2024 has been an unusual year for movies, with the 2023 writers and actors strikes causing several big releases to be pushed back to 2025. This led to a sparse line-up of films, giving the impression that there wasn’t much to see at the multiplex. However, throughout June, a string of unexpected hits like Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Inside Out 2, and A Quiet Place: Day One proved that cinema still had it. As we shift into the second half of the year, it’s only natural to wonder what the best movie of 2024 has been thus far.
To answer this question, movie website World of Reel conducted its annual poll, allowing readers to vote for their favorite film without explanation. The winner of the poll was not what many expected, with Dune: Part Two, which received massive critical acclaim and commercial success, not taking the top spot. Instead, the film that has likely been the most talked-about online this year, Challengers, emerged as the winner.
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, Challengers is an drama film that explores the complex and intense relationship between two old tennis rivals who find themselves battling each other on and off the court. The film features a standout performance from Zendaya, who finally got a lead role that showcased her talents as both a star and an actress. Co-stars Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist also delivered memorable performances, confirming their status as rising stars.
What sets Challengers apart is its thoughtful and nuanced approach to desire and intimacy. The film treats these themes with seriousness and respect, without sacrificing its sense of fun and sensuality. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the tension and romance of the tennis matches and the characters’ private moments with equal skill.
A Still From Challengers (Photo: Challengers)
The success of Challengers is evident in its strong box office performance and positive word-of-mouth. The film’s impact is all the more surprising given the mixed reception of some other releases this year, including The Fall Guy and Furiosa, which failed to connect with audiences.
World of Reel’s top 10 list offers a snapshot of the year’s most popular movies, with Challengers emerging as the clear winner. The full list, in descending order, is as follows: Challengers (51 votes), Dune: Part Two (50 votes), Civil War (38 votes), Furiosa (32 votes), Love Lies Bleeding (30 votes), I Saw the TV Glow (28 votes), Hit Man (26 votes), La Chimera (23 votes), The Beast (21 votes), and Late Night with the Devil (15 votes).
Do you agree with this poll? Would you have voted for a different film? The best movie of 2024 is subjective, and opinions will inevitably vary. For some, Dune: Part Two may have been the standout film, while others may have preferred a different genre or style of movie.
