In an age of cinematic blockbusters and high-budget productions, it's easy to overlook those quietly brilliant films that may not have topped the box office but have left a substantial mark on the world of storytelling. The past decade has been a treasure trove for hidden gems, offering content that is not just entertaining but profound. In this exploration, we'll dive deep into some of the most underrated movies of the last ten years, films that deserve a second look for their artistic value, storytelling, and unique perspective.
Let's begin our journey with 2013's "Short Term 12," directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. This indie darling, starring Brie Larson, is a poignant drama that explores life inside a group home for troubled teenagers. Despite receiving rave reviews, it flew under the radar for many. The film's authenticity, deeply rooted in its characters' struggles and triumphs, paints a compelling picture of resilience and hope. It's a film that calls for awareness and empathy, providing a raw glimpse into the often unseen challenges of the youth struggling with societal shadows.
Jumping a year ahead, we find "Coherence" (2014), directed by James Ward Byrkit. This low-budget sci-fi thriller is an exercise in tension and mind-bending narrative, crafted with remarkable ingenuity. Shot in the director’s own house, this film takes us on a disturbing ride as a dinner party spins into chaos after a comet passes overhead. Its screenplay, largely improvised, adds layers of realism and unpredictability, challenging audiences to piece together the fragments of parallel realities.
In contrast, "A Ghost Story" (2017), helmed by David Lowery, offers a meditative slow burn. Starring Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara, the film tells the eerie yet touching journey of a deceased husband returning as a ghost to observe his bereaved wife. Through its unique storytelling and visual aesthetic, it contemplates time, love, and the traces we leave behind. Critics praised its philosophical depth and bold approach, though it remained a quiet presence in the cinematic landscape.
"The Rider" (2017) by Chloé Zhao is another masterpiece that didn't garner the attention it deserved. This film, an existential snapshot of a young cowboy grappling with life after an injury, weaves narrative and documentary filmmaking seamlessly. Zhao’s depiction of the American Midwest and the lives tethered to it invokes a poetic realism that is hard to forget. The film’s authenticity is blindingly raw, speaking to the quiet strength of those living in the shadows of society's mainstream.
The action genre also saw its share of hidden brilliance; "Blindspotting" (2018), a riveting drama with razor-sharp social commentary, is a prime example. Directed by Carlos López Estrada and co-written by its lead stars Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal, the film explores friendship and racial tensions amid rapidly gentrifying Oakland. Its dynamic storytelling fused with impactful performances delivers a nuanced portrayal of systemic inequities in a modern-day urban setting.
Continuing the exploration, "Tigers Are Not Afraid" (2017), from Mexican director Issa López, combines fantasy and horror to depict the haunting realities faced by children in drug war-torn Mexico. The film captivates with its dark fairy-tale-like narrative and heartfelt commentary on innocence lost in brutal circumstances. Although praised in festivals, it remained on the fringes, perhaps awaiting its audience outside its native land.
Another gem that deserves recognition is "The Vast of Night" (2019), directed by Andrew Patterson. Set in the 1950s, this film takes on the sci-fi and mystery genres, echoing classic radio dramas and eerie tales of otherworldly encounters. Its inventive use of long takes and immersive dialogue creates a captivating atmosphere, drawing viewers into its mysterious anomalies. Employing minimalistic yet effective filmmaking, it stands as a testament to the power of a well-told story over grandeur.
"Under the Silver Lake" (2018), directed by David Robert Mitchell, is a hypnotic neo-noir thriller that examines the eerie underbelly of Los Angeles. Starring Andrew Garfield, the film wraps its narrative in layers of conspiracy and dark humor, leaving audiences to grapple with its cryptic narrative. It daringly blurs the lines between mystery, comedy, and satire, critiquing modern culture in its unconventional way.
Lastly, "The Assistant" (2019), directed by Kitty Green, is an unflinching look at workplace dynamics and systemic issues of harassment. Julia Garner delivers a powerful performance as a young assistant navigating a toxic corporate environment. With subtlety and acute attention to detail, the film speaks to the insidious nature of power dynamics and the silent endurance of many working in such environments.
The last decade of film has provided us with countless stories waiting to be discovered. As audiences, we have the opportunity to delve beyond the mainstream and explore these hidden gems. Whether through emotional depth, innovative storytelling, or poignant social commentary, these films offer something truly remarkable. They remind us of the immense diversity and richness that cinema can offer, urging us to tune into the quieter stories that otherwise might pass us by. May this exploration encourage a revisit and celebration of the understated brilliance they've brought to our screens.
uncovering the hidden gems: underrated movies of the past decade
