Underrated Gems: Movies You Might Have Missed

In the vast ocean of cinematic releases, some incredible movies slip through the cracks, overshadowed by blockbuster giants and mainstream hits. These underrated gems, however, deserve their time in the spotlight. Here are some movies you might have missed but definitely should watch!

1. Moon (2009)

Synopsis: Sam Bell is nearing the end of his three-year shift mining helium-3 on the far side of the moon. Alone with only a computer named GERTY for company, Sam’s mundane and isolated existence starts to unravel when he begins to experience hallucinations and other strange occurrences. As he investigates, he uncovers a shocking truth about his mission and his very identity, leading to a tense and introspective journey.

  • Director: Duncan Jones
  • Main Cast: Sam Rockwell, Kevin Spacey (voice)
  • Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama
  • Why Watch It: Moon is a masterclass in minimalistic sci-fi, anchored by Sam Rockwell’s outstanding performance and a thought-provoking plot.

2. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)

Synopsis: Ricky Baker, a defiant and troubled city kid, is placed in a foster home with a loving aunt and a cantankerous uncle deep in the New Zealand bush. When a tragic event threatens to send Ricky back to the child welfare system, he and his foster uncle, Hec, go on the run, becoming the subjects of a national manhunt. Along the way, they form an unlikely bond and learn valuable lessons about family, survival, and independence.

  • Director: Taika Waititi
  • Main Cast: Sam Neill, Julian Dennison, Rima Te Wiata
  • Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama
  • Why Watch It: This film is a heartwarming and hilarious adventure with stunning landscapes and endearing performances.

3. Sing Street (2016)

Synopsis: Set in 1980s Dublin, Sing Street follows the life of Conor, a teenager who finds solace from his troubled family life and new school by starting a band. Inspired by the music videos of the era, Conor and his friends create their own unique sound, all while he tries to win the heart of Raphina, a mysterious and beautiful girl. The film captures the spirit of youthful rebellion, first love, and the transformative power of music.

  • Director: John Carney
  • Main Cast: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
  • Why Watch It: Sing Street is a feel-good film with catchy music, nostalgic vibes, and a poignant coming-of-age story.

4. The Fall (2006)

Synopsis: In a Los Angeles hospital during the 1920s, Roy Walker, a bedridden stuntman with a broken spirit, befriends a young girl named Alexandria. To pass the time, Roy weaves an epic tale of five mythical heroes on a quest for vengeance against an evil ruler. As Roy’s story unfolds, it becomes intertwined with his own reality, blurring the lines between fiction and real life, ultimately leading both characters on a journey of healing and self-discovery.

  • Director: Tarsem Singh
  • Main Cast: Lee Pace, Catinca Untaru, Justine Waddell
  • Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
  • Why Watch It: The Fall is visually stunning, with breathtaking cinematography and a touching narrative that blurs the lines between imagination and reality.

5. The Secret of Kells (2009)

Synopsis: Set in a remote medieval outpost under siege, The Secret of Kells follows young Brendan, who is introduced to the art of manuscript illumination by a master illuminator. To complete the magical Book of Kells, Brendan must venture into an enchanted forest where dangerous mythical creatures dwell. The film blends Celtic mythology and vibrant hand-drawn animation to create a visually rich and enchanting tale.

  • Directors: Tomm Moore, Nora Twomey
  • Main Cast: Evan McGuire, Brendan Gleeson, Mick Lally
  • Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family
  • Why Watch It: This animated feature is a visual feast, inspired by Celtic mythology and art, with a story that enchants viewers of all ages.

6. Take Shelter (2011)

Synopsis: Curtis LaForche, a small-town construction worker, begins having apocalyptic visions of an impending storm. Fearing for his family’s safety, he becomes obsessed with building a storm shelter in his backyard. As his behavior becomes increasingly erratic, Curtis struggles with the possibility that he might be losing his sanity, straining his relationships with his wife and community.

  • Director: Jeff Nichols
  • Main Cast: Michael Shannon, Jessica Chastain, Tova Stewart
  • Genre: Drama, Thriller
  • Why Watch It: Take Shelter is a powerful psychological drama with a riveting performance by Michael Shannon and a gripping storyline.

7. The Edge of Seventeen (2016)

Synopsis: Nadine, a high school junior, feels more isolated than ever after her best friend starts dating her older brother. Her awkward and tumultuous teenage years are compounded by her strained relationship with her mother and her struggles to fit in at school. However, an unexpected friendship with a kindhearted boy named Erwin helps Nadine navigate the challenges of adolescence and find a sense of belonging.

  • Director: Kelly Fremon Craig
  • Main Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama
  • Why Watch It: The Edge of Seventeen is a refreshingly honest coming-of-age film with a standout performance by Hailee Steinfeld.

8. Stardust (2007)

Synopsis: In the English countryside town of Wall, young Tristan Thorn vows to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved Victoria. His quest leads him into the magical realm of Stormhold, where he discovers that the star is actually a celestial being named Yvaine. Along the way, Tristan faces various challenges, including scheming princes and wicked witches, in a journey that changes his destiny and his understanding of love and courage.

  • Director: Matthew Vaughn
  • Main Cast: Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer
  • Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy
  • Why Watch It: Stardust is a charming fantasy adventure filled with whimsy, romance, and a sense of wonder.

9. A Monster Calls (2016)

Synopsis: Conor, a young boy struggling to cope with his mother’s terminal illness, finds solace in the visits of a giant tree monster. The creature tells Conor three stories, each imparting wisdom and helping him process his emotions and fears. As Conor’s reality becomes increasingly difficult, the lessons from the monster’s tales become crucial in his journey towards acceptance and healing.

  • Director: J.A. Bayona
  • Main Cast: Lewis MacDougall, Sigourney Weaver, Felicity Jones
  • Genre: Drama, Fantasy
  • Why Watch It: A Monster Calls is a beautifully crafted film that tackles heavy themes with sensitivity and imagination.

10. The Nice Guys (2016)

Synopsis: In 1970s Los Angeles, private investigator Holland March and enforcer Jackson Healy form an unlikely partnership to investigate the apparent suicide of a fading porn star. Their investigation uncovers a larger conspiracy involving political corruption and the automotive industry. The film blends humor and action with a neo-noir style, creating an entertaining and engaging detective story.

  • Director: Shane Black
  • Main Cast: Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Angourie Rice
  • Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
  • Why Watch It: The Nice Guys is a witty and entertaining neo-noir comedy with great chemistry between the leads.