6 Underrated Must Watch Movies
These movies are not talked about enough but are a must-watch.
1.) ‘American Made’
Courtesy of CNS photo/Universal
Tom Cruise plays Barry Seal, a TWA pilot, who is recruited by the CIA to assist with the growing communist threat in Central America. Barry quickly finds himself running one of the largest CIA operations in the history of the United States. The resulting actions of both Barry and the CIA end up creating the Medellin cartel and threaten to bring down the Reagan White House.
This movie is one of Tom Cruise’s most underrated but stand-out movies. It’s a riveting adaption of a true story and one that is sure to shock the audience. Plus, Tom Cruise doing his own pilot stunts is always fascinating. Also, it’s a personal favorite of mine because I was an extra on the movie and even had a solo shot around an hour and 19 minutes.
2.) ‘Hitman’s Bodyguard’
‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’ poster
Ryan Reynolds plays Michael Bryce, a UK-based bodyguard tasked with protecting elite clientele. Until one day his client is assassinated on his watch. Two years later, Bryce is relegated to taking care of drug-addicted corporate executives. Meanwhile, a ruthless dictator of Belarus, Vladislav Dukhovich, is on trial for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court.
As the court struggles to secure solid evidence or testimony against Dukhovich, the prosecution puts their last hope in the testimony of a notorious hitman Darius Kincaid, played by Samuel L. Jackson. Bryce is strong-armed into protecting Kincaid until he can deliver his testimony. It’s easier said than done as they must avoid the hitmen sent by Dukhovich.
‘Hitman’s Bodyguard’ is equally comedy as it is action. The banter and conflict between Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackon is a focal point. The combination creates something similar to movies such as ‘Rush Hour’. It’s an easy movie to watch and a very enjoyable experience.
3.) ‘Layer Cake’
Courtesy of Amazon Prime
‘Layer Cake’ follows a London-based criminal, played by Daniel Craig, who wishes to leave the drug business behind him. On the eve of his planned retirement, Craig’s character is given two hard assignments. The movie follows Craig’s unnamed character as he tries to complete his assignments so he can finally leave the drug business.
Daniel Craig’s performance in ‘Layer Cake’ caught the attention of the James Bond producers. Eventually leading to him being cast in the role. It’s clear to see why this movie was so intriguing to them. There are a plethora of characters to follow, which keeps the storyline interesting. It’s a must-watch for any Daniel Craig or James Bond fans.
4.) ‘Arrival’
Vid Monster Productions
After twelve extraterrestrial craft land on earth, Dr. Louise Banks, played by Amy Adams, is recruited by the United States Army to make contact. This movie follows her journey to open a dialogue with the alien craft. She is accompanied by physicist Ian Donnely, played by Jeremy Renner. They embark on an insane task that goes against every fiber of the United States Army operating strategy. They must figure out a way to communicate with the aliens while lowering the war tempers of the Army men who see them as a grave threat to humanity.
One of the most visually stunning movies ever produced. Its visual effects are only matched by its plot, which creates just enough twists and turns to make the movie attractive but not confusing. It’s right up the alley for sci-fi fans as well as film enthusiasts.
5.) ‘Annihilation’
Image courtesy of Paramount Pictures
The Shimmer emerges from a lighthouse on the coast of the United States after being struck by a meteor. As it continues to gradually expand its boundaries, the U.S Government sets up Area X. Army veteran and cellular biologist Lena, played by Natalie Portman, is shocked when Kane, her Green Beret husband, reappears at home after missing for a year.
Unbeknownst to Lena, her husband was a part of an earlier expedition into the Shimmer. As his condition begins to deteriorate, Lena rushes him to the hospital but not before they are intercepted by security forces and taken to Area X. As Lena’s husband is in intensive care, she is shown the Shimmer. Dr. Ventress, a government psychologist, explains that exploratory teams have entered the Shimmer but that Kane is the only one to ever come back. Upon learning about the Shimmer, Lena embarks on an exploratory mission in hopes of finding a cure for her husband.
Annihilation is another visually dazzling experience for the audience. The Shimmer provides a great opportunity for the filmmakers to create a world of their own, which turns out better than anyone could expect. It’s another great movie for sci-fi fans but could also be enjoyed by the casual movie watcher.
6.) ‘Eagle Eye’
Courtesy of Amazon Prime
Jerry and Rachel, played by Shia LaBeouf and Michelle Monaghan, begin receiving cryptic phone calls from a strange woman on the phone. As she threatens their lives, these two strangers are forced to work together as they are pushed by the phone calls into ever more daring situations. Since the woman on the phone uses everyday technology to track and control their movements, they have no choice but to move forward.
‘Eagle Eye’ is an interesting take on the premise of “Big Brother” and the consequences of government actions. The audience has a front-row seat as these two strangers are forced to follow a voice over the phone. It’s a thrilling viewing experience and one that is sure to not disappoint.
