Looking for something to watch? Well, here are my top 10 obscure films you probably haven't heard of! Drawing from movies released before 2015, and in no particular order, let's dive right in!
Belle
This gem was released in 2013, and is the true story of a illegitimate, biracial girl raised in a aristocrat household by her great uncle. Belle does a brilliant job of tackling topics of racism, classism, and interracial romance.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw blew me away in this powerful performance, highlighted by the sweepingly gorgeous, and authentic historical backgrounds, costumes, and sets. For fan's of period pieces, this is one to check out!
Children of Men
When woman are somehow no longer able to have children, and the only functioning country is England, a man must get a pregnant refugee to a safe haven where she can deliver the baby.
Children of Men has some of the most gorgeous cinematography I've ever scene, which is no surprise considering Emmanuel Lubezki also did The Revenant, Birdman, and Gravity.
Children of Men is an entertaining, thrilling, gut-wrenching, and moving, conversational piece that you absolutely should watch!
Following
This 1998 film follows a writer who stalks strangers for material. One of his rules is that he can never follow the same person twice. Let's just say that this is the first rule he breaks, and things get bad from there.
Following is Christopher Nolan's debut film, which he directed and wrote. It had the budget of 6,000 dollars, but still managed to amaze both the audiences and critics who saw it. In Nolan-like fashion, it has all of the bells and whistles we've come to expect from the brilliant director. Big twists, strong dialogue, interesting characters. Best news of all, you can watch this highly underrated film right now on Netflix. What are you waiting for?
Inside Llewyn Davis
Do you like folk music? Would you like to see Poe Dameron, Justin Timberlake, and Kylo Ren sing a duet? Well, look no further then this 2013 film. Inside Llewyn Davis focuses on the life and career of a young folk singer played by Oscar Isaacs. Not following a typical three act structure, this film plays out more like the way you'd write a song. It's sad, it's deep, it's directed by the Coen brothers, and it's got a great soundtrack that you'll want to buy after. Do yourself a favor and add this one to your list.
We Need To Talk About Kevin
Looking for something to watch on Netflix? Look no further than this dark, 2011 drama/thriller. Starring Tilda Swinton and Ezra Miller, We Need To Talk About Kevin is the story of a mother who is struggling to love her child inspite of his violent, unnerving, and unnatural behaviors. What stood out most to me about this film, was the great performances, the use of color, the stunning cinematography, and it's tone. We Need To Talk About Kevin isn't afraid to go to dark places, but that's what makes it so great. Will you leave this film feeling warm and happy inside? No, but it will definitely give you something to think about.
Never Let Me Go
This 2010 science fiction/drama is set in the future where clones are used as donors for their organs. Unlike most dystopian type films where the protagonist finds some way to escape, Never Let Me Go focuses on the sad souls who don't get out of the awful system they've been brought up in. This was one of the saddest films I've ever seen, mostly because of the emotionally restrained, nuanced acting from Andrew Garfield, Keira Knightley, and Carey Mulligan. That said, just because a movie is sad, doesn't mean you shouldn't see it. Never Let Me Go is also a deeply moving and poignant film about the value of life, and what makes a human a human.
Never Let Me Go
Locke
Locke is the story of a concrete farmer who has to make a long drive to London for reasons that will stay unnamed for the sake of spoilers. On this drive, he must make several, life-altering phone calls that could potentially destroy everything he's worked so hard for.
Because this film is just one man in a car having conversations over the phone, it could easily be boring. Thankfully, we have one of the most brilliant actors working today, Tom Hardy, keeping us invested in the story. Beautifully written and directed by Steven Knight, we are given a profound, intimate look into this character's life. This is a story about second chances, forgiveness, and integrity.
Lars and the Real Girl
Taking it back to 2007, we have one of my favorite Ryan Gosling performances EVER. Lars and the Real Girl is a quirky comedy about a mentally ill man, who buys a sex doll off the internet and in his delusional brain thinks she's his girlfriend. While the description might sound like it was written by a creepy dude in a basement, it is actually hilarious, charming, sweet, and earnest. It's oscar winning script focuses on the importance of connection, community, and just how a little unconditional love can go a long way. What's not to like about that? Seriously, go watch it for free on Amazon Prime!
Peacock
When John Skillpa's split persona, Emma, gets out to the small community of Nebraska where he lives, he must do everything in his power to keep her from taking over his mind and life completely. Peacock is a treasure of a film because almost everything about it is perfect. From the tone, to the setting, to the tremendous score, to the acting. Cillian Murphy shines, bringing out both personalities in such a way that you start to believe yourself that they are two different people. I absolutely adore this Hitchcockian film, and I know for a fact you will too. Go watch it!
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