Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for Oct. 24–30

Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for Oct. 24–30
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This week, we feature a lively animated take on a Greek hero’s journey and a gripping Western about a son investigating his father’s death.

New Release

‘Tron: Ares’

Jared Leto plays Ares, a digital warrior sent from the Grid into the real world amid a corporate struggle between Eve Kim (Greta Lee) of ENCOM and Julian Dillinger (Evan Peters) of Dillinger Systems. Both pursue the mysterious “Permanence Code,” a breakthrough that could let digital life endure beyond a limited time.

This film shines like a high-end screensaver powered by nostalgia. Leto broods, Peters plots, and Lee tries to act while the story tries to load. It’s stylish, half-functional, and kind of fun in the way a reboot loop can be.

Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi Release Date: Oct. 10, 2025 Director: Joachim Ronning Starring: Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Jeff Bridges Running Time: one hour, 59 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 2 1/2 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Hercules’

In ancient Greece, where gods meddle and monsters roam, young Hercules (Tate Donovan) grows up wondering why he doesn’t fit in. The answer is simple enough: He’s the son of Zeus (Rip Torn), taken from Olympus as a baby by the cunning Hades (James Woods) and raised among mortals.

A fast, funny spin on Greek myth, this adventure bursts with color, humor, and catchy songs. Donovan’s earnest hero and Woods’s smooth-talking villain keep things lively, while the story’s heart reminds us that true strength comes from character, not muscle.

Action | Adventure| Animation Release Date: June 27, 1997 Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker Starring: Tate Donovan, Susan Egan, James Woods Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Amazon, Fandango At Home, YouTube Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Headstrong Hearts Take the Plunge

‘Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken’

During the Great Depression, Sonora Webster (Gabrielle Anwar) dreams of escaping small-town life and finding adventure. When she learns of a high-diving horse act, she packs her courage and runs off to join Dr. Carver’s (Cliff Robertson) traveling show.

This film is pure charm from start to finish. Anwar brings spunk to Sonora, and her chemistry with Michael Schoeffling (who plays Al Carver) feels genuine without trying too hard. The story keeps things simple—dream big, take chances, and hang on when life bucks harder than a horse.

Drama | Family | Romance Release Date: May 24, 1991 Director: Steve Miner Starring: Gabrielle Anwar, Michael Schoeffling, Cliff Robertson Running Time: 1 hour, 28 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Amazon, Fandango At Home, YouTube Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

A Western With Mystery

‘Backlash’

Jim Slater (Richard Widmark) is on a quest to uncover the truth about his father’s death in an ambush. His search leads him to Karyl Orton (Donna Reed), a determined woman with her own stake in the mystery.

This Western blends action, mystery, and sly humor. The landscapes impress, the plot keeps you guessing, and the story shows that courage and cleverness can carry you far.

Drama | Western Release Date:  April 11, 1956 Director: John Sturges Starring: Richard Widmark, Donna Reed, William Campbell Running Time: 1 hour, 24 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, Fandango at Home, YouTube Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
What arts and culture topics would you like us to cover? Please email ideas or feedback to [email protected]
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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.