Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for Oct. 17–23

Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for Oct. 17–23
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This week, we’re featuring a tender love story set beneath Montana’s open skies and a drama about a woman chasing elegance and purpose.

New Release

‘Where the Wind Blows’

Drifter Chase Logan (Trevor Donovan) rides into town with no plans to stay. When widow Jessie Strong (Ashley Elaine) asks him to pose as her husband so she can adopt a child, he agrees to help. What starts as a favor soon tests his loner ways.

Framed by Montana’s wide-open skies, this Western romance stands out for its natural charm and authentic performances. Donovan gives his cowboy rugged sincerity, while Elaine brings warmth and spirit. Skillfully shot and full of hope, it shows that love can take root in unexpected places.

Drama | Western Release Date: Oct. 24, 2025 Director: John Schimke Starring: Gabriel Clark, Trevor Donovan, Colin Egglesfield Running Time: 1 hour, 31 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Comedy

‘Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris’

London, 1957. Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), a widowed cleaning lady with big dreams, spots a dazzling Dior gown in a client’s closet and decides she must have one. Her quest takes her to Paris, where she discovers couture, kindness, friendship, and a dash of courage that she didn’t know she had.

Manville shines with wit and warmth in a film that’s stylish, sincere, and refreshingly simple. It’s a charming tale about never being too old to chase a little magic and a cheerful, well-told fable about chasing dreams and finding joy.

Comedy| Drama Release Date: July 15, 2022 Director: Anthony Fabian Starring: Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson Running Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Peacock Premium, YouTube Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

40 Days to Reignite

‘Fireproof’

When firefighter Caleb Holt (Kirk Cameron) isn’t battling flames, he’s fighting for his marriage to Catherine (Erin Bethea). With guidance from his father, John (Harris Malcom), and a faith-based book, he tackles a 40-day challenge to rebuild their bond.

Hollywood loves flashy wins, but this romantic tale celebrates the quieter victories: saving a marriage. Amid firefighter stunts, comic moments, and earnest lessons on forgiveness and sacrifice, it’s a charming, heartfelt reminder that love takes work.

Drama | Romance Release Date: Sep. 26, 2008 Director: Alex Kendrick Starring: Kirk Cameron, Erin Bethea, Ken Bevel Running Time: 2 hours, 2 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Fandango At Home, YouTube Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Humanity Versus Authority in WWII

‘The Human Condition I: No Greater Love’

During World War II, idealistic Kaji (Tatsuya Nakadai) takes a job in occupied Manchuria. Tasked with watching prisoners in a mining camp, he treats them humanely, but his compassion clashes with Japan’s brutal system.

This film’s scope is vast, yet its focus remains sharp: one man’s conscience versus the machine. It’s the first chapter of an impeccably crafted and thoughtful saga.

Drama | History | War Epic Release Date:  Dec. 14, 1959 Director: Masaki Kobayashi Starring: Tatsuya Nakadai, Michiyo Aratama, Chikage Awashima Running Time: 3 hours, 28 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: The Criterion Channel Rated: 4 stars out of 5
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Ian Kane
Ian Kane
Author
Ian Kane is a U.S. Army veteran, filmmaker, and author. He is dedicated to the development and production of innovative, thought-provoking, character-driven films and books of the highest quality.