Episode 85: The Best of 2024

In this episode of MindFrames, Dave and Michael break down the best films of 2024. With themes ranging from authoritarianism and resilience to identity and connection, the hosts discuss how these movies reflect and challenge the cultural zeitgeist. They also dive into the year’s standout horror films and share their thoughts on the Oscars' major contenders.

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Timestamps and Topics

• [00:00:16] Welcome and Introduction
  Dave and Michael set the tone for the episode, outlining their approach to discussing the best films of 2024.

• [00:01:18] Reflecting on the Year in Film
  The hosts share general thoughts on 2024 in cinema—was it a year of classics or just solid hits?

• [00:02:09] Horror Highlights of 2024

Dave and Michael praise the exceptional year for horror, with standout titles like The Substance, Nosferatu, and Cuckoo.

• [00:03:22] Oscar Campaigns and Predictions
  A lively discussion about the politics of Oscar campaigns, including surprises, snubs, and predictions.

• [00:04:49] Themes of 2024 in Film
  Michael discusses the criteria that shaped his top 10 list, emphasizing themes like despair, resilience, and power dynamics.

• [00:06:44] Top 10 Films: Starting with Nickel Boys

Michael explains why Nickel Boys made his list, focusing on its themes and performances, while Dave critiques its filmmaking style.

• [00:09:16] Dave’s Horror List and Honorable Mentions
  Dave shares his top horror films of 2024, including Alien: Romulus and Handling the Undead.

• [00:15:11] A Complete Unknown: A Deep Dive
  Michael highlights Timothy Chalamet’s performance as Bob Dylan in this period drama, reflecting on its relevance to today.

• [00:28:09] Thematic Standouts: The Substance vs. Nosferatu

A comparison of two horror standouts, with Michael favoring The Substance for its timely relevance and Dave praising Nosferatu’s timelessness.

• [00:50:20] International Gems: The Seed of the Sacred Fig
  Michael explores the Iranian allegory for authoritarianism and resilience, reflecting on its layered storytelling.

• [01:00:06] Animated Masterpiece: Flow
  Dave describes this visually stunning Latvian animated film, tying it to themes of community, refugees, and environmental decline.

• [01:03:28] Sean Baker’s Anora: A Human Story

The hosts celebrate Anora as a funny, heartfelt, and raw depiction of resilience and humanity, with standout performances and themes.

• [01:08:07] Closing Thoughts and Listener Recommendations
  Dave and Michael reflect on how the year’s films resonate with ongoing cultural conversations and share what’s next for MindFrames.

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Dave's non-ordered list(s)

A Different Man 
Seed of the Sacred Fig
All We Imagine As Light
Civil War
Red Rooms 
The Substance 
Wicked
Flow
A Real Pain 
Sing Sing 

HONORABLE MENTIONS

The Girl with the Needle
The Room Next Door 
Anora
Conclave
September 5
Hard Truths 

Michael's list

1. Sing Sing
2. Conclave
3. Anora
4. The Seed of the Sacred Fig
5. The Brutalist
6. The Substance