Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Aug. 4–10

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Aug. 4–10
Ian Kane
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This week, we feature a poignant biopic about musicians being finally discovered and a sublime tale about a Buddhist monk and his pupil.

New Release

‘Dreamin' Wild’

During the ’70s, brothers Donnie (Noah Jupe) and Joe Emerson (Jack Dylan Grazer) make an album with the help of their loving family, but their efforts fail. When the album is rediscovered 30 years later, Donnie (Casey Affleck) and Joe (Walton Goggins) may find not only success but also challenges.

In this heartfelt tale of hope and redemption, director Bill Pohlad uses a languid pace to illustrate the Emersons’ rustic moorings, and this tactic allows the actors enough breathing room to deliver some earthy performances.

Biography | Drama | Music Release Date: Aug. 4, 2023 Director: Bill Pohlad Starring: Walton Goggins, Casey Affleck, Zooey Deschanel Running Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter ... and Spring’

Onboard a floating temple in the middle of an isolated lake, a Korean Buddhist monk (Oh Yeong-su) teaches his young pupil (Jae-kyeong Seo) about humility and mindfulness. But when the youth is tempted by outside forces, his life is thrust into turmoil.

Despite its simple, fable-like storyline, this film features fascinating insights into the human condition. Through understated performances, a languid pace, and breathtakingly surreal visuals, this is an ultimately hopeful and contemplative rumination on life, death, and renewal.

Drama | Romance Release Date: May 28, 2004 Director: Kim Ki-duk Starring: Kim Ki-duk, Oh Yeong-su, Jong-ho Kim Running Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Classic Spy Thriller

‘Three Days of the Condor’

When unassuming CIA researcher Joe Turner (Robert Redford) discovers that his colleagues have been brutally killed, he goes on the run. Soon, he uncovers an insidious plot and realizes that he’s been targeted by a mysterious killer named Joubert (Max von Sydow).

This is a well-paced mystery thriller with plenty of suspense, action, and plot twists that keep you guessing. Redford is convincing as a brainy codebreaker trying to outwit his pursuers and find out what’s behind his co-workers’ murders.

Crime | Mystery | Thriller Release Date: Sept. 25, 1975 Director: Sydney Pollack Starring: Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway, Cliff Robertson Running Time: 1 hour, 57 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Amazon, DirecTV, MGM+ Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Spoiled Brat Meets Grizzled Mentor

‘Captains Courageous’

When young Harvey Cheyne (Freddie Bartholomew) falls overboard from a steamship, the rich boy is rescued by a fishing boat and its gritty crew. Will bratty Harvey adapt to his new home or be ostracized?

This touching film shows that life’s harsh realities can help some folks mature. It’s a lesson not only in selflessness but also in cultivating virtue through hard work.

Adventure | Drama | Family Release Date: June 25, 1937 Director: Victor Fleming Starring: Spencer Tracy, Freddie Bartholomew, Lionel Barrymore Running Time: 1 hour, 57 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5
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.
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