English
A few things can enrich your free time, such as a captivating and exhilarating film!
It's even more rewarding when a movie not only captures your attention but also inspires and motivates you, steering you towards personal growth and new directions. At Lectera, our team of passionate film aficionados have gathered a list of must-see movies from 2024, ideal for igniting your imagination and enjoying this weekend.
The Forge
Isaiah Wright, the protagonist in this film, is a recent college graduate with a passion for basketball and video games, often spending the majority of his time immersed in them. Unfortunately, his parents aren't thrilled with his lack of direction, and his mother's patience eventually reaches its limit. She gives Isaiah an ultimatum: find a job or face being kicked out of the house. Left with no choice, Isaiah starts searching for a job and lands one at Moore Fitness. There is a chance encounter with the company's president, Joshua Moore, which changes everything-Joshua sees potential in Isaiah and offers him a job position.
For whom: Ideal for teenagers and managers who might be hesitant to embrace new beginnings or are examining the fundamentals of recruitment with the aim of nurturing genuinely talented and committed individuals.
What you should know about the film: Although the plot centres around a stereotypical "lazy guy" often portrayed in American cinema, it provides a valuable perspective on these characters and the dynamics of employee management through the lens of a successful entrepreneur. Additionally, it is worth noting that the film was produced with the support of the Christian community, making its core themes not only about character development but also about discovering self-belief and faith.
Slumdog Millionaire
Is this film connected to the Indian cult classic? Not at all! This Chinese film tells an entirely different story and falls within the psychological comedy genre. It follows the journey of Ma Jie, the son of a billionaire, who-unexpectedly-grows up in the slums! His parents adopt this unconventional approach to instil values of hard work and determination, ensuring he does not rely on their wealth, receives a proper education, and ultimately earns billions on his own. Alongside a team of actors participating in the plan, Ma Jie faces challenges such as walking three miles to school every day, etc. Will these trials shape him into the person his parents hope he will become?
For whom: Ideal for anyone who is studying and who maintains the belief-or hope-that challenges foster resilience and that sometimes pushing boundaries may even offer benefits (though, is that genuinely the case?)
What you should know about the film: Echoing the plot and setting of The Truman Show, this film promises a family-friendly viewing experience. It invites viewers, regardless of whether they have children, to consider different parenting approaches and to reflect on their upbringing, contemplating the valuable lessons-both positive and negative-gained from their parents.
The Big Race. Audi vs. Lancia
If you're drawn to films about rivalries based on true events, this one is a must-see. It chronicles the intense battle between two automotive giants, the renowned Italian Lancia and the equally iconic German Audi, which reached its peak during the 1983 World Championship. Spanning 20 tracks across 12 countries, the race unfolds through challenging terrains of snow, rain, and winding mountain roads. Lancia is at a disadvantage due to Audi's advanced all-wheel-drive vehicles and must rely on sheer engineering brilliance to take the lead. To heighten the thrill, Audi's team includes legendary racers such as the "queen of speed" Michèle Mouton. In summary, the rivalry promises to be fierce!
For whom: For enthusiasts of sports films and narratives that spark the desire to compete, innovate, and tackle new challenges. If you're up against a rival who hinders you from attaining the top position and you're looking for strategies to outmanoeuvre them, this film deserves a place on your watchlist!
What you should know about the film: It brilliantly encapsulates the essence of the 1980s, although some events, such as the development of one of the cars, are portrayed with creative liberties. Nevertheless, the rivalry depicted is rooted in real history and drew significant media attention to both the race and the two competing companies.
The Apprentice: The Rise of Trump
New York, early 1970s. Donald Trump, the youngest son of a property developer, crosses paths with the controversial lawyer Roy Cohn, renowned for his undefeated courtroom record. Trump seeks Cohn's expertise to defend his father against allegations of racial discrimination in apartment rentals. As they collaborate, Cohn not only helps Trump but also imparts his three core principles: always attack, always deny, and never admit defeat.
For whom: Aspiring entrepreneurs and successful businesspeople who also dream of one day establishing a hotel in the heart of New York or building an entire financial empire.
What you should know about the film: The film draws inspiration from Donald Trump's real-life biography, although he has criticised it for being heavily exaggerated and distorted. Much like The Wolf of Wall Street, it energises viewers with its portrayal of ambition and success while also illuminating the true cost of wealth and fame.
Super Daddy
Tom, the main character, hasn't been the best father. He has been distant from his young son's life, only assuming his role after the boy's mother dies and the court requires him to take charge. On his son's eighth birthday, Tom intends to give him "The Little Prince", a beloved French classic (highly recommended!), but accidentally gives him an empty notebook bearing a similar cover. To avoid disappointing his son, Tom tells him that the notebook possesses a magical ability to grant wishes, provided they are written within it. From that moment on, Tom begins to fulfil every one of his son's dreams, no matter how outrageous they might be.
For whom: Those who envy the ability of certain individuals to adapt focus on developing creative skills and seek to learn how to navigate the most challenging crises with ease.
What you should know about the film: The protagonist, Tom, may test your patience, prompting you to root for the boy's grandmother frequently. Nevertheless, this film reaffirms the French talent for crafting light-hearted comedies that are deeply rooted in life's dramas. At its core, the story explores themes of fatherhood and the quest for mutual understanding.
You Only Live Once
This Chinese film effortlessly merges sports drama with comedy. It follows Du Leying, a 32-year-old woman living with her parents, whose interests are limited to fast food and television shows. With no career or personal life to speak of, her sister eventually nudges her out of the house. Compelled to move and take a job as a waitress, Du Leying resolves to join a nearby boxing gym, embarking on a new chapter in her life-and perhaps even attracting the attention of the gym's handsome trainer. Little does she realise that boxing will not only transform her life but also thrust her into intense competitive matches.
For whom: For those who want to change their lives and fundamentally alter their hobbies or fields of activity (or perhaps have already accomplished this and require moral support.)
What you should know about the film: Featuring an unconventional lead for the genre, this film portrays a lazy heroine whose struggles and persistent fatigue will resonate with many viewers. Instead of the typical tale of triumphant victories or a "simpleton" defeating elite competitors, the story unfolds with a refreshing realism and vibrancy, setting it apart from its Hollywood counterparts.
How to Crack an Exam
In 2016, an exceptionally bright girl named Lynn, owing to her academic achievements, was accepted into a prestigious private school for the elite. While her father hopes she will excel in science, Lynn aspires to be a pianist. After befriending a girl from a wealthy background, Lynn is introduced to the world of luxury and its challenges, particularly the struggles her affluent peers face with their studies. Out of the blue, Lynn devises a brilliant plan: what if she could hack the exam system, which is considered far too difficult to cheat, to help her classmates achieve top marks? Naturally, she would charge a fee for her services.
For whom: Ideal for those who question the power of knowledge to achieve great things and are seeking ways to transform it into a source of income-though perhaps not exactly in this manner, as this serves as an inspiring example of resourcefulness and ingenuity!
What you should know about the film: This isn't a thriller; it's a psychological drama infused with elements of crime and suspense. While Lynn's involvement in hacking exams and cheating is unacceptable, her adaptability is commendable. The film highlights the importance of education and the latent potential within her classmates, which they could unlock through dedicated effort and commitment to their studies.
