Buzz
Despite Hollywood often seeing blockbuster hits from poorly received films, there’s an equally notable trend where truly great movies get overshadowed by flashier, more commercial productions. We’ve all seen those films that, despite their quality, are left in the background, unnoticed by many. These hidden gems, no matter the genre, deserve more attention. Below are 10 of the most underrated films of the past 20 years that you should check out.
10. The Gift (2015)
A couple, fresh from Chicago, moves to Los Angeles for a new chapter in their lives. But their peaceful future is disrupted when an old friend from the husband’s high school days enters the picture, becoming an increasingly intrusive figure. As their interaction intensifies, they realize that their reunion may have been far from coincidental.
With standout performances from Jason Bateman, Rebecca Hall, and Joel Edgerton (who also directed), “The Gift” was initially met with little anticipation. However, it quickly turned into a stunning surprise for viewers. A clever and suspenseful thriller with remarkable performances and a plot that constantly evolves, it keeps you hooked from start to finish. Due to its underwhelming marketing, many missed it upon its 2015 release, but since then, it has garnered a dedicated following as one of the most original thrillers in recent years.
9. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Charlie, a 15-year-old high school student battling clinical depression, struggles to find his way after the devastating suicide of his best friend. While the future seems bleak and full of despair, Charlie begins to rediscover life’s joys when he meets Patrick and Samantha—two free-spirited seniors who take him under their wing and involve him in their quirky, unexpected adventures.
Adapted from Stephen Chbosky’s own novel, which he both wrote and directed, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” features Logan Lerman, Emma Watson (in her first major role after the Harry Potter series), and Ezra Miller in a standout performance that marked his breakthrough. Every actor delivers an incredible performance, with Lerman particularly captivating as Charlie. This emotional and finely crafted teen drama remains one of the best of the last decade, and it deserved far more recognition upon its release than it received.
8. Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
A rare Japanese Christmas film, this poignant and mature animated feature follows three homeless individuals who face an extraordinary challenge when they discover a newborn baby abandoned in a dumpster. As they navigate the bustling streets of Tokyo at night in search of the baby’s parents, their lives and relationships are transformed, forcing them to reconsider their own choices and perspectives.
Directed by Satoshi Kon, who later went on to create the legendary “Paprika,” “Tokyo Godfathers” is a heartfelt, visually stunning narrative about family and identity. The film presents a cast of deeply engaging characters that feel incredibly real, thanks to exceptional writing. It remains one of the most underappreciated Japanese animated films, offering a unique glimpse into aspects of Japanese culture that are rarely seen by mainstream audiences.
7. The Intouchables (2011)
In “The Intouchables,” the emotional journey of Driss, a street-smart immigrant with a troubled past, unfolds as he meets Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat left paralyzed from a paragliding accident. Although their worlds seem completely different, the two men form an unlikely but powerful friendship that bridges the gap between their vastly contrasting lives.
Based on real events, this touching French film stars Omar Sy and the legendary François Cluzet. With its blend of heartfelt moments and surprising humor, “The Intouchables” is an incredibly engaging film, packed with meaningful themes. Despite its powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters, the American remake, “The Upside” (starring Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston, and Nicole Kidman), released in 2019, failed to capture the magic of the original and was met with widespread criticism from both critics and audiences, who agreed it couldn’t compare to the brilliance of the original.
6. Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
In the year 2049 Los Angeles, Agent K, a replicant (artificial human) programmed to track down and eliminate others of his kind, becomes the focal point of a peculiar investigation. During one of his missions, K discovers that a replicant has given birth to a biological child. Seen as a potential threat to humanity, the child is hunted by multiple forces, and K sets out to find the child before anyone else.
Set three decades after the events of the original “Blade Runner” (1982), “Blade Runner 2049” was widely overlooked upon its release, largely due to a flawed marketing campaign. The film’s promotional material misled audiences by presenting it as an action-packed thriller filled with explosions, while the actual film explores deep philosophical themes. Despite its mesmerizing visuals, outstanding performances, and a moving story, it failed to perform well at the box office.
5. The Wailing (2016)
This captivating South Korean horror film follows Jong-Goo, a police officer in a small village, as he investigates a series of violent murders and mysterious illnesses, which may be linked to the arrival of a mysterious Japanese traveler. When his own daughter falls ill, Jong-Goo embarks on a frantic mission to uncover the truth and save her from an increasingly dire situation.
Directed by the renowned Hong-jin Na, “The Wailing” (originally titled “Gokseong”) is a unique and creatively bizarre film that has not gained the same recognition in the West as other Korean films like “Parasite.” With its unconventional storytelling and gripping mystery, it will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The performances are stellar, the writing exceptional, and the dark, atmospheric noir tone will send chills down your spine as the true nature of the film becomes clear.
4. Good Time (2017)
Connie Nikas, a troubled and desperate man, finds himself in a catastrophic situation when his mentally challenged younger brother is arrested after a botched robbery. Determined to get his brother out of jail as quickly as possible, Connie embarks on a harrowing and violent night across New York City in a desperate attempt to gather $10,000 for bail.
"Good Time" marks Robert Pattinson's breakout role after the "Twilight" saga, proving to audiences that he's a talented actor far beyond his past association with the franchise. The A24 film was a revelation to many of his skeptics and some even argue that it played a pivotal role in landing him the role of Batman. It's a dark, gritty film that follows a morally complex protagonist, steering clear of the typical Hollywood redemption story, instead focusing on survival and the lengths people will go to for those they love, regardless of the consequences.
3. The Nice Guys (2016)
Set in 1977 Los Angeles, this story follows a downbeat private investigator who struggles to balance his career with his responsibilities as a father. He is forced to join forces with a more aggressive private investigator to solve the case of a missing young woman, whose disappearance might be connected to the unexpected death of a beloved adult film star.
Shane Black's "The Nice Guys" is a passion project that channels the spirit of 70s and 80s buddy-cop films, blending action and comedy in a memorable way. Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling shine in their roles as the lead duo, while the supporting cast, including Matt Bomer and Margaret Qualley, adds a distinct flair to the film. Despite its charm, the movie went largely unnoticed by audiences, leaving the prospect of a sequel uncertain, although Black, Gosling, and Crowe have all expressed eagerness to return.
2. Equilibrium (2002)
Set in a dystopian future after World War III, the world is ruled by a totalitarian regime where emotions are outlawed and suppressed through a mandatory daily drug. John Preston, an elite officer, accidentally skips his dose and begins to experience emotions once again. This triggers a moral crisis as he begins to question the true nature of the government and feels the weight of guilt over his role in his wife's execution for expressing emotions.
"Equilibrium" stands as a film ahead of its time, blending sharp social commentary with stellar performances, particularly from Christian Bale as John Preston. The film's action sequences, featuring a unique martial art created for the movie, stand out as some of the best in recent memory. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most underappreciated science-fiction thrillers, offering brilliant world-building and an experience that more viewers should seek out.
1. Drive (2011)
A reserved and enigmatic stuntman who also works as a getaway driver for criminals finds his life complicated when he starts a relationship with his neighbor Irene and her young son. Irene is trapped in a marriage with a convicted criminal, and when her husband is released from prison, he quickly becomes a target of a dangerous mob boss. This chain of events spirals into violence and peril.
Adapted from the 2005 novel by American author James Sallis, "Drive" is a modern classic that, despite its 2011 release, suffered from a misleading marketing campaign. The film was misrepresented as just another mindless action flick, akin to the "Fast & Furious" franchise, leading to confusion among viewers when they discovered its deep, character-driven narrative and intense, suspenseful atmosphere.
"Drive" has developed a devoted cult following over the years and is now regarded by many as one of the finest films of the 21st century. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Oscar Isaac, Christina Hendricks, and Ron Perlman. It is a masterfully crafted movie, both in front of and behind the camera, showcasing rich characters and an emotionally charged, intimate story.
