It’s the most wonderful time of the year…to be a cinephile. The Academy Awards closed in on us as fast as the racecars in Rush. To help us through this time of need, in case we did not pay the $14 to watch Judi Dench’s face on a movie screen (which I did, and it was worth every penny), we are taking to the seedy underbelly of the online watching universe to catch up on this year’s nominated films. OR, we just watch Netflix.
I will not preach how Netflix has revolutionized the way in which we watch films and television, because no one doubts the power of Netflix anymore. Online streaming is crucial for the college students who are too busy with their work to make it to the theater and/or choose their intimate college dorm room for their viewing experience.
If you want to check out movies that battled for the golden statue on March 2, then seek Redbox or the theater for refuge. The films listed below were not all nominated for Oscars, but definitely deserve the attention of the public (and are not in theaters). Watch and enjoy!
1. Blackfish
Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite
Starring: Tilikum the killer whale
Reason to Watch: If you have not seen Blackfish, you are REALLY missing out. Everything you thought about SeaWorld will be shattered with a large, whale-sized tail fin. The man behind the curtain is revealed and he is out for blood. (Netflix)
2. Fruitvale Station
Director: Ryan Coogler
Starring: Michael B. Jordan
Reasons to watch: It is a shame that this movie was not nominated. The true story detailing the tragedy at Fruitvale Station is upsetting and beautiful. Time stands still as the film details the final hours of the incident at Fruitvale Station causing emotional brevity in consistent melancholia. (Redbox)
3. Spring Breakers
Director: Harmony Korine
Starring: Selena Gomez’s tears and James Franco’s hair
Reason to Watch: Spraaaang Break. If you have not seen a picture of James Franco dressed up as his character, Alien, then you will be twerked away in this film even more. I say “twerked” because this film is modern and stylized (just like Miley). Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Benson and Selena Gomez’s crying face star in this spring break vacation explosion. This is a film to watch with your friends in a large group setting (with a great soundtrack). (Redbox)
4. The Kings of Summer
Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts
Starring: Ron Swanson and Moises Arias
Reason to Watch: An under the radar wonder. The film is a new-aged Stand By Me, with an incredible cast of teenagers. Sure, the plot is as shallow as a kiddie pool, but you will smile with nostalgia. The front door is left open for the viewer to walk through and experience the new universe created for youth. Stand out performance, Moises Arias. (Redbox)
5. Room 237
Director: Rodney Ascher
Starring: The Overlook Hotel
Reason to Watch: This epic collaboration details the meaning behind Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. Well, the film is committed to astonishing the audience with its magic hat tricks filled with ghost stories and staged moon landings. The detailed theories behind this film alone are astonishing and worth a visit back to the Overlook Hotel. (Netflix)
6. The Spectacular Now
Director: James Ponsoldt
Starring: Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley
Reason to watch: The Spectacular Now defines a generation. Miles Teller’s performance is so organic you forget that his character is not a real person you hang out with daily. The film is a great screenshot of teenage life that is relatable and realistic. Shailene Woodley holds her own, but it is Teller’s film. (Redbox)
7. Adore
Director: Anne Fontane
Starring: Naomi Watts, Robin Wright, Xavier Samuel, James Frecheville
Reason to Watch: Okay. If you have not heard of Adore, get ready for your world to be rocked. Basically it’s about two really good-looking, blonde mothers who fall for each other’s attractive sons. Bonus, the film is supposed to be a drama. At no point is the ridiculousness of this film brought into question. The end result is absurd, and hilarious; like Bad Grandpa with British accents. (Netflix)
8. The World’s End
Director: Edgar Wright
Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Martin Freeman
Reason to Watch: If you are a fan of Shaun of the Dead or Hot Fuzz, this film is structured in the same vein. Simon Pegg leads a troop of misfits through his town as they attempt to accomplish the circuit of bars. There is a major plot twist that will peak interest halfway through the film. I won’t spoil it if you don’t already know what happens, but it is rather humorous to watch the reactions of those who had no idea what was coming (like my parents when I watched it). (Redbox)
9. Prisoners
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Starring: Disappointing teenage children, fathers with emotion, rain, and Paul Dano
Reason to watch: Prisoners deals with plot twists, a ton of blood and lackadaisical staring (followed by expositional crying). The palpable masculinity brews at the helm of Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal. Gender and racial politics aside, this movie is intense and exciting. You will end the film really hoping to have a dad like Hugh Jackman. (Redbox)
10. This Is The End
Director: Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen
Starring: Every celebrity who is in their 20s and friends with Seth Rogen
Reason to Watch: Like Spring Breakers, this film takes advantage of its star power. Seth Rogen, James Franco and gang play alter egos of themselves who are dealing with the apocalypse. Another film worth watching in a large group. (Redbox)
