14 Indie Films That Deserve the Spotlight in 2024

Independent filmmaking has always been the heartbeat of cinema, a space where creativity thrives free from the constraints of convention or mainstream demands.

In 2024, countless remarkable films surfaced under the radar, waiting to be discovered by those who value storytelling in its purest form. These hidden treasures, crafted with limited resources but boundless passion, demonstrate why indie cinema is so essential—it amplifies underrepresented voices, challenges norms, and delivers stories that linger long after the credits roll.

Here are fourteen films that embody the unyielding spirit of storytelling and the magic that only independent cinema can offer.

Dìdi (弟弟)

Photo Credit: Focus Features

In the summer of 2008, a thirteen-year-old Taiwanese American boy navigates the final days before starting high school. Through newfound friendships, he discovers what his family can’t teach him: the thrill of skating, the art of flirting, and a deeper understanding of his relationship with his mother.

Why We Love It: Dìdi (弟弟) captures the bittersweet magic of adolescence, offering a tender and nostalgic look at a young boy’s journey of self-discovery. Sean Wang masterfully weaves the language of early 2000s technology into the story, creating a time capsule that instantly transports viewers who grew up on MySpace and AOL Instant Messenger back to that era. The film’s authentic storytelling and richly drawn characters resonate deeply, celebrating cultural identity, family, and the universal struggles of growing up.

Where to Watch It: Peacock | Amazon Prime Video | Fandango at Home

Ben and Suzanne, A Reunion in 4 Parts

In Ben and Suzanne, A Reunion in 4 Parts, Ben Santhanaraj (Sathya Sridharan) travels to Sri Lanka in hopes of rekindling his romance with Suzanne Hopper (Anastasia Olowin), an American NGO worker, after a prolonged separation. However, their long-awaited vacation takes an unexpected turn when Suzanne’s boss insists she prioritize work, forcing the couple to navigate the delicate balance between personal desires and professional obligations. As Suzanne wrestles with her responsibilities, Ben goes to great lengths to restore their connection, sparking candid conversations and unexpected twists. With New Year’s Eve—and Ben’s departure—on the horizon, their love faces its greatest test yet.

Why We Love It: Ben and Suzanne, A Reunion in 4 Parts explores the evolving nature of a long-distance relationship, rooted in immense love but reshaped by time and distance. While stories of reconnection are familiar, Shaun Seneviratne’s deeply personal approach sets this film apart, balancing emotional depth with moments of levity through heartfelt misunderstandings that feel authentic and human. What makes the film truly remarkable is its rare fourteen-year collaboration, evolving from four shorts into this deeply intimate feature. Anchored by the nuanced performances of Sathya Sridharan and Anastasia Olowin, and brought to life through the lush 16mm cinematography of Sri Lanka, the film stands as a testament to persistence, collaboration, and the enduring power of independent filmmaking.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official website.

Extremely Unique Dynamic

Has there ever been an indie Asian stoner comedy about two guys making a movie about two guys making a movie about two guys making a movie? Well, there is one now. Meet Ryan (Harrison Xu) and Daniel (Ivan Leung), childhood best friends and aspiring actors, as they prepare to close a chapter in their lives with one last epic weekend together. To make it unforgettable, they set out to create a film as layered and absurd as their friendship. But as their DIY project unfolds, long-held secrets bubble to the surface, forcing them to confront their decades-long bond and putting it to the test.

Why We Love It: Extremely Unique Dynamic delivers genuine laughs with its ridiculous, self-aware concept that fully embraces the absurdity of its premise. The film’s metaness isn’t just a clever narrative device—it transcends the page, with filmmakers Ivan Leung and Harrison Xu stepping into the spotlight as leading men in a feature for the first time. Their dynamic performances bring authenticity and humor to a story that’s as heartfelt as it is hilariously chaotic. It’s a rare blend of wit, charm, and audacity that shouldn’t work—but does.

For upcoming screenings, visit their official website.

Citizen Weiner

In 2020, with Hollywood on pause, Zack Weiner and Joe Gallagher turned their attention to local politics, transforming a city council campaign into their stage. Focused on small, meaningful actions within their community, their offbeat approach flew largely under the radar—until Zack’s private life was whipped into the spotlight. What began as a quirky indie project led to a chaotic media frenzy, filled with scandal, humor, and unexpected insights into modern campaigns. It’s a wild ride that blurs the lines between politics and performance.

Why We Love It: Citizen Weiner is a perfect example of why indie filmmaking continues to surprise and captivate—it’s willing to take the kind of risks that few others would dare. Filmmakers Daniel Robbins, Zack Weiner, Joe Gallagher, and their team built the entire film around a twist revealed in the final moments, a gamble so bold it could have unraveled everything if it hadn’t paid off—and for a while, it didn’t. Thankfully, it all comes together, transforming this quick, sharp watch into something that lingers long after it’s over. The cast’s unwavering commitment blurs the lines between fact and fiction, leaving you questioning what’s real and what’s all part of the act.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Fandango at Home | Apple TV

Color Book

After the recent loss of his wife, single father Lucky (William Catlett) is learning to navigate life while raising his son Mason, who has Down syndrome. Hoping to find solace and strengthen their bond, the two embark on a poignant journey through Metro Atlanta, on their way to experience their first baseball game together.

Why We Love It: Color Book is, as filmmaker David Fortune describes, “a love letter to a community often overlooked, whose stories deserve to be told.” Anchored by performances from William Catlett and Jeremiah Daniels that demand your attention, the film delivers a poignant exploration of Black fatherhood. Its quiet, nuanced storytelling is beautifully complemented by striking black-and-white cinematography, creating a timeless aesthetic that draws you in.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official Instagram page.

Founders Day

In the days leading up to a contentious mayoral election, a string of chilling murders sends shockwaves through a small town. As tensions rise and suspicions run high, the shadow of a masked killer looms over the community. With time running out, the residents must unravel the mystery before fear consumes them—and the town’s future is sealed.

Why We Love It: Founders Day reinvents slasher films with shocking reveals and unforgettable moments that inject new energy into the genre. Filmmakers Carson and Erik Bloomquist draw on their deep love of horror while keeping audiences on edge with unexpected twists. As someone who grew up watching these kinds of stories, I thought I’d seen it all—but this film still managed to surprise me with its fresh and inventive approach. This is a slasher that doesn’t just cut deep—it leaves you reeling.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Fandango at Home | Tubi | Apple TV

Pure O

Cooper Ganz (Daniel Dorr)’s seemingly perfect life begins to unravel when he is diagnosed with Pure Obsessional OCD, a debilitating and often misunderstood form of the disorder. As he grapples with his identity and sanity, he struggles to maintain appearances for his fiancée, Emily (Hope Lauren), as well as his family and coworkers. Working at a high-end Malibu rehab center, Cooper finds unexpected support from the very addiction recovery clients he’s been helping, who guide him through his darkest hour. As he confronts his illness and embraces vulnerability, his world begins to open up, leading him on a journey of self-discovery.

Why We Love It: Pure O is a profoundly personal film for writer-director Dillon Tucker, who set out to illuminate the misunderstood and often misrepresented condition of Pure Obsessional OCD while subverting audience expectations. In doing so, he has crafted a narrative that is both educational and deeply empathetic, offering visibility to a community long overlooked. Daniel Dorr delivers a remarkable performance as Cooper Ganz, capturing the vulnerability of a man whose diagnosis forces him to confront his deepest fears and reevaluate his identity. Opposite him, Hope Lauren shines as Emily, portraying a fiancée balancing her love and support for Cooper while grappling with her own struggles. Together, their performances bring a rare honesty to Tucker’s vision, creating a cinematic experience that is both enlightening and profoundly moving.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Apple TV

Nowhere Special

James Norton stars as John, a thirty-five-year-old window cleaner who has devoted his life to raising his four-year-old son, Michael, after the child’s mother left shortly after his birth. When John learns he has only a few months to live, he faces an impossible decision: finding a new family to adopt Michael, determined to shield his son from the harsh reality of their situation. Initially steadfast in his idea of the “perfect” family, John’s confidence is shaken as he wrestles with doubts—how can he decide something so profound based on fleeting encounters? With the support of a compassionate social worker, John begins to let go of his anger, embrace the truth, and trust in Michael’s instincts, even as time slips away.

Why We Love It: James Norton delivers a devastating, career-best performance as John, a father burdened with the unthinkable task of preparing his son’s future while facing the reality of his own mortality. Norton’s portrayal is a masterclass in restraint and vulnerability, capturing the quiet resilience and profound heartbreak of a man striving to shield his child from a truth no one should have to bear.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Apple TV | Fandango at Home

Samson

Samson tells the story of Emma (Alice Lee) and Dale (Ryan Dance), an ex-couple who are forced to confront their unresolved past when they’re kidnapped by masked men, Drew (Will Brittain) and Joe (Emilio Garcia-Sanchez). Told through a non-linear timeline and multiple perspectives, the film blends dark humor, tension, and heartbreak, creating a Shakespearean Reservoir Dogs.

Why We Love It: Samson is a masterful blend of genres, seamlessly shifting from drama to comedy to thriller, and even featuring a standout musical number. Co-writer and director Ruth Du navigates these transitions brilliantly, never losing focus on Emma, played with exceptional nuance by Alice Lee, as she finds her voice and breaks free from a toxic relationship we can all relate to. Du also weaves commentary on the experiences of people of color with such profound subtlety that it resonates without ever feeling heavy-handed, adding another layer of depth to this compelling story.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Apple TV

Ba

Daniel Li (Lawrence Kao), a struggling father, finds himself at the end of his rope—without money, a home, or options. Desperate to secure a future for his daughter, Colette (Kai Cech), Daniel unknowingly takes on a harrowing role: Death itself. As his body undergoes a terrifying transformation, he discovers the grim reality that anything he touches will die. To protect Colette, Daniel adapts to his curse, covering every inch of his skin and setting strict boundaries to keep her safe. But when a Child Protection Services officer begins investigating their situation, and Colette uncovers the truth about her father, their fragile world begins to crumble.

Why We Love It: Ba is an evocative exploration of the unbreakable bond between a father and daughter, seamlessly blending supernatural elements with deeply human themes of love and sacrifice. Benjamin Wong’s feature debut delivers a haunting and emotional tale, anchored by Lawrence Kao’s transformative performance as Daniel, a father grappling with impossible choices. The film’s surreal visuals and immersive soundscapes elevate its poignant storytelling, while Wong’s subtle depiction of the Asian American experience adds a layer of resonance that feels both personal and universal.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official Instagram page.

Unicorns

Unicorns is a poignant tale of forbidden romance and discovery, starring Ben Hardy as Luke, a hard-working single father, and Jason Patel as Aysha, a captivating performer. Accustomed to fleeting, transactional relationships, Luke’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Aysha at an underground nightclub. Their chemistry is undeniable, but Luke’s assumptions are challenged when he discovers Aysha is a femme drag queen rather than the cisgender woman he presumed. Although shaken, Luke is drawn back when Aysha offers him a job as her driver, immersing him in London’s vibrant “gaysian” scene. As their relationship evolves, Luke and Aysha confront personal fears and cultural divides, exploring whether love can transcend identity and defy traditional boundaries.

Why We Love It: Ben Hardy delivers a powerhouse performance as a man navigating the complexities of a connection that challenges his worldview. Opposite him, Jason Patel is equally as captivating, bringing an undeniable presence to the screen that cements him as a breakout star of 2024. Patel’s portrayal of Aysha is both magnetic and deeply layered, making every moment feel authentic and unforgettable. Together, their dynamic represents the push and pull of two people drawn together yet held apart by fear, misunderstanding, and societal expectations. The tension keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, never knowing if they will overcome their differences and find a way to bridge their worlds.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official Instagram page.

#AMFAD: All My Friends Are Dead

A group of carefree college friends heads to an Airbnb for a weekend of partying during the biggest music festival of the year. But what begins as a celebration of friendship and music soon descends into chaos when the group starts falling victim to a series of brutal murders. As they are killed off one by one, it becomes clear that the murders are not random—each death is intricately tied to a sin they’ve committed. In a fight for survival, the remaining friends must uncover the truth behind their tormentor before it’s too late, questioning how well they really know each other—and themselves.

Why We Love It: Didn’t we mention earlier we’re fans of the slasher genre? The Tribeca Film Festival standout #AMFAD: All My Friends Are Dead reinvents the genre with characters who defy expectations and a narrative that speaks directly to this generation. Director Marcus Dunstan expertly weaves tension and satire, crafting a film that’s as clever as it is chilling. The ensemble cast shines, bringing layered and compelling performances that ensure nothing—and no one—is quite what it seems.

Where to Watch It: Amazon Prime Video | Tubi | Apple TV

Dragon Fruit

In a brutal, dystopian future, survival is the only currency, and one woman’s resilience becomes her greatest asset. Yvonne Chapman stars as the Mother, a single parent fighting to provide for her young son in a world stripped of kindness. With little more than hope, she embarks on a seemingly impossible task: growing a tiny dragon fruit sprout into a fully-ripened fruit, a task that could earn them the money needed to escape their grim reality.

Why We Love It: Passion meets ingenuity in Dragon Fruit, where filmmaker J. Brown’s meticulous attention to detail shines through in every prop and costume, making the film feel far grander in scale than its modest production. At its heart, it’s a gripping and poignant tale of perseverance, sacrifice, and the dream of a better life. Told primarily without dialogue, the film relies on Yvonne Chapman’s commanding performance to draw audiences in. Her portrayal immediately connects, as you feel her struggles, admire her tenacity, and root for her against all odds.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official website.

I Wish You All the Best

Based on Mason Deaver’s acclaimed novel, I Wish You All the Best follows Ben DeBacker, a non-binary teen navigating life after being thrown out of their home. Moving in with their estranged older sister, Hannah, and her husband, Thomas, Ben grapples with anxiety and comes out only to a few trusted people: Hannah, Thomas, and their art teacher, Ms. Lyons. Determined to keep a low profile at their new school, Ben’s plans are upended when Nathan, a charming and funny classmate, takes them under his wing. With Nathan’s help—and the support of friends Sophie and Mel—Ben begins to discover who they truly are, turning what felt like the end into the start of something beautiful.

Why We Love It: Few book-to-screen adaptations achieve the poignancy of Tommy Dorfman’s feature film debut as a writer and director. Under her insightful guidance, the film masterfully balances heartbreak and hope, offering a tender reminder of the importance of chosen family and the journey of reclaiming one’s body. A standout at SXSW, the adaptation resonates deeply with audiences, presenting a modern take on a queer story that moves beyond trauma and coming out.

Corey Fogelmanis delivers a transcendent performance as Ben, embodying the character with authenticity, vulnerability, and strength. His portrayal captures the depth of self-discovery and identity with profound honesty, elevating the story to something truly unforgettable.

Stay up-to-date with the film on their official Instagram page.