It's that time of year again. Sundance Film Festival has come and gone, publicly presenting a proud collection of films for the first time to an eager audience. Whether you attended the event in person or online, chances are you already know a good deal about the films on offer at this year's festival. Alternatively, let's present a hypothetical. Let's say that you were stuck at home, unable or unwilling to examine just about everything there is to know about such an exciting festival. You may find yourself asking questions like:
- What were the most exciting films to see at Sundance 2024?
- Which directors showed up at Sundance 2024?
- What are the best of the best movies premiering at Sundance 2024?
- Which big name actors are appearing in Sundance's numerous films?
And so on and so forth. Luckily, if you were unable to take a deeper dive into what Sundance had to offer this year, we've assembled a collection of 20 films we're most excited about. From documentaries to dramas, here's an exhaustive recap of the best movies at Sundance 2024.
1 DEVO
Question: Are they not men? Answer: They are DEVO! A new wave band originally founded in the early 1970s, this eclectic group of talented musicians ascended to pop history with their hit single, "Whip It," with their extensive back catalog serving as an influence for dozens upon dozens of industrial, electronica, and rock artists throughout the ensuing decades. Of course, the band is also partially recognized for being one of the progenitors of the "music video," having created one for their cover of The Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." This would be more than three years prior to the official creation of MTV. They were innovators in more ways than one, and their titular documentary will chronicle their eclectic style via the medium of film.
DEVO Is a Stylish Documentary
Directed by Chris Smith of Fyre and 100 Foot Wave fame, DEVO promises to present the eponymous band in a way that captures their frenetic energy and artistic sensibilities. Plenty of archival footage and the method of the band's madness will be featured here, with personal anecdotes behind the band's creation and inspirations on full display. For rock fans of all sorts, you owe it to yourself to see where the genre truly began to expand and experiment.
2 Will & Harper
Gloria Sanchez Productions
Wayfarer Studios
Will Ferrell is well-known for his prominence in the comedy genre, to say the least. However, Ferrell's latest documentary at Sundance, Will & Harper, promises to be one of the most intriguing premieres yet. Harper Steele, a longtime friend of Ferrell's for over 30 years, has come out as a trans woman. The two opt to go on a sprawling road trip together to better understand this new stage in each other's relationship, exploring the American countryside just as they explore new feelings and ideas. Ferrell, having little knowledge of the trans community prior to this adventure, may gain a better understanding of not just his friend, but of the community as a whole.
Josh Greenbaum and Will Ferrel Team Up
Josh Greenbaum is in the director's chair here, having previously directed the infectiously-uplifting film Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar in 2021. Those who saw 2023's Strays may also recognize Greenbaum's work as well, with Ferrell lending his voice to the character of Reggie. Will & Harper will be a particularly interesting film for the two creatives, not only because of its personal subject, but because of its presentation. Greenbaum's previous documentaries, Too Funny to Fail and Becoming Bond, took a more traditional documentary format compared to what's being promised here.
3 Hit Man
Hit Man is more than just your average assassination espionage story. In fact, the selling point here is that our eponymous killer isn't really a hitman at all. Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Scream Queens) plays the role of Gary Johnson, a seemingly-honest professor on the surface who moonlights as a fake hitman, leading to the arrest of those who attempt to hire him. However, when a prospective client is in genuine danger, a case of mistaken identity may lead to a deeper hole being dug for both parties. The film is notable for being based on a true story.
Richard Linklater's Dramatic Return
Co-written by both Glen Powell and Richard Linklater, this action-comedy film marks the latter's return to the big screen following Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood. Similarly, Glen Powell's lead role is one of a handful he has received in his filmography so far, having previously led 2023's Anyone But You and 2022's Devotion. Adria Arjona (Andor), Austin Amelio (The Walking Dead), and Retta (Parks and Recreation) are also attached to the film's cast. Knowing Linklater's pension for melding genres into a cohesive whole, Hit Man is sure to be one heck of an impressive outing. Hit Man will be released on Netflix on Jun. 7, 2024.
4 Handling the Undead
There isn't much to do when it comes to handling the undead. By now, even the youngest of children know that a zombie is quickly dispatched by destroying its brain. But what happens when you take a step back and analyze "why" the undead are even here? Handling the Undead takes this a step further, with the recently-deceased rising from their graves in the middle of Oslo. Instead of reacting with abject horror, however, the undead's grieving families are left wondering if this is a sign of something else, and that their loved ones may actually be back above ground.
A Horrifying Twist on an Established Idea
Director Thea Hvistendahl carved a name for herself between the worlds of short film and music videos. Her previous feature-length project, The Monkey and the Mouth, was released in 2017, and featured a unique mishmash of several core ideas that brought Karpe Diem, a popular Norwegian band, to life on the big screen. Her sense of style is sure to be found within Handling the Undead as well, bringing a sentimental twist to one of the most iconic movie monsters in history. Handling the Undead will premiere internationally on Feb. 9, 2024.
5 I Saw the TV Glow
Late-night television is a staple of many a contemporary adult's youth. But what happens when the idiot box opens up something beyond our understanding? Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine play the leading duo of Owen and Maddy, respectively, as they unveil a world beyond their own through the lens of their television. Of course, being witness to such a discovery doesn't necessarily bode well for either teen.
I Saw the TV Glow Is a Terrifying Time
One of the few horror offerings at Sundance this year, I Saw the TV Glow comes to you from the same director of the polarizing We're All Going to the World's Fair, which originally released in 2021. While the two films share a love of colorful lighting, it's safe to suggest that director Jane Schoenbrun has used this thematic follow-up to improve their craft substantially. Those who enjoyed Schoenbrun's previous film will likely find themselves right at home with this feature, especially with its focus on ambiguity and surreal horror.
6 Thelma (2024)
Thelma (2024)
- Release Date
- January 18, 2024
- Director
- Josh Margolin
Telemarketing scams are all too common nowadays, especially those targeting the elderly. When 93-year-old Thelma Post (June Squibb) falls victim to one such scam, she takes it upon herself to reclaim what was stolen from her by any means necessary. What follows is an action comedy story in a similar vein to Mission: Impossible, albeit done in a way that respectfully addresses Thelma's age instead of poking fun at it.
Thelma Is an Elderly Action Hero
Led by the marvelous June Squibb, whose numerous performances stretch all the way back to the 1990s, Thelma looks to be a particularly engaging action film due to its unique subject and charming presentation. Josh Margolin both wrote and directed this feature film as his full-length debut, with additional cast members consisting of Fred Hechinger, Richard Roundtree, Parker Posey, and Clark Gregg. You'll find yourself rooting for Thelma as she goes on her steadfast journey, never giving in despite the concerns of her surrounding family.
7 Malu
TVZero
Sundance's international offerings are often the most engaging, with films like Malu being a prime example of the kinds of stories they can offer. An intergenerational tale, Malu sees the titular former actress living in a multi-generational household in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. With relationships strained between her mother and her adult daughter, Malu tries to live her days as best as she can, left with only a memory of her creative past.
Malu Will Make You Cry
A tearjerker drama at its core, Malu is a film that brings its toxic relationships to the forefront, presenting an examination of generational trauma and its negative side effects. However, the film additionally examines the unconditional love that these family members have for each other, and how the two sides form a heart-wrenching division in Malu's life. Yara de Novaes, who portrays the titular Malu, delivers a performance that is sure to take your breath away.
8 Stress Positions
Stress Positions is a time capsule, hearkening back to the panic-driven days of the pandemic while taking this widespread paranoia and cranking it to a hilarious extreme. The film follows Terry Goon (John Early), a man strictly adhering to quarantine procedures in the middle of Brooklyn. Unfortunately, there are two major complications at play, not including the advent of a global pandemic. The first is that Terry isn't actually in his own home: he's in the home of his ex-husband. The second is that he's currently tending to his young adult nephew, Bahlul, who is a popular model from Morocco. With his nephew being bedbound after a gnarly leg injury, Terry is left to defend the boy when just about everyone tries to get an audience with Bahlul.
Stress Positions Is Hilariously Funny
A comedy at its core, one directed by Theda Hammel, Stress Positions balances the real-world tension of the globe at the time with charming humor. There's a distinction to be made about films that "take place" during the pandemic and those that are "about" the pandemic, with the latter uniquely applying to Stress Positions. Specifically, it's a film less about the disease itself, and more about the psychological impact it had on the millions of people it affected. Thankfully, it aims to explore this idea through humor instead of malice.
One Must-See Movie Release for Each Month of 2024
2024 is bringing a plethora of exciting films for fans of all genres. Here is one movie from each month of this year that should get your attention.9 A Real Pain
Jesse Eisenberg returns to Sundance once more with yet another exciting entry in his filmography. Co-starring alongside Kieran Culkin, Eisenberg tells a dramatic story in the confines of A Real Pain, where two distant cousins — David and Benji — come together in remembrance of their grandmother. However, their isolated journey across the roads of Poland may reopen old wounds. Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey, and Kurt Egyiawan are also attached to the cast, with Emma Stone producing.
Jesse Eisenberg's Anticipated Follow-Up
Though most will recognize Eisenberg for his on-screen talent, some may not be aware of his behind-the-scenes ventures as well. He previously directed the 2022 A24 film, When You Finish Saving the World, which saw Julianne More and Finn Wolfhard as its leads. At just under 90 minutes, A Real Pain promises to condense years upon years of tension into a stunning drama film, tackling themes such as intergenerational trauma and unconditional love.
10 Rob Peace
Chiwetel Ejiofor, the acclaimed actor behind impressive performances in films like 12 Years a Slave and Doctor Strange, has arrived at Sundance with his second feature-length directorial venture. After previously directing The Boy Who Harnassed the Wind in 2019, Ejiofor is now helming Rob Peace, a biographical film based on the life of the titular Robert Peace. An impoverished boy in his youth, Rob Peace (Jay Will) manages to climb the economic ladder via his success in academia. However, few knew that his success was bankrolled via his lucrative side business — selling marijuana.
An Examination of a Tragic Life
Being an adaptation of author Jeff Hobbs' impressive biography, Rob Peace will provide an intriguing examination of a life tragically cut short, with mounting pressures both at home and in Peace's particular line of business slowly enveloping his life. The film will also examine how Peace's family life connects to his drive for success, as the conflicting influences from both his mother (Mary J. Bilge) and father (Chiwetel Ejiofor) form his character. A returning Camila Cabello, Michael Kelly, and Mare Winngham will also be attached to the cast.
11 Freaky Tales
The year is 1987, and we find ourselves in the middle of Oakland, California. Four separate stories are stitched together via a unifying force. These tales include: a group of teenage punks duking it out with a group of Nazi skinheads; a rap duo competing against another musical act; a lowly debt collector facing a tragedy; and an NBA player taking revenge after a legendary triumph. It's an eclectic collection of stories, but an entertaining one nonetheless.
Freaky Tales for a Fun Time
Freaky Tales presents an intriguing vision from co-directors Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, a pair of creatives who originally rose to prominence via their 2006 film Half Nelson. Though they originally drew significant attention for their work at Sundance, they would see greater attention for their brief stay in the MCU, having directed 2019's Captain Marvel. Freaky Tales looks to be a significant deviation from their established body of work, with big names like Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Angus Cloud, and Dominique Thorne making up the numerous cast members in this colorful collection of tales. It'll be a creative tour de force, paying tribute to the 1980s while exploring new avenues in terms of filmmaking for Fleck and Boden.
12 The American Society of Magical Negroes
The title of this satirical comedy film will certainly raise some eyebrows. However, underneath some dated language is one of the most intriguing releases of 2024 so far. This film follows Aren (Justice Smith), a young Black man who is invited into a mysterious organization via Roger (David Alan Grier). This organization is the eponymous American Society of Magical Negroes, a secretive agency that exists to make the lives of White people easier. This film marks the feature-length debut of director, producer, and writer Kobi Libii, who previously served as a citizen journalist on Comedy Central's The Opposition with Jordan Klepper.
A Biting Piece of Storytelling Satire
A purposeful spin on the "magical negro" trope that has permeated storytelling for decades, The American Society of Magical Negroes carries with it a promising romance story and humorous satire, with the optimistic Aren becoming a real-life "magical negro" himself. It's a film with a definitively clear creative voice, due in part to Kobi Libii's auteur vision, with Drew Tarver, Rupert Friend, Nicole Byer, and An-Li Bogan making up the rest of the principal cast. The American Society of Magical Negroes is coming to theaters in March 2024.
13 Ghostlight
Grief is a complicated thing, more so when you consider those who cope with its all-encompassing weight. That being said, Ghostlight aims to mirror grief in a way that we've rarely seen on the silver screen. This film focuses on Dan (Keith Kupferer), a construction worker in the throes of middle age, who finds himself marred by a family tragedy. When he's cut off from the rest of his family, the only comfort Dan can find in his life is in a local production of Romeo and Juliet. However, as Dan takes up a role to perform in the play, he finds himself having to address his personal traumas head on.
A Compelling Examination of Grief
Sometimes the simplest of stories allow for the greatest expressions of emotion. Ghostlight may just be a key example of this, as the tragedy found in one of Shakespeare's most iconic plays shines light on the inner turmoil in our melancholic protagonist. Keith Kupferer is given a chance to shine as the film's lead, having previously played smaller roles in films like Road to Perdition, The Dark Knight, and When Jeff Tried to Save the World. Dolly de Leon (Triangle of Sadness, The Halt) co-stars alongside Kupferer as, appropriately enough, his co-star on stage.
14 Kidnapping Inc.
A classic thriller setup given some new life, Kidnapping Inc.features a pair of hapless kidnappers-for-hire getting in way over their heads on the streets of Port-au-Prince. Though the capital of Haiti's seedy underbelly offers plenty of financial opportunities for Doc (Jasmuel Andri) and Zoe (Rolaphton Mercure), the duo may find themselves getting wrapped up in a widespread political conspiracy after a simple job goes awry. Joining the cast alongside Andri and Mercure are Anabel Lopez, Ashley Laraque, Gessica Geneus, Patrick Joseph, Manfred Marcelin, and Marcus Boereau.
A Chaotic Buddy Comedy Kidnapping
Melding chaotic comedy with genuine affection and hails of gunfire, Kidnapping Inc. puts a unique perspective on a setting you rarely find in mainstream films. The setting our two bumbling protagonists find themselves in is comparatively cruel, painting their efforts to survive in a brighter light amid the violence and political corruption in plain sight. After making a name for himself in the world of advertising, director Bruno Mourral really struck gold here with his feature-length directorial debut.
15 Look Into My Eyes
A documentary film, Look Into My Eyes makes for an introspective examination of a particular group of people residing in the middle of New York City. Specifically, this intimate film examines the world of psychics: those with the purported ability to perform psychic readings on their clients. Though the film predominantly features psychics, it's more about the people behind this profession as they candidly unveil their personal life paths, the day-to-day operations of being a psychic, and the occasional turmoil involved with such a profession.
Look Into My Eyes Is a Mindful Documentary
The most intriguing documentaries often open a new perspective on a world we've often neglected to fully understand. Look Into My Eyes looks to do the same for the world of psychics, with director Lana Wilson (Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, Miss Americana) presenting both the positive and negative sides of the profession in equal measure. It's a film that aims to educate instead of deride, making for a balanced viewing experience that leaves you with a better understanding of this niche in New York City.
16 A Different Man
Insecurity is a powerful thing, and in the case of A Different Man, it drives a radical transformation in someone's appearance. Specifically, this film sees an up-and-coming actor named Edward (Sebastian Stan) undergoing a dramatic procedure to radically transform his appearance. Unfortunately, his brand-new outlook — and his outward appearance — are quickly challenged when he loses the role of a lifetime.
An Intimate Tale of Insecurity
Helmed by Aaron Schimberg, who was previously responsible for directing 2018's Chained for Life, this dark comedy takes a closer look at self-image through a surreal lens. When combined with a score composed by Umberto Smerilli, you end up with a film that presents a darkly humorous, yet captivating psychological experience that incorporates a widespread emotional spectrum, with some proclaiming it to be Sebastian Stan's best performance yet. Interestingly, this will mark the second collaboration between Aaron Schimberg and Adam Pearson, the latter being recognizable for his brief role in Under the Skin.
17 Seeking Mavis Beacon
Typing is as integral to everyday life as handwriting was back in the day. However, the journey to get to this point was loaded with plenty of educational software. A cultural icon of typing education, Mavis Beacon, has been the subject of intense investigation, with the popular figure seemingly being made up to sell a series of useful edutainment software packages. However, Seeking Mavis Beacon aims to put a real name to this iconic face of the 1980s, while investigating the wider issues surrounding Black representation within the world of technology.
Looking for Truth in the Post-Internet Era
As niche a subject as it is, Seeking Mavis Beacon opens the door for a wider investigation into a pressing issue, given the widespread proliferation of tech in as little as a few decades. Director and writer Jazmin Renée Jones, along with Olivia McKayla Ross, provides a plethora of rich details in the search for Mavis Beacon, all while looking into the world of personal relationships mingling with technological innovations. For anyone who grew up with Mavis Beacon's iconic smile, this documentary is worth a watch.
Winter Film Releases: The Most Anticipated New Movies of 2024
Find out all the best new movies hitting theaters and streaming services this winter, and when you can watch them.18 Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Superman as we know him today likely wouldn't exist without the incredible talent of the late Christopher Reeve. Christopher Reeve gave the character the kind of steely charisma and brave charm he needed, and though Reeve is no longer with us, his influence can still be felt in the plethora of comics and films featuring Superman to this day. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story takes a closer look at the man behind the Man of Steel, utilizing never-before-seen archival footage of Reeve's early career before he rose to prominence on the silver screen.
A Comprehensive Christopher Reeve Story
Utilizing a dual narrative that combines his initial casting in 1978's Superman with the tragedy that would befall him in 1995, the film additionally features interviews with Reeve's friends and family, capturing the total impact his presence had on the world. Those who enjoyed Reeve's work on the big screen may find themselves invested in this wonderful story, with its focus on Reeve's activism portraying him as a real-life Superman.
19 In a Violent Nature
Slashers are a malleable subgenre, one where you can put just about any twist imaginable on them. Lo and behold, Chris Nash did exactly that with his brand-new film, In a Violent Nature. Similar to films like Maniac and American Psycho, we follow the perspective of the murderous villain instead of their soon-to-be-victims. Unlike its contemporaries, however, In a Violent Nature takes a bold step forward by having our killer act out as a methodical, remorseless beast.
A Slow-Burn Slasher
In embracing the methodical, In a Violent Nature aims to make its gruesome effects all the more tense and graphic by embracing the slow-burn style of pacing. Whereas other slasher villains seemingly distort time and space to show up where you least expect it, there's a deliberation to be found within In a Violent Nature that will be welcomed by any horror enthusiast. Chris Nash previously drew attention for his contribution to ABCs of Death 2, "Z is for Zygote," in addition to his short films Day of John and The Skinfection Trilogy. In a Violent Nature is coming soon to Shudder.
20 Kneecap
The last film we've chosen to highlight from Sundance 2024 is certainly an intriguing one. Kneecap is a film by Rich Peppiatt, one that chronicles the formation of an eponymous rap group in the middle of North Island. Being native Irish speakers, this enigmatic trio from Belfast inadvertently became the face of a wider movement to save the native Irish language, utilizing their music and edgy style in order to get their message across.
Kneecap Tackles a Unique Issue
Interestingly, this film isn't a documentary, even though it chronicles the group's exploits in addition to featuring all three members of the musical group playing themselves. This biographical film sees them tackling a growing concern in the Irish community, one made prominent through generations of political upheaval. Though the rap group itself isn't necessarily the most clean-cut, their voice and subsequent influence on the movement will be an utterly captivating thing to see.
With our coverage of Sundance coming to a close, there's still plenty to look forward to in the coming year. If you're curious about our picks for the most anticipated television shows of 2024, check out our video below:
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