Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for April 25–May 1

Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for April 25–May 1
Ian Kane
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This week, we explore a visually stunning animated epic and a gripping adventure that celebrates the bond between man and nature.

New Release

‘The King of Kings’

A father’s evening tale becomes an adventure as his son imagines traveling with Jesus—witnessing wonders, facing trials, and grasping his sacrifice. Through a child’s eyes, it rekindles timeless themes of belief, compassion, and renewal.

Visually rich and spiritually grounded, this animated epic unfolds with reverence and beauty. Oscar Isaac brings warmth and depth to Jesus, while Kenneth Branagh’s narration adds grace. Rather than chase spectacle, it leans into sincerity—drawing you in with tender moments and enduring truth.

Animation | Family Release Date: April 11, 2025 Director: Seong-ho Jang Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Oscar Isaac, Kenneth Branagh Running Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘White Fang’

Jack Conroy (Ethan Hawke) ventures into the rugged Yukon to fulfill his late father’s dream, joined by prospector Alex Larson (Klaus Maria Brandauer). Along the way, Jack rescues a mistreated wolf-dog, setting the stage for a powerful story of survival, friendship, and personal growth in the wild.

With stunning Alaskan landscapes and a standout performance from Hawke, this film captures the essence of adventure and heart. The bond forged between Jack and his wolf feels authentic, making their scenes both touching and memorable.

Adventure | Drama | Family Release Date: Jan. 18, 1991 Director: Randal Kleiser Starring: Ethan Hawke, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Jed the wolfdog Running Time: 1 hour, 47 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon, Apple TV Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

A Love Torn Asunder

‘Atonement’

Saoirse Ronan plays Briony Tallis, whose youthful misunderstanding sparks a tragic series of events. Briony’s actions disrupt the lives of her sister Cecilia (Kiera Knightley) and Robbie (James McAvoy), tearing apart their future together.

This film adaptation captures the essence of the Ian McEwan’s novel of the same name, while skillfully condensing it for the screen. It’s not for those seeking quick thrills, but for anyone who appreciates complex characters and a plot that unfolds at a thoughtful pace. It’s one of 2008’s finest.

Drama | Romance | War Release Date: Jan. 11, 2008 Director: Joe Wright Starring: Keira Knightley, James McAvoy, Brenda Blethyn Running Time: 2 hours, 3 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon, Apple TV Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Falling for the Fall Guy

‘The Lady Eve’

Barbara Stanwyck charms as Jean Harrington, a con artist who falls for wealthy, naive Charles (Henry Fonda). When he spurns her, she returns in disguise as the elegant Lady Eve, mixing romance and revenge.

This is a playful battle of wits and hearts, driven by Stanwyck’s magnetic charm and Fonda’s awkwardness. Their unlikely pairing sparkles with mischief under Preston Sturges’s clever direction and screen play.

Screwball Comedy | Romance Release Date: March 21, 1941 Director: Preston Sturges Starring: Barbara Stanwyck, Henry Fonda, Charles Coburn Running Time: 1 hour, 34 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, YouTube, Apple TV Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
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Ian Kane
Ian Kane
Author
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.