Each month, I peruse through the film options on some of the biggest streaming platforms – Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus – with the hopes of finding you, beloved reader, some cool movies to stream.
This month is no different. There was more perusing, and thus, more movies. But that’s enough beating around the bush. Let’s get to the five movies selected for this month.
Netflix: Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
There’s currently a lot of hype and buzz around HBO’s The Last of Us series, based on the very popular video game series of the same name. Obviously, the buzz got me thinking about the best video game adaptations in film. And although Scott Pilgrim vs. The World isn’t a game adaptation, it remains my favorite video game movie. Along with the video game elements, Edgar Wright wonderfully blends elements of comic books, musicals and rom-com movies for this completely singular cinematic experience.
Not to mention, this movie features an all-star cast, including early career performances from Brie Larson and Aubrey Plaza.
FOR FANS OF: Hot Fuzz; Iron Man; Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Prime Video: Pariah (2011)
There are few pleasures in life as delightful as finding a quality indie film. Pariah is one of those great diamond in the rough movies. It’s a deeply emotional coming of age story that pull you in with its great heart. Director Dee Rees proves to have a keen eye for emotionally expressive storytelling. It’s one of the most poetic films of the last ten or so years. You’ll walk away immensely moved and greatly charmed. Who doesn’t want that from a movie?
FOR FANS OF: Lady Bird; Moonlight; The Spectacular Now
HBO Max: Lady Snowblood (1973)
This one is for all of my Kill Bill fans. One of the joys of watching a Tarantino movie is seeing something awesome and knowing that he probably pulled it from one of his favorite movies. While watching Lady Snowblood, you’ll realize just how much Tarantino pulled from this – narratively and aesthetically. You’ll also understand why he drew so much inspiration from this flick. It’s freaking badass as hell!
Lady Snowblood is one of the greatest revenge flicks of all time, but it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle because of when and where it was released. This is my attempt to make sure as many people as possible see it.
FOR FANS OF: Kill Bill: Vol. 1; Yojimbo; Oldboy
Hulu: I Am Not Your Negro (2016)
Happy Black History Month! Why not celebrate with this wildly gripping and informative documentary about one of the most fascinating thinkers in American history. James Baldwin’s writings have ignited minds and conversations across the country for sixty plus years. It’s also remained relevant even decades after his death. Whether you’re a James Baldwin superfan or unfamiliar with his work, I Am Not Your Negro will be a completely enriching and enthralling documentary that will leave you wanting more.
FOR FANS OF: Blackkklansman; One Night in Miami; Judas and the Black Messiah
Disney Plus: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
I’m cheating a bit with this one. I typically don’t recommend movies to watch that I have not yet seen myself. However, this feels like a worthwhile outlier. One of the biggest Marvel movies since Avengers: Endgame hit the streaming service yesterday.
I’m super excited to check this one out too. Black Panther was one of my favorite MCU movies and I’ve only heard wonderful things about this sequel. We’ll check in next month to see if it lived up to the expectations.
FOR FANS OF: Black Panther; Avengers: Infinity War; Creed
Alas! Some exciting movies to add to your watchlists. And with some exciting variety – some new, some old, some documentary, some blockbuster, and some indie.
Check back in next month for more streaming fun. Until then, happy streaming!
What’s the best hidden gem you’ve streamed recently? Share in the comments and help us expand the list!
