Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch
Ian Kane
Michael Clark
Updated:
This week, we’ll look at Liam Neeson’s latest action thriller and at a fascinating indie film that explores the world of mundane work.

New Release

‘Blacklight’

When Dusty Crane’s (Taylor John Smith) politician girlfriend is mysteriously murdered, he links up with an intrepid reporter who is hungry to uncover the story. But black ops veteran Travis Block (Liam Neeson) warns the pair against being too curious. That advice goes unheeded.
It’s good to see older people in action roles if they’re capable of pulling it off. Despite Neeson’s talent, however, this cinematic stinker is yet another clichéd action yarn with a derivative plot, wooden acting, and is as forgettable as they come.
Action | Thriller Release Date: Feb. 11, 2022 Director: Mark Williams Starring: Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Taylor John Smith Running Time: 1 hour, 48 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 1.5 stars out of 5 

Indie Pick

‘In the Aisles’

Christian (Franz Rogowski) has a new job at a huge wholesale store. An older man takes Christian under his wing and helps the newcomer learn about this new world of long aisles and stacks of goods. Christian becomes smitten by co-worker Marion (Sandra Hüller), but a secret she holds prevents them from taking things further.

The realistic acting in this film is fantastic and draws you into its world. It celebrates the “work family”—workers who form deep bonds through the simple virtue of work, no matter how mundane it seems.

Drama | Romance Release Date: June 14, 2019 (U.S.) Director: Thomas Stuber Starring: Andreas Leupold, Franz Rogowski, Peter Kurth Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Kanopy, Ovid, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Heartfelt Dramedy

‘Breaking Away’

Dave (Dennis Christopher) and his small group of friends are from working-class families and are looked down upon by the wealthier families of their Midwest town. Dave begins to fall for a local college girl, but learns that she’s already dating a more popular guy. Undeterred, Dave devises a plan to win her over.

This amazing film manages to have a lighter tonality while simultaneously touching on deeper issues such as class friction and going for one’s dreams no matter what obstacles stand in the way.

Comedy | Drama | Sport Release Date: July 20, 1979 Director: Peter Yates Starring: Dennis Christopher, Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern Runtime: 1 hour 41 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Max GO, Redbox, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Classic Thriller

‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’

When traveling American couple Ben and Jo McKenna (James Stewart and Doris Day) witness a murder in exotic Marrakesh, Morocco, Ben learns of a scheduled assassination plot in the UK.

This brilliant thriller by director Alfred Hitchcock has an interesting, multifaceted plot that contains various twists and turns. It will keep viewers guessing up to its final, climactic end.

Drama | Thriller Release Date: June 1, 1956 Director: Alfred Hitchcock Starring: James Stewart, Doris Day, Brenda de Banzie Runtime: 2 hours MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Redbox, DirectTV, Vudu Rated: 4.5 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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