With 2023 now behind us, the film industry is gearing up for some must-see releases in the new year. No matter what types of films you gravitate towards, the next 12 months will include something for everyone, especially fans of black cinema.
2024 starts with the release of Clarence's book, which is written, directed and composed by Jeymes Samuel. Audiences around the world can see an ensemble featuring LaKeith Stanfield, Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard, Teyana Taylor, Caleb McLaughlin, Eric Kofi-Abrefa, and more. Plus, Ava DuVernay's Origin will hit the screens on 19th, January is shaping up to be an exciting month for movie buffs.
This year also marks the return of some classic popular culture franchises. In June, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence will reprise their roles as Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett in the upcoming film. Bad Boys film, while Eddie Murphy aims to light up the screen in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. The public can also expect the sequel to that of 2021. Dunewith the Emmy-winning actress Zendaya.
From action-packed thrillers to provocative horror films, here's our complete list of the most anticipated films of 2024.
The Book of Clarence – (1/12)
Written and directed by Jeymes Samuel, this film tells the story of Clarence, a down-on-his-luck man living in Jerusalem in 29 AD and seeking to capitalize on the rise of Jesus Christ by claiming to be the new Messiah. It features an ensemble including LaKeith Stanfield, Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard, Teyana Taylor, Caleb McLaughlin, Eric Kofi-Abrefa, and more.
Origin – (1/19)
Met with a positive critical response, directed by Ava DuVerney Origin is based on Caste: the origins of our discontent by Isabelle Wilkerson. It stars Oscar and Emmy nominee Aunjanue Ellis as Wilkerson, and follows her as she writes her heartbreaking book about discovery.
Bob Marley: One Love – (2/14)
This film is based on the life of reggae singer and songwriter Bob Marley, from his rise to his death in the early 1980s. The film stars Kingsley Ben-Adir as Marley, alongside Lashana Lynch in the role of Rita Marley. Bob Marley: A love is scheduled to be released in the United States on February 14, 2024 by Paramount Pictures.
Dune: Part Two – (3/1)
Starring Zendaya in the lead role, Denis Villeneuve's sophomore effort is now slated for a March release due to last year's SAG-AFTRA strike. As one of the most anticipated films of 2024, Dune: part two is sure to be a box office hit.
Imaginary – (3/8)
DeWanda Wise will star in the upcoming supernatural horror film titled Imaginary. The film follows Jessica, played by Wise, as she returns to her childhood home, finding her old teddy bear who might now have a life of his own.
Challengers – (4/26)
Zendaya is set to have a busy 2024. Dune: part twoshe will also star in Challengers, which is scheduled to premiere in April. In this film, the wife and coach of a Grand Slam champion signs him up for a Challenger event where he will face his former lover.
Bad Boys 4 – (6/14)
The fourth part of Bad Boys the series will air this summer. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence reprise their roles as Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, respectively, with Tasha Smith joining the cast as Theresa Burnett, Marcus's wife. Smith replaces Theresa Randle, who played the character in the previous films.
A quiet place: first day – (6/28)
A quiet place: first day is a spin-off prequel and third overall installment of the A silent place film series. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on June 28, 2024 and stars Lupita Nyong'o and Djimon Hounsou.
Gladiator 2 – (11/22)
Nearly 25 years after the original, Gladiator 2 hits theaters just before Thanksgiving. Alongside an exceptional cast, the film welcomes Oscar winner Denzel Washington, who will play a former slave turned wealthy arms and raw materials dealer angry with the emperors.
Villain – (11/27)
Release scheduled for November 27 Villain: Part One tells the story of how a green-skinned woman mentored by the Wizard of Oz becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. It stars Cynthia Erivo in the lead role.
Mufasa: The Lion King – (12/20)
Barry Jenkins will direct the live-action style prequel to the similarly created 2019 version and the original 1994 film. The Lion King. It tells the origin story of Simba's father Mufasa and his rise to power.
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F – (to be determined)
Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in the fourth installment of the series. Beverly Hills Cop series. In the new film, Lt. Axel Foley of the Detroit Police Department returns to Beverly Hills to investigate corruption within the Beverly Hills Police Department with his ex-daughter and ex-boyfriend after the death of an old friend.
Untitled Jordan Peele Movie – (TBD)
Jordan Peele has yet to release any information about his next film, which will follow up his 2022 sci-fi thriller. No. If it's anything like the previous one, it'll definitely be a wild ride.
