Hideo Kojima’s Favorite Movies and TV Shows from 2024

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - March 14th 2025, 17:30 GMT+1

Cropped A Girl Named Ann — A Girl Named Ann

*A Girl Named Ann* is a poignant drama that delves into the life of a young woman grappling with the shadows of abuse and addiction. Under the direction of Yu Irie, the movie portrays Ann's journey from a tumultuous upbringing to her encounters with individuals who offer glimmers of hope. Yuumi Kawai delivers a heart-wrenching performance as Ann, capturing the complexities of a character striving for redemption amidst relentless adversities. The narrative doesn't shy away from the grim realities faced by those marginalized by society, offering an unflinching look at themes of invisibility and resilience. The movie's raw portrayal of Ann's struggles and the societal challenges she faces provides a mirror to real-world issues, making it a compelling watch. | © Kinoshita Group, Dongyu Club, Cogitoworks, Kino Films

Cropped All the Long Nights — All the Long Nights

*All the Long Nights*, directed by Sho Miyake, is a contemplative exploration of human connection set against the backdrop of contemporary Japan. The movie follows Misa Fujisawa, portrayed by Mone Kamishiraishi, and Takatoshi Yamazoe, played by Hokuto Matsumura, as they navigate the fringes of society, each dealing with personal struggles that have led them to a shared path. Their evolving friendship challenges traditional narratives, focusing on platonic bonds formed through mutual understanding and empathy. The movie's strength lies in its character-driven storytelling, eschewing grand events for the subtle profundity found in everyday interactions. The naturalistic cinematography enhances the authenticity of the narrative, immersing viewers in the nuanced lives of the protagonists. | © Asmik Ace Entertainment

Cropped My Sunshine — My Sunshine

*My Sunshine* is a heartfelt narrative that intertwines themes of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. The story centers on characters who, despite facing profound personal challenges, find solace and hope in unexpected places. The movie's delicate handling of complex emotions is complemented by stellar performances, bringing depth to a tale that resonates with universal truths about the human condition. The cinematography captures both the intimate moments and the expansive landscapes, symbolizing the internal and external journeys of the characters. While specific details about the cast and production are limited, the movie's impact lies in its universal themes and emotional authenticity. | © The Asahi Shimbun Company

Cropped Look Back — Look Back

*Look Back* is an animated feature that transcends traditional storytelling through its evocative visuals and profound narrative. The movie follows the intertwined lives of two aspiring artists, exploring themes of ambition, friendship, and the passage of time. The animation style enhances the emotional depth of the story, with each frame meticulously crafted to convey the characters' internal and external journeys. The movie's ability to resonate with audiences across different backgrounds speaks to its universal appeal, making it a standout in the realm of animated cinema. | © Twin Engine, Studio Durian

Cropped Flow — Flow

*Flow* is a simple yet beautiful animated tale that has captivated audiences with its heartfelt storytelling. The movie's narrative, though straightforward, delves deep into themes of connection, resilience, and the beauty found in everyday moments. The animation style complements the story's tone, offering a visual experience that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. Critics have lauded *Flow* for its ability to leave a lasting impression, with its charm and depth making it a memorable addition to the year's cinematic offerings. | © Sacrebleu Productions, Dream Well Studio, Take Five

Cropped Robot Dreams — Robot Dreams

Who knew a movie without dialogue could say so much? *Robot Dreams* is a quietly devastating and beautifully animated story about a dog and his robot companion, capturing the highs of friendship and the heartbreak of loss. Directed by Pablo Berger, this movie takes a seemingly simple premise and turns it into an emotional rollercoaster – one that sneaks up on you with its nostalgia and bittersweet charm. Dog and Robot’s adventures through a lively 1980s New York are full of humor and warmth, but when fate cruelly separates them, the silence speaks louder than words. It’s a masterclass in storytelling, proving that you don’t need complex exposition to tell a deeply human story (even when the protagonists aren’t technically human). This one will sit with you long after the credits roll, like a memory you can’t quite let go of. | © Arcadia Motion Pictures

Cropped Past Lives — Past Lives

Some movies don’t just tell a story; they make you feel like you’re living inside one. *Past Lives* is one of those rare movies that captures the quiet ache of time passing, of choices made and unmade, and of love that exists in a space beyond definition. Greta Lee and Teo Yoo play childhood friends who reconnect years later, only to realize that life has carried them in different directions. The chemistry between them is palpable, not in a dramatic Hollywood way, but in the way that makes you hold your breath during their conversations, waiting for words they’ll never say. Celine Song’s direction is patient and poetic, allowing every glance and pause to tell its own story. It’s a movie that lingers – like an old song, a half-remembered dream, or the feeling that somewhere, in another life, things might have been different. | © A24

Cropped The Teachers Lounge — The Teachers' Lounge

There’s no chaos quite like a middle school in crisis, and *The Teachers' Lounge* dives headfirst into that mess with gripping intensity. Leonie Benesch plays Carla, an idealistic teacher who stirs up a hornet’s nest when she tries to uncover a series of thefts at her school. But what starts as a simple whodunit spirals into a nerve-wracking power struggle between teachers, students, and administration. It’s the kind of movie that keeps you on edge – not with action or suspense, but with the creeping realization that even small institutions are built on fragile systems of power. Director İlker Çatak turns an ordinary setting into a battleground where truth and authority clash, making every interaction feel like a ticking time bomb. If you’ve ever felt like you were stuck in an unwinnable situation, this one will hit close to home. | © Komplizen Film

Cropped Dune 2 — Dune: Part Two

If *Dune: Part One* was the slow inhale before the storm, *Dune: Part Two* is the thunderous exhale. Denis Villeneuve delivers a grand, sweeping spectacle that cements *Dune* as one of the most ambitious sci-fi sagas of our time. Timothée Chalamet fully embraces his destiny as Paul Atreides, stepping into his role as the prophesied leader of the Fremen, while Zendaya’s Chani gets more screen time (and more to do) as the political and spiritual stakes rise. With new additions like Florence Pugh and Austin Butler, the cast is stacked, but it’s the sheer scale of Villeneuve’s vision that steals the show – each frame is a work of art, each battle feels like something ancient and mythic. The kind of movie that reminds you why cinemas exist. Don’t even think about watching this on your phone. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped All of Us Strangers — All of Us Strangers

If *All of Us Strangers* were a person, it would be the kind of friend who sits with you in silence, knowing that sometimes words aren’t enough. Andrew Scott delivers a hauntingly intimate performance as a lonely screenwriter who reconnects with the ghosts of his past – literally. When he stumbles upon his childhood home, he finds his long-dead parents still living there, exactly as they were. What follows is a deeply emotional exploration of grief, memory, and the way we carry our past with us. Paul Mescal brings a quiet warmth as Adam’s romantic interest, offering a counterbalance to the movie’s melancholy introspection. Andrew Haigh directs with an understated elegance, letting emotions linger in the air like an unspoken confession. Some movies make you cry – this one makes you feel like you’ve lived an entire lifetime in its 105-minute runtime. | © Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Mad Max Furiosa — Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

In *Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga*, director George Miller transports us back to the desolate wastelands, unraveling the origin story of the fierce warrior, Furiosa. Anya Taylor-Joy steps into the titular role, delivering a performance that is both vulnerable and unyielding, showcasing Furiosa's transformation from a captive to a formidable leader. Alongside her, Chris Hemsworth portrays Dementus, a warlord whose complexity adds depth to the narrative. The movie's high-octane sequences are complemented by its intricate storytelling, making it a standout in the action genre. Miller's visionary direction, combined with stellar performances, cements *Furiosa* as a compelling addition to the *Mad Max* franchise. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped La Chimera — La Chimera

*La Chimera* is a cinematic journey that intertwines art, history, and human emotion. The movie follows an archaeologist, portrayed by a captivating lead, as he becomes entangled in the world of illicit artifact trading. Set against the backdrop of picturesque Italian landscapes, the narrative delves into themes of love, loss, and the moral ambiguities of cultural preservation. The director masterfully balances suspense with poignant storytelling, creating a movie that resonates on multiple levels. The ensemble cast delivers nuanced performances, bringing depth to a story that lingers long after the credits roll. | © Ad Vitam Distribution

Cropped Hit Man — Hit Man

*Hit Man* offers a fresh take on the crime thriller genre, blending dark humor with gripping action. The story centers on a contract killer who finds himself in increasingly absurd situations, challenging the conventions of his deadly profession. The lead actor's charismatic portrayal adds layers to a character that is both menacing and endearing. The movie's sharp script and dynamic direction keep audiences on the edge of their seats, while its satirical undertones provide a thoughtful commentary on the nature of violence and morality. *Hit Man* stands out as a bold and inventive entry in contemporary cinema. | © AGC Studios, Aggregate Films, Barnstorm Productions, Cinetic Media, and Detour Filmproduction

Cropped Gondola — Gondola

*Gondola* is a visual and emotional feast that takes viewers on a transformative journey through the canals of Venice. The narrative follows a gondolier who becomes an unexpected hero amidst unfolding chaos in the city. The movie's stunning cinematography captures the ethereal beauty of Venice, while its heartfelt storytelling explores themes of courage, community, and the unexpected paths life can take. The protagonist's journey is both personal and universal, resonating with audiences through its authentic portrayal of human resilience. *Gondola* is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring spirit of its characters. | © Veit Helmer Film Produktion and Natura Film

Cropped The Seed of the Sacred Fig — The Seed of the Sacred Fig

*The Seed of the Sacred Fig* is a spiritual odyssey that delves into the complexities of faith, tradition, and personal enlightenment. Set in the heart of India, the movie follows a young monk's quest for truth as he navigates the challenges of modernity and ancient wisdom. The lush cinematography and evocative score immerse viewers in a world rich with cultural and philosophical depth. The lead actor's soulful performance anchors the movie, conveying a profound sense of introspection and growth. *The Seed of the Sacred Fig* invites audiences to reflect on their own beliefs and the universal search for meaning. | © Arte

Cropped The Substance — The Substance

In *The Substance*, director Coralie Fargeat presents a visceral body-horror experience that challenges societal beauty standards. Demi Moore delivers a career-defining performance as Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading Hollywood star who consumes a black-market serum to regain her youth, leading to unforeseen and grotesque transformations. Margaret Qualley portrays Sue, Elisabeth's assistant, whose journey intertwines with the harrowing consequences of the substance. The movie's commitment to practical effects, including extensive prosthetic work, adds a tangible realism to the horror, a choice that garnered critical acclaim at festivals. *The Substance* stands as a bold commentary on the commodification of women's bodies in the entertainment industry. | © Working Title Films

Cropped The Holdovers — The Holdovers

Alexander Payne's *The Holdovers* is a heartwarming dramedy set during the winter break of 1970 at a New England boarding school. Paul Giamatti stars as Paul Hunham, a curmudgeonly teacher left to supervise the students who remain on campus over the holidays. Among them is Angus Tully, portrayed by newcomer Dominic Sessa, a rebellious student with whom Hunham forms an unlikely bond. Da'Vine Joy Randolph shines as Mary Lamb, the school's head cook, who becomes an integral part of this impromptu family. The movie beautifully captures the essence of unexpected connections and personal growth amidst the backdrop of a deserted campus during the festive season. | © Miramax Films

Cropped Juror 2 — Juror #2

Clint Eastwood's *Juror #2* is a gripping courtroom drama that delves into the moral complexities of the justice system. Nicholas Hoult plays Justin Kemp, a juror who realizes he may have caused the victim's death in a case he's deliberating. As guilt consumes him, he faces a profound ethical dilemma: manipulate the jury to save himself or confess and face the consequences. The movie's tension is heightened by stellar performances, particularly from Toni Collette as the sharp-witted defense attorney. Eastwood's direction ensures a taut narrative that keeps audiences questioning the boundaries of morality and justice. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Shogun — Shōgun

*Shōgun* is an epic historical drama show that transports viewers to 17th-century Japan, chronicling the adventures of English navigator John Blackthorne, portrayed by Cosmo Jarvis. After being shipwrecked, Blackthorne becomes embroiled in the political intrigues of feudal Japan, navigating complex relationships with samurai and nobility. Hiroyuki Sanada delivers a compelling performance as Lord Toranaga, a powerful daimyo with ambitions of unifying Japan. The show is lauded for its meticulous attention to historical detail, breathtaking cinematography, and intricate character development, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and political narratives. | © FX Productions

Cropped True Detective Night Country — True Detective: Night Country

The fourth installment of the *True Detective* anthology, subtitled *Night Country*, ventures into the eerie landscapes of Alaska. Jodie Foster stars as Detective Liz Danvers, who, alongside her partner Evangeline Navarro, played by Kali Reis, investigates the mysterious disappearance of eight men from an Arctic research station. The show masterfully weaves themes of isolation, indigenous lore, and the haunting beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Foster's return to television is marked by a nuanced performance that anchors the season's dark and intricate narrative, reaffirming the show's reputation for compelling storytelling. | © HBO

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Hideo Kojima, the legendary game designer behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, is not just a mastermind in gaming – he’s also an avid cinephile with an impeccable taste in movies and TV shows. Every year, Kojima shares his personal selection of movies and shows that have left a lasting impression on him, offering fans a glimpse into the stories that inspire his own creative process.

This year’s list includes a mix of genres, from high-octane action to deeply emotional dramas and thought-provoking sci-fi. However, due to international release schedules, you might notice a few 2023 films on the list – since many of them premiered in different countries at different times, they were new to Kojima in 2024.

| © Theo Wargo