This week, we feature a highly underrated Western and an inspiring drama about overcoming a nearly fatal blow with the help of friends and family.
New Release
‘Bring Him to Me’
After a botched heist, a grizzled getaway Driver (Barry Pepper) is tasked with transporting his amiable Passenger (Jamie Costa), a newly-minted crew member, to a crime boss for nefarious reasons. However, as the men begin to bond, things become much more complicated.
Although this boilerplate plotline has been utilized in countless other films, this crime caper stands out because of its multifaceted characters and unexpected twists and turns. It also features a great performance by Barry Pepper as a criminal with a conscience.
Crime | Thriller
Release Date: Jan. 19, 2024
Director: Luke Sparke
Starring: Barry Pepper, Jamie Costa, Sam Neill
Running Time: 1 hour, 36 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Where to Watch: Theaters
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Family Pick
‘Hoovey’
After a promising high school basketball athlete, Hoovey (Cody Linley), collapses on the court, he is told that he has a brain tumor. As he struggles to recover, he relies on his family and faith to not only regain his athletic abilities, but perhaps get a shot at his dreams again.
Based on a real-life story, this is a highly inspirational movie about dealing with life-threatening physical ailments. It features excellent acting, a charming small-town backdrop, and a touching score that hits all the right notes.
Drama
Release Date: Jan. 31, 2015
Director: Sean McNamara
Starring: Cody Linley, Patrick Warburton, Lauren Holly
Running Time: 1 hour, 31 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: Amazon, Tubi, Roku
Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5
A Quirky Coming-of-age Romcom
‘Funny Ha Ha’
Credited as being the first mumblecore film, this indie romcom chronicles the aimless lives of its young characters as they navigate early adulthood—particularly Marnie (Kate Dollenmayer), who has a crush on her friend Alex (Christian Rudder).
Although this film should be applauded for its gritty realism, its storyline meanders, much like its directionless characters. Overall, it’s a charming low-budget flick—just don’t expect any of its many threads to be resolved at the end.
Comedy | Drama | Romance
Release Date: April 29, 2005 limited release
Director: Andrew Bujalski
Starring: Kate Dollenmayer, Mark Herlehy, Christian Rudder
Running Time: 1 hour, 29 minutes
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV
Rated: 2.5 stars out of 5
An Engrossing, Underrated Western
‘Jubal’
When rancher Shep Horgan (Ernest Borgnine) finds injured cowboy Jubal Troop (Glenn Ford), he provides him shelter. However, Jubal soon faces trouble with Shep’s jealous lead man, as well as his amorous wife.
This is a slow-burn drama that keeps you engaged with its interesting characters and gorgeous rural backdrop until things heat up heading into its explosive finale.
Drama| Romance | Western
Release Date: April 6, 1956
Director: Delmer Daves
Starring: Glenn Ford, Ernest Borgnine, Rod Steiger
Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch: Vudu, Apple TV, Amazon
Rated: 4 stars out of 5
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