How A24 Went from Indie Underdog to Hollywood Powerhouse

They are releasing 17 films this year and it feels like they are just getting started.

You ever watch a movie and instantly know it's A24, even before the credits roll? That eerie vibe, the unforgettable performances, the risks no one else would take? That’s the A24 magic. In 2025 they are set to releasing 17 films across all different genres and sizes, which is no small feat in the current distribution landscape.

But how did this once-scrappy indie distributor turn into one of the most influential names in Hollywood? Let’s rewind the reel a bit.

The Humble Beginnings

Back in 2012, three guys—Daniel Katz, David Fenkel, and John Hodges—launched A24 out of New York. They weren’t moguls; they were film buffs with industry experience (think finance, distribution, and indie production) who saw a gap in the market for bold, distinctive storytelling. Their mission? Give filmmakers creative freedom and put out movies that don’t feel like studio movies.

Their first release? A little-known (but deeply cool) film called A Glimpse Inside the Mind of Charles Swan III, directed by Roman Coppola. Not exactly a blockbuster but even Tarantino had to start somewhere…

A dynamic unexpected trio back in 2012. Picture courtesy of the NYT.

The “Spring Breakers” Breakthrough

Things started to shift in 2013 with Spring Breakers—that neon-soaked fever dream starring James Franco as “Alien.” Critics were divided, but it got people talking. That same year, The Bling Ring (directed by Sofia Coppola) and The Spectacular Now added fuel to the fire. A24 wasn’t just another distributor; they were curating a vibe.

Epic scene from Spring Breakers. Image courtesy of A24.

I remember watching those films and being drawn in by the very obvious style and “no-effs” attitude coming through the screen. (To be fair, 2013 was a GREAT year for film in general)

Then came Ex Machina (2015), Room (2015), and The Witch (2016)—and suddenly, Oscar voters were paying attention too.

The Oscar Effect

You know you’ve made it when you win Best Picture—and in 2017, A24 did just that with Moonlight 🏆 (after that unforgettable Oscars mix-up). The moment wasn’t just a win for the film - it was a signal that A24 had officially arrived.

Since then, they’ve racked up a seriously impressive roster of critical and box office hits:

• Lady Bird (2017)

• Hereditary (2018)

• Eighth Grade (2018)

• Uncut Gems (2019)

• Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) — which absolutely dominated the 2023 Oscars with 7 wins, including Best Picture

• Civil War (2024)

• I Saw The TV Glow (2024)

• Sing Sing (2024)

Why Everyone Loves A24

At its core, A24 stands for risk-taking. They back stories that are weird, raw, emotional, and unapologetically different. They let directors do their thing, whether it’s Ari Aster making us afraid of daylight (Midsommar) or the Daniels turning a multiverse movie into a heartfelt immigrant family drama.

Altar scene from Midsommar. Image Courtesy of A24.

They’ve also expanded into TV (Euphoria, Beef), books, merch (yes, their hoodies sell out), and even launched a music division.

What’s Next?

With a packed slate of upcoming films, a growing global fanbase, and a reputation as the studio for original voices, A24 isn’t slowing down. In a world of reboots and IP overload, they’re still betting on bold new stories.

Here are just a few of the A24 films I am looking forward to seeing this year:

• Highest 2 Lowest - Spike Lee remaking Kurosawa? SOLD

• Mother Mary - Anne Hathaway is gold - literally

• Eddington - Ari Aster’s 6th film for A24

It’s heartening to see auteur-driven, diverse films still being released and I feel like if anyone can save the film industry, A24 is as good a bet as any. Go to the cinema, watch the films.

Let’s keep the movies alive.

Until next time,

Christine

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P.S. What’s your favorite A24 film? Hit reply—I’m always down to debate the merits of The Lighthouse vs Everything Everywhere 😄

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