Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for April 5–11

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for April 5–11
Ian Kane
4/4/2024
Updated:
4/4/2024
0:00
This week, we feature a WWII film depicting the challenges faced by a Navy captain and a poignant Japanese drama about life and death.

New Release

‘LaRoy, Texas’

Ray (John Magaro) finds himself in dire straits when he’s wrongly identified as an assassin. Desperate to clear his name, he teams up with Skip (Steve Zahn) a veteran private investigator. Together, they delve into the secrets of their small town, determined to uncover the truth behind Ray’s predicament.

This film presents a delightful blend of comedy and mystery, capturing the essence of small-town life with authenticity. Its intricate narrative and twists will keep an audience engaged and entertained from start to finish.

Comedy | Crime | Thriller Release Date: April 12, 2024 Director: Shane Atkinson Starring: Steve Zahn, John Magaro, Dylan Baker Running Time: 1 hour, 52 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Family Pick

UP Image

‘Up’

Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner), 78 years old, plans to fulfill a promise to his late wife by journeying to Paradise Falls in South America. Using thousands of balloons, he lifts his house into the air for the trip, unintentionally taking along energetic Boy Scout Russell (Jordan Nagai).

This animated gem begins with a portrayal of the bond between Carl and his wife, then shifts into a captivating adventure featuring unlikely companions. Ultimately, this is a heartening tale about overcoming grief and discovering hope in unexpected places.

Animation | Adventure | Comedy Release Date: May 29, 2009 Director: Pete Docter, Bob Peterson Starring: Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, John Ratzenberger Running Time: 1 hour, 36 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, Vudu Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

A Celebration of Life, Death, and the AfterlifeDepartures

 ‘Okuribito’ (‘Departures’)

Unemployed cellist Daigo Kobayashi (Masahiro Motoki) takes on a new job as an “encoffineer,” who prepares bodies for the afterlife. Although society deems his job morbid, Daigo gradually begins to discover profound insights through taking pride in his new profession.

This entrancing film sports a gorgeous score, which elevates its powerful exploration of the final cycles of life and eventual death—taking a subject considered to be taboo in many world cultures, and imbuing it with universal reverence.

Drama Release Date: June 19, 2009 Director: Yojiro Takita Starring: Masahiro Motoki, Ryoko Hirosue, Tsutomu Yamazaki Running Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Vudu, YouTube, Plex Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

An Multifaceted World War II Drama

‘In Harm’s Way’

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Navy Captain Rockwell Torrey (John Wayne) is demoted as a result of his own negligence. On land, he confronts fresh challenges in his embattled friend Cmdr. Eddington (Kirk Douglas) and his estranged Navy son Jere (Brandon deWilde).

This monumental war film leads viewers through a gamut of emotions, from despair and contempt to hope and admiration.

Drama | Romance | War Release Date: April 6, 1965 Director: Otto Preminger Starring: John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Patricia Neal Running Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV Rated: 4 stars out of 5
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Ian Kane is an U.S. Army veteran, author, filmmaker, and actor. He is dedicated to the development and production of innovative, thought-provoking, character-driven films and books of the highest quality.