Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for July 28–Aug. 3

This week, we feature a Malaysian thriller with a strong message against human trafficking and a time-traveling sequel to an ’80s blockbuster.

New Release

‘Walid’

Walid (Megat Sharizal) is a good-hearted man who helps his fellow Malaysian villagers as a teacher and repairman. He builds a bond with one of his immigrant students, Aisha (Putri Qaseh), but a gang kidnaps her for use in their human trafficking operations.

This is an action-packed movie that carries a powerful message against human trafficking (similar to the breakthrough phenomenon “Sound of Freedom”). Although some of the scenes are very realistically violent, this film showcases the powerful silat martial arts.

Action | Thriller Release Date: July 28, 2023 (Limited) Director: Areel Abu Bakar Starring: Megat Sharizal, Putri Qaseh, Namron Running Time: 1 hour, 58 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Rally Road Racers’

When slow loris Zhi (Jimmy O. Yang) learns that his grandmother Granny Bai (Lisa Lu) is getting evicted, he teams up with wise goat Gnash (J.K. Simmons) to prepare him for an epic rally race. Winning the race could save his grandmother’s house, but he faces some challenges that may derail his efforts.

This animated racing adventure features charming talking animals that quickly grow on you as the movie progresses. It carries positive messages about the importance of friends and family, responsibility, and the value of hard work.

Animation | Comedy | Family Release Date: May 12, 2023 Director: Ross Venokur Starring: Chloe Bennet, J.K. Simmons, Sharon Horgan Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Vudu, Amazon, Apple TV Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Adventure Sequel Delivers the Goods

‘Back to the Future Part II’

Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and Dr. Emmett Brown (Christopher Lloyd) are back in another time-traveling adventure. When they learn that their timeline has become corrupted, Marty and Doc must face off against the dastardly Biff Tannen (Thomas Wilson) once again.

This is one of the few sequels that lives up to the hype. It sports an intricate storyline, wacky characters, and lots of laughs. While the plot may be a little more complex this time, it captures much of the magic of the first film.

Adventure | Comedy | Sci-Fi Release Date: Nov. 22, 1989 Director: Robert Zemeckis Starring: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson Running Time: 1 hour, 48 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Sumptuous 1930s Musical

‘Roberta’

When ex-football star John Kent (Randolph Scott) inadvertently inherits a gown shop while visiting Paris, he and his pal Huck Haines (Fred Astaire) attract a number of interesting characters, including a mysterious countess and a beautiful designer.

From the entrancing dance routines with art deco backdrops to the breezy comedy and deft acting, this hit musical has it all!

Comedy | Musical | Romance Release Date: March 8, 1935 Director: William A. Seiter Starring: Irene Dunne, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers Running Time: 1 hour, 46 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5