Originally published on June 9, 2024 | Last updated on December 21, 2024
I’ve watched some brilliant films lately that left me glued to the screen from start to finish. Looking for film recommendations? From thrillers to dramas, here are 10 films that will keep you hooked:
Nowhere
This thriller follows Mia, a pregnant woman who is separated from her husband after a totalitarian government takes over their country. She then finds herself alone, drifting in the sea, trapped in a shipping container. It is a story of survival, love and resilience. It truly takes you on an emotional journey as you watch Mia’s fight to stay alive, and makes you feel so grateful for what you have. For me, the film highlighted the lengths a mother will go to protect and nurture her child. Its superb acting and suspenseful plot makes it a really great film to add to your list.
The Platform
This is a Spanish horror film that is set within a dystopian prison. Inmates must contend with a brutal system of food distribution that challenges their morality and survival instincts. Due to its dark plot, it does get very gory, violent and disturbing at many times. Despite this, I was hooked from the start and found the film to be very gripping. This unique, thought-provoking film shows the dark and gritty truth of human nature. It portrays a very strong message about capitalist society. A must-watch! (But not for the faint hearted.)
Where The Crawdads Sing
This mystery thriller is based on the book by Delia Owens (read my review of the book here.) It follows Kya, who lives in the marshes of North Carolina. The film alternates between two timelines: Kya’s life growing up, and her future — where a dead body is found and she is the prime suspect for murder. This is a very captivating, touching and powerful movie. It’s beautifully acted with stunning cinematography. Like the book, the film is very compelling due to its original and unforgettable protagonist. A brilliant movie.
Oppenheimer
Oppenheimer is a historical drama, directed by Christopher Nolan. It delves deep into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist whose development of the atomic bomb completely changed the course of history during World War II. It is very thought-provoking and explores the consequences of scientific innovation and the ethical dilemmas that can come with it. With its amazing storytelling, brilliant performances, and impactful dialogue, this film is a must-watch.
A Quiet Place
A post-apocalyptic horror, this film follows the Abbott family as they navigate life now that noise-sensitive creatures roam the earth. As these creatures are attracted to noise, humans have had to learn to live as quietly as possible. They walk barefoot and mostly rely on sign language to communicate with each other. What makes A Quiet Place stand out is its use of silence. Every creak, rustle, and whisper is magnified as anything too loud turns into a life-or-death situation for the family. The lack of dialogue creates an incredibly intense atmosphere. From start to finish, this film had me on the edge of my seat. I would highly recommend it!
A Quiet Place Part II
The second instalment of A Quiet Place picks up right where the first ended. In a world overrun by the sound-hunting creatures and with scarce resources, the Abbott family are forced to set out on a journey into the unknown. As the family navigate the post-apocalyptic landscape, they face new threats and the film intensifies the tension that made the original a hit. With its blend of suspense, emotional storytelling, and amazing visuals, A Quiet Place Part II is an incredible sequel that is definitely worth watching. I can’t wait to watch A Quiet Place Part III! (releasing later this month).
King Richard
King Richard is a powerful, inspiring film that tells the story of Richard Williams, father and coach to tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. Will Smith’s compelling performance brings to life the passion and determination of a man who defied the odds to shape his daughters’ futures. The film highlights themes of perseverance and family, making it a heart-warming and motivational watch. If you’re interested in seeing how the Williams sisters became who they are and learning more about their story, then give this a watch!
Bird Box Barcelona
For fans of the original Bird Box film, this sequel is definitely worth watching. After a mysterious force destroys the world’s population, Sebastian tries to survive in the streets of Barcelona. Bird Box Barcelona offers some insight into the “Seers” (those who follow the force and want everyone else to see it). The concept of telling the story from the point of view of a seer was very interesting and gave a new perspective to the phenomenon. This film is engaging with plenty of suspense, action, and twists in the plot.
Fall
Fall is a thrilling drama that tells the tale of two young women who find themselves trapped on top of a 2,000-foot radio tower. The film effectively creates a tense atmosphere, captures the terror and desperation of the situation, and draws you into the characters’ desperate struggle for survival. With its gripping plot, suspense, and major twist at the end, this will keep you on the edge of your seat. A must-watch for anyone who enjoys high-stakes suspense and survival films.
No Escape
No Escape is an action thriller that follows an American family caught in the middle of a violent political uprising in Southeast Asia. Owen Wilson delivers a compelling performance as the father who must navigate through all of the chaos and protect his family at all costs. The film masterfully creates tension through fast-paced action scenes, depicting the family’s gripping struggle to survive. This film will definitely keep you captivated from start to finish.
I’d love to know if you have watched any of these 🙂
