Every year, amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's biggest blockbusters, there are films that slip through the cracks, overshadowed by the light of larger productions. These films often contain rich narratives, stellar performances, and innovative storytelling that don't get the recognition they deserve. With platforms dedicated to film reviews and critiques, like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Variety, there’s a continuously swirling conversation about movies that deserve more attention.
One such movie that has steadily begun to garner a quiet buzz is 'The Vast of Night.' Set in the 1950s, this science fiction film cleverly pays homage to the era's radio dramas and early TV shows. It's a tightly-knit narrative with stellar performances by its relatively unknown cast. Given its modest budget, the film creates a gripping atmosphere with its meticulous sound design and long takes, akin to the suspense of a Hitchcock thriller. Despite being a gem, its release into the streaming ether during the pandemic caused it to bypass the appreciation it truly deserves.
When we talk of inventive storytelling that got drowned out, 'Palm Springs' comes to mind. This Andy Samberg-starring film debuted in 2020 at the Sundance Film Festival and brought a refreshing twist to the tiring Groundhog Day scenario. Balancing comedy with poignant moments, 'Palm Springs' triumphs not only with its lighthearted humor but also a thoughtful exploration of love and existential dread—a complex prism of emotions wrapped in a breezy 90-minute package. Despite a healthy reception, it didn’t quite grasp the broader mainstream attention it warranted.
Similarly, 'Sound of Metal,' featuring Riz Ahmed in a career-defining role, tackled the quiet subject of hearing loss in a raw and intimately humane manner. Released by Amazon Studios, its layered exploration of silence and sound, along with Ahmed's visceral portrayal of a drummer losing his hearing, crafts an evocative journey that's both heartbreaking and uplifting. Though it managed to clinch some accolades, it still swims beneath the surface of the mass audience's recognition pond, which is overflowing with more commercial tales.
In another corner, there's 'The Rider,' a modern-day Western following a young cowboy grappling with the harsh realities of life after a debilitating injury. Directed by Chloé Zhao before she became a household name with 'Nomadland,' this film is a quiet giant. It's a reflective portrait set against the vastness of the American Plains, echoing themes of identity, loss, and the harsh embrace of nature. Zhao captured the enigma of the Midwest’s soul with a sensibility that narrates the unspoken stories of those caught on the cusp of disappearing traditions.
Aside from independent cinema, international films such as 'Portrait of a Lady on Fire' also struggled for spotlight against high grossing, English-speaking films. This French masterpiece is a beautifully shot period drama, exploring the forbidden romance between two women set in the late 18th century. Its visual poetry and the haunting intersection of art and emotion highlight director Céline Sciamma’s deft handling of subtle, yet powerful storytelling. The film illuminates the silent strength of female gaze and creativity, whispering revolutions via lingering stares and thoughtful dialogues.
This trend isn't limited to obscure titles alone. Even films with big names occasionally get swept under the rug, if they deviate slightly from the crowd-pleasing formula. 'Blade Runner 2049,' despite its incredible visual aesthetic and philosophical undertones, was a box office underperformer, overshadowed in its release period. Yet, it stands as a testament to what happens when a director like Denis Villeneuve breathes new life into an existing franchise without succumbing to commercial expectations.
It’s crucial to remember that the landscape of cinema thrives on diversity and innovation. While mainstream success often dictates the exposure a movie receives, it's imperative to sometimes look beyond the multiplexes and dive into streaming platforms, film festivals, and independent theaters for narratives that defy the norm. Sites like Indiewire and Collider continuously advocate for these underappreciated gems, often leading ardent cinephiles to bring them broader attention.
The allure of cinema doesn’t necessarily always lie in the chase after the new Marvel film or the latest Tarantino flick. Often, the truly rewarding experiences are found in the cracks—where filmmakers dare to dream differently, where stories break conventional molds, and where performances speak in whispers yet resonate profoundly.
As Hollywood continues its dance of innovation and nostalgia, one must remain attentive to these quiet masterpieces that reaffirm the artistic spirit of filmmaking. The next masterpiece might not be front and center at the box office, but rather waiting to be discovered if only one looks close enough.
Hollywood's Secret: The Underrated Movies That Deserve Your Attention
