Top Shows, Movies, and Books of 2024 You Can’t Miss

by | Jan 9, 2025

Best of 2024

Best of 2024: Must-Watch Shows, Movies, and Books That Inspire and Align with Your Values

I don’t know about you, but we can’t resist diving into the “best of” lists from the year during our year-end reflections. Reliable recommendations that uplift, inspire, and align with your values are like little treasures—and who has time for anything that drains your energy?

With that in mind, here are our “Best of 2024” picks for the shows, movies, and books that impacted our journey this year and the values they activated for us.


📺 Best Shows of 2024

Found Footage Video GIF by Eternal Family

Fresh Off the Boat

A nostalgic and comedic exploration of family, culture, and identity through the eyes of a first-generation Asian-American boy. Values Activated: Family Security, Humor, Connection

School Spirits

A teenager trapped in the afterlife teams up with a group of ghostly misfits to solve her own murder in this clever and suspenseful series. Values Activated: Curiosity, Adventure, Imagination

Girls5eva

A disbanded girl group from the ‘90s tries to reclaim their glory and navigate the modern music world in this hilarious and empowering show. Values Activated: Humor, Ambition, Connection

Cunk on Earth

A satirical, laugh-out-loud mockumentary that hilariously explores human history and culture. Values Activated: Curiosity, Humor, Knowledge

The Brothers Sun

A gripping tale of family, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of international crime. Values Activated: Family Security, Responsibility, Empathy

One Day

A beautiful and poignant series exploring the ups and downs of love and life through the lens of one fateful day each year. Values Activated: Connection, True Friendship, Reflection

Hacks

The Emmy-winning comedy-drama delves into the complex mentor-protégé relationship of two brilliant women in comedy. Values Activated: Creativity, Humor, Vulnerability

Young Sheldon

This coming-of-age sitcom continues to charm audiences with its heartwarming portrayal of a young genius navigating life and family. Values Activated: Intelligence, Family Security, Humor


🎥 Best Movies of 2024

Movie gif. Regina Hall as Brenda in "Shakespeare in Blood" in a movie theater, engrossed in a movie while snacking and licking each of her fingers.

Melancholia

A visually stunning and emotionally rich exploration of humanity’s resilience in the face of impending doom. Values Activated: Wisdom, Unity with Nature, Inner Harmony

Nyad

The inspiring true story of Diana Nyad, who became the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. Values Activated: Daring, Success, Purpose

Damsel

A thrilling fairy tale reimagining, with a courageous princess fighting to save herself and her kingdom. Values Activated: Adventure, Empowerment, Independence

Leo

This animated masterpiece delivers laughs, creative storytelling, and imaginative worlds for all ages. Values Activated: Humor, Imagination, Creativity

Musica

A cinematic masterpiece celebrating the transformative power of music to unite, heal, and inspire. Values Activated: Creativity, Spiritual Life, Purpose

American Fiction

A razor-sharp satire of the publishing industry and the complexities of racial identity in America. Values Activated: Racial Justice, Humor, Openness

Juror #2

A tense and gripping courtroom drama where moral dilemmas and justice collide in unexpected ways. Values Activated: Integrity, Empathy, Justice


📚 Best Books of 2024

Journee De La Femme Reaction GIF by US National Archives

The Will of the Many

A riveting fantasy novel that delves into the power of unity and the courage to challenge corrupt systems. Values Activated: Ambition, Daring, Innovation

This Tender Land

A beautifully written coming-of-age epic about four orphans on a life-changing journey during the Great Depression. Values Activated: Adventure, Connection, Freedom

Believe It

A powerful memoir about overcoming adversity, embracing authenticity, and finding the courage to live your truth. Values Activated: Empowerment, Success, Gratitude

The Woman In Me

An intimate and raw memoir from Britney Spears that reveals her journey through fame, struggle, and self-discovery. Values Activated: Vulnerability, Independence, Self-Respect

Project Hail Mary

An edge-of-your-seat sci-fi thriller about an astronaut’s mission to save humanity from extinction. Values Activated: Intelligence, Adventure, Innovation

The Emotion Code

A groundbreaking guide to emotional healing that empowers readers to release trapped emotions and reclaim their well-being. Values Activated: Healing, Reflection, Inner Harmony

The Red Tent

A richly woven historical novel that reimagines women’s lives in biblical times told through the eyes of Dinah. Values Activated: Empowerment, Spiritual Life, Connection

Musashi

A timeless tale of honor, discipline, and perseverance following the legendary samurai’s quest for enlightenment. Values Activated: Wisdom, Self-Discipline, Purpose

Animal Farm

A sharp and enduring allegory of power, corruption, and resistance that remains as relevant today as when it was first published. Values Activated: Social Justice, Knowledge, Integrity


What’s on Your List?

Have you read, watched, or loved any of these this year? Let us know your favorites—or what you’d add to the list.

Looking for a fresh start in 2025? Don’t miss MaryBeth’s Permission to Be Human New Year’s session replay—details ⬇️!


P.S.

Did you miss MaryBeth’s Permission to Be Human in 2025 session? Don’t worry—you can still catch the replay! 🌟

Reflect on what to leave behind in 2024 and what to take with you in the new year, and while giving yourself even more permission to be human. ✨

Start your new year with clarity and intention—watch the replay here!

 

Create Your Values-Driven Life

Our Newsletter, Create Your Values Driven Life, features unique ideas, common-sense reminders + inspiration to help you know and live your values.