In a world saturated with drama through news headlines and social media updates, it seems we can’t get enough of it. Streaming platforms like Netflix serve a treasure trove of narratives featuring love gone awry, familial challenges, political machinations, and a variety of poignant stories, whether they stem from real-life events or are purely fictional.
Past Lives (2023)
Greta Lee portrays Nora, a woman whose family immigrated from South Korea during her childhood. After many years, she finds herself reconnecting with her childhood friend Hae Sung, played by Teo Yoo. This reunion compels Nora to reflect on the life she leads and the paths she chose not to take. A standout film from the last half-decade, it evokes powerful emotions as it navigates the themes of missed opportunities. Stream Past Lives here.
The Two Popes (2019)
Directed by Fernando Meirelles, this biographical film gains additional relevance today as it illustrates a pivotal time in the lives of former Pope Benedict XVI and his successor, Jorge Mario Bergoglio. After the Vatican scandals of 2012 leave Benedict—portrayed by Anthony Hopkins—in a vulnerable position, he invites Bergoglio, played by Jonathan Pryce, to discuss theology and personal dilemmas. Their intellectual exchanges earned both actors nominations for the Academy Award. Watch The Two Popes here.
The Six Triple Eight (2024)
Under the direction of Tyler Perry, this poignant war drama features Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams, the commanding officer of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. During World War II, they tackle significant delays in mail delivery—issues that severely impacted the morale of troops. Perry poignantly illustrates the challenges these Black women faced, from enemy fire to prejudice from fellow soldiers. Stream The Six Triple Eight here.
The Long Game (2023)
This understated drama, led by Jay Hernandez, recounts the true history of a group of teenagers from Del Rio, Texas, in the 1950s, aspiring to play golf at a predominantly white country club under the guise of the San Felipe Mustangs. Although they could settle for caddying, they aimed to compete. Their journey culminated in a victory at the 1957 Texas State High School Golf Championship, shedding light on their resilience amid glaring racism. Watch The Long Game here.
Society of the Snow (2023)
Drawing from the true events of the 1972 Uruguayan rugby team stranded in the Andes following a plane crash, this film stands out among the various adaptations. Directed by J. A. Bayona, it offers a more thoughtful and respectful perspective on a tale often sensationalized. It explores not just the physical challenges faced by the team, but also the emotional and spiritual struggles that accompany survival. Stream Society of the Snow here.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
Set against a vibrant backdrop of smoky clubs, this film explores the lively 1920s blues scene through the lens of fierce women like Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, and Lucille Bogan. Adapted from August Wilson’s play, the narrative unfolds during an intense Chicago recording session filled with unforgettable performances by Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman. Watch Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom here.
The Power of the Dog (2021)
After a decade-long hiatus, Jane Campion made a triumphant return with this critically acclaimed film. Featuring Benedict Cumberbatch as the harsh Phil Burbank, who operates a rural ranch alongside his gentler brother George, portrayed by Jesse Plemons. As George forms a romantic bond with a local waitress, Phil’s resentments surface, forcing him to confront long-buried emotions regarding past connections. Catch The Power of the Dog here.
Shirley (2024)
Exploring the impactful legacy of Shirley Chisholm, directed by Academy Award winner John Ridley, this biopic sheds light on the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1969. Running an ambitious campaign for the presidency just three years later, Regina King delivers a powerful and enlightening performance, despite the film’s occasional predictability. Stream Shirley here.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
Despite its unwieldy name, Guernsey delights as a charming period drama based on the beloved novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Featuring Lily James as Juliet Ashton, a writer in post-war 1946 who becomes intrigued by the titular society formed under German occupation. The film balances quirky character dynamics with the somber realities of the recently concluded conflict, enriching the narrative’s emotional heft. Watch The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society here.
Anyone but You (2023)
A modern take on Much Ado About Nothing, this film features Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell as a pair who initially clash but ultimately come to rely on each other as wedding dates amid cunning social machinations. Although the story isn’t particularly groundbreaking, the brisk direction and undeniable chemistry between the leads elevate the overall experience. Stream Anyone but You here.
Beginners (2010)
Beginners encapsulates the idea that it’s never too late to find your truth. Christopher Plummer shines as Hal, who, late in life, comes out to his son Oliver (Ewan McGregor). As Hal embraces his true self and discovers love, their relationship deepens, inspiring Oliver to forge paths of his own in romance and life. The film is a touching reminder that authenticity can lead to richer connections. Catch Beginners here.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Spike Lee’s iconic film captures the simmering racial tensions within a Brooklyn community on a scorching summer day. This engaging narrative combines humor, poignant insights, and ultimately a hard-hitting portrayal of societal tensions, making it unforgettable. Watch Do the Right Thing here.
Scoop (2024)
Gillian Anderson stars as Emily Maitlis, the journalist behind the controversial BBC interview with Prince Andrew, played by Rufus Sewell, which revealed uncomfortable truths regarding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The gripping narrative explores the ramifications of the disastrous interview and its broader societal implications. Stream Scoop here.
Passing (2021)
This stunning black-and-white film adapts the 1929 novel that addresses the complex issue of light-skinned African-Americans navigating a world where they can ‘pass’ for white. Ruth Negga and Tessa Thompson return to a long-lost friendship, igniting complex dynamics against a backdrop of societal prejudices. The film challenges viewers to consider the lengths one must go to for survival and identity. Watch Passing here.
May December (2023)
Todd Haynes directs this fascinating film about an actress preparing to portray a woman she visits. The film cleverly shifts in tone, balancing insightful moments with camp, and features notable performances by Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, and Charles Melton, positioning them all as Academy Award favorites. Stream May December here.
What do you think so far?
