We’re cruising to the end of 2024 and as we do, I’m looking back at some of my favorite films and performances from the year. As well as a few of my least favorite. Each day between now and January 9 look for another installment in a different category. Let’s ring out 2024 by looking back on some of the best and worst of the year!

Today, it’s my favorite directors of the year.

No. 5: Jon M. Chu, Wicked
About: Chu had a big task in bringing Wicked to the screen. It’s a massive production and it’s beautifully crafted. He deserves a lot of credit for how great it is.

No. 4: Coralie Fargeat, The Substance
About: This was a wildly creative film. As I mentioned, I didn’t resonate with some story choices, but the idea and the direction here is incredible. This is a visually captivating film that tells an engaging and compelling story.

No. 3: Edward Berger, Conclave
About: This ended up as one of my favorite films of the year. Berger creates a beautiful world here with some incredible shots and some incredible pacing to bring energy to a story that is mostly men in rooms talking.

No. 2: Robert Eggers, Nosferatu
About: This is one of the most visually stunning films of the year. The shots and the craft here are incredible. This grabs you by the eyes and hooks you all the way through.

No. 1: Denis Villeneuve, Dune: Part Two
About: This was my favorite film of the year in large part because of the incredible craft. The film is visually stunning and provides some of the best performances of the year.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.