You are right in your thinking that too big of a pump is counter productive. In the case of pool pumps, bigger is NOT better.

I actually think if I was buying a 24ft AG (I used to have one), I'd go with smaller than a 1hp pump. Actually, when I had my 24ft, I initially had a 3/4hp. When it was time to replace that pump, I had Poconos (who is another moderator who is no longer active on the forum) pick out something for me to buy. He told me to get a 1/2 hp full-rated inground pump. I think it is a Hayward Superpump. Inground pumps are usually made a little more sturdily and also have the advantage of being self-priming which AG pumps are not. I now have a 27ft AG and am still using that same pump and it does just fine.

I have it paired with a 300 lb. sand filter. I prefer sand filters because they are by far the easiest to deal with. I have always had good filtration with my sand filters. They are easily backwashed (takes 2-3 minutes tops and requires nothing more than turning a handle on the multi-port valve) as opposed to having to actually take out and clean a cartridge filter which is a nuisance and can be a very messy job. In fact, a cartridge would be my last choice. (You'll get lots of opinions on which type of filter is best. )

There are several members of the Pool Forum support team who are way more knowledgeable than me about pumps and filters but until one of them comes by and gives you a good recommendation, I just thought I'd share what I have.