In recent years, the realm of cinema has witnessed a significant rise in the production of 18+ films that are drawing considerable attention. While this genre often sparks controversy, it cannot be denied that several works have demonstrated a strong appeal through their profound content, richness, and artistic merit, receiving high praise from critics.
In this article, we will explore four of the best 18+ films released in the past four years, promising to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Benedetta
Benedetta is one of the highest-rated 18+ films of 2021, garnering attention from its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. The story draws inspiration from a real figure from the 1660s in Pescia, Italy, where the main character, Benedetta, is placed in a convent by her father at a young age. After 18 years, Benedetta grows into a strikingly beautiful woman. However, her significance transcends her beauty as she claims to experience divine visions.
In contrast to Benedetta, Bartolomea is a young woman from a peasant background who has faced numerous hardships in her past. The two women develop a close bond, leading to a complicated romantic relationship. However, this connection may lead them to face significant dangers.
Despite not being commercially successful, Benedetta received high praise for its artistic value and thematic depth. Director Paul Verhoeven has previously won two Palme d’Or awards and a Queer Palm at Cannes. Meanwhile, the lead actress Virginie Efira received accolades for her performance, including nominations for Best Actress at the César Awards and Lumière Awards.
The Northman
Among the notable 18+ films of 2022 is The Northman. This work features acclaimed actors such as Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, and Anya Taylor-Joy.
The Northman revolves around Amleth, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, who is a royal descendant. Just as he is ready to fulfill his destiny, his family is brutally attacked by an invading clan.
Amleth grows up among a Viking tribe, evolving into a fierce warrior seeking revenge. His journey includes the assistance of Olga, a stunning Slavic woman played by Anya Taylor-Joy. The film powerfully depicts the Viking world with authenticity and historical accuracy.
Rotten Tomatoes reports a remarkable 90% positive rating from 372 reviewers for The Northman, and Metacritic scores it at 82/100.
Poor Things
The third title on this list is Poor Things, which has caught attention due to the stunning performance of Emma Stone. This film certainly deserves a place among award contenders for its rich content and captivating storytelling.
Poor Things tells the story of the main character Bella, a “human” created in a bizarre manner when a scientist, Godwin, combines the brain of a deceased baby with the body of a young woman. Initially, Bella is carefully nurtured under Godwin’s watchful eye, but over time she becomes increasingly curious about the outside world.
After meeting lawyer Duncan, she begins to challenge her confines.
In 2023, Poor Things has garnered multiple prestigious awards. At the Academy Awards, the film received 11 nominations, winning 4, including Best Actress for Emma Stone. At the 80th Venice Film Festival, Poor Things won the Golden Lion. Additionally, at the Golden Globe Awards, it secured seven nominations.
Anora
If we had to highlight the most anticipated film of 2024, many would point to Anora, starring Mikey Madison and Mark Eydelshteyn. Mikey Madison plays the lead role of Anora “Ani” Mikheeva, a beautiful and enigmatic woman. Meanwhile, Mark Eydelshteyn plays Ivan “Vanya” Zakharov, the son of a prominent Russian oligarch.
Ani and Vanya meet under complicated circumstances at Ani’s workplace. The charming Vanya quickly becomes infatuated with Ani, eventually offering to pay her to be his girlfriend for a week. As this period comes to an end, Vanya is determined to keep Ani in his life.
This is a moment of bliss for Ani. However, her happiness quickly turns to despair when Vanya’s father finds out about their relationship. It becomes clear that Ani will never be accepted as Vanya’s girlfriend, and consequently, she must use her influence to distance Vanya from her.
Anora is not just a film about love; it also weaves a rich tapestry of social realities and class struggles that are ever-present. This film has previously won the Palme d’Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, received five Golden Globe nominations, six Oscar nominations, and was included in the American Film Institute’s list of the top 10 films of 2024.
