Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch

New Release: Woke-Free Entertainment That Delivers

‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’

When young Peter Parker’s (Tom Holland) secret identity is revealed to the public, those closest to him have their lives thrown into chaos. Peter seeks the help of the enigmatic Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) and his mystical powers. However, Strange’s well-intentioned help leads to unexpected consequences.

This film signals that solid storytelling, bereft of divisive woke nonsense, can elevate even Marvel’s recent downward spiral from mere nostalgia-bait to genuine fan service and incredibly fun entertainment.

Action | Adventure | Fantasy Release Date: Dec. 17, 2021 Director: John Watts Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Benedict Cumberbatch Runtime: 2 hours 28 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: In theaters Rated: 4 out of 5 stars

A Heartfelt Look at Dementia and Familial Love

‘The Father’

When ailing Londoner Anthony (Anthony Hopkins) finds out that his daughter Anne (Olivia Colman) is moving to Paris to be with her partner, his already tenuous grasp on reality begins to degrade even further. Time begins to shift back and forth as he struggles to make sense of his warped environs.

This is an incredibly heart-wrenching yet insightful lens into dementia. Deftly anchored by the standout performances of Hopkins and Colman, it earnestly explores what family members go through with their mentally ill loved ones.

Drama | Mystery Release Date: Feb. 26, 2021 Director: Florian Zellar Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Olivia Colman, Mark Gatiss Runtime: 1 hour, 37 mins MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Redbox, Vudu, DirectTV Rated: 4 out of 5 stars

Family Pick

‘The Impossible’

Based on real events, a family consisting of Henry (Ewan McGregor), Maria (Naomi Watts), and their kids spend their Christmas at a resort in Thailand. Tragedy suddenly strikes when a tsunami hits the entire coastline and separates the family members from each other.

This is a very timely film that showcases the indelible bond that many families have, no matter what horrific circumstances they may find themselves in. It also shows us that ordinary people can help each other even in chaotic times.

Drama | History | Thriller Release Date: Jan. 4, 2013 Director: J.A. Bayona Starring: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland Runtime: 1 hour, 54 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Roku, Redbox, Direct TV Rated: 4 out of 5 stars

A Humorous and Fascinating Character Study

‘The Last Hurrah’

A politician from a bygone era takes one last run at political office as mayor of a U.S. city, but he faces many challenges, as not only have times changed, but various forces are arrayed against him.

Both a touching and humorous character study of a complex man who tries to navigate a new political landscape before he takes his final ride out into the sunset of retirement.

Comedy | Drama Release Date: Oct. 23, 1958 Director: John Ford Starring: Spencer Tracy, Jeffrey Hunter, Dianne Foster Runtime: 2 hours, 1 minute MPAA Rating: Approved Where to Watch: fuboTV, DirectTV, Amazon Prime Rated: 4 out of 5 stars