Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 28–July 4

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for June 28–July 4
Ian Kane
6/27/2024
Updated:
6/27/2024
0:00
This week, we’ll explore an animated adventure about two dogs forming an unlikely bond and a Western focused on moral integrity and justice.

New Release

‘The Bikeriders’

In the turbulent 1960s, Johnny (Tom Hardy), the strong-willed leader of the Vandals motorcycle club, mentors Benny (Austin Butler), a promising young recruit. Benny quickly becomes involved with a woman named Kathy (Jodie Comer), forcing him to choose between the escalating violence of the club and a life with her.

This slice of Americana is skillfully shot and well-paced, infused with 1950s’ nostalgia—Hardy and Butler evoking echoes of Marlon Brando and James Dean. It’s an entertaining homage to a 1968 photo book by Danny Lyon.

Crime | Drama Release Date: June 21, 2024 Director: Jeff Nichols Starring: Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy Running Time: 1 hour, 56 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Family Pick

 ‘Lady and the Tramp’

Lady, a well-cared-for cocker spaniel (Barbara Luddy), encounters Tramp, a street-wise mutt (Larry Roberts), who introduces her to life beyond her comfortable home. However, their budding relationship faces tests when Lady’s home life is disrupted by family changes and unexpected events.

This film deftly explores themes of love and sacrifice and is filled with humor and genuine warmth. It’s good old-fashioned, wholesome family entertainment that has stood the test of time, enchanting audiences with its enduring charm and universal appeal.

Animation | Adventure | Comedy Release Date: June 22, 1955 Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske Starring: Barbara Luddy, Larry Roberts, Peggy Lee Running Time: 1 hour, 16 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Amazon, AMC on Demand, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5

One of Gregory Peck’s Last Great Roles

‘Billy Two Hats’

After a botched bank robbery, Scottish outlaw Arch Deans (Gregory Peck), and his young half-Kiowa partner Billy Two Hats (Desi Arnaz Jr.) forge a strong bond. However, Sheriff Henry Gifford (Jack Warden) is relentless in his pursuit of them.

This often overlooked film stands out as one of Gregory Peck’s better performances in his later career, particularly noteworthy for his Scottish accent. There’s also a positive message that emphasizes the importance of using wits to survive, instead of guns alone.

Drama | Romance | Western Release Date: March 20, 1974 Director: Ted Kotcheff Starring: Gregory Peck, Desi Arnaz Jr., Jack Warden Running Time: 1 hour, 39 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Pluto TV Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

A Stirring Western About Moral Integrity

 

‘High Noon’

Former marshal Will Kane (Gary Cooper) plans to leave town with his new bride, Amy (Grace Kelly), until an outlaw whom Kane sent to prison returns seeking revenge.

This Western gem is a slow-burn classic that initially appears straightforward. However, its complex characters and their intricate relationships offer plenty of fascinating story arcs to enrich its lean script.

Drama | Thriller | Western Release Date: July 30, 1952 Director: Fred Zinnemann Starring: Gary Cooper, Grace Kelly, Thomas Mitchell Running Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Amazon, Hoopla, Vudu Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
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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.