There is no doubt that 2024 was an amazing year for all things entertainment. From the greatest pop-hits, monumental world tours and a fair amount of celebrity scandals, the cinema industry has also put forth its best foot forward.
Movie culture is always changing, something which has inspired OPHS students to found the film club and further explore the message behind film. The club advisor DJ Cook views film as an opportunity to take a deep dive into film and its many implications.
“I want to watch films with thoughtful people that want to have a good discussion about the film after. I have no desire to discuss with somebody who goes “Well, that was dumb, let’s move on,” Cook said. “I find film to be my favorite art form and I want to have deep intellectual conversations about film, about the moving image and how the director made choices.”
That being said, cinema isn’t, “one size fits all.” A movie’s uniqueness stems from its subjectivity—it’s a personalized experience that might only be fully understood by going to a movie theater alone.
Whether a creative outlet or simply just a way to unwind after a long day, movies versatility appeals to all types of people.
“My favorite thing about movies is the way they immerse you in another world,” senior Porter Nicoll wrote to the Talon. “They have the power to evoke strong emotions, spark thought, and transport you into different lives, places, and periods.”
Survey findings from OPHS students reported that for a majority of students, their top two favorite genres were comedy and action. While a typical light-hearted film coupled with a high intensity action movie may seem like an odd combination, it shines light on the diversity at OPHS. Here are some movies released in 2024 that OPHS students love:
If you’re a fan of the dystopian genre, “Dune: Part Two” is a must watch:
“I think everyone should watch Dune 2. Its epic scale, storytelling, and stunning visuals make it something unlike any recent movie,” Porter wrote. “With an absolutely star-studded cast, you can’t go wrong with this movie.”
If you’re more interested in the action/comedy genre, “Deadpool and Wolverine” might be your safest bet:
Following our star lead Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, we follow these fan-favorite characters as they work together to save the world. The Time Variance Authority recruits Deadpool, disrupting his quiet and peaceful life, who soon unites with Wolverine in an attempt to prevent the collapsing of multiple timelines.
Interested in a Thriller/Action movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Well, “Twisters” is the movie for that:
Set in Oklahoma, we follow Kate Cooper, played by Daisy Edgar Jones, and her friend Javi, starring Anthony Ramos, who are determined to test a revolutionary tornado tracking device. Tensions run high as they are competing with a better funded team while also outrunning a dangerous EF5 tornado. Themes of pride and integrity are explored as these characters fight for their lives to make scientific history.
Lastly, “Inside Out 2,” the most popular movie watched this year at OPHS, is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted, yet emotional family film.
Following the smash hit “Inside Out”, released almost a decade ago, there is no doubt that it was many people’s favorite movie growing up. Similar to the success of the first film, “Inside Out 2” was no different, scoring 90% on Rotten Tomatoes. We see familiar characters like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust, but are also introduced to new characters like Embarrassment and Anxiety, representing our main character, Riley, growing up and experiencing new emotions.
When asked what his favorite movie of 2024, Cook responded, “Inside out 2, I thought was outstanding.”
So, what are you waiting for? Whether it be checking out one of these movies or rewatching an all-time favorite, head to a movie theater, grab some popcorn and head in.
