Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for Jan. 23–29

This week, we feature an uplifting documentary about a boy overcoming setbacks to lead an extraordinary life and an action-adventure flick where space is the new frontier.

New Release

‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story’

This documentary charts Ben Kjar’s path from a boy with Crouzon syndrome confronting scorn and clinical warnings to a driven wrestler refusing to let labels define him. Interwoven interviews and match footage show Kjar forging respect and unexpected support on and off the mat.

Kjar’s journey shows a man punching through adversity and still winning on his own terms, which makes the film feel alive rather than packaged. It’ll leave you smiling, uplifted, and convinced that its message applies to anyone pushing through setbacks.

Documentary | Drama | Sport Release Date: Jan 23, 2026 Director: Tanner Christensen Starring: Ben Kjar, Colton Fielding, LaCol Grant Running Time: 1 hour, 39 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’

Quasimodo (Tom Hulce) descends from his cathedral sanctuary to shield the mesmerizing dancer Esmeralda (Demi Moore) from a city consumed by prejudice. The fanatical Judge Claude Frollo (Tony Jay) wages a scorched-earth campaign to possess her while the bell ringer rises up against him.