Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Oct. 7–13

This week, we look at a couple of buddy comedies about men helping each other in trying times: One is arresting and worthwhile—the other, not.

New Release

‘Bromates’

In this fast-paced buddy comedy, good friends Sid (Josh Brener) and Jonesie (Lil Rel Howery) move in together after simultaneous breakups with their respective girlfriends. Along with a couple of other pals, they seek camaraderie in an effort to heal from their misery, but things quickly spiral way out of control.

This odd comedy is modeled after the vastly superior “Odd Couple” TV series from the 1970s. It contains an overload of crude jokes and raunchy gags that wear thin before the halfway mark. So, watch at your own risk.

Comedy Release Date: Oct. 7, 2022 Director: Court Crandall Starring: Josh Brener, Lil Rel Howery, Brendan Scannell Running Time: 1 hour, 38 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 2 stars out of 5

Indie Pick

‘Blindspotting’

This thought-provoking indie film is about Collin (Daveed Diggs), who lives at a halfway house and is about to get off probation to start a new life. But his erratic bosom buddy Miles (Rafael Casal) might just endanger his chances.

This is one of those rare films that touches on social issues without seeming forced or partisan. The situations that the two main characters find themselves in seem to happen organically—just like in real life. The comedy-drama feeds the mind and should spark some frank discussions after viewing.

Comedy | Crime | Drama Release Date: July 27, 2018 Director: Carlos López Estrada Starring: Daveed Diggs, Rafael Casal, Janina Gavankar Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Redbox, Starz, DirecTV Rated: 4 stars out of 5

A Powerful, Action-Filled Epic

‘Gladiator’

General Maximus (Russell Crowe) is a skilled general of the Roman army, who is favored by Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) to succeed him. But Aurelius’s power-mad son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) plots to seize power for himself.

Crowe is perfect as the tortured hero with the courage and wit to carry out a blood-stained revenge plan. Phoenix is also fantastic as the weaselly villain you love to hate. This is an action-adventure that will evoke a veritable plethora of emotions. Simply epic.

Action | Adventure | Drama Release Date: May 5, 2000 Director: Ridley Scott Starring: Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen Running Time: 2 hours, 35 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: DirecTV, Vudu, Redbox Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

An Engrossing Account of the Life of Marshal Wyatt Earp

‘My Darling Clementine’

Henry Fonda stars as iconic figure Wyatt Earp, whose brother is killed when the Clanton clan steals his family’s cattle. When Earp becomes the marshal of Tombstone, Arizona, he and gunman Doc Holliday seek to avenge the murder.

One of John Ford’s greatest Westerns—with incredible lighting and cinematography, heartfelt drama and romance, and outstanding acting performances.

Drama | Romance | Western Release Date: Dec. 3, 1946 Director: John Ford Starring: Henry Fonda, Linda Darnell, Victor Mature Running Time: 1 hour, 37 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Apple TV, DirecTV, Vudu Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5