Epoch Watchlist ENTERTAINMENT

from Epoch Insight 19 (2023)

Indie Pick

‘The Wrestler’ (2009)

Narvel Roth (Joel Edgerton) is a man with a mysterious past who steadfastly looks after the sprawling environs of well-off dowager Norma Haverhill (Sigourney Weaver). When he reluctantly agrees to make Mrs. Haverhill’s disturbed younger relative Maya (Quintessa Swindell) his pupil, their lives are thrust into great peril. This is a capable, if slightly derivative, thriller that features amazing cinematography to go along with its convincing performances, specifically by Edgerton, who oozes with equal parts mystery and menace.

A Quintessential Disaster Movie

‘The High and the Mighty’ (1954)

When an airliner has one of its engines burst into flames over the Pacific Ocean, skilled but troubled pilot Dan Roman (John Wayne) makes a valiant effort to land the plane at an airport rather than in water.

This rousing air disaster film features deft direction,

THRILLER

Release Date: May 19, 2023

Director:

Paul Schrader

Starring: Joel Edgerton, Sigourney Weaver, Quintessa Swindell

Running Time: 1 hour, 51 minutes

MPAA Rating: R

Where to Watch: Theaters

Randy “The Ram” Robinson (Mickey Rourke) may have been popular in the 1980s, but he’s faded since then and works a menial job. When a chance at an anniversary match comes calling, Randy’s heart condition may prevent the possibility of a big comeback. This is a heartfelt film that features an excellent soundtrack and earthy performances by its cast, particularly Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei. At its core, it’s about reconciliation, being true to yourself, and never giving up on dreams no matter how farfetched they may seem.

DRAMA | SPORT

Release Date: Jan. 30, 2009

Director: Darren Aronofsky

Starring: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood

Running Time: 1 hour, 49 minutes

MPAA Rating: R

Where to Watch: Redbox, Vudu, HBO Max

A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT INEXPLICABLE DISAPPEARANCES

‘Missing 411: The Hunted’ (2019)

entertaining performances, and nail-biting scenes that make you consider what you’d do in the same situations.

ACTION | ADVENTURE | DRAMA

Release Date: July 3, 1954

Director: William A. Wellman

Starring: John Wayne, Claire Trevor, Laraine Day

Running Time: 2 hours, 27 minutes

Not Rated Where to Watch: Kanopy, Amazon, Vudu

This thought-provoking documentary follows former detective Dave Paulides as he presents numerous cases of hunters who have either gone missing in national parks and forests or been lost in extremely bizarre conditions. Boasting outstanding cinematography of the natural world, this is a thoroughly researched film with informative interviews and a surprising twist near the end. Whether you believe the conclusion or not, it’ll make you think twice before venturing off into the wilderness alone.