Seven solid movie recommendations to keep the cinephile in you alive

We’re sure you’ve found yourself heading back to the theatres to catch re-releases like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, Jab We Met, and others. With all these nostalgic classics making their way back to the big screen, it’s easy to get sucked into the comfort of familiar films. But let’s be real—while they’re great for a dose of nostalgia, new films just don’t seem to have the same punch anymore. The gripping storylines, sharp scripts, and standout performances we once looked forward to seem to be slipping through the cracks.

But here’s the thing—there are still some incredible gems out there waiting to be discovered. They might not be making headlines, but they’ve got everything we’ve been missing: strong plots, solid direction, and performances that actually stick with you. Here are the ones that deserve a spot on your watchlist. 

Children of Men by Alfonso Cuarón

Children of Men is one of the most immersive and technically brilliant dystopian films ever made, yet it still hasn't got the widespread recognition it deserves. Set in a bleak future where humanity faces extinction due to global infertility, the film follows Theo (Clive Owen) as he’s thrust into a desperate mission to protect the world’s first pregnant woman in decades. Alfonso Cuarón’s direction is masterful, with breathtaking single-take sequences that pull you straight into the chaos. It’s a gripping mix of social commentary, raw emotion, and cinematic innovation—a must-watch for anyone who loves film as an art form.

Shithouse by  Cooper Raiff

If you love a good coming-of-age film and have been longing for one that feels raw, honest, and refreshingly real, Shithouse (2020) is exactly what you need. Cooper Raiff’s directorial debut captures the loneliness and quiet struggles of college life in a way that’s rarely seen on screen. It follows a homesick freshman navigating awkward social situations, emotional pains, and the kind of late-night conversations that feel life-changing in the moment. Unlike the typical party-fueled college movies, this one leans into vulnerability, making it a beautifully relatable watch for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost.
 

To the Wonder by Terrence Malick

To the Wonder (2012) is one of those films that lingers with you in a way that’s hard to explain. It’s slow, introspective, and dives deep into the messiness of love, faith, and everything in between. Neil (Ben Affleck) is caught up in relationships with Marina (Olga Kurylenko) and Jane (Rachel McAdams), and this all plays out against some seriously stunning landscapes. Terrence Malick’s signature style is all about the feeling—quiet moments, a lot of silence, and visuals that almost speak louder than words. It’s definitely not one for everyone, but if you like films that make you think long after you’ve finished watching, this one will stick with you.

The Ocean Series by Steven Soderbergh

The Ocean’s series (Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen, and Eight) is the kind of heist franchise that never gets old. It’s got everything—smooth-talking con artists, high-stakes robberies, and a cast that makes crime look way too much fun. George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon (and later Sandra Bullock in Ocean’s Eight) bring the kind of effortless charm that keeps you hooked, while the clever twists and slick pacing make every film a ride. The banter is sharp, the plans are ridiculous in the best way, and honestly, it’s just pure entertainment from start to finish.

Letters from Iwo Jima by Clint Eastwood

Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) is a war film that completely flips the perspective, showing the battle from the Japanese side instead of the usual American viewpoint. Directed by Clint Eastwood, it’s raw, haunting, and way more emotional than most war movies because it focuses on the soldiers as real people—scared, conflicted, trying to survive. Ken Watanabe is incredible as General Kuribayashi, leading his men with quiet strength, knowing they’re probably doomed. The film is beautifully shot, heavy on atmosphere, and hits hard with its themes of honour, sacrifice, and the reality of war beyond all the patriotic narratives. It’s powerful, underrated, and a must-watch if you want a war film that actually makes you think.

Frances Ha by Noah Baumbach

Frances Ha (2012) feels like a warm hug and a gut punch at the same time. It follows Frances (played by Greta Gerwig), a 20-something dancer in New York who’s figuring things out—career, friendships, life in general. It’s messy, funny, and painfully relatable if you’ve ever felt stuck between who you are and who you’re trying to be. Shot in black and white, it has a dreamy, nostalgic feel that makes even the most awkward moments look beautiful. At its core, it’s a love letter to friendships, creative ambition, and the weird, in-between phase of adulthood where nothing makes sense but somehow, you keep going.

A Ghost Story by David Lowery

A Ghost Story (2017) feels almost meditative in its exploration of time, loss, and existence. It’s about a man (Casey Affleck) who dies and returns as a ghost, draped in a simple white sheet, haunting the house he once lived in. It’s slow, quiet, and incredibly contemplative, with long takes that make you reflect on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life. The film doesn’t give you easy answers but invites you to sit with the uncomfortable, bittersweet truth that life goes on, even when we’re gone. If you’re in the mood for something that challenges the usual ghost story formula and really makes you think, A Ghost Story is it.

Lead image credits: Pexels
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