The Best Thriller Movies of 2024 are poised to captivate audiences with high-stakes narratives, suspenseful atmospheres, and gripping plot twists. The thriller genre, known for its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, continues to evolve with a mix of psychological tension, action-packed sequences, and intricate mysteries. Below, we explore some of the most exciting thriller films set to release in 2024, highlighting the diversity and appeal of this genre.
1. The Substance (2024)
One of the most unique thrillers to watch out for in 2024 is The Substance. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, this movie blends elements of psychological tension and dark satire. Set in a world obsessed with beauty and youth, the film explores how these societal obsessions are monetized and exploited by a powerful corporation. The protagonist, played by Ashley Lambert, finds herself caught up in a dangerous situation where her body becomes the subject of a mysterious and horrifying experiment.
With a sharp, frenetic energy and themes that strike at the heart of modern consumerism and body image, The Substance stands out for its commentary on how beauty standards impact identity and social opportunity. It’s not just a thriller—it’s a thought-provoking, satirical look at how society has commodified human appearance, making it one of the most unique films of the year.
2. Speak No Evil (2024)
Speak No Evil is a remake of the critically acclaimed Danish horror-thriller of the same name. Directed by James Watkins, this American version keeps the chilling and slow-burning tension of the original while introducing new twists that add layers of complexity to the story. The film revolves around two families—one American, one European—who meet on vacation and become entangled in a disturbing web of manipulation and deceit.
The thriller’s power comes from its subtle psychological horror, as the situation escalates from uncomfortable social interactions to downright terrifying events. By exploring the uncomfortable topic of social masks and societal expectations, Speak No Evil taps into the fear of what lurks beneath the surface of human behavior. The remake adds more social commentary, delving into issues like class dynamics and masculinity, making it not only a gripping psychological thriller but also a smart and socially aware film.
3. Strange Darling (2024)
Directed by J.T. Mollner, Strange Darling is a twisting, non-linear thriller that keeps viewers guessing at every turn. The plot centers around a mysterious character, and as the story unfolds, the audience is taken through multiple layers of deception, hidden motives, and unexpected revelations. The film’s non-linear structure initially seems confusing, but as Mollner pieces the puzzle together, it transforms into a satisfying and suspenseful narrative that will leave viewers hooked until the final moments.
Willa Fitzgerald’s performance is particularly captivating, as her character navigates a series of shocking events that challenge her understanding of truth and deception. The film’s ability to surprise, combined with its clever narrative, places Strange Darling as one of the must-watch thrillers of the year.
4. Exhuma (2024)
For fans of intense, action-packed thrillers, Exhuma is one of the most anticipated films of 2024. This South Korean thriller, directed by Jang Jae-hyun, delves into dark themes involving land, community, and power. Set against the backdrop of a fiercely competitive society, the film’s plot is grounded in the horrors of greed and exploitation. The protagonists are entangled in a fight for survival as they uncover a dangerous conspiracy surrounding ancient rituals and modern-day corruption.
Exhuma is unique for its ability to blend gripping action sequences with psychological tension, keeping the audience on edge while exploring profound themes of human nature and power. The thrilling narrative is complemented by superb performances from the cast, including Choi Min-sik, known for his powerful presence in thrillers like Oldboy. The film’s dark tone and challenging themes make it a standout in the genre for 2024.
5. A Different Man (2024)
Although not strictly a thriller in the traditional sense, A Different Man incorporates elements of psychological suspense that will intrigue fans of the genre. Directed by Aaron Schimberg, this film tells the story of Edward, a disfigured man who undergoes a medical procedure to change his face. The plot explores Edward’s psychological unraveling as he grapples with his new identity and the complex emotional dynamics that follow.
While the film touches on themes of body image and self-perception, it also dives into the darker aspects of human desire and the lengths to which people will go to achieve an idealized version of themselves. The tension in A Different Man comes not from jump scares or violence but from the psychological disintegration of the central character, which is unsettling in its own right.
6. The Kill Room (2024)
A standout film in 2024, The Kill Room is a darkly comedic thriller that offers a unique blend of suspense and humor. Directed by Nicol Paone, the film stars Uma Thurman and Samuel L. Jackson in a story about a hitman who becomes entangled in the world of art forgery. The premise itself is intriguing, as it blends the high-stakes world of organized crime with the unexpectedly glamorous art world.
The film’s suspense is heightened by its witty dialogue and unpredictable twists, which keep the audience engaged while exploring themes of deception, identity, and the value of art. The Kill Room balances thrills with dark humor, offering a fresh take on the thriller genre that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
7. The Long Dark (2024)
Another noteworthy thriller in 2024 is The Long Dark, a chilling film directed by Steven Knight. The movie follows a group of strangers who are stranded in a remote location during a snowstorm. As the storm rages on, they realize they are not alone and that there is a killer in their midst. The film’s isolated setting, combined with its psychological tension, creates an atmosphere of dread that keeps viewers on edge.
The Long Dark is a perfect example of how a simple concept can be transformed into an intense thriller. The confined space of the setting, the fear of the unknown, and the unraveling of secrets among the characters all contribute to the film’s gripping narrative. This is a thriller that doesn’t rely on excessive action or gore but instead builds suspense through character dynamics and slow-building tension.
8. Eclipse (2024)
Set in the near future, Eclipse is a sci-fi thriller that explores the intersection of technology, surveillance, and personal freedom. Directed by Lena Dunham, the film follows a brilliant hacker who discovers a government conspiracy to monitor and control citizens through a vast network of surveillance systems. As she uncovers the truth, she becomes a target, and the lines between reality and the digital world begin to blur.
The film’s suspense lies in its exploration of digital paranoia and the fear of surveillance, themes that resonate in our increasingly connected world. Eclipse is a thought-provoking thriller that questions how much control we are willing to give up in exchange for convenience and safety.
Conclusion
2024 promises to be a thrilling year for moviegoers, with an exciting mix of psychological thrillers, action-packed suspense, and dark, thought-provoking narratives. From the chilling exploration of beauty standards in The Substance to the high-octane action of Exhuma, this year’s thrillers cover a wide range of themes and styles. Whether you enjoy slow-burn tension, psychological drama, or fast-paced action, 2024 has a thriller to offer that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming films, as they are sure to leave a lasting impact on the thriller genre.