Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 23–29

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 23–29
Ian Kane
Updated:
This week, we feature a real-life story about the dream of an eccentric motorcyclist and a rousing drama about a boxer making a comeback.

New Release

‘Warhorse One’

Navy SEAL Master Chief Richard Mirko (Johnny Strong) is conducting a rescue operation in Afghanistan when his helicopter is shot down by insurgents. Mirko is the only survivor, and his mission becomes saving a young girl he finds, Zoe (Athena Durner), from teams of rebels out to get them.

This film marks the directorial debut of actor-composer Johnny Strong, and although it’s a war movie with plenty of high-octane action sequences, it’s also a tale of selflessness and doing the right thing despite seemingly overwhelming odds.

Action | Drama | War Release Date: July 4, 2023 Director: William Kaufman, Johnny Strong Starring: Johnny Strong, Athena Durner, Raj Kala Running Time: 2 hours MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘The World’s Fastest Indian’

Set during the 1960s, the film follows eccentric New Zealander Burt Munro (Anthony Hopkins), who has spent many years modifying his classic 1920 Indian motorcycle to become faster and faster and has become a local legend. He decides to attempt to set a new speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah and faces many challenges on his journey.

This endearing underdog tale features a standout performance by Hopkins as an older man who stubbornly holds on to his dream. It’s an inspiring real-life story about being true to oneself.

Biography | Drama | Sport Release Date: March 24, 2006 Director: Roger Donaldson Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Diane Ladd, Iain Rea Running Time: 2 hours, 7 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Hoopla, Vudu, Amazon Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Folk Hero, Family, and Fortitude

‘Cinderella Man’

Against the backdrop of gritty, Depression-era New Jersey, this drama tells the real-life story of Jim Braddock (Russell Crowe), considered a washed-up boxer. Braddock puts everything on the line for one last shot at a comeback, driven by a deep desire to save his beloved family from poverty.

An incredibly spirited drama, this is much more than a sports film. It’s about a family relying on each other to make it through very tough times. Renée Zellweger also shines as Braddock’s supportive wife, Mae.

Biography | Drama | Romance Release Date: June 3, 2005 Director: Ron Howard Starring: Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Craig Bierko Running Time: 2 hours, 24 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Starz, Apple TV, Vudu Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

A 1950s Classic Musical

‘Singin' in the Rain’

The lives of Hollywood tabloid couple Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) and Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) are upended when the film industry transitions from silent pictures to talkies during the late 1920s.

The film sports some incredible dances, zany comic scenes, and a wonderful screenplay, but beneath everything, this sensational classic contains a tender-hearted tale of romance.

Comedy | Musical | Romance Release Date: April 10, 1952 Director: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly Starring: Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds Running Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Apple TV, Redbox, Vudu Rated: 5 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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