15. Last Summer – This was such an uneasy experience, yet I couldn’t look away. I found myself completely absorbed by the drama, the stunning scenery, and the overall French vibe of it all. Catherine Breillat doesn’t hold anything back, nor does she depict anything taboo with judgement, which I always appreciate.

14. Mothers’ Instinct – This isn’t your typical 1960s housewife drama. It’s wild and totally twisted in the best way imaginable — the psychological melodrama that I’ve been waiting for. Douglas Sirk would be so proud.

13. Immaculate – 2024’s standout pregnancy horror film. An exciting watch that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Truly terrifying — the sense of being trapped by your surroundings and body was so intense.

12. Babes – I know its unexpected-pregnancy concept isn’t anything new, but wow, this was one of the funniest and most endearing movies to come out this year. Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau are absolutely hilarious.

11. Nightbitch – Although I was hoping it would go even further and get even weirder, this ended up being a surprisingly great film as-is. Marriage and children are two of my biggest fears and, in a way, this made me feel validated. Also, it’s hands-down Amy Adams’s best performance. Fight me.

10. The People’s Joker – Vera Drew is a true legend in the making. Using Batman comic lore to represent a gender identity journey is pure brilliance and very punk. It’s both deeply moving and ridiculously funny. This is art.

9. The Front Room – The filthiest film of 2024. It’s batshit crazy, unsettling, and absolutely hilarious. I had so much fun with it. Hagsploitation at its finest.

8. Love Lies Bleeding – This is a gripping, intense lesbian erotic thriller. I gasped and screamed so much — it was absolutely fierce! Kristen Stewart was great of course, but my god, Katy O’Brian was the standout star for me. 

7. MaXXXine – The much-anticipated third installment of Ti West’s X series took an unexpected giallo turn that some folks didn’t like, but I absolutely loved it. The handful of gruesome scenes had me covering my face in the theater while chuckling from how surprising they are. Also, the soundtrack is killer.

6. Anora – This kicks off as a fun, high-energy party movie, but deep down, you know it’s all too good to be true. When the second act rolls around, the energy and humor still carry through, but the story takes a turn towards sadness and frustration. I just want Ani to have it all. Spoiled mama’s boys suck. 

5. Wicked Little Letters – The witty script and charming storyline had me hooked from start to finish. It’s Serial Mom meets Downton Abbey. I just adore foul-mouthed women, especially when they’re Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley.

4. Monkey Man – I was completely captivated by Dev Patel’s directorial debut. The raw, gritty storytelling and powerful, action-packed performances stuck with me all year. I’m so glad that Jordan Peele recognized its brilliance and pushed for it to get the theatrical release it deserved. 

3. She Is Conann – Bertrand Mandico once again transports us to a captivating fantasy realm full of lesbians, but this time, we’re joined by a dope-ass dog demon in a leather jacket. The re-telling of Conan the Barbarian through six reincarnations was brilliant. Nothing is logical, but it all makes sense; it’s one of those experiences that defies explanation and simply has to be witnessed.

2. The Taste of Things – I absolutely adored this movie. Its sensual, intimate exploration of food and desire was both visually stunning and emotionally profound. It beautifully captures the complexities of human connection through the art of cooking. And Juliette Binoche is in it. It’s impossible to not fall in love with any Juliette Binoche film.

1. The Substance – Demi Moore is back and finally getting the recognition she deserves. This is undoubtedly the best film of 2024. The striking visuals, the perfect performances, the body horror, the psycho-biddy moments . . . It’s perfection. 

-Britnee Lombas