The world of cinema has given film lovers many impressive films that have won prestigious awards at international festivals and ceremonies in 2024. These films have won the hearts of critics and audiences by raising important themes and demonstrating a high level of cinematic excellence.
Great historical dramas and biographies
‘Oppenheimer’
‘Oppenheimer,’ directed by Christopher Nolan, was one of the most talked about films of last year and the most awarded film of 2024. This sweeping biographical drama follows the life of Robert Oppenheimer, the chief architect of the atomic bomb, and his moral torment over its use. The film not only details Oppenheimer’s scientific work and personal experiences, but also touches on the global implications of his discovery for humanity.
‘Oppenheimer’ won numerous awards, including the Best Director award for Christopher Nolan at various international festivals. Of particular note was the acting of Cillian Murphy, who played the lead role with incredible emotional depth. His work earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.
‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
The Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese, was an important historical drama film that was also much nominated in 2024. The film tells the story of a series of murders among the Osage people in the 1920s in the United States related to their oil rights and explores deep themes of greed, betrayal and racial injustice. The film is based on true events and the book by David Grann.
Lily Gladstone, who played Molly Burkhart, received critical acclaim and won the Best Supporting Actress award at the Golden Globes. Her character, who experiences loss and pain due to the murders of her relatives, became the central figure of the film. Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro also received high marks for their roles, making this film one of Martin Scorsese’s most significant film works.
Experimental films and social dramas
‘Poor Things’
‘Poor Things,’ directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, won the Golden Globe for Best Film – Comedy or Musical, while lead actress Emma Stone won the award for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy.
The film is about a young woman, Bella (played by Emma Stone), who after her death is brought back to life through a scientific experiment. The film is an eccentric fantasy that explores issues of freedom, feminism and female independence.
Lanthimos’ style, known for his unique visual style and dark humour, made this film a striking and memorable experience. The film combines comedy, sci-fi and philosophical reflections on life and death, making it a true masterpiece of cinema.
‘Zone of Interest’
‘Zone of Interest,’ directed by Jonathan Glazer, is an experimental war drama that won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film presents an unusual look at the life of a Nazi Germany officer and his family living in close proximity to the Auschwitz concentration camp. The film explores the boundaries of evil and the daily lives of the people who participated in the heinous crimes.
This bold work by Glaser impressed critics with its minimalism and deep psychological exploration of the subject. The film shows the horrors of war through everyday life, emphasising the brutal reality.
Personal dramas and forensic thrillers
‘Anatomy of a Fall’
‘Anatomy of a Fall,’ directed by Justine Trieu, won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay in 2024. The film tells the story of a trial against a woman accused of murdering her husband. The film is a subtle psychological drama that explores the moral and legal dilemmas that arise in the search for the truth.
The film was highly appreciated for its superb acting and detailed exploration of human relationships, revealing the hidden emotions and secrets of each character. The script and direction were recognised as some of the film’s greatest strengths.
‘The Holdover’
The Holdovers, directed by Alexander Payne, was recognised for its touching and funny approach to the theme of loneliness and understanding. The film tells the story of a teacher (played by Paul Giamatti) who is forced to spend the Christmas holidays with pupils left behind in a boarding school. The film combines elements of drama and comedy, exploring the problems of fatherhood, communication and personal responsibility.
Paul Giamatti’s performance earned him a win at the Golden Globes for Best Actor – Comedy or Musical . And his colleague in the film, Dawine Joy Randolph, won the award for Best Supporting Actress.
These films would become important elements in film history, leaving a deep mark on world cinema. If you are still familiar with them, be sure to check them out.