Top 10 Most Underappreciated Movies Ever
#10: “Good Time” (2017)
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After "Twilight," Robert Pattinson seemingly turned to the indie scene for a palette cleanser. "Good Time" serves as a prime example of the actor's talent. After a botched bank robbery, Connie Nikas frantically tries to avoid arrest while looking to gather bail money to free his brother from Rikers Island. The film is tense, uncomfortable, and gritty, populated by desperate characters driven beyond their breaking points. Playing around with the heist genre's tropes, "Good Time" manages to be unpredictable, while simultaneously building toward a climax that feels inevitable. So why doesn’t anyone talk about it anymore?
#9: “The Birdcage” (1996)
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Mike Nichols assembled an all-star cast for this hilarious and progressive comedy, but it doesn’t get nearly enough love. When their son Val announces he’s getting married, partners Armand and Albert suppress who they are in order to impress the bride-to-be's conservative parents. Granted, the movie’s premise is somewhat dated nowadays. But the characters themselves are still relevant, because they feel like fully-fleshed out people as opposed to basic stereotypes. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane did a stellar job bringing Armand and Albert to life, delivering both comedy and depth to our screens. So while it's a product of the ‘90s, “The Birdcage” still has a place in our hearts today.
#8: “Locke” (2013)
This oft-forgotten film follows the titular character as he drives from Birmingham to London while engaging in numerous phone calls. Considering that’s the entire premise, you might be thinking that “Locke” sounds like a snoozefest. But it’s just the opposite. The conversations are intense, and the story is nothing short of riveting. Tom Hardy delivers a commanding one-man performance as the protagonist, conveying every emotion imaginable. Plus, the minimalist direction complements the movie’s generally naturalistic tone, as audiences watch Locke's entire life change over the course of a singular car ride. As far as experiments go, we’d say this one’s a huge success.
#7: “Dan in Real Life” (2007)
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Steve Carell is usually thought of as Michael Scott from “The Office”. But beyond that, he’s an extremely versatile actor - and "Dan in Real Life" shows us the full extent of his range. A widowed father of three daughters, the title character has more or less given up on finding love. But that changes when he meets a woman named Marie while visiting family. There’s a fair amount of melodrama, but the movie also has a genuine warmth that’s quite irresistible. Pleasantly charming without feeling too contrived, it’s an endearing comedy, a lovable romance, and a heartfelt family drama all wrapped into one. So the next time you talk about Carell, consider giving this film a shoutout.
#6: “Speak” (2004)
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This 2004 film had a spot at the Sundance Film Festival, but it didn’t get much recognition after that. The low-key drama follows Melinda Sordino, a young girl who’s unable to communicate following a traumatic event. She grows disconnected from her friends, family, and world as a result. But thanks to the power of art and unexpected friendships, Melinda slowly finds herself, and gradually begins to heal. “Speak” is emotional yet understated, and feels incredibly realistic. The cast also delivers solid performances, with Kristen Stewart doing a particularly fantastic job. It’s a heart-wrenching watch, but a valuable one.
#5: “Gattaca “ (1997)
A sci-fi drama, "Gattaca" was well-received by critics, but bombed at the box office. In the story’s world, people are divided into two categories: “valids” are made through eugenic practices, while “in-valids” are born the old-fashioned way. Vincent is part of the latter group, and grew up in the shadow of his “valid” brother. He aspires to make it to space, a goal that seems highly unlikely given his genotype. The movie raises important questions surrounding genetic discrimination, while telling a relatable story through a dystopian lens. Featuring nothing but great performances and brilliant direction, it’s a must-watch. And if underrated ‘90s releases are your thing, we’d also recommend checking out “Dark City”.
#4: “Bronson” (2008)
In-between the "Pusher" trilogy and "Drive," Nicolas Winding Refn directed a little film about the man widely considered to be Britain's most aggressive felon. Starring Tom Hardy as Michael Peterson - aka Charles Bronson - this crime drama is vicious, darkly comedic, and relentless. The film mainly revolves around the lead's time behind bars and at a psychiatric hospital. Its disconcerting looks into his life are intercut with scenes where he breaks the fourth wall, adding to the project’s surreal tone. Stylish, bizarre, splendidly acted, and one-of-a-kind, "Bronson" might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but nobody will forget it.
#3: “How Green Was My Valley” (1941)
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It might seem strange to describe a project with five Academy Awards as underappreciated. Yet "How Green Was My Valley's" legacy tends to be summarized as that film that won "Best Picture" over "The Maltese Falcon" and "Citizen Kane." But that polarizing decision aside, this stellar picture has a lot to offer. We’d go so far as to say it’s some of director’s John Ford's best work, even if his Westerns are more popular. Looking into a family's struggles as their way of life is threatened, the movie is ambitious, well-acted, and emotionally moving.
#2: “99 Homes” (2014)
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Largely unnoticed upon release, this drama is a purposefully upsetting watch that might leave viewers seething in anger. Set during the recession, "99 Homes" is about desperation, greed, and shamelessness. Dennis Nash goes from helplessly watching the bank seize his family home to working for the real estate mogul who carried out the eviction. Featuring career-best performances from Andrew Garfield and Michael Shannon, the movie is uncompromising in its message, fury, and tone, never pausing for a chuckle. As uncomfortable as it can be, every moment is worthwhile. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “In a World…” (2013) Because This Satirical Look Into the Voice-Over World Is Hilarious & Smart “Stardust” (2007) Because This Is a Fairy Tale Done Right “50/50” (2011) Because This Film About Cancer Manages to Be Emotional & Funny at the Same Time “The Trip” (2010) Because Steve Coogan & Rob Brydon Are Treasures “The Crying Game” (1992) Because This Movie Has a Lot More to Offer Than Just One Twist #1: “Cats” (2019) For better or for worse, this film has brought a lot of joy to people’s lives. Okay, okay, kidding. Our real #1 is…
#1: “Clue” (1985)
Flopping at the box office and dividing critics, "Clue" had to wait until it left theaters to find an audience. But now, it’s an '80s cult classic. Like the game, it brings together an assortment of colorful individuals, executes a murder, and then sets out to find whodunit. The cast is simply fantastic, with each actor shining in delightfully over-the-top roles. Tim Curry’s performance as Wadsworth the butler, for instance, is simply epic. With three endings, plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, and a charmingly campy tone, this film proves that board games do belong on the big screen.
