Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Feb. 3–9

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Feb. 3–9
Ian Kane
2/3/2023
Updated:
2/3/2023
This week, we feature a fantastic reimagining of a classic monster flick and fun family adventure about kids shrunken to minuscule size.

New Release

‘Among the Beasts’

When her young cousin is suddenly kidnapped on the streets, the daughter of an underworld figure seeks the help of a troubled ex-Marine named LT (Tory Kittles). But as LT ventures forth on his mission, he comes to the attention and target of dangerous forces.

This is a relatively entertaining actioner with twists and turns along the way. Kittles seems to be channeling his inner Denzel Washington from the “Equalizer” series but is convincing in the role he plays. The film isn’t rated, so just be aware that it contains violence.

Action | Thriller Release Date: Feb. 10, 2023 Director: Matthew Newton Starring: Tory Kittles, Libe Barer, Sarunas J. Jackson Runtime: 1 hour, 33 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 2.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Honey, I Shrunk the Kids’

Absent-minded scientist Wayne Szalinski (Rick Moranis) develops a device that can shrink things. Oops! He mistakenly shrinks his and his neighbors’ kids down to minuscule size and unknowingly tosses them into the trash. The kids must traverse the now-dangerous backyard to get back to the house and, hopefully, safety.

This is one of those classic ‘80s family adventure films that evokes nostalgia with each viewing. It sports some great stop-motion effects and lots of ridiculous action. It’s great for kids, and entertaining for adults, too.

Adventure | Comedy | Family Release Date: June 23, 1989 Director: Joe Johnston Starring: Rick Moranis, Matt Frewer, Marcia Strassman Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: DirecTV, Redbox, Amazon Rated: 3 stars out of 5

A Jungle Thriller With Heart

‘King Kong’

Manipulative film producer Carl Denham (Jack Black) lures his cast and crew to the mysterious Skull Island, where he hopes to make a blockbuster film. Instead, his precious star, actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts), gets kidnapped by a humongous ape.

Underneath all of the chomping, stomping, gripping, and ripping that the monstrous creatures on Skull Island engage in, there lies a highly entertaining adventure that stays relatively true to the 1933 original—with gorgeous visuals and solid acting.

Action | Adventure | Drama Release Date: Dec. 14, 2005 Directors: Peter Jackson Starring: Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody Running Time: 3 hours, 7 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: DirecTV, Vudu, Redbox Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5 

Herman Melville’s Classic Novel

‘Moby Dick’

After losing his leg to a notorious white whale, Captain Ahab (Gregory Peck) becomes obsessed with killing the animal. He leads his ship’s crew to track down the whale, but his grudge may spell their doom.

With deft cinematography that captures its nautical subject matter, as well as crisp acting and direction, this film manages to capture the main themes of the classic novel.

Adventure | Drama Release Date: June 27, 1956 Director: John Huston Starring: Gregory Peck, Richard Basehart, Leo Genn Time: 1 hour, 56 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: AppleTV, Hoopla, Vudu Rated: 3.5 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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