Top 7 Best THAI Movies of 2024
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for the Thai film industry, showcasing a blend of quality storytelling, diverse genres, and box office successes. If you are curious about the best THAI movies of 2024, want to know about the Most Watched Movies from Thailand in 2024, or are wondering what is the trending Thai movie in 2024, this detailed review covers the top films that have captivated audiences and critics alike.
Overview of Thai Cinema in 2024
Following a golden year in 2023, 2024 has elevated Thai cinema further by focusing on quality over quantity. Although fewer films were released (over 40 new Thai films), many embraced diverse narratives beyond traditional genres like comedy and horror. Notable entries included rare sci-fi films such as Uranus 2324 and Taklee Genesis, as well as independent productions and long-shelved classics like Dog God finally reaching audiences.
This year also saw a surge in box office revenue, with eight films crossing the 100-million-baht mark domestically, doubling the number from 2023 and setting new records. Sequels to 2023 blockbusters, especially Death Whisperer 2, have been major hits, signaling a trend towards high-quality follow-ups.
Top 10 Best THAI Movies of 2024
1. Death Whisperer 2 (Tee Yod 2)
- Genre: Horror, Action
- Box Office: Highest-grossing Thai film of 2024, earning 350 million baht in just four and a half days.
Review: This sequel delivers intense action and gruesome visuals, continuing the supernatural saga with a more active protagonist family. While it may not fully recapture the chilling atmosphere of the original, it offers a thrilling and satisfying conclusion with strong performances, especially from Kugimiya as the protective older brother.
2. How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Lan Ma)
- Genre: Drama, Comedy
- Box Office: Earned 337 million baht, competing closely with Death Whisperer 2.
Review: Praised for its authentic storytelling and relatable depiction of Asian family dynamics, this film blends comedy and tragedy seamlessly. It stands out for its heartfelt performances and a simple yet powerful narrative about familial obligations and human motives.
3. Uranus 2324
- Genre: Sci-Fi
Review: Uranus 2324 stands out as a groundbreaking Thai sci-fi film, notable for being Thailand’s first space-themed sci-fi movie featuring a sapphic (girls love) romance. The story follows Kath, an Olympic free diver, and Lin, a Thai astronaut lost in space, as they navigate multiple parallel universes in an emotional quest to reunite. The film explores complex themes such as time travel, multiverses, reincarnation, and enduring love across dimensions.
The performances by lead actresses Freen Sarocha and Becky Armstrong are compelling and authentic, with palpable chemistry that anchors the emotional depth of the story. The film’s direction and cinematography are praised for stunning visuals, including realistic space scenes and lush rural Thai landscapes. Advanced sound design, including Dolby Atmos, enhances the immersive experience.
4. Taklee Genesis
- Genre: Sci-Fi
Review: Taklee Genesis x Worlds Collide is an ambitious Thai sci-fi epic directed by renowned filmmaker Chookiat “Matthew” Sakveerakul. The film blends historical intrigue with science fiction, centered on Stella, who must time-travel to rescue her missing father by activating the mysterious Taklee Genesis project.
The film is notable for mixing diverse elements such as aliens, dinosaurs, spaceships, zombies, and kaiju, creating a visually rich but sometimes chaotic narrative reminiscent of a more generic Ready Player One. While the story ambitiously weaves together multiple sci-fi tropes and philosophical themes, it suffers from plot holes and uneven pacing.
5. Dog God
- Genre: Dark Experimental Comedy
Review: Dog God is a unique and long-awaited film that was initially banned in 1997 and finally released in 2024. It is a dark experimental comedy that challenges conventional storytelling with its avant-garde style and provocative themes.
The film’s delayed release has added to its mystique, offering audiences a rare glimpse into a controversial piece of Thai cinema history. Its dark humor and experimental approach make it stand out from mainstream Thai films, appealing to niche audiences interested in bold, unconventional cinema.
Though detailed contemporary reviews are limited, Dog God’s significance lies in its historical context and its role in expanding the boundaries of Thai film expression.
6. Breaking the Cycle
- Genre: Political Documentary
Review: Breaking the Cycle is a timely political documentary focusing on Thailand’s Future Forward Party, which has been a significant force in the country’s recent political landscape. The film premiered amidst ongoing political uncertainty, providing an in-depth look at the party’s rise, challenges, and impact on Thai society.
This documentary adds important socio-political context to the year’s cinematic offerings, reflecting the real-world struggles and aspirations of Thai democracy. It is valued for its informative and engaging portrayal of political activism and the quest for change in Thailand.
Breaking the Cycle enriches the diversity of Thai cinema in 2024 by combining documentary filmmaking with pressing contemporary issues, making it a relevant and thought-provoking watch.
7. Hunger
- Genre: Psychological Thriller
- Platform: Netflix
Review: Set in Bangkok’s culinary scene, Hunger is a dark, intense thriller about two chefs battling social inequality. It combines psychological tension with a vivid portrayal of Bangkok’s food culture, making it a standout film in 2024.
Summary
2024 has been a landmark year for Thai cinema, with the best THAI movies of 2024 showing remarkable diversity and quality. For anyone interested in exploring contemporary Thai cinema, these top films offer a comprehensive snapshot of the year’s best and most influential works.
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