1. John Wick: Chapter 4 2023，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 344345, ID: 10366206 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 John Wick: Chapter 4 is a thrilling ride that surpasses its predecessors. The film’s action sequences are long battles, but they have so much momentum that they don’t overstay their welcome. The movie’s massive opening weekend made history in a couple of notable ways. It’s a modern epic, something Keanu Reeves and Chad Stahelski have been driving at since 2014.
2. Shazam! Fury of the Gods 2023，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 127668, ID: 10151854 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Shazam! Fury of the Gods tries to juggle a wild survival story with a poignant family drama, but both elements feel so rushed and underdeveloped that neither ends up registering. Despite another strong comedic performance from star Zachary Levi and some sporadic yuks throughout, it’s schtickier and less assured than the first “Shazam!”. The weekend box office was not as kind to DC’s Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
3. Scream VI 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 122856, ID: 17663992 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Scream VI is a sports drama that feels like a thriller with an urgent conscience. It’s a far more dynamic movie than the proficient but formulaic “Scream II,” even if it can’t match the soulful filmmaking bravura of the first “Scream.”. The latest Wick ‘s opening continues a strong year for tentpole sequels that aren’t comic book movies after Scream VI and Creed III both set new opening weekend records for their franchises.
4. Creed III 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 95092, ID: 11145118 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Creed III is a film that both honors the series’ legacy while spinning the lore forward. Michael B. Jordan, both in front of and behind the camera, finds new swagger and emotional depth as the film’s star as well as real confidence and style as its director. The latest Wick ‘s opening continues a strong year for tentpole sequels that aren’t comic book movies after Scream VI and Creed III both set new opening weekend records for their franchises.
5. 65 2023，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 90538, ID: 12261776 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 65 is a movie that would have benefitted from being a whole lot stupider. The big-budget sci-fi flick should have embraced its inherent B-movie roots. The storyline of 65 is incredibly dull and lacks innovation or surprise. Scream VI may be the best Scream film of all time for its mix of goriness, fast-paced story and interesting use of its source materials.
6. The Last Breath 2024，IMDB Rating: 4.7, IMDB Votes: 396, ID: 14827150 Photo by squarespace-cdn.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Last Breath is a shark thriller that has its moments of tension and claustrophobia. However, the film’s plot and characters lack depth, making it a mediocre addition to the shark horror subgenre. Despite its shortcomings, the film’s underwater cinematography and the performance of Julian Sands are commendable.
7. Humane 2024，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 4129, ID: 16280912 Photo by variety.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Humane is a dystopian film set in a world where countries are forced to reduce their populations by 20 percent. The film explores the socioeconomic inequality of self-sacrifice through a wealthy family forced to sacrifice one of their own. Despite its flaws, Humane entertains with its grim humor and thought-provoking ideas.
8. Konvoi 2023，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 1617, ID: 27724113 Photo by picryl.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Konvoi is a decent film with a well-presented story, but it has many unfinished details that let the rating down. The film’s great scenography and nice territorial presentation are commendable, but the lack of depth in the characters and plot leave much to be desired.
9. Swan Song 2024，IMDB Rating: 9.6, IMDB Votes: 10, ID: 31966098 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Swan Song is a Canadian documentary that follows the journey of Karen Kain, the artistic director of the National Ballet of Canada, as she directs her first show, Swan Lake, before her retirement. The film is praised for its insightful depiction of the physical, emotional, and psychological stamina required from the dancers. However, despite its competent editing, the documentary can feel brusque at times.
10. No Negociable 2024，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 367, ID: 31227221 Photo by powerthesaurus.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 No Negociable is a Mexican action-comedy that revolves around Alan Binder, a highly skilled hostage negotiator who finds himself negotiating for the release of the Mexican President while trying to save his marriage. The film is described as a forgettable action-comedy, with scenario-based humor and a plot that feels overcomplicated. Despite its shortcomings, it is considered an easy-to-watch 90-minute action comedy.
11. House of Ga’a 2024，IMDB Rating: 3.9, IMDB Votes: 135, ID: 31691318 Photo by picryl.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 House of Ga’a is a Nigerian historical drama that depicts the rise and fall of Bashorun Ga’a, a leader in the 18th Century Oyo Empire. The film is praised for its authenticity, respect for Yoruba culture, and the performances of its cast, particularly Femi Branch who plays the titular character. Despite its epic nature, the film has been criticized for assuming fear among the people and not providing enough context behind Ga’a’s leadership.
12. Cirque Du Soleil: Without a Net 2022，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 52, ID: 14960276 Photo by picryl.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Cirque Du Soleil: Without a Net is a captivating documentary that provides an unprecedented look into the world’s most famous circus act’s journey back from the brink. The film beautifully captures the passion, artistry, and resilience of the performers. It’s a testament to the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
13. Bad Boys: Ride or Die 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 44732, ID: 4919268 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Bad Boys: Ride or Die is a high-octane action-comedy that delivers on its promise of edge-of-your-seat thrills and outrageous comedy. Despite some predictable plot points, the chemistry between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence keeps the film engaging. However, it falls short in terms of narrative depth and character development.
14. The Way We Speak 2024，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 28, ID: 25994554 Photo by substackcdn.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Way We Speak is an ambitious drama that offers a deep dive into intellectual combat and personal challenges. The film’s strength lies in its eloquent dialogue and keen insight into the dynamics of relationships among smart, accomplished, ambitious people. However, it could benefit from a more robust plot.
15. Finding Faith 2024，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 94, ID: 27308230 Photo by addisonindymediaoffload.s3.amazonaws.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Finding Faith is a faith-based film that tells the story of Victoria, a Christian advice columnist who begins to lose her faith after a series of life events. Despite some cliches, the film is well-acted and emotionally engaging. As someone who values faith and love, I found Victoria’s journey back to God and love to be deeply moving. It’s a beautiful story about reconnecting and rediscovering one’s faith.
16. Family Practice Mysteries: Coming Home 2024，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 485, ID: 32150887 Photo by thetricontinental.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Family Practice Mysteries: Coming Home is a procedural drama about a former Army surgeon who moves back to her hometown and gets drawn into solving a mysterious death. Despite some criticisms, the film is praised for its likeable actors and solid chemistry. As a lover of mysteries, I found the film to be a compelling watch. It’s a well-crafted mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
Weekend Binge: John Wick 4, Shazam 2, and 14 More Must-Watch Movies
