Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Jan. 6–12

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Jan. 6–12
Ian Kane
Updated:
 This week, we feature a nostalgic Japanese monster movie and a touching drama about a son reconnecting with his tall-story-telling father.

New Release

‘Shin Ultraman’

When gigantic monsters begin appearing in Japan, the government establishes a special unit called the SSSP to combat these malevolent threats. As the strange beasts continue to wreak havoc across the country, a mysterious silver-clad giant dubbed Ultraman enters the fray.

While this film’s main characters are a little on the dull side, the action-packed battle sequences are absolutely incredible—deftly combining retro special effects with today’s state-of-the-art CGI. It’s a fun, nostalgic homage to the monster mash days of yore.

Action | Adventure | Drama Release Date: Jan. 11, 2023 (United States) Director: Shinji Higuchi Starring: Takumi Saitoh, Masami Nagasawa, Hidetoshi Nishijima Runtime: 1 hour, 52 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Big Fish’

In this charming film, Will Bloom (Billy Crudup) is struggling to get to know his estranged, dying father, Ed Bloom (the older man played by Albert Finney and the younger version by Ewan McGregor). However, Will can’t seem to get past Ed’s vast repertoire of fantastical stories.

This magical tale (mostly told through flashbacks) of humanity, imagination, and perspective, coupled with director Tim Burton’s penchant for otherworldly visuals, is sure to captivate viewers. It’s a one-of-a-kind film that can also stimulate existential inquiry.

Adventure | Drama | Fantasy Release Date: Jan. 9, 2004 Director: Tim Burton Starring: Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup Running Time: 2 hours, 5 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: DirecTV, Vudu, Starz Rated: 4 stars out of 5

An Inspiring Road Movie

‘Chef’

Carl Casper (Jon Favreau) is a success: He’s the head chef at a posh Los Angeles restaurant and gets along with his staff. However, he’s constantly at odds with the owner, Riva (Dustin Hoffman), who stifles his creativity. One day, Carl decides to make a drastic change. How will it affect his life?

This is an entertaining and humorous film that’s part road movie and part dramedy. Ultimately, however, it’s about taking chances in one’s life in order to be happy. It’s also about family reconciliation.

Adventure | Comedy | Drama Release Date: May 30, 2014 Director: Jon Favreau Starring: Jon Favreau, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson Running Time: 1 hour, 54 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: HBO Max, Redbox, DirecTV Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

A Humorous Journey of Self-Discovery   

‘Sullivan’s Travels’

Big-time Hollywood director (Joel McCrea) is tired of making trivial films and sets out to make something with more impact. His plan involves donning the guise of a vagrant to get real-life experience for his next movie.

This film is not only fast-paced and full of adventure, but it’s also filled with plenty of humor, romance, and scathing commentary on the film industry.

Adventure | Comedy | Drama Release Date: Feb. 6, 1942 Director: Preston Sturges Starring: Joel McCrea, Veronica Lake, Robert Warwick Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, DirecTV, Vudu Rated: 3.5 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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