Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Jan. 20–26

This week, we feature a glorious Robin Hood adventure and a tense crime drama about a rookie FBI agent trying to solve a murder in Wyoming.

New Release

‘Kompromat’

In this high-stakes political thriller, Frenchman diplomat Mathieu Roussel (Gilles Lellouche) has been made the new director of the Alliance Francaise in a remote Siberian city. But when he’s framed for a heinous crime, his life is thrust into jeopardy, and he must try to prove his innocence.

Lellouche turns in a convincing and nuanced performance of a political figure on the wrong side of Russian authorities. Based on a real-life case of international espionage, the gritty film, in French with English subtitles, is riveting.

Drama | Thriller Release Date: Jan. 27, 2023 (U.S.) Director: Jérôme Salle Starring: Gilles Lellouche, Joanna Kulig, Louis-Do de Lencquesaing Runtime: 2 hours, 7 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘Wind River’

In the isolated, snowy environs of Wyoming, a young Native American woman’s body is discovered and the homicide greatly affects the local community. Rookie FBI agent Jane Banner (Elizabeth Olsen) is called in to solve the grisly murder, but she’ll need the help of local wildlife expert Cory Lambert (Jeremy Renner) to navigate the precarious cultural divide.

This gripping whodunit is set against the incredibly beautiful backdrop of Wyoming, further enhanced by superb production values, impressive acting, and an immersive score.

Crime | Drama | Mystery Release Date: Aug. 18, 2017 Director: Taylor Sheridan Starring: Elizabeth Olsen, Jeremy Renner, Graham Greene Running Time: 1 hour, 47 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: DirecTV, Apple TV, Vudu Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

An Entertaining Adventure

‘National Treasure’

Intrepid treasure hunter and historian Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicolas Cage) is searching for a mysterious national treasure linked to the formation of the United States. He joins forces with fellow treasure hunter Ian Howe (Sean Bean) on a far-reaching expedition, but soon things become more dangerous than he had anticipated.

While not exactly a national treasure in a creative sense, this fun actioner succeeds as pure entertainment and harkens back to the adventure blockbusters of the ’80s and ’90s.

Action | Adventure | Mystery Release Date: Nov. 19, 2004 Directors: Jon Turteltaub Starring: Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha Running Time: 2 hours, 11 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV Rated: 3 stars out of 5

The Definitive Robin Hood Romp

‘The Adventures of Robin Hood’

In this rousing adventure, evil nobles scheme for power during the medieval period. But the dashing Robin Hood (Errol Flynn) and his followers emerge to defend the exploited and resist Norman tyranny.

Flynn owns the role of the titular outlaw and does so with ample wit and charm. The story is true escapist fare of the highest order and is sure to delight audiences.

Action | Adventure | Romance Release Date: May 14, 1938 Directors: Michael Curtiz, William Keighley Starring: Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Basil Rathbone Time: 1 hour, 42 minutes Rating: PG Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon, HBO Max Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5