We have many blockbusters released yearly that knock our socks off, but it's always the little engine that could indie films that make us feel a certain way. This year, we saw new filmmakers making daring films that delivered. I made a list of the Best Indie Movies of 2024.
I am not in the boat that believes blockbusters can't have heart and soul because, over the last twenty years, we've seen many of them work that balance brilliantly. However, the way that indie filmmakers make their films is that they have a small budget and rely on ensuring they deliver every element of the film to reel in audiences.
Best Indie Movies of 2024
Nickel Boys
What RaMell Ross created with Nickel Boys was monumental, unforgettable filmmaking that blew me away. Navigating such a delicate topic within this first-person perspective is why Ross has been at the forefront of many people's top movies of the year list (including mine). If you have the opportunity to check this out on the big screen, do so, but when it drops on Prime Video, it is a must-watch.
My Old Ass
Amazon Studios had themselves a year with picking the right films with Nickel Boys and My Old Ass. I laughed, cried, laughed, cried, and laughed again during the entire runtime of Megan Park's coming-of-age film My Old Ass. It's raw, authentic, and honest, yet laugh-out-loud funny. Maisy Stella's coming out party with a fantastic performance in the lead role. Her likability and relatability made her easy to root for. Stella and Aubrey Plaza made the perfect pairing in this one.
Exhibiting Forgiveness
Almost every end-of-the-year list I've written has included Exhibiting Forgiveness. Titus Kaphar's feature film debut blew me away with his raw look at one man's attempt to overcome his past. Andre Holland's award-worthy performance has gone overlooked throughout this season, but his work in this film is something I will never forget—the perfect movie.
Stress Positions
Movies about the pandemic have been hit and miss, but Theda Hammel's Stress Positions perfectly captured the wildness and craziness. Hammel didn't shy away from bringing a raunchy comedy to life, which is why I loved it so much. John Early and Qaher Harhash lead a fantastic ensemble. Overall, a laugh-out-loud good time.
A Different Man
We are looking at another movie that is being overlooked this award season. Aaron Schimberg's thought-provoking masterclass of storytelling that forces you to look within in was damn near perfect. Sebastian Stan gives one of the best performances of the year alongside Adam Pearson, who belongs in that Supporting Actor conversation. These independent movies belong on these lists to hopefully bring more awareness to those who haven't seen them.