Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for April 15–21

This week, we look at an inspiring dramedy about a man fighting cancer, as well as a classic about a man who regains his noble purpose in life.

New Release

‘The Tale of King Crab’

In a rural 19th-century Italian village, a drunkard named Luciano (Gabriele Silli) falls afoul of the region’s local prince. The two quarrel over who has the right to pass through an ancient gateway, which results in Luciano being exiled. However, this leads to an epic journey of redemption.

This is beautiful cinematic storytelling—truly aural and visual poetry in motion that transmutes a seemingly simple story into a work that rouses the emotions of the beholder. It’s a brave, multi-genre experience that will stay with you.

Adventure | Drama Release Date: April 15, 2022 Director: Alessio Rigo de Righi, Matteo Zoppis Starring: Gabriele Silli, Maria Alexandra Lungu, Ercole Colnago Runtime: 1 hour, 45 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘50/50’

Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is a radio show writer who learns that he has a rare form of spinal cancer and has a 50-50 chance of living. But together with his network of friends and family, he faces the disease head-on.

I never thought that the words “comedy” and “cancer” would be a good pairing—let alone make for an enjoyable film. But the tender handling of the disease, coupled with outstanding dramatic and comedic performances, elevates this dramedy to a higher cinematic level. The film also has the message of never giving up hope.

Comedy | Drama | Romance Release Date: Sept 30, 2011 Director: Jonathan Levine Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Vudu, Redbox, Peacock Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Thrilling Drama With Twists and Turns

‘After the Wedding’ 

Jacob Pederson (Mads Mikkelsen) manages an orphanage in India and adopts a local boy one day. When the orphanage begins to run out of funding, a wealthy Danish man steps in to help. But, there’s a catch—Jacob must travel to Denmark to meet him, and all isn’t what it seems.

This drama has some very realistic acting and an intricate plotline that will keep viewers guessing. It drives home the point that if something seems too good to be true, it often is. But life can also hold some good surprises.

Drama Release Date: March 30, 2007 Director: Susanne Bier Starring: Mads Mikkelsen, Sidse Babett Knudsen, Rolf Lassgard Running Time: 2 hours MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: AMC, Amazon Prime, DirecTV Rated: 3 stars out of 5

A Classic Among Classics

‘Casablanca’ 

During World War II, expatriate Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) operates a popular café in Vichy-controlled Morocco, but refuses to help refugees escape the country—until a couple enters his life.

A masterpiece of filmmaking, with incredible directing, outstanding cinematography, and bravura performances by its stellar cast. A must-see for film buffs and casual viewers alike.

Drama | Romance | War Release Date: Jan. 23, 1943 Directors: Michael Curtiz Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains, Paul Henreid Running Time: 1 hour, 42 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Redbox, DirecTV, HBO Max Rated: 5 stars out of 5