As we dive into 2024, it’s clear that the entertainment landscape is evolving, with notable contributions across films, television shows, and music albums reflecting the complexities of contemporary life.

The Best Movies of 2024

In a year where audiences craved ambitious storytelling, Megalopolis stood out, stirring conversation far and wide. It sparked memes, polarized opinions, and ignited discussions about artistic ambition in a market often driven by commercial interests. This film's success signals a resurgence of audience interest in bold, ambitious projects—a welcome trend after the 2023 strikes that left the industry shaken. Similarly, The Brutalist, crafted by Brady Corbet on a shoestring budget of $10 million, proved that profound narratives about the struggles of architects amid ruthless capitalism resonated deeply with viewers, echoing the socio-economic challenges of our time.

The 17 Best Film Performances of 2024

This year saw formidable performances that caught everyone off guard. Actors pushed their boundaries, and even new talents stepped into the limelight with exceptional assurance. Noteworthy is the fresh perspective brought by established veterans who reignited their iconic personas, reminding audiences why they fell in love with them in the first place. Amidst the industry's upheaval, these performances served as a compelling reminder of cinema's magic—allowing us to see the world through different lenses.

The Best TV Shows of 2024

While the era of Peak TV is now considered over, 2024 delivered a mixed bag of series that either dazzled or disappointed. FX Networks' announcement of a 14% drop in new scripted series suggested a shift in dynamics. The Bear returned for a third season, but the reaction was tepid, illustrating the challenges of maintaining momentum in an oversaturated market. New entries like Shōgun and the continuation of House of the Dragon found audiences, yet lacked that collective buzz, amplifying the notion that even in a landscape awash with content, quality reigns supreme.

The 12 Best TV Performances of 2024

Amidst the clutter of average television, some performances shone brightly. Actors brought new depths to familiar characters, showing vulnerabilities and strengths we hadn't seen before. This year, audiences witnessed a range of human experiences played out on screen—each performance serving as a mirror reflecting our fears, hopes, and dreams.

The Best Anime Series of 2024

Anime started the year strong with simultaneous launches of high-fantasy series alongside historical dramas that blurred the lines between fact and fiction. The return of classics like Dragon Ball Daima and a nostalgic reimagination of Ranma ½ alongside fresh adaptations highlighted the richness of the genre. The innovation and creativity in world-building made 2024 a remarkable year for anime, setting high expectations for what's to come.

The Best Albums of 2024

2024 manifested as a year of heavy introspection within the music scene. Artists faced uncomfortable truths, grappling with the human experience through their art. The dichotomy of compassion versus cruelty resonated throughout pop, hip-hop, country, and rock, signaling an overarching desire among musicians to channel their experiences into meaningful art—an admirable endeavor amidst all the noise.

The Best Songs of 2024

The music of 2024 felt reminiscent of a unified cultural experience. Landmark tracks by Charli XCX and Shaboozey topped the charts while stirring conversations. In a world thriving on distraction, the resurgence of powerful, catchy tunes reminded us how music can bring people together across generational divides.

The Best Comedy Specials of 2024

Comedy specials this year were marked by a cohesive evolution of artists' journeys. Stand-up giants like Anthony Jeselnik and Ramy Youssef showcased their growth through thought-provoking specials that felt like both endings and new beginnings. This trend underscored their long-term artistic arcs, highlighting why audiences keep returning to their unmistakable styles.

The Best Comedy Books of 2024

Diving into humor's essence, 2024 gave rise to narratives that explored the connection between absurdity and profound truth. Comedy is not merely jokes; it’s an exploration of the human condition. With writers shedding light on the complexities of laughter, this year's most compelling texts transformed how we understand humor.

All the Internet Words We Added to Our Dictionaries in 2024

In 2024, our linguistics were shaped by our digital interactions. As slang became mainstream, the rapid evolution of language reflected the chaotic, often humorous nature of online culture. What once felt niche now pervades everyday conversation, showing us how digital life has reshaped our understanding of communication.

The Best Theater of 2024

Broadway saw a resurgence in straight plays, bolstered by the star power of Hollywood icons. This unique blend of celebrity and genuine theatrical talent brought audiences back to the stage, elevating narratives that mattered. Notable successes like Stereophonic, a fresh take on Fleetwood Mac's legacy, proved that innovative storytelling on Broadway can still capture the public's heart without the need for star-studded casts.

The Best New York Art Shows of 2024

In a groundbreaking year for art, New York saw the intersection of technology and creativity, highlighted by AI's debut in high-stakes auctions. While the world marveled at an AI-generated portrait selling for over a million, the year's exhibits reminded us that human creativity still reigned supreme—a reminder embodied by the eclectic and unforgettable artworks showcased across the city.