Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for July 21–27

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for July 21–27
Ian Kane
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This week, we feature a feel-good yet realistic romantic drama and a documentary about the U.S. government’s overreach during the pandemic.

New Release

‘The Essential Church’

This documentary details governmental restrictions that were placed on churches by using specious COVID-19 emergency edicts. The film focuses on three pastors who stood against the tide of fear-mongering and mass compliance.

While places such as strip bars and liquor stores were somehow considered “essential” during the lockdowns, church gatherings weren’t. This highly informative film isn’t just essential viewing for Christians, but also those of other faiths, as well as for non-believers: These edicts may be only the beginning of tyranny.

Documentary | Drama | History Release Date: July 28, 2023 Director: Shannon Halliday Running Time: 2 hours, 6 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

 ‘Singles’

This quirky romantic comedy follows the lives of various young adults who live in a Seattle apartment complex that has a sign out front that reads “Singles.” Although centered around two separate couples, it also details the trials and tribulations of their friends as they navigate the grunge era.

Director Cameron Crowe definitely captures the gestalt of the early ’90s Seattle. It’s an interesting backdrop for the compelling lives of these young characters as they struggle (and strive) to find love and self-fulfillment.

Comedy | Drama | Music Release Date: Sept. 18, 1992 Director: Cameron Crowe Starring: Bridget Fonda, Campbell Scott, Kyra Sedgwick Running Time: 1 hour, 39 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Redbox, Amazon, Apple TV Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

A Charming Romantic Drama

‘Bella’

José (Eduardo Verástegui) is a chef at a New York restaurant that his brother Manny (Manny Perez) owns. Manny fires waitress Nina (Tammy Blanchard) for being late to work, and José steps in to offer compassion and support. As José and Nina get closer, past traumas begin to surface.

This is a very relatable film with gritty, realistic dialogue and a touching, feel-good climax that stays with you. It’s also acclaimed Mexican director Alejandro Monteverde’s (“Sound of Freedom”) debut feature film.
Drama | Romance Release Date: Nov. 30, 2007 Director: Alejandro Monteverde Starring: Eduardo Verástegui, Tammy Blanchard, Manny Perez Running Time: 1 hour, 31 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, Vudu Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Highly Entertaining Mystery

‘Trade Winds’

Kay Kerrigan (Joan Bennett) is on the run for the murder of a man whom she blames for her sister’s suicide. However, she is tracked by ace detective Sam Wye (Fredric March), who begins to develop feelings for her.

A well-crafted script filled with humorous banter pairs nicely with Bennett’s sharp-tongued delivery, while March is at his absolute best as a frolicsome Lothario.

Crime | Drama | Romance Release Date: Dec. 28, 1938 Director: Tay Garnett Starring: Fredric March, Joan Bennett, Ralph Bellamy Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Tubi, Amazon 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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