Do you have plans this Friday night and the weekend? Who said Netflix and chill is not a plan? As a matter of fact, it’s as solid a plan as any other, and this article will make it an entertaining binge-watching marathon of some of the best undiscovered gems.
I have curated a list of top 10 underatted movies that you probably haven’t heard of, but you should definitely have heard of. Discovering underrated movies can be a delightful experience for any film enthusiast. Here is a curated list of lesser-known films across various genres that deserve more recognition.
- “Brick” (2005)
Synopsis: High school student Brendan Frye (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) navigates the criminal underworld of his school to uncover the truth behind his ex-girlfriend’s mysterious disappearance.
Why Watch: This neo-noir mystery is a clever and stylish blend of classic detective tropes set in a modern high school environment. The sharp dialogue and intriguing plot twists make it a captivating watch.
Where to Find: Available on Amazon Prime Video and rental services like iTunes and Google Play.
- “A Ghost Story” (2017)
Synopsis: After a man (Casey Affleck) dies, he returns as a ghost to his suburban home to reconnect with his bereft wife (Rooney Mara) and observe the passage of time.
Why Watch: This hauntingly beautiful film explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time in a uniquely poetic way. Its minimalist storytelling and evocative visuals create a profoundly emotional experience.
Where to Find: Streaming on Netflix and available for rent on Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
- “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016)
Synopsis: A defiant city kid (Julian Dennison) and his gruff foster uncle (Sam Neill) become the targets of a manhunt after they escape into the New Zealand wilderness.
Why Watch: Directed by Taika Waititi, this heartwarming adventure combines humor, stunning landscapes, and touching moments to create a feel-good film with universal appeal.
Where to Find: Available on Hulu and for rent on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
- “The Fall” (2006)
Synopsis: In a hospital in 1920s Los Angeles, a stuntman (Lee Pace) recovering from a serious injury befriends a little girl and tells her an epic story about five mythical heroes.
Why Watch: Known for its breathtaking visuals and imaginative storytelling, “The Fall” is a visually stunning masterpiece that blends fantasy and reality. Its artistic ambition and emotional depth make it a must-see.
Where to Find: Available on Amazon Prime Video and rental services like iTunes and Google Play.
- “Moon” (2009)
Synopsis: Astronaut Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell) experiences a personal crisis as he nears the end of his three-year solo mission on the Moon, where he works to harvest resources for Earth.
Why Watch: This intelligent and thought-provoking sci-fi film features a powerful solo performance by Sam Rockwell and a gripping narrative that explores themes of identity and isolation.
Where to Find: Streaming on Netflix and available for rent on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
- “Your Name” (2016)
Synopsis: Two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who live in different parts of Japan, mysteriously begin to swap bodies intermittently, leading to a deep connection and a quest to meet each other.
Why Watch: This animated film by Makoto Shinkai is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant story that blends romance, fantasy, and a touch of sci-fi. Its beautiful animation and heartfelt narrative make it unforgettable.
Where to Find: Streaming on Crunchyroll and available for rent on Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
- “Sing Street” (2016)
Synopsis: A boy growing up in Dublin during the 1980s escapes his strained family life by starting a band and pouring his heart into music to impress a mysterious girl.
Why Watch: This coming-of-age musical drama is filled with catchy tunes, nostalgic charm, and a heartwarming story about teenage dreams and the power of music.
Where to Find: Available on Netflix and for rent on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
- “The Secret in Their Eyes” (2009)
Synopsis: A retired legal counselor (Ricardo Darín) writes a novel hoping to find closure for one of his past unresolved homicide cases and for his unreciprocated love with his superior.
Why Watch: This Argentine thriller, which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, is a masterfully crafted story with compelling performances and a gripping plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Where to Find: Streaming on Amazon Prime Video and available for rent on Google Play and iTunes.
- “The Invitation” (2015)
Synopsis: A man accepts an invitation to a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife, only to find that the hosts have sinister intentions for their guests.
Why Watch: This psychological thriller builds a slow-burning tension that culminates in a shocking and intense climax. Its eerie atmosphere and unpredictable plot make it a standout in the genre.
Where to Find: Available on Netflix and for rent on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
- “Colossal” (2016)
Synopsis: A woman (Anne Hathaway) discovers that her erratic behavior and drinking problem are mysteriously linked to a giant monster wreaking havoc in South Korea.
Why Watch: This quirky and original film combines elements of sci-fi, comedy, and drama to create a unique story about personal responsibility and self-discovery. Hathaway’s performance and the film’s inventive premise make it a hidden gem.
Where to Find: Streaming on Hulu and available for rent on Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
These hidden gems offer diverse genres and stories, providing something for every movie enthusiast to enjoy.