Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for May 20–26

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for May 20–26
Ian Kane
Updated:
This week, we recommend a powerful drama about a convict who trains a wild mustang, as well as the critically acclaimed sequel to “Top Gun.”

New Release

‘Top Gun: Maverick’

Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is tasked to train a small group of Top Gun graduates for a dangerous mission. But lingering issues from his past may interfere with the future success of his plans.

Just like the original 1986 hit film, this one comes at the perfect time. Not only is this movie’s unabashed patriotism refreshing, but it contains some fantastically shot aerial combat scenes. It also has a powerfully moving storyline, which, along with its ensemble cast, delivers some emotionally charged and realistic scenes.

Action | Drama Release Date: May 27, 2022 Director: Joseph Kosinski Starring: Tom Cruise, Jennifer Connelly, Miles Teller Runtime: 2 hours, 11 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: In theaters Rated: 5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Belle & Sebastian’

In 1943, Sébastien (Félix Bossuet) is a young orphan who lives in a village in the French Alps, along with his grandfather César (Tchéky Karyo) and aunt Angélina (Margaux Chatelier). When sheep from around the village are found dead, residents go on the hunt for stray dogs. But Sébastien finds the dog first and befriends it. Will they discover his secret?

This French film is both gripping and heartwarming as Sébastien’s bond with the dog is put to the test. It’s an ultimately uplifting tale—perfect for older kids and adults.

Adventure | Drama | Family Release Date: Dec. 18, 2013, France Director: Nicolas Vanier Starring: Félix Bossuet, Tchéky Karyo, Margaux Chatelier Running Time: 1 hour, 44 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Tubi, Roku, Redbox Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

Powerful Drama About Redemption and Forgiveness

‘The Mustang’ 

Roman (Matthias Schoenaerts) is a convict who enters a prison rehabilitation program that involves training wild horses. He’s paired with a mustang he names Marquis. As Roman begins to bond with Marquis, he reestablishes his relationship with his daughter, but everything is soon thrown into jeopardy.

This cinematic feast is deeply stirring without being sentimental. It also doesn’t overemphasize the misery of prison life, but instead offers an uplifting experience about family and forgiveness.

Drama Release Date: June 4, 2019 Director: Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre Starring: Matthias Schoenaerts, Jason Mitchell, Bruce Dern Running Time: 1 hour, 36 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: HBO Max, DirecTV, Redbox Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Iconic Epic From Japan

‘Seven Samurai’ 

Seven samurai gather to defend a village from a gang of bandits. As the bandits prepare for a big assault, the samurai wonder if they have enough time to train the villagers to defend themselves.

If you’re tired of the glut of superhero franchise films, go back and watch the original “men on a mission” extravaganza. This film is one of the most imitated underdog films ever.

Action | Drama Release Date: Nov. 19, 1956 Directors: Akira Kurosawa Starring: Toshiro Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Keiko Tsushima Running Time: 3 hours, 27 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: HBO Max, Vudu, Criterion 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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