-Jainam Turakhia
In the world of cinema, certain films manage to capture our attention and leave a lasting impact despite not always receiving the recognition they deserve. These hidden gems often fall under the radar, overshadowed by more widely celebrated releases. In this blog, we'll delve into five such underrated mainstream movies that managed to shine despite flying under the radar.
- Blade Runner 2049
Sequels can often be overshadowed by the success of their predecessors, and "Blade Runner 2049" is no exception. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this science fiction masterpiece is a visual and emotional journey that captures the essence of the original while carving out its own distinct identity.
The sequel to this film was never made due to its low box office collection. However, as time passed, "2049" emerged as a cult classic, instilling Warner Bros' confidence in Denis Villeneuve. This eventually led him to handle the Dune trilogy. As of today, the first part has been released and has become a hit, while Dune: Part Two is scheduled for a November 2023 release. Villeneuve's exploration of intellectual properties (IPs) has expanded even further with the production of the Sisterhood series, serving as a tie-in to the Dune trilogy. Additionally, a Blade Runner 2099 series is in the works, with Ridley Scott set to produce. Although these series do not involve Denis as a director, it's still amazing to see how his dedication to art has reignited studios' confidence in these properties.
With stunning cinematography and thought-provoking themes surrounding artificial intelligence and humanity, "Blade Runner 2049" is a cinematic experience that should not be overlooked.
- Tenet
Christopher Nolan's "Tenet" took audiences on a mind-bending ride through time manipulation and espionage. While it garnered attention for its complex narrative and breathtaking action sequences, it didn't receive the same level of acclaim as some of Nolan's earlier works. The intricate plot, impressive visual effects, and John David Washington's charismatic performance make "Tenet" a film that demands multiple viewings to fully grasp its intricacies.
Christopher Nolan has undoubtedly established himself as a bold risk-taker within the realm of cinema. His commitment to minimizing the use of CGI in favor of delivering an authentic experience, predominantly captured through cameras, has become a hallmark of his directorial approach. In this context, "Tenet" emerges as one of Nolan's notable experiments, showcasing his restraint in employing visual effects, even to a greater extent than what is typically seen in romantic comedies. Despite its distinctive attributes, the film sometimes fell short in establishing a relatable emotional core for the audience. Nevertheless, beneath these discussions lies a mind-bending cinematic creation that truly deserves a higher level of appreciation.
- Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
While it's true that superhero movies tend to attract more attention in today’s mainstream media, "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" didn't receive the unanimous praise one might expect from a film featuring iconic characters like Batman and Superman. However, Zack Snyder's directorial vision and the exploration of moral dilemmas faced by these larger-than-life heroes set this film apart. Its darker tone and themes about power and accountability offer a unique perspective within the superhero genre.
When the film first came out, it was not well-received by critics, receiving an embarrassing 28% on Rotten Tomatoes. This shook the DC regime and led to an inevitable tonal shift, making the films feel more like Marvel comedies. This shift eventually contributed to the demise of the DCEU. However, the conversation surrounding "Batman v Superman" and Zack Snyder's other DC projects changed over time.
With the release of the director's cut and the subsequent unfolding of the entire Justice League saga, the narrative took a turn. This transformation led to the rise of Zack Snyder's DC films as powerful cult classics, a success that DC has yet to replicate.
- Eternals
As part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, "Eternals" introduced audiences to a new ensemble of characters and a different kind of superhero narrative. While it garnered attention for its diverse cast and visual effects, some critics felt it didn't quite live up to the high standards set by other MCU films.
But, if we look at the state of the MCU after "Avengers: Endgame" (2019), it has lost its tone along the way. However, the MCU is a risk-taker that spent the entire Phase 4 taking risks while trying to find its tone for the multiverse saga which, frankly, it still hasn’t found. But of all the risks, "Eternals" was the best one. Its exploration of ancient history, mythology, and the role of superheroes in shaping humanity makes it a compelling addition to the franchise. The visuals are unlike anything in the MCU before, giving an unparalleled sense of imagery that sets Chloe Zhao apart from the rest of the MCU.
Nothing about the future of "Eternals" is certain as of now, but a continuation of "Eternals" is something we’d most likely be interested in.
- Before Midnight
The "Before" trilogy, directed by Richard Linklater, is a remarkable exploration of love, time, and human connection. "Before Midnight," the third installment, takes a closer look at the complexities of a long-term relationship. Despite its critical acclaim, it often remains overshadowed by bigger blockbusters. The film's raw and honest portrayal of the challenges that come with sustaining love and intimacy is a testament to its underrated brilliance.
One could argue that this film isn't talked about as much because of the magic of the first two installments. While this film takes a step ahead and brings the magic to reality, it is portrayed exceptionally. The climax stands as one of the best story endings ever, bringing the old magic back. Even though this film gets overlooked, despite being part of the conversation as "the Before trilogy," just like how people usually forget "The Dark Knight Rises" or "Batman Begins" when talking about Nolan's Batman trilogy, it's still an amazing addition and a great conclusion to the trilogy.
In conclusion, these deserve more recognition than they often receive. Each film offers a unique perspective, thought-provoking themes, and exceptional storytelling that contribute to the rich tapestry of modern cinema. So, the next time you're looking for a movie to watch, consider giving these hidden gems a chance to shine on your screen.