Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for March 1–7

This week, we feature an inspiring biopic about a nun standing up for the downtrodden and a cautionary true tale about the horrors of communism.

New Release

 

‘Cabrini’

This biopic chronicles the life of Francesca Cabrini, from her Italian roots to her work in New York City’s slums as she confronts challenges while advocating for the poor.

The story is both captivating and inspiring, complemented by an evocative score and authentic settings and costuming that transport viewers to squalid, late 19th-century New York. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and determination in effecting positive change.

Biography Release Date: March 8, 2024 Director: Alejandro Monteverde Starring: Cristiana Dell'Anna, John Lithgow, David Morse Running Time: 2 hours, 25 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick 

‘Mary Poppins’ 

Mr. and Mrs. Banks (David Tomlinson and Glynis Johns) are stuffy Brits who want a nanny to handle their children. They get more than they bargained for when Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews) pops up. Mary and her versatile buddy Bert (Dick Van Dyke) add light and levity to the lives of those they touch.

This classic Disney gem features lots of humor and entertaining musical acts. Audiences will also meet all sorts of charming characters, which along with its unique mix of live-action and fluid animation, are truly endearing.

Comedy | Family | Fantasy Release Date: Sept. 24, 1964 Director: Robert Stevenson Starring: Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson Running Time: 2 hours, 19 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Spectrum on Demand Rated: 4 stars out of 5 

Cambodia Falls to Communism

‘The Killing Fields’

Sydney Schanberg (Sam Waterston) is an American journalist in Cambodia reporting on the violent revolution being waged by the Communist Party of Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge). However, when Western forces leave the region, the lives of Schanberg and his interpreter Dith Pran (Haing S. Ngor) are imperiled.

This film features strong performances that bring its powerful script to life. It also functions as an important cautionary tale about the intrinsic evils of communism and the danger of unchecked tyranny.

Biography | Drama | History Release Date: Feb. 1, 1985 Director: Roland Joffé Starring: Sam Waterston, Haing S. Ngor, John Malkovich Running Time: 2 hours, 21 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Hoopla Rated: 4 stars out of 5 

Not All Battles are Fought on the Frontlines

‘Mister Roberts’

As World War II winds down, an officer on board an obscure cargo ship, Lt. Roberts (Henry Fonda), requests to be transferred to the front lines, but the ship’s captain (James Cagney) won’t allow it.

This humorous World War II film shows how creeping boredom and petty personalities can be just as demoralizing as grueling combat. The film, based on a play, is a shrewd mix of drama and comedy.

Comedy | Drama | War Release Date: July 30, 1955 Directors: John Ford, Mervyn LeRoy, Joshua Logan Starring: Henry Fonda, James Cagney, William Powell Running Time: 2 hours, 3 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Rated: 4 stars out of 5

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