Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch
Ian Kane
2/28/2022
Updated:
3/2/2022
This week, we look at a disturbing chapter of Mexico’s anti-Catholic history and a thriller shot entirely over the course of one night.

New Release

‘Nightride’
Taking place over the course of one night, protagonist Budge (Moe Dunford) has a crooked past, but is trying to leave the world of crime behind. He undertakes one last illicit deal to lay his hands on enough money to jumpstart a new business. But in doing so, he runs afoul of a vicious loan shark (Gerard Jordan).

This thriller features a single-take approach, which makes the solid acting seem even more visceral, and steadily ratchets up the palpable tension. The lack of cuts makes everything seem more immediate and realistic.

Drama | Thriller Release Date: March 4, 2022 Director: Stephen Fingleton Starring: Moe Dunford, Joana Ribeiro, Gerard Jordan Running Time: 1 hour, 37 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 out of 5

Family Pick

‘The Mighty’

Based on author Rodman Philbrick’s book “Freak the Mighty,” this film tells the tale of Kevin Dillon (Kieran Culkin), a 12-year-old boy nicknamed “Freak” because of his physically disabling illness, and Maxwell Kane (Elden Henson), a 14-year-old with dyslexia, who become unlikely friends.

Although this movie at first seems like yet another overly saccharine tear-jerker about misunderstood kids with disabilities fighting against social discrimination, the strong performances by its able cast elevate it above being a schmaltz-fest.

Comedy | Drama Release Date: Oct. 30, 1998 Director: Peter Chelsom Starring: Kieran Culkin, Elden Henson, Sharon Stone Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Vudu, Redbox, Apple TV Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Hilarious Comedy 

‘Liar Liar’

Jim Carrey stars as Fletcher Reede, an attorney who just can’t resist lying. After missing his son Max’s (Justin Cooper) birthday, Max makes his father promise to not tell any lies for an entire 24 hours—can Fletcher do it?

Although this film’s plot is a little far-fetched, it more than makes up for it in one of Jim Carrey’s most impressive (and underrated) roles to date. Overall, this is a good-spirited laugh-fest that, coupled with a brilliant script, makes the most out of its silly storyline.

Comedy | Fantasy Release Date: March 21, 1997 Director: Tom Shadyac Starring: Jim Carrey, Maura Tierney, Amanda Donohoe Running Time: 1 hour, 26 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Vudu, Hulu, DirecTV Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Historical Drama

‘The Fugitive’

Based on a dark chapter of Mexico’s history when anti-Catholic policies were enacted, the last remaining priest (Henry Fonda) must leave the country or face dire consequences.

This captivating historical drama carries the positive message of sticking to one’s convictions even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. It also features one of Henry Fonda’s best roles.

Drama | History  Release Date: Nov. 3, 1947 Directors: John Ford, Emilio Fernández Starring: Henry Fonda, Dolores del Rio, Pedro Armendáriz Running Time: 1 hour, 44 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Watch TCM, DirecTV, Apple TV Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5
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.
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