We’ve done it again. A new month, of course, means new movies to stream. You might be looking for some laughs, some thrills, and perhaps even some romance. Unfortunately, there’s not much romance in this month’s selection. However, there are plenty of laughs and thrills to make up for it.
As always, I’ve searched through Netflix, Prime Video, Max, Hulu, and Peacock to find you some worthwhile hidden gems you might want to stream this month.
Netflix: The Guilty (2021)
The main appeal of The Guilty is getting to watch the great Jake Gyllenhaal flex his acting muscles in a uniquely thrilling exercise. Much of (all of?) the movie is Gyllenhaal just talking on the phone as a 911 operator dealing with a distressed caller. With no other actors or intricate set to interact with, all of the drama must come from Gyllenhaal himself. The script contains enough twists and turns for this to be a sufficiently entertaining thriller. I’ve heard the original Danish version is a bit better, but it doesn’t have Jake Gyllenhaal, so this gets the slight edge for my recommendation.
FOR FANS OF: Phone Booth; Nightcrawler; The Woman in the Window
Prime Video: Behind Enemy Lines (2001)
Owen Wilson action star! That concept in practice is as silly as it sounds as a theory. However, in 2001, it was decided that we should give it a try. From what I remember (I haven’t seen this in years), Behind Enemy Lines is far from the greatest action thriller you’ll see, but surely does the job. Plus, you’ve probably been going a Gene Hackman rewatch marathon since his passing and have already gone through some of the classic performances. Behind Enemy Lines offers another opportunity to watch the legend at work.
FOR FANS OF: Black Hawk Down; Enemy of the State; Tears of the Sun
Max: The Florida Project (2017)
Like many others, I am of the opinion that despite Anora sweeping up at the Oscars, The Florida Project is easily Sean Baker’s best film. His ability to humanize those on the fringes of our society is on full display here. All of the performances are absolutely brilliant – from Willem DaFoe to the child actor stars. The film is ultimately heartbreaking, but offers so many moments of heartwarming beauty.
FOR FANS OF: Anora; Room; Captain Fantastic
Hulu: Anger Management (2003)
Before Adam Sandler became the guy who took all of Netflix’s money to shoot original films with all of his friends in exotic shooting locations, he starred in some pretty hilarious comedies. His Happy Madison run of films from the late 19990’s to mid 2000’s include some his most memorable performances. Anger Management might not reach of the heights of some of his other films, but it’s pretty damn funny. It also capitalizes on taking a well respected dramatic actor and testing his comedic chops. It should come as no surprise that Jack Nicholson knocks this comedic performance out of the park. It’s a shame he never starred in more comedies.
FOR FANS OF: Billy Madison; Happy Gilmore; Mr. Deeds
Peacock: Eve’s Bayou (1997)
First of all, we need more movies about Louisiana. The landscape makes for a magnificent backdrop and the state’s mystique and aura allow for an intriguing array of potential stories. Eve’s Bayou wonderfully capitalizes on all that the setting has to offer. Mixing elements of voodoo and Southern American race relations, Eve’s Bayou tells a chilling story of familial dramas. A young Jurnee Smollet is strong in the lead role as Eve, and Samuel L. Jackson is a forceful presence as her father, Louis. Kasi Lemmons’ direction is strong, even as a first timer, and her effort is strong enough to leave the film sitting with you for quite some time after it finishes.
FOR FANS OF: The Color Purple; Ordinary People; Where the Crawdads Sing
Make sure you check out all of these awesome options and let us know what you think. Also, be sure to let us know the best hidden gems you’ve streamed recently. Share in the comments and help us expand the list!
See you next month!
