Why This Matters
In a world inundated with content, finding the perfect movie or series to watch can be a daunting task. With Netflix's extensive library, we've curated a list of some of their hidden gems, ranging from dramas to comedies to thrillers, to help make your decision a little easier.
Crime Dramas with a Twist
The Rip, a murky crime drama, follows a Miami narcotics squad uncovering a $20 million stash in a drug den. The simple hook expands into a tale of police corruption, heist movie high stakes, and explosive action. The endlessly engaging onscreen chemistry between co-leads Matt Damon and Ben Affleck makes The Rip a gripping watch.
Fantasy and Folklore Redefined
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is an anime movie that takes the classic Japanese folktale, The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, and gives it a modern, psychedelic twist. The story follows music student Iroha, who discovers an abandoned baby in a glowing telephone pole. As the baby rapidly grows into a young woman named Kaguya, Iroha and Kaguya compete to become beloved idols, winning hearts to prevent Kaguya from being forcibly taken back to her origins.
Thought-Provoking and Relevant
Good Night, and Good Luck: Live From Broadway is a stage play adaptation of George Clooney's film of the same name, centered on CBS journalist Edward R. Murrow and his on-air battles with Senator Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s. While it's not a beat-for-beat re-creation, it extends the original movie's examination of the role of media and journalism, offering a powerful contrast between McCarthy's spurious Communist witch hunts and present-day politics.
Unique Takes on Familiar Genres
Okja, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a unique blend of science fiction and animal exploitation. After helping raise an enhanced super pig in rural South Korea, young Mija (Ahn Seo-hyun) is distraught when the American company behind its creation, Mirando, comes to take it back. The film's darkly satirical elements and dual-role from Tilda Swinton make Okja a compelling watch.
Reflecting the North East Region and Beyond
Many of these films and series touch on universal themes that resonate across regions, including crime, family, love, and the struggle for identity. For instance, The Rip's exploration of police corruption and heist movie high stakes can be found in various crime dramas from across India, while Good Night, and Good Luck's examination of the role of media and journalism is relevant in today's digital age, not just in North East India but across the country.
Looking Forward
Exploring Netflix's hidden gems can lead to discovering new favorites and broadening your cinematic horizons. Whether you're in the mood for a gripping crime drama, a fantastical anime adventure, or a thought-provoking stage play, there's something for everyone on the streaming service.