Netflix – the place where we browse more than we stream.
It can at times be frustrating scanning through all the new and unknown content the streaming site has to offer and before you make your choice, boredom has kicked in and the urge to watch something has faded.
Sometimes, you just have to revisit the older titles that made you feel something. Netflix has some films from way back that will get you there.
‘About A Boy’
There was a time when the talented Hugh Grant was in fact very charming and handsome and considered one of Britain’s leading men. ‘About A Boy’ is possibly one of his most iconic roles. This time he had an unlikely co-star in a young and quirky Nicholas Hoult who hadn’t yet grown into his looks just yet.
The 2002 film is based on the 1998 novel of the same name by author Nick Hornby and tells the story of the womanising Will Freeman who builds an unlikely friendship with Marcus (Hoult) – a friendship which inadvertently teaches them valuable life lessons and alters the way they see the world. Toni Collette stars as Marcus’ mother Fiona and Rachel Weisz as Rachel, Will’s love interest.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award for best adapted screenplay, with Grant and Collette nominated for a Golden Globe and a Bafta respectively for their performances. If you are up for a laugh and a beautiful story, then ‘About A Boy’ is the perfect fit.
‘Boys On The Side’
When it comes to a compelling story, magnificent acting and an unforgettable performance, ‘Boys On The Side’ ticks all the boxes.
The 90s was the decade of tear-jerkers and strong leading ladies, and this film had both in abundance. Whoopi Goldberg ruled the decade as she did this film alongside Mary-Louise Parker and Drew Barrymore.
‘Boys On The Side’ sees Goldberg’s character Jane DeLuca answer an ad by Robin (Parker), who’s looking for a travel companion to California. After breaking up with her girlfriend and band, Jane looks to start a new life. The two make a stop in Pittsburgh to see Robin’s friend Holly (Barrymore), who joins the trip in an attempt to escape her abusive boyfriend.
In an era when homosexuality and HIV were taboo, ‘Boys On The Side’ was revolutionary in shedding light on these topics with three powerhouse actresses bringing the story to life. The film connects three women from different backgrounds to a common place where they find solace and comfort within each other.
The soundtrack is made up entirely of contributions by female pop/rock artists, including lesbian icons Melissa Etheridge with ‘I Take You With Me’, Joan Armatrading with ‘Willow’ and Indigo Girls’ ‘Power of Two’.
Though the film was not a major box office hit, it’s a relatable and heart-rending story that heals.
‘The Truman Show’
Jim Carrey is the king of comedy. From Ace Ventura and the Grinch to Stanley Ipkiss and Lloyd Christmas, he doesn’t disappoint and the world loves him for his expert improvisation and characterisation.
In ‘The Truman Show’ (1998), however, he takes on a more serious role and returns to an orthodox acting style, showcasing his diversity as an actor.
Carrey stars as Truman Burbank, chosen out of six unwanted pregnancies and the first child to be adopted by a corporation. He is raised inside a simulated television show revolving around his life and is unaware that he is being broadcast continuously around the world. When irregularities crop up, Truman connects the dots, slowly realises his life is a lie and tries to escape the ‘town’ he lives in.
The film was a financial success, debuting to critical acclaim, and earned numerous nominations. It has also been analysed as a thesis on Christianity, metaphilosophy, simulated reality, existentialism and reality television.
With Rotten Tomatoes calling it a “funny, tender and thought-provoking film”, ‘The Truman Show’ is noteworthy with lasting impact that allows the viewer to think critically about society and who we are as people. Definitely worth the watch.
– @jonathan_sasha on Twitter; @jonathan.sasha on Instagram
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