Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 14–20

This week, we feature a comedy about an elderly woman chasing down a phone scammer and an animated family film set during the ice age.

New Release

‘Thelma’

Taking inspiration from director Josh Margolin’s own grandmother, this lively comedy offers a fresh twist on the action genre, featuring an unexpected elderly hero. June Squibb delivers a standout performance as the determined 93-year-old Thelma, who sets out on a perilous journey to recover her stolen money after falling victim to a phone scam.

Squibb’s portrayal shines in this delightful mix of humor and drama. While the film boasts solid production values and decent dialogue, some moments stretch believability.

Action | Comedy Release Date: June 21, 2024 Director: Josh Margolin Starring: June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Richard Roundtree Running Time: 1 hour, 37 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Ice Age’

At the end of the Pleistocene Ice Age, a woolly mammoth named Manfred (Ray Romano), a saber-toothed tiger named Diego (Denis Leary) and a sloth named Sid (John Leguizamo), band together to return a human child to its father, forming an unbreakable bond along the way. Joining them is Scrat (Chris Wedge), a squirrel-rat hybrid.

The film’s visuals are incredible, featuring a believable ancient world filled with charming characters. It also conveys a valuable message about cooperation, friendship, and caring for fellow herd-community members.

Animation | Adventure | Comedy Release Date: March 15, 2002 Directors: Chris Wedge, Carlos Saldanha Starring: Denis Leary, John Leguizamo, Ray Romano Running Time: 1 hour, 21 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Spectrum On Demand, Vudu Rated: 3 stars out of 5

An Epic Deep Dive 

‘Das Boot’

During World War II, a German submarine patrols the Atlantic, as its crew faces conflicts, monotony, and perilous situations in the “Battle of the Atlantic.” War correspondent Werner (Herbert Grönemeyer) observes the crew’s daily life, while the captain (Jürgen Prochnow) tries to uphold morale and professionalism.

Considered the epitome of submarine cinema, this film masterfully portrays the experiences and daily lives of ordinary men amid extraordinary circumstances, as well as the futility of war.

Drama | War Release Date: Feb. 10, 1982 Director: Wolfgang Petersen Starring: Jürgen Prochnow, Herbert Grönemeyer, Klaus Wennemann| Running Time: 2 hours, 29 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, fuboTV, Vudu Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5 

An Enduring Portrayal of a Musical Legend

 

‘The Glenn Miller Story’

James Stewart portrays bandleader Glenn Miller—a man who came from humble beginnings. Although his chart-topping hits led him to fame, he chose to enlist during World War II to entertain the troops abroad.

This touching tribute brims with emotion, romance, and musical brilliance. Exceptional performances from the cast elevate the film to sublime levels of cinematic excellence.

Biography | Drama | Music Release Date: Feb. 10, 1954 Director: Anthony Mann Starring: James Stewart, June Allyson, Harry Morgan Running Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple iTunes, Vudu Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5

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