Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Dec. 9–15

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Dec. 9–15
Ian Kane
Updated:
This week, we feature an inspiring documentary about a music icon’s redemption and a warm family drama about an orphan trying to solve a mystery.

New Release

‘Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon’

In this moving film that focuses on Johnny Cash’s spirituality, we follow the legendary musician’s mercurial rise to fame and fortune and subsequent fall into drug addiction and depression. It also shows how Cash managed to get out of this rut by returning to his faith in God.

This outstanding biopic not only features interviews with numerous country stars but also rare, insightful conversations with Cash, which illuminate the Man in Black’s various ups and downs. It’s a truly inspiring real-life tale of hope and redemption.

Documentary Release Date: Dec. 5, 2022 Director: Ben Smallbone MPAA Rating: Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4 out of 5 stars

Family Pick

‘Hugo’

After his father tragically dies, young Hugo Cabret (Asa Butterfield) has to live with his alcoholic uncle at a train station. There, the boy maintains a complex clock. But when his uncle vanishes, the youth must dodge the train station’s inspector while trying to fathom the mysteries of an automaton left behind by his father.

With an impressive cast and an endearing, fairytale-like story, this is a perfect dish of impressive cinematic art, a history of filmmaking, and family-friendly fare, with a healthy dollop of inspiration.

Adventure | Drama | Family Release Date: Nov. 23, 2011 Director: Martin Scorsese Starring: Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, Ben Kingsley Running Time: 2 hours, 6 minutes MPAA Rating: PG Where to Watch: Vudu, DirecTV, HBO Max Rated: 4 stars out of 5

Thought-Provoking Film About Ill-Gotten Gains

‘Quiz Show’

“Twenty-One” is a popular 1950s quiz show and Herb Stempel (John Turturro) is its best contestant. But when charming newcomer Charles Van Doren (Ralph Fiennes) suddenly begins to out-compete Stempel, idealistic attorney Dick Goodwin (Rob Morrow) senses that something’s off.

This brilliant historical drama draws viewers in gradually with crisp writing, nuanced acting, and an ever-thickening plot. At its core, it’s a tale about the seductive power of money and fame, juxtaposed with ethics and morality.

Biography | Drama | History Release Date: Oct. 7, 1994 Director: Robert Redford Starring: Ralph Fiennes, John Turturro, Rob Morrow Running Time: 2 hours, 13 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: DirecTV, Hoopla, Redbox Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

A Western Ahead of Its Time  

‘Cheyenne’

James Wylie (Dennis Morgan) is a gentlemanly gambler who’s wanted by the law. The authorities offer him a chance at exoneration if he helps them catch a much more dangerous criminal.

This entertaining Western takes you on a ride through the rough and tumble Old West. It features some surprisingly good dialogue, unexpected comedy, and some spurts of visceral action.

Western Release Date: June 6, 1947 Director: Raoul Walsh Starring: Dennis Morgan, Jane Wyman, Janis Paige Running Time: 1 hour, 39 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, DirecTV, Amazon Rated: 4 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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