In 2024, it seems like there were even more films and series, but less time to watch them. However, during air raids, seeking shelter in bomb shelters or hallways, what else is there to do but watch movies on smartphones, tablets, and laptops! Therefore, the editors and authors of "Mezhi" are happy to share with readers the best of what we saw this year.
As with games – again, no rules. Some may mention just one film or series, while others might list a few or create their own Top 10 of the best cinematic works. Let’s go!
Taras Mishchenko, the chief editor at "Mezha".
This year, first and foremost, I remember the release of Dune: Part Two, as Denis Villeneuve once again did not disappoint and masterfully transported viewers to the deserts of Arrakis for nearly 3 hours. The sequel has set the stage for at least a few more films, one of which Villeneuve is likely to direct, and with the release of the series Dune: Prophecy, we can expect a significant expansion of the cinematic universe based on Frank Herbert's works. I don't know how it will turn out, but so far, I like it.
Among other theatrical releases this year, I would also highlight Alien: Romulus, as a return to the roots of the Alien films after almost religious efforts with Ridley Scott's Prometheus and Covenant. Fede Alvarez doesn't dwell on messianism, so Romulus ended up being a classic mix of science fiction and horror, and judging by critics' and audiences' reviews, the director managed to strike the right chord with the audience, ensuring that the Alien franchise will continue in this vein.
As for series of the year, Fallout stands out for me—the best adaptation of a gaming world that doesn’t rely on it, but rather expands it and attracts a broader audience. At least, I've heard positive feedback about Fallout from people who seemed to have little interest in the game or even science fiction in general.
Additionally, I would like to highlight the adaptation of Liu Cixin's novel The Three-Body Problem in the Netflix series 3 Body Problem. The first season felt quite slow, with the writers carefully introducing viewers to the main characters and the general concept of extraterrestrial invasion from a scientific perspective. However, the events of the second season are expected to be much more dynamic. Therefore, I am looking forward to the continuation with interest.
Oleh Danylov, editor at “Mezha”
Remembering the films I watched last year is quite simple. You open IMDb.com and check the ratings you assigned from January 1, 2024. But it's not that straightforward, because the best TV shows of 2024 for me were new seasons of previous years' series. I thoroughly rewatched all seasons of Ted Lasso, this time with English dubbing (the different accents are truly incredible!); binge-watched seasons 2-4 of the spy thriller Slow Horses, which seems to get better with each season; and rewatched seasons 3-4 of the sci-fi series For All Mankind.
As for TV series from 2024, the best ones for me were Danjon Meshi, 3 Body Problem from Netflix, and Masters of the Air from Apple TV+.
As for films, my discoveries this year were classic masterpieces I only watched now. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) — a historical epic featuring young Peter O'Toole and Omar Sharif with breathtaking desert landscapes. Its seven Oscars are completely deserved. Also, Porco Rosso (1992), a romantic aviation adventure by the brilliant Hayao Miyazaki. I enjoy all of Miyazaki's films, but this one I missed.
Finally, I want to mention Ukrainian films that deeply moved me this year. Dovbush by Oles Sanin (released in 2023 but only appeared on Netflix in 2024) showed that even in war-torn Ukraine, epic costume historical films can be made; and the documentary EPISODES: The Shadow of Chornobyl stirred a flood of nostalgic memories. I also highly recommend the not-so-new film I Work at the Cemetery (2021), which delicately and compassionately addresses some incredibly difficult topics of life and death.
Serhii Svitlychnyi, editor at “Mezha”
Among this year's standout films, I'll highlight Dune: Part Two. Although it felt somewhat weaker compared to the first part, the same incredible scale and stunning visuals made it one of the best sci-fi blockbusters of recent times.
Another memorable spectacle from this year is Gojira -1.0 / Godzilla Minus One. I've never been a huge fan of this franchise – especially where it's headed lately – but this Japanese epic kaiju film left a strong impression. Mainly because Godzilla finally returned to its roots: not just another spectacle-filled blockbuster with a heap of special effects, but an embodiment of the fears surrounding the aftermath of nuclear weapon use.
The next film also takes place during World War II, but on a different side of the globe. It's the historical drama The Zone of Interest, about a peaceful and idyllic life of a typical German family living just across the fence from Auschwitz concentration camp. Where every day, the family's patriarch – camp commandant Rudolf Höss – goes off to work. The film is striking in its depiction of the detachment and complete indifference of seemingly ordinary people toward the horrors and crimes against humanity taking place mere meters from their homes – directed by their loving father and husband.
Lastly, I’ll mention… The Terminator – yes, the original 1984 film, which I finally rewatched this year in decent quality. Before this, I think I last saw it sometime in the 90s – and now, I was truly impressed by how well the film has aged. Despite its, admittedly, considerable age (celebrating its 40th anniversary this year), The Terminator still holds up as a highly effective, atmospheric, and action-packed sci-fi thriller.
As for TV series – I thoroughly enjoyed Fallout. It turned out to be a successful adaptation of Bethesda’s later game entries, capturing their unique atmosphere of cynical violence and dark humor while blending it with excellent performances from Ella Purnell and Walton Goggins.
Another notable series from this year is Shōgun, a quality and visually stunning historical drama about the adventures of a European sailor in medieval Japan. Shōgun is based on the novel of the same name and, unlike the previous 1980 adaptation, feels much more authentic, without the typical Hollywood portrayal of samurai-era Japan.
And the last series that stood out for me this year is All Creatures Great and Small. It premiered back in 2020 and now has five seasons, but I only got around to watching it this year – and I’m glad I did. Who would have thought that the everyday life of a rural veterinarian in provincial England during the late 1930s and early 1940s could be so captivating!
Mykyta Kazymyrov, author at “Mezha”
I primarily watch films and series for work, so most of my detailed thoughts about them can be found on Mezha. Therefore, let’s focus on highlights from 2024 – or on things I haven’t explored in my texts.
For my personal film of the year, the immediate choice is Strange Darling, localized simply as Chaser. This is a perfect film where everything falls into place, yet there’s a vast space for surprises and shocks. For fans of thrillers – a must-watch.
At the beginning of the year, The Zone of Interest by Jonathan Glazer left me with unsettling, unforgettable impressions. It’s a film that offers a perspective on the life of the head of a Nazi concentration camp’s family. It seemed like another Western attempt to show "the other side" and that "not everything is black and white." However, The Zone of Interest paints an image of endless, all-encompassing evil that manifests even in children's games or food preparation. A tough watch, but definitely worth it.
The Substance is perhaps the most significant film of 2024 in terms of its influence on public discourse. It even surpassed Dune: Part Two in mentions and societal impact. I really enjoyed The Substance, but after the first viewing, I had some questions about the ending. Upon a second watch, the ending seemed like the perfect logical conclusion for a film about body dysmorphia and the journey to accept oneself.
For series, I rewatched The Last of Us. It’s fascinating how the show develops the game’s storyline and even adds crucial narrative details. It feels like the third part of The Last of Us will lean heavily on the HBO show rather than the games.
In terms of anime, Dandadan and the new season of Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War captivated me. Dandadan is a wild adventure about aliens, ghosts, and unconventional high school students, who are as shocked by the events as the viewers will be during the watch. The third part of the new Bleach season shows how to properly adapt battle-focused stories from Japan. Additionally, the show even corrects some nuances from the manga, for which the creators deserve special praise.
For something unconventional, I recommend The Amazing Digital Circus and I Saw the TV Glow, which play with horror elements quite well. Yes, you’ve guessed it – I love horror!
Yevheniia Hubina, editor at "Mezha"
Today, I mostly watch films in theaters. Although I’ve seen many this year, only a few stand out in my memory.
First and foremost is Dune: Part Two. The film continues the story of Dune: Part One and sets itself apart atmospherically. Denis Villeneuve’s sequel feels more robust, with a grander scale.
The Substance starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley left a strong impression. The film, in the body horror genre, is filled with grotesque special effects. However, they wonderfully set the tone and enhance the overall narrative experience.
I was genuinely surprised by Conclave, a film about the election of a new Pope. There are no dynamic scenes or supernatural abilities here. Yet, the two-hour film with Ralph Fiennes kept me on the edge of my seat right up to the last minute!
There were high expectations for Alien: Romulus. After the trailers, it seemed that director Fede Alvarez had crafted a worthy continuation of the Alien franchise. Initially, it seemed so, but the last 20 minutes completely shattered my expectations.
I also want to highlight The Silence of the Lambs. The psychological thriller premiered in 1991 but was recently re-released on the big screen. Audiences didn’t miss the chance! Some even brought their dogs.
Pets are allowed in certain theaters, adding new experiences. Imagine: Clarice Starling tracking down a killer, the story nearing its climax, when suddenly something stirs beside her… A dog quietly sits down next to her, making the tense moment even more unexpected. And my mood – even better!
Dmytro Kuriatnyk, author at “Mezha”
This year, I didn’t really connect with films and series. It felt like there was plenty to watch, but either I didn’t have the time or the desire. Yes, the main serious films and series of the year were postponed for later, and instead, I opted for purely entertaining content.
First, there’s Deadpool & Wolverine, an explosive mix of easter eggs, funny, and unapologetically silly jokes for fans (only for fans), trying to pass itself off as a film. I’m not sure how non-fans managed to sit through it, but I had a great time watching it.
Alien: Romulus deserves a mention for its attempt to return to the roots of the franchise. It’s a much more intimate film compared to the latest entries in the series, but it is ruined by a single scene (you know which one). Ultimately, Romulus offers nothing new, but somehow Fede Alvarez managed to tell the familiar story in a way that kept me glued to the screen.
Of course, Dune: Part Two couldn’t be ignored. It surpassed even the first film in box office earnings. Denis Villeneuve’s duology turned out truly epic, but let’s move on to the next film. Frank Herbert wrote more than one book, after all, and watching the same thing for the third time was… less interesting than it could have been.
When it comes to series, there wasn’t much to think about. On top is undoubtedly Shōgun. I still haven’t managed to read the book, but I’ve seen the 1980 version several times, so it was really intriguing to watch the modern take on the adventures of English sailor John Blackthorn in 17th-century feudal Japan. The series turned out fantastic—just go watch it if you haven’t already!
In second place is Fallout. The initial promotional materials sparked some skepticism, but it was unwarranted. The signature atmosphere and dark humor are present, the cast turned out fantastic, and I literally devoured the series in one breath. I’m eagerly awaiting the second season.
Regarding animated series, the first I want to highlight is Danjon meshi. Not so much for the storyline or characters (which feel a bit derivative to me), but for its depiction of dungeons as a living ecosystem, rather than generic dungeons filled with random monsters.
Since our group hasn’t been able to reunite for three years now due to the war to continue our abandoned D&D campaign, I’ve been compensating by watching thematic shows like The Legend of Vox Machina. The third season of this animated series, which is based on a web series created by a group of voice actors who initially streamed their home games to a wider audience, effectively bringing D&D back into prominence, turned out just as amazing. We’re looking forward to the continuation of Mighty Nein!
Masha Chip, author at “Mezha.”
There weren’t many memorable cinematic experiences this year. Perhaps the one that struck me the most was the fifth season of the series Fargo. Some might say there’s too much feminist discourse, but that certainly won’t be me. I enjoyed this season more than the previous two. It’s classic Fargo with a fantastic main character—a tough sheriff—an unapologetically comical antagonist, and a whole cast of colorful secondary characters. All this is seasoned with excellent acting and visually stunning shots. Plus, a slightly unexpected but very heartwarming ending.
In the cinema, I rewatched many horror films and nearly all the animated films released this year. The animation was quite even, almost as if they all carried a strange message—good, enjoyable, but similar. They were well-made, but nothing truly stood out.
Horror films are my Guilty Pleasure. I don’t take them seriously; I watch them in cinemas just to get a little scared and distract myself from the uncontrollable horrors of reality. This was accomplished with all the films of this genre except for The Substance. It’s not just a horror movie—it’s truly quality cinema with a deep message about self-acceptance and societal acceptance of individuals. However, how horrifyingly grotesque some moments were! Still, that effectively emphasized the film’s central theme. But the absurdity of the whole viewing experience added a layer: despite the clear 18+ rating, the hall was filled with teenagers around 12-15 years old. It reminded me of a forced outing with my class to watch a film about sex education—a situation where you’re supposed to have nothing to be embarrassed about, but it still feels awkward and unpleasant. The teenagers giggled, whispered, and burst into loud laughter during the most intense moments. During one mutation scene, the boy sitting next to me, casually munching on popcorn, suddenly coughed and practically threw it back into the bucket. His friends loudly commented on everything, and one even tried to record a TikTok, though the darkness hindered it. On the one hand, this broke the oppressive atmosphere of The Substance, but on the other, it disrupted the integrity of the experience. Moreover, I’m not sure if this won’t leave a lasting impact on the young viewers' psyches.
In terms of science fiction, Dune: Part Two stands out—it was enjoyable for its acting and grandiose scenes, though I appreciated the first part more. Also, Alien: Romulus deserves mention. While preparing articles about the Alien universe, I rewatched the earlier films and finally watched Prometheus. The new film was solid sci-fi, though it doesn’t quite reach the classics.
As a Fallout fan, I thoroughly enjoyed the Fallout series, though I don’t share the overwhelming enthusiasm of others.
The most impactful film from the new releases was Heretic—a philosophical parable about faith and the freedom of choice. While somewhat static, it was tense and intriguing, giving the impression of having read an entire book.
Additionally, I rewatched Dreams by Akira Kurosawa once again and found something new and beautiful.
Here are the films and series that were most mentioned on Mezha in 2024:
Films of the Year (by mentions):
- Dune: Part Two – 6 mentions
- Alien: Romulus – 4 mentions
- The Substance – 3 mentions
- The Zone of Interest – 2 mentions
Series of the Year (by mentions):
- Fallout – 4 mentions
- Danjon meshi – 2 mentions
- 3 Body Problem – 2 mentions
- Shōgun – 2 mentions
Let us know what films or series you watched in 2024 on cinemas and streaming platforms. Feel free to add your favorite games of the year in the comments!