1. Lights Out 2024，IMDB Rating: 4.8, IMDB Votes: 1353, ID: 16368898 Photo by tmdb.org, is licensed under CC Zero Lights Out, a gripping film about a homeless veteran who becomes immersed in underground fight clubs, has sparked a mix of reviews from audiences and critics alike. While some praised the intense action sequences and powerful performances, others pointed out the film’s choppy editing and underdeveloped characters, yet the story’s dive into the underground fight world and the protagonist’s struggles still offers an engaging experience for viewers.
2. MaXXXine 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 14094, ID: 22048412 Photo by deepestdream.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 MaXXXine, the third installment of Ti West’s horror trilogy, has received praise for its stylized, nightmarish vision of the ’80s and Mia Goth’s unflinching performance. However, some critics felt the movie falters in its climax and doesn’t quite stick the landing. Despite these criticisms, the film’s unique take on the horror genre and its exploration of the adult film industry make it a compelling watch.
3. Fly Me to the Moon 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 9120, ID: 1896747 Photo by coveralia.com, is licensed under CC Zero Fly Me to the Moon, a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of NASA’s Apollo 11 moon landing, has received mixed reviews. Critics praised the film’s nostalgic atmosphere and the performances of Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum, but criticized the lack of chemistry between the leads and the film’s inconsistent tone. Despite these criticisms, the film’s unique blend of romance, comedy, and historical drama make it an interesting watch.
4. The Beast Within 2024，IMDB Rating: 4.8, IMDB Votes: 145, ID: 14539318 Photo by media.pn.am, is licensed under CC BY-ND 3.0 The Beast Within, a film about a man struggling with a hereditary curse, has been met with mixed reviews. While some critics appreciated the film’s atmospheric setting and the performances of the cast, others criticized the film’s underdeveloped plot and disjointed narrative. Despite these criticisms, the film’s exploration of family curses and its gothic atmosphere make it an intriguing watch.
5. Breaking the Ice 2024，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 33015766 Photo by egu.eu, is licensed under CC Zero Breaking the Ice, a film about three lost souls facing the frozen world, has been praised for its beautiful cinematography and its exploration of isolation. However, some critics felt that the film’s narrative was too simplistic and lacked depth. Despite these criticisms, the film’s poignant depiction of isolation and its stunning visuals make it a captivating watch.
6. Challengers 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 83688, ID: 16426418 Photo by seehuhn.de, is licensed under CC Zero Challengers, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a drama about a love triangle between tennis pros. The film is extravagantly goofy, hilarious, and wonderful, with spectacular scenes of athletic competition. However, the character of Tashi, played by Zendaya, has been criticized for her manipulative actions and unclear motivations. As a movie fan who appreciates creativity and originality, I found the film’s unique approach to the sports genre refreshing, but the character development left something to be desired.
7. Lady in the Lake 2024，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 1420, ID: 14022668 Photo by foodista.com, is licensed under CC Zero Lady in the Lake is a mystery thriller that lacks tension and intrigue. The series’ first two episodes are streaming now on Apple TV+. The film is a compelling, but ultimately unrewarding murder mystery thriller. As a fan of mystery and thrillers, I found the film’s lack of suspense disappointing. The characters, especially Maddie, played by Natalie Portman, were not relatable or likable, which made it hard for me to engage with the story.
8. Inside Out 2 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 88710, ID: 22022452 Photo by blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY 4.0 Inside Out 2 takes us on a journey through Riley’s teenage years as she navigates new emotions that test her identity. This sequel presents a fun yet heartfelt adventure that addresses the pressures faced by teenage girls, although it falls short of the originality and depth that made the first film so beloved; the character of Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke, faced backlash for her unrealistic development and lack of growth, leaving fans yearning for a more authentic portrayal.
9. Thelma 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 6266, ID: 23778968 Photo by lawtechworld.com, is licensed under PDM 1.0 Thelma, directed by Annie Baker, brings laughter to life with a comedic twist as a grandmother transforms into an unlikely action hero. With its sharp humor and quick pacing, this 96-minute film delivers a delightful experience, although some viewers criticized Thelma’s questionable decisions and unrealistic actions, leading to a desire for a more relatable depiction of her character.
10. Janet Planet 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 537, ID: 28366692 Photo by typepad.com, is licensed under CC Zero Janet Planet, also helmed by Annie Baker, explores the intricate relationship between a mother and her daughter, offering a sparse yet contemplative narrative rich in character detail. However, the character of Lacy, portrayed by Zoe Ziegler, has drawn criticism for her clingy nature and reluctance to connect with others, prompting fans of deep relationship storytelling to wish for a more nuanced development of her character.
11. Problemista 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 5477, ID: 15078804 Photo by media.pn.am, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Problemista is a surreal comedy that critiques the US immigration system in a thought-provoking way. However, the character Sandro has been criticized for being unrealistic and annoying. Despite this, the film’s unique approach and compelling message make it a must-watch.
12. One Life 2024，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 32820823 Photo by xcdn.pl, is licensed under CC BY 2.0 One Life presents the inspiring true story of Winton, but it has faced scrutiny for its conventional storytelling approach. Nevertheless, the film captures the essence of Winton’s remarkable journey and remains a worthwhile watch for those interested in impactful biopics.
13. Ordinary Angels 2024，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 7708, ID: 4996328 Photo by diariodigitalcolombiano.com, is licensed under CC BY 4.0 Ordinary Angels is a heartrending faith-based true story about an alcoholic hairdresser who makes miracles happen for a terminally ill girl. The film doesn’t seem to have any controversial characters related to the topic. It’s a touching film that showcases the power of faith and miracles.
14. You’ll Never Find Me 2023，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 5588, ID: 22023218 Photo by goethe.de, is licensed under CC CC0 1.0 You’ll Never Find Me captivates audiences with its chilling horror narrative and a surprising twist. While the character Patrick has been criticized for his improbable survival, the film’s unique storytelling and engaging premise provide a thrilling experience that horror fans will appreciate.
15. Late Night with the Devil 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 69280, ID: 14966898 Photo by thymindoman.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Late Night with the Devil immerses viewers in a supernatural horror setting within a TV studio, although it has been criticized for its found footage style. Despite this, the film’s intriguing concept and eerie atmosphere create a captivating experience that horror enthusiasts will find enjoyable.
From Dislike to Delight: Films with Controversial Characters that Captivated Audiences
