infamous villainess. Prepare for two hours of unsettling chaos, as their volatile romance spirals into maniacal devastation, dragging Gotham to the brink of collapse.'

By Jacob N.

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Alien: Romulus

'Fede Alvarez returns to form, capturing the eerie, oppressive mood that made the original Alien films iconic. With stunning art direction and exceptional practical effects, the world feels gritty and lived-in, heightening the fear factor. While the story follows familiar beats, the intense journey and riveting epilogue keep you on edge. Cailee Spaeny’s standout performance brings a Ripley-esque humanity, making this a worthy addition to the Alien franchise, executed with care.'

By Ryan R.

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A Quiet Place: Day One

'This stunning prequel to a renowned horror franchise sees the city that never sleeps go silent. Lupita Nyong’o portrays a terminal cancer patient who forms an unlikely friendship with a law student played by Joseph Quinn. The juxtaposition of survival desperation with the priorities of someone on death's door shapes intimate, tear-jerking sequences. Terrifying monsters, eerie silence, and expert sound design throughout craft palpable tension that will captivate viewers.'

By Jacob N.

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Longlegs

'In pursuit of a serial killer, an FBI agent uncovers a series of occult clues that she must solve to end his terrifying killing spree. Longlegs grips viewers with atmospheric tension and nerve-shredding suspense, bolstered by Nicolas Cage in his most chilling role to date. The film's masterful sound design and unnerving twists amplify the dread, keeping you on edge. Balancing psychological horror with pulse-pounding scares, this relentless ride will have you gripping the armrest!'

By Jacob N.

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Wonka

Inspired by Roald Dahl's childhood classic, Wonka boasts an emphatic lead performance from Timothée Chalamet alongside an iconic ensemble cast. Following the humble beginnings of a young Willy Wonka trying to build his chocolate empire, Wonka creates a whimsical world to match a wacky story packed full of musical numbers that will remain earworms for weeks! Hop skip and float into a tale of chocolate cartels, a tiny orange man and a budding chocolatier. A satisfying balance of wholesome storytelling and well-crafted thrills make this perfect for any family movie night.

By Jacob N. 

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MaXXXine

'One of this year's most anticipated slashers is a brutal box office hit. Witness a splendid sequel that broadens the scope of a modern slasher icon. Set in the glamorous backdrop of '80s Hollywood, the stunning Maxine Minx bursts onto the scene as Hollywood's newest hot property before her newfound success unravels in unforeseen circumstances. A killer on the loose, a career in jeopardy, and skeletons in the closet: this is a thrilling must-watch!'

By Jacob N.

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Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos crafts an unnerving triptych exploring themes of selfishness and despair, starring Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, and Jesse Plemons. Set in modern-day New Orleans, the film presents three interwoven narratives, each echoing unsettling motifs of control and replacement. The clever use of repertory casting enhances its eerie charm, with familiar faces in diverse roles. While the stylish execution captivates, the exploration of absence and loss leaves viewers questioning deeper meanings.

By Ryan R.

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Challengers


A smash-hit tennis drama that serves up heaps of romantic tension. Zendaya portrays the confident, emphatic tennis star Tashi Duncan who attracts a joint interest from the young tennis duo of Art Donaldson and Patrick Zwieg. Jumping back and forth between the present and their first meetings as juniors, relationships are tested and loyalties falter, set by set. In a competition that extends way beyond just tennis, this is a captivating watch that will engross you in a dynamic love triangle. Can one last match finally settle the scores?

By Jacob N.

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So there you have it... our top ten favourite films offer a perfect mix of emotion, thrills, and unforgettable storytelling. From the heartfelt journey in All of Us Strangers to the quirky charm of Wonka, there's something for everyone. Whether you're after sci-fi horror, intense drama, or light-hearted fun, these films showcase cinema's best, with standout performances and captivating stories that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

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