Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Aug. 12–18

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Aug. 12–18
Ian Kane
8/12/2022
Updated:
8/12/2022
This week, we look at a stirring Italian coming-of-age drama and a fascinating British thriller about a conman whose victim brings him down.

New Release

‘Rogue Agent’

Robert Freegard (James Norton) is a conman who poses as an undercover MI5 agent in order to kidnap a number of victims during an expansive manhunt. But Alice Archer (Gemma Arterton), who falls for him, learns the truth and wants to bring him to justice.

This excellent British thriller is based on real events and has some valuable lessons about trust. The two leads are fabulous, as are the cinematography and soundtrack. This is an inventive, fascinating film with a top cast that keeps you engaged until the final credits roll.

Drama | Thriller Release Date: Aug. 12, 2022 Directors: Declan Lawn, Adam Patterson Starring: James Norton, Gemma Arterton, Sarah Goldberg Runtime: 1 hour, 55 minutes Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Cars’

In a unique world populated by talking cars, arrogant rookie race car Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) is struggling to win the famous Piston Cup Championship race. However, just as he takes the lead, he’s forced to stop at a small town where he learns some valuable life lessons.

This is an interesting computer-animated film with lots of laughs and some truly inspired voice acting. But more than that, it’s a movie that carries some wholesome messages (for kids of all ages) about friendship, loyalty, and second chances.

Animation | Adventure | Comedy Release Date: June 9, 2006 Directors: John Lasseter, Joe Ranft Starring: Owen Wilson (voice), Bonnie Hunt (voice), Paul Newman (voice) Running Time: 1 hour, 57 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Vudu, Redbox, DirecTV Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Magical Coming-of-Age Drama

‘Cinema Paradiso’

A boy named Salvatore Di Vita (Salvatore Cascio) discovers his love for filmmaking after befriending projectionist Alfredo (Philippe Noiret) at a Sicilian movie house called Cinema Paradiso. Years later, Salvatore also learns about love with a pretty local girl named Elena (Agnese Nano).

This is a beautifully shot film full of both raw and nuanced emotions, a deeply stirring narrative, and genuinely affecting romance. It’s the type of film that’s so captivating, it’ll stay with you long after you see it.

Drama | Romance Release Date: Feb. 23, 1990 Director: Giuseppe Tornatore Starring: Philippe Noiret, Enzo Cannavale, Antonella Attili Running Time: 2 hours, 35 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Redbox, DirecTV, Vudu Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5

A Masterpiece of Japanese Filmmaking

‘Ikiru’

Life for middle-aged bureaucrat Kanji Watanabe (Takashi Shimura) has become stagnant. But when he learns he has terminal cancer, he decides to find life’s meaning, to live fully, and to bring joy to others.

This is one of legendary director Akira Kurosawa’s greatest films—not only because of the quality of the filmmaking, but also due to the humanistic messages it conveys.

Drama Release Date: March 25, 1956 Director: Akira Kurosawa Starring: Takashi Shimura, Nobuo Kaneko, Shin'ichi Himori Running Time: 2 hours, 23 minutes MPAA Rating: Not rated Where to Watch: HBO Max, Kanopy, Vudu Rated: 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.
Related Topics