christyaurora

Jul 30, 20216 min read

Movies Spotlight: 11 Movies to Add to Your Watching List

Dear Kēpōers, have you ever felt the frustration of scrolling and scrolling and scrolling through hundreds of movie recommendations on your application but still can't find the ONE movie you want to watch? Your food is warm and ready, your most comfy clothes are on, and the mood is just perfect. But for the love of God, there just aren't any watchable movies or series for that matter. Especially now, when we are at home the most, films and series are a must. But fear not Kēpōers, because we at Kepo Magazine are at your rescue.

In this article, we will be giving you tons of movie and series recommendations based on IMDB, recent trends, and our personal recommendations. From horror to romance, there must be at least one for you. (Not listed from best to worst.)

1. Us (2019)

Genre : Thriller, horror

Language : English

Cast : Jordan Peele, Lupita Nyong’o, Shahadi Wright Joseph, Evan Alex

Short synopsis :

This masterpiece follows the story of an African-American family as they go on a vacation to the town where Adelaide, the mother of the family grew up, but also where she got her childhood trauma. Her fears soon turned into reality as she was forced to protect herself- and her family for their survival when four masked strangers appeared in front of their house. To their horror, the masked strangers have the same exact appearance as each and every one of them.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

You know a great movie is one when it keeps your brain going even after it ends. Accompanied by amazing acting, the storyline, the suspense, and the plot twist, this movie is sure to make you always at the edge.

2. Palm Springs (2020)

Genre : Romance, Comedy, Sci-fi

Language : English

Cast : Andy Samberg, Cristin Milioti, Camila Mendes

Short Synopsis :

Niles and Sarah, 2 strangers meet in a wedding in Palm Springs only to be stuck in a time loop of that day. They develop a friendship there and face multiple adversaries together. Would they find a way out of it? Or would they be too comfortable living in a world that doesn't change and give up finding a way out?

Short (non-spoiler) review :

If you're looking for a funny, witty, interesting duo, look no more. The character of our main characters looks shallow at the beginning, but as the movie plays out, we get to know them better and watch them as they grow and realize their shortcomings. This story not only serves great comedy and story but also teaches us great and important lessons.

3. Interstellar (2014)

Genre : Sci-fi, Adventure, Drama

Language : English

Cast : Matthew McConaughey, Mackenzie Foy, Anne Hathaway, Timothée Chalamet

Short Synopsis :

When humanity is cornered and the only way to survive is to move to outer space via wormhole, several researchers were dispatched to look for habitable planets.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

If I could describe this movie, it would be 'an emotional journey'. Once again, director Christopher Nolan doesn't disappoint. With his unique way of directing a movie, he manages to create a stunning masterpiece. Albeit there were a few questionable things in the science department, it still manages to imprint an unforgettable emotional experience for any viewers.

4. Predestination (2014)

Genre : Mystery, Drama, Sci-fi

Language : English

Cast : Sarah Snook, Ethan Hawke, Noah Taylor

Short Synopsis :

The story follows the last task of a secret agent to prevent a criminal from launching an attack that kills thousands. Though, there's some time-traveling involved.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

Time traveling, a classic. You might think there can be nothing that can surprise you in this genre, but Predestination will prove you wrong. This mind-boggling story will keep you guessing until the end. With one of the finest plot twists, this movie is good for those who just want to find something to pass the time.

5. Me Before You (2016)

Genre : Romance, Drama

Language : English

Cast : Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin

Short synopsis :

When a cheerful young girl, Lou, struggles to make ends meet, she is left with no other choice than to be a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident two years prior. There, her patience will be tested and who knows? A romance might bloom.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

If you're looking for a tear-jerker, this one's for you. Although emotional, this movie somehow manages to also keep it light and fun with the help of our main character's... well, characters.

6. Gifted (2017)

Genre : Comedy, Drama, Slice of life

Language : English

Cast : Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace

Short synopsis :

Frank Adler, a single man, is raising Mary, a child prodigy in the middle of a custody battle between her maternal uncle and maternal grandmother. Although Frank wants her to have a normal, happy life, her surroundings want a totally different life from her.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

Although not a groundbreaking movie and unique by any means, this movie is great to watch when you want something light. The chemistry between characters is amazing and the moral message is great as well.

7. The Queen's Gambit

(Series) (2020)

Genre : Historical, Drama

Language : English

Cast : Anya Taylor-Joy, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Harry Melling, Isla Johnston

Short synopsis :

Inspired by a real-life character, The Queen's Gambit follows the story of Beth Harmon, a girl who discovers her amazing talent of chess. Throughout her life, she battles with addiction for conquest to become the greatest chess player in the world.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

This series has done a fantastic job in making it watchable for everyone. Chess is something that's alien to most of us but the show manages to make us interested in it while also simultaneously keeping us at the edge of our seats every time a chess competition is played. Inspiring and memorable, this series is a must by watchers. As Scott Frank, the writer/director says, "It's not about a game, it's about the cost of genius"

8. Forrest Gump (1994)

Genre : Drama, Romance

Language : English

Cast : Tom Hanks, Robin Wright

Short Synopsis :

Forrest Gump (No, it’s not a typo) follows the story of the slow-witted, 75 IQ Forrest Gump through his life. From fighting in Vietnam to captaining a shrimp boat, he leads his life with optimism, although life doesn’t treat him all that well. He sets himself on possibly the hardest mission of his life, which is to save his childhood love, the sweet but troubled Jenny.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

With a great moral message, especially for young people nowadays, Forrest Gump is a perfect combination of heartwarming scenes and moral messages.

9. His House (2020)

Genre : Thriller, Horror, Psychological

Language : English

Cast : Wunmi Mosaku, Sope Dirisu

Short synopsis :

The story starts when a couple gets the happy news of getting to escape from war-torn Sudan to a government-supplied apartment after suffering a tragedy. There, they are confronted by wholly different types of horror as their dead child comes back alive. Or did she really?

Short (non-spoiler) review :

Rather than the usual classic jumpscare horror, this movie serves a slow-burn, chilling and fantastic plot twist.

10. Shaolin (2011)

Genre : Historical, Tragedy

Language : Chinese

Cast : Andy Lau, Jackie Chan, Nicholas Tse, Fan Bingbing

Short synopsis :

A cruel, tyrannical but successful general looks at his past wrongdoings as he takes refuge in a Shaolin temple after being betrayed by his sworn brother.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

In my heart, this movie will always be an iconic movie. The acting and chemistry between characters are fantastic. Paired with the moral message within the movie, this movie is a must-watch. Especially to those who want a good cry. Who knows? This movie might just change how you view yourself and the world around you differently.

11. Gone Girl (2014)

Genre : Mystery, Psychological, Thriller

Language : English

Cast : Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris

Short synopsis :

The happiness of a husband and wife is doubted when the wife Amy disappears. Nick Dunne, Amy’s husband who is the prime suspect of the missing Amy’s investigation, struggles to prove his innocence while finding his missing wife. The pressure from the police and the evidence slowly shows just who Amy and Nick truly are.

Short (non-spoiler) review :

Farthest thing from being predictable, this show will also keep you guessing until the end until all the pieces of the puzzle come together. This tense and dark movie sheds light on people’s nature behind their facade.

There it is, Kēpōers, your next watching list. Hope this list serves you well. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and as always, happy watching!!

Writer : Christy Aurora G.

Editor : Christy Aurora G.

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