Films such as Pearl, The Lighthouse, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer display A24's distinct style through creating unsettling atmospheres with ambiguous endings and strange imagery, while also exploring themes of grief, trauma, and isolation. As more films follow this mould, some would argue that A24's style, visuals and narratives are becoming overexposed, feeling repetitive.
Marvel’s Thunderbolts, which releases in May this year, recently released its trailer, which showcases a dramatic shift in tone that unmistakenly mirrors A24’s signature style. This shift could show how A24’s once subversive and indie aesthetic is being commercialised; larger studios such as Marvel are now incorporating the repetitive but distinct elements of A24 into mainstream films. While this could be seen as a testament to A24, it highlights how its style is becoming formulaic for the sake of mass appeal.
However, it could also be argued that A24 is shifting its approach by diversifying into more commercially appealing genres, such as action films. Recent films such as Uncut Gems and Red Rocket depict how the studio is experimenting with narratives that move away from their typical style. While these films still embody A24’s essence, they also embrace more mainstream appeal, suggesting that A24 is broadening its reach and trying new things.
Ultimately, A24's distinct style has left an undeniable mark on modern cinema. Its atmospheric, thought-provoking films have shaped a niche in the industry, but as its influence grows, there is a sense that the formula is becoming a too familiar with audiences. With larger studios like Marvel drawing influence from A24, it is clear that the indie studio's once subversive approach is now part of the mainstream. Yet, A24’s recent explorations into more commercial genres suggest that the studio isn’t slowing down, just evolving. The question now is whether it can keep its edge while reaching new audiences?