Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Oct. 25–31

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Oct. 25–31
Ian Kane
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This week, we feature a hilarious romcom that celebrates traditional values and a classic Western about seven gunmen standing up for the downtrodden.

New Release

‘Our Church Thinks We’re Dating’

This romcom follows Jess (Ashley LaRae), a pastor’s daughter, who convinces her friend Alex (Burke Brown) to pretend they’re in a relationship to dodge an unwanted blind date. Things spiral when Alex meets someone new, leading to festive chaos, laughs, and heartwarming moments.

Mark Christopher Lawrence shines as the no-nonsense pastor, and both Ashley LaRae and Burke Brown deliver standout comedic performances. The film beautifully highlights love, friendship, and family values. It’s a traditional, feel-good movie for all.

Comedy | Family | Romance Release Date: Oct. 29, 2024 Director: Tim Nolte Starring: Mark Christopher Lawrence, Ashley LaRae, Megan Alexander Running Time: 1 hour, 42 minutes MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘500 Days of Summer’

 This clever “anti-romantic comedy” explores the highs and heartbreaks of relationships. Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Tom, a hopeless romantic who believes in finding “the one,” while Zooey Deschanel’s Summer, disillusioned by love, doesn’t share his idealism.

Told through a nonlinear timeline, the film shows how Tom misinterprets their time together, idealizing Summer instead of seeing her for who she is. From a male perspective, it’s a cautionary tale about avoiding workplace romances and focusing on self-improvement instead.

Comedy | Drama | Romance Release Date: Aug. 7, 2009 Director: Marc Webb Starring: Zooey Deschanel, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Geoffrey Arend Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Hoopla Rated: 3 stars out of 5

Nostalgic Time Travel from the ‘80s

‘My Science Project’

High school student (John Stockwell) and his girlfriend (Danielle von Zerneck) raid a military junkyard, where he steals a strange motor-like device for his science project. He soon discovers it’s alien technology—far more than he bargained for.

Though often overshadowed by “Back to the Future” and “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure,” it stands out with great visuals, a witty script, and unpretentious charm. A product of the golden era for teen flicks, it succeeds with solid effects, casting, and lighthearted fun.

Comedy | Action | Adventure Release Date: Aug. 9, 1985 Director: Jonathan R. Betuel Starring: John Stockwell, Danielle von Zerneck, Fisher Stevens Running Time: 1 hour, 34 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Amazon Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Great Cast in a Memorable Story

‘The Magnificent Seven’

In this gripping tale, a small Mexican farming village is terrorized by Calvera (Eli Wallach) and his band of outlaws. Desperate for help, the villagers hire seven gunslingers, including Chris Adams (Yul Brynner) and Vin Tanner (Steve McQueen).

Considered one of the greatest Westerns, this classic boasts an exceptional cast and a powerful message about helping those in need.

Action | Adventure | Western Release Date: Oct. 12, 1960 Director: John Sturges Starring: Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson Running Time: 2 hours, 8 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, AppleTV Rated: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
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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.