Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for March 31–April 6

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for March 31–April 6
Ian Kane
3/31/2023
Updated:
3/31/2023
This week, we feature a unique Latin-themed martial arts actioner and a classic Japanese drama about a samurai and his ambitious wife.

New Release

‘The Fist of the Condor’

An ancient Incan tome containing deadly fighting techniques has remained hidden for ages. But when various martial arts assassins from around the globe seek out the manual, it’s up to a powerful guardian to protect its invaluable knowledge from being stolen.

This film caught me by surprise. On one hand, it resembles an ’80s kung-fu flick, combined with some of the trappings of a Spaghetti Western. But it also features a unique South American flavor that makes it refreshing and sets it apart from the genre’s usual conventions.

Action Release Date: April 4, 2023 Director: Ernesto Díaz Espinoza Starring: Marko Zaror, Eyal Meyer, Gina Aguad Running Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Frozen’

In a magical kingdom, princess Elsa (Idina Menzel), who can freeze whatever she touches, distances herself from her sister Anna (Kristen Bell) to protect her. When Elsa unknowingly plunges the entire realm into a perpetual winter, Anna teams up with mountain man Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), his reindeer, and a goofy snowman to find her sister and restore summer.

This great animated family film should appeal to teens and parents, too. It features outstanding animation and themes of self-acceptance and the importance of family.

Animation | Adventure | Comedy Release Date: Nov. 27, 2013 Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee Starring: Kristen Bell (voice), Idina Menzel (voice), Jonathan Groff (voice) Running Time: 1 hour, 42 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Apple TV, Redbox, Vudu Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

A Masterful Fantasy

‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’

The first movie in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy tells the tale of the young Hobbit Frodo (Elijah Wood), who possesses a magical ring. He teams up with a disparate group of allies and journeys to Mount Doom, where he hopes to destroy the dangerous artifact.

Arguably the greatest adventure ever put to film, the movie features an unparalleled cast, incredible visual effects, a rousing score, and a gripping storyline. The masterpiece brilliantly captures the mythical works of author J.R.R. Tolkien.

Action | Adventure | Drama Release Date: Dec. 19, 2001 Director: Peter Jackson Starring: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom Running Time: 2 hours, 58 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: DirecTV, Vudu, Redbox Rated: 5 stars out of 5

One of the Greatest Japanese Dramas

‘Throne of Blood’

Samurai Taketoki Washizu (Toshiro Mifune) receives a prophecy from a seer that he'll someday become a great lord. But while Taketoki isn’t keen on advancing his career, his scheming wife, Lady Asaji (Isuzu Yamada), spurs him on.

Legendary director Akira Kurosawa’s rendition of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” combines Eastern and Western elements to create something miraculous.

Drama Release Date: Nov. 22, 1961 Director: Akira Kurosawa Starring: Toshiro Mifune, Minoru Chiaki, Isuzu Yamada Running Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Criterion Channel, HBO Max, Apple TV 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.
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