You know what they say – April showers bring May movies. And the movies this May are as swell of a mix as we’ve had in some time. They’re playful, tender, sweet, and cool. We hope you enjoy this month’s offerings, which include the following:
Netflix: The Two Popes (2019)
One of the greatest recent examples of the power of male friendship. It’s also pretty special when that male friendship is about the very real and very rare occurrence of there being two living popes at the same time. Jonathan Pryce and Anthony Hopkins have undeniable chemistry as Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI. And although the movie is about extremely consequential men and their actions, it still manages to be sweet and lighthearted in an extremely refreshing way.
FOR FANS OF: Silence; A Hidden Life; The Father
Prime Video: Field of Dreams (1989)
Baseball is back in full swing. No better way to celebrate than with one of the best baseball movies ever made. Field of Dreams reminds us of what can make sports so special, both on a larger societal level and on very personal level. Proof that sometimes the only thing can amend our deepest wounds is to silently throw a baseball back and forth.
FOR FANS OF: The Natural; Eight Men Out; A League of Their Own
Max: Le Samourai (1967)
You won’t see many movies the communicate the idea of cool as well as this one. Jean-Pierre Melville’s direction is understated and meticulous – much like its main character. Alain Delon as Jef Costello provides all of the suave vibes necessary for the role. Le Samourai has obviously inspired so many movies about cool killers getting into tricky predicaments and is still one of the best examples of it.
FOR FANS OF: The Killer; Breathless; Drive
Hulu: Mandy (2018)
Be sure to fully buckle up for this one. Mandy features all time classic Nic Cage fully sending it. He freaks out while fighting otherworldly demons in the most Nic Cage way imaginable. It’s bloody and boldly colorful. There’s also a freaky little guy called the “Cheddar Goblin” who pops up and disappears with no explanation. It’s a little out there, but a very fun viewing experience nonetheless.
FOR FANS OF: Pearl; Willy’s Wonderland; The Devils Candy
Peacock: Drive Away Dolls (2024)
Drive Away Dolls (along with The Tragedy of Macbeth in 2022) gives us great insight into the sensibility dynamic in many of our favorite Coen Brothers movies. Ethan Coen directs Drive Away Dolls with an infectious playfulness and understated sincerity. It’s great to see a movie be so comfortable in being fun. If you’re looking for a good ole fashioned romp of a film, Drive Away Dolls is definitely the movie to check out.
FOR FANS OF: Game Night; The Big Lebowski; Booksmart
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!