Like most of us, I’ve been sheltering in place for a few months now. I’ve caught up on most everything on my DVR and playlists on various streaming platforms, and the algorithms keep suggesting the same things over and over. I turned to the internet for lists of films to watch, but nearly all of them suggest the same mainstream stuff over and over – like, I’ve seen Blade Runner, most of us have seen Blade Runner, or at least are very aware of Blade Runner and can find Blade Runner should we want to see Blade Runner. Blade Runner.
I thought a useful tool could be a list of films a little more off the beaten path – from overlooked studio pictures, to little indie gems, to movies that somehow failed to find a large audience but have small factions that swear by them. And, more importantly, where they can be found. I adore or at least enjoyed all of these. So, in alphabetical order, I present to you my picks for hopefully new entertainment to help pass the days stuck inside, along with the various services where they can be found to rent or stream. (A handy guide can be found at justwatch.com). Also, there’s some bonus entries at the end that I just can’t find as streamable online, but I wanted to notate them there.
1. 36 Hours (1964)
Written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by the great Roald Dahl, this tense, entertaining psychological thriller stars James Garner as an American Major taken by the Germans in WWII, who brainwash him and convince him he’s in a hospital and the war is over, while trying to get him divulge Allied plans. Also starring Eva Marie Saint, Rod Taylor and Werner Peters. Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV
2. Appaloosa (2008)
Directed, written, starring and probably catered by Ed Harris, this terrific character-driven Western feels vintage in its storytelling. Harris and Viggo Mortensen star as lawmen brought into the town of Appaloosa to take on villainous rancher Jeremy Irons. Also starring Renee Zellweger, James Gammon, Timothy Spall and Lance Henriksen. Roku / Fandango Now / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YoutTube / Vudu / Microsoft/ redbox / DirecTv
3. The Arrival (1996)
Ok, you’re probably thinking “Why would I want to watch a 90s sci-fi film with Charlie Sheen?” but this underrated intriguing film from David Twohy has some great sequences and some fun twists. Sheen plays an astronomer who discovers an extra terrestrial radio signal and finds himself in the middle of an on-earth alien conspiracy. Ron Silver makes a great heavy and Teri Polo, Richard Schiff and Lindsay Crouse round out the cast. YouTube / Hoopla / Vudu / Tubi / Pluto TV / Redbox / Amazon / Google Play / Fandango / Microsoft
4. Attack the Block (2011)
Speaking of aliens, South London teens defend their turf from vicious creatures in Joe Cornish’s brilliant sci-fi action flick. John Boyega (in a star-making turn), Jodie Whittaker and Nick Frost are all on-hand, but the real stars are the furry toothsome baddies who are brought to life with practical effects instead of CGI. Fubo / DirecTV / Pluto TV / Fandango Now / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Microsoft / FLIX Fling
5. Basquiat (1996)
A bit like a painting itself, this wonderful biopic stars Jeffrey Wright as Jean-Michel Basquait, and is one of the benchmarks of 90s indie cinema. David Bowie plays Andy Warhol and Gary Oldman plays his friend and artistic rival Albert Milo (who isn’t a real person, but rather a depiction of the director himself, Julian Schnabel). Also featuring Christopher Walken, Parker Posey, Benecio Del Toro, Dennis Hopper, Claire Forlani, Courtney Love, Michael Wincott, Tatum O’Neal and, in the role of “Thug,” Sam Rockwell. Hoopla / Amazon / Fandango Now / Microsoft / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
6. The Big Heat (1953)
Fritz Lang is probably best known for “Metropolis” and “M,” but this slice of film noir is more than satisfying. Glenn Ford plays a cop taking on mobsters and corrupt police (There’s a scene where his Chief asks him for his badge and gun which is almost laughable) aided by Gloria Graham as an ex-gangster moll. Lee Marvin is scary as hell as the aforementioned mobster. You’ll never look at coffee the same way again. Also starring Jocelyn Brando and Jeanette Nolan. Criterion Channel / Crackle / Fandango Now / Vudu / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV
7. The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars and Motor Kings (1976)
Billy Dee Williams plays the titular role in this fun baseball comedy. Tired of the treatment by his Negro league team owner, Bingo assembles his own squad and takes to the road barnstorming and playing local teams. The uniformly excellent cast also features James Earl Jones, Richard Pryor and Stan Shaw. Directed by John Badham. Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
8. Blue Ruin (2014)
This gripping thriller stars newcomer Macon Blair as a homeless drifter who returns to his home town to carry out an act of vengeance, setting off a chain of events there’s no coming back from. Writer/Director Jeremy Saulnier followed this up with “Green Room,” another acclaimed taut indie film. Oh, and it also features Eve Plumb (yes, that Eve Plumb) playing a very non-Jan Brady character. NETFLIX / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft
9. The Boy Who Could Fly (1986)
Wonderful fable of a movie with Lucy Deakins as Millie, who, along with her family (Bonnie Bedelia & Fred Savage), move in next door to an autistic teen named Eric (Jay Underwood). It’s touching and often dreamlike, and the B-story following Fred Savage and his goal to ride his bike around the block without running into the local bullies is super funny. The cast also included Fred Gwynne, Colleen Dewhurst, Mindy Cohn and Jason Priestley. HBO Max / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / DirecTV
10. Cache (2005)
Set in France, this is a top-notch chilling thriller from director Michael Haneke. A couple (Juliette Binoche & Daniel Auteuil) who begin receiving video tapes of their family in the mail, along with childlike drawings. With the police being no help, they take it upon themselves to figure out who is stalking them. A little slow at first, but stick with it, cuz the shocks and twists are well worth it. Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Micosoft / DirecTV
11. Children of Men (2006)
One of the best films of the 2000s, this one is pretty beloved and yet there are those who haven’t watched it yet, so I’m including it here. Bleak, harrowing, engrossing, damn near perfect. Alfonso Cuaron’s chronicle of a future where people haven’t been able to reproduce in nearly 20 years stars Clive Owen as a bureaucrat who has to protect the key to the human race. Featuring bravura single shot takes and one of the most thrilling car chasing that moves at less than 20 mph, Children of Men is truly unforgettable. Still not sold? Julianne Moore, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Charlie Hunnam and Michael Caine are also in it. Just see it already. STARZ / DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV / AMC Theatres On Demand
12. City of Ember (2008)
Fun futuristic young adult film with great worldbuilding, it follows two teens (Saoirse Ronan & Harry Treadaway) trying to save their underground civilization and unlock a long-dormant secret. Bill Murray plays an eccentric Mayor, and the movie has character actors to spare including Tim Robbins, Toby Jones, Martin Landau, Mary Kay Place, Mackenzie Crook and Marianne Jean-Baptiste. Directed by Gil Keenan (“Monster House”). DirecTV / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu
13. The Company Men (2010)
Speaking of character actors, John Wells’ drama about corporate downsizing has some heavyweights who all turn in excellent performances in a film that feels especially prescient now. Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, Tommy Lee Jones, Maria Bello, Craig T. Nelson, Rosemarie DeWitt, John Doman star and Kevin Costner turns in one of his best performances to date. NETFLIX / DirecTV / Redbox / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / FLIX Fling
14. Criss Cross (1949)
Burt Lancaster, Yvonne DeCarlo and Dan Duryea headline this excellent crime caper involving an armored truck robbery done from the inside, directed by Film Noir auteur Robert Siodmak (“The Killers”). Double crosses abound, but no Kriss Krosses, who will make you jump, jump. (Sorry not sorry). DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft
15. Critical Care (1997)
A lesser-known dark comedy/drama from one of the masters, Sidney Lumet, it was met with critical and audience indifference when it was first released, but there’s a lot to like here. James Spader plays a hospital resident doctor stuck in the middle of a battle between two sisters (Kyra Sedgwick and the always good Margo Martindale) and their comatose father on life support. Albert Brooks steals every scene he is in as a grouchy administrator, and the rest of the cast is stupid good – Helen Mirren, Anne Bancroft, Jeffrey Wright, Phillip Bosco, Colm Feore, Edward Herrmann, and Wallace Shawn. MAX Go / DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu
16. Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)
I’m a sucker for old LA period pieces, and Carl Franklin’s detective picture didn’t get the attention it deserved. Denzel Washington stars at Easy Rawlins (hero of multiple Walter Mosley penned mysteries), a WWII veteran turned P.I. who is hired to locate a missing woman (Jennifer Beals) and finds himself in the middle of crooked cops, politicians and gangsters. Denzel is great as expected, but the real break out here is Don Cheadle as his unhinged child-hood friend Mouse – you can’t take your eyes off of him. Also starring Tom Sizemore, Maury Chaykin and Terry Kinney. STARZ / DirecTV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft
17. Dirty Pretty Things (2002)
Fresh off of “Amelie,” Audrey Tautou goes far away from that in this grimy, mesmerizing thriller from Stephen Frears (“The Grifters”). Tautou and Chiwetel Ejiofor play undocumented immigrants working at a London hotel and struggling to make ends meet. A doctor during the day and a receptionist at night, Ejiofor stumbles upon an illegal and immoral scheme that could help him get legalized – but at what cost? Also starring Benedict Wong and Sophie Okonedo. Hoopla / MAX Go / DirecTV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Micosoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
18. Draft Day (2014)
I like a feel-good sports drama, so a few will be making appearances on this list. Kevin Costner plays the GM of the Cleveland Browns (hey remember football? Er…sports in general?) who has the first pick in the NFL Draft. Pressure is on to draft a franchise quarterback, but Costner has other plans. It builds up significant suspense in the actual draft portion of the film, and, like Moneyball (which would be on here except it’s pretty known), has you rooting for the guys in the front office doing the math. Chadwick Boseman, Jennifer Garner, Frank Langella, Terry Crews, Ellen Burstyn, Denis Leary, Tom Welling and Sam Elliott co-star. Prime Video / Tubi / Apple TV / Amazon / Redbox / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango / Vudu / Micosoft / AMC Theatres On Demand
19. Eddie the Eagle (2015)
Taron Edgerton nails the nuance and mannerisms of Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards in this true story based on the unlikely ski-jumper from Britain who became a sensation at the 1988 Winter Olympics. Hugh Jackman co-stars as his reluctant mentor and Christopher Walken makes the most of a few scenes. Directed by Dexter Fletcher, and produced by Matthew Vaughn, who decided to make it after showing “Cool Runnings” to his kids who lamented, “Why don’t they make movies like this anymore, dad?” Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / DirecTV
20. Eve’s Bayou (1997)
Kasi Lemmons made a mark with her directorial debut, a complex southern family drama that is both haunting and beautiful and a slow burner that stays with you. Jurnee Smollett plays Eve, who witnesses her father (a great Samuel L. Jackson) engaged with another woman back in 1962 Louisiana, and the effects it has on her sprawling family. Incredibly well-written with dynamite performances from Lynn Whitfield, Meagan Good, Debbi Morgan, Diahann Carroll, Vondie Curtis-Hall and Branford Marsalis. HBO Max / HBO Go / DirecTV / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft
21. Father Goose (1964)
I confess that I watched this a bunch as a kid and I always found it charming and fun. Cary Grant stars as an aimless beachcomber with a penchant for whisky who gets conned into manning an uninhabited island and spotting enemy planes during WWII. He soon gets company in the form of a French schoolteacher (Leslie Caron) and her young charges and sparks fly. You’ll be whistling “Pass Me By” before it’s over. Also starring Trevor Howard. Pluto TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV / DirecTV
22. The Fortune Cookie (1966)
Billy Wilder directed this first pairing of Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau which doesn’t have the acclaim it deserves! Lemmon plays a sideline TV cameraman who is run into by star football player (Ron Rich). Lemmon’s ambulance-chasing brother-in-law (Matthau) convinces him to feign a serious injury for a lawsuit, which he’s against until his ex-wife comes into the picture. With Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond’s sharp dialogue on display, it’s a funny, whip-smart picture. Prime Video
23. Frank (2014)
Lenny Abrahamson (“Room”) directs this odd and enchanting tale of a struggling musician (Domhnall Gleeson) who happens into eccentric band lead by Frank, who wears a giant paper mache head everywhere he goes. It’s maybe Michael Fassebender’s most charming performance, and he’s behind a fake head. The opening bit chronicling Gleeson’s attempt to write a song looking at the world around him was enough to hook me early. Great supporting work from Maggie Gyllenhaal and Scoot McNairy. I love you all. FLIX Fling / Hoopla / Kanopy / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Microsoft
24. Gattaca (1997)
The pacing and feel of this smart sci-fi film are magnificent – too bad it went kinda quietly at the box office when it opened. In the future, genetic engineering is used to create the “perfect” baby – while those born naturally are assigned menial jobs. Ethan Hawke plays Vincent, whose genes crush his dreams of being an astronaut, until he uses a DNA broker to borrow the identity of Jerome (Jude Law), who has the right makeup but is paralyzed. Throw in a murder and a detective (Alan Arkin) poking around, and Vincent’s true identity is threatened constantly. There’s a ton of great ideas being explored here, a wonderful score by Michael Nyman, and a killer cast including Uma Thurman, Tony Shalhoub, Gore Vidal, Loren Dean and Xander Berkeley. Fubo / IMDB TV / DirecTV / Sling / Pluto TV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / AMC Theatres On Demand
25. The General (1998)
Real-life story of Irish criminal/folk hero Martin Cahill from director John Boorman (“Point Blank”) is a funny and dramatic portrait of a larger than life character, played brilliantly (as always) by Brendan Gleeson. Originally released in black and white (watch it that way if you can), but mostly available in monochrome color. Jon Voight and Maria Doyle Kennedy also star. IMDB TV / Roku / Tubi / DirecTV / EPIX / Pluto TV
26. Gifted (2017)
Mckenna Grace is the real deal. She’s front and center of this touching drama as a child prodigy being raised by her uncle (Chris Evans), who wants her to have a normal childhood. A vicious custody battle ensues with her grandmother (Lindsay Duncan) who wants more for her. Ace support comes from Octavia Spencer and Jenny Slate. Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / DirecTV
27. Hard Eight (1996)
The debut film from Paul Thomas Anderson is a killer character study headlined by criminally underrated actor Philip Baker Hall as Sydney, a professional gambler who takes broke aimless soul John (John C. Reilly) under his wing. Add Clementine (Gwyneth Paltrow) to the mix, a waitress John falls for and complicates things dramatically. Featuring Samuel L. Jackson and a bevy of Anderson’s corral of regulars including Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robert Ridgely and Melora Walters. Prime Video / Tubi / Kanopy / Crackle / Pluto TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
28. Hearts Beat Loud (2018)
Music is powerful. It connects us, it’s a shared language, and it brings people together from all walks of life. This sweet film centers on Sam (breakout Kiersey Clemons), who is about to leave for college, and her single father Frank (Nick Offerman), owner of an indie record store in Red Hook who is faced with closing it down. With the prospects of losing his store and his daughter, Frank and Sam find strength in making music together. Will make you want to put headphones on and listen to your favorite albums after. Also starring Toni Collette, Blythe Danner, Ted Danson and Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy as, uh, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy. Hulu / Hoopla / Kanopy / Amazon / Vudu / Redbox / Fandango Now / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube
29. Hell or High Water (2016)
Cops and robbers story but so much more than that. Chris Pine and Ben Foster (never better) play brothers who take up bank robbing to try to save their farm. Spiraling out of control, they are pursued relentless by two Texas Rangers (Jeff Bridges and Gil Birmingham). A meditation on familial responsibility and morality, it’s suspenseful, tense and exhilarating all at once. Directed by David Mackenzie and written by Taylor Sheridan (“Sicaro”), it also stars Katy Mixon and Dale Dickey. Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV / AMC Theatres On Demand
30. Hostiles (2017)
Bleak but engrossing western follows a US Cavalry Captain (Christian Bale), assigned to escort an ailing Cheyenne chief (West Studi) to his tribal home in Montana. With a history of battling them, he is opposed to the order but has to carry it through. The party soon comes across Rosalee Quaid (Rosamund Pike, giving a towering performances), traumatized by the massacre of her family. Bale does a great job of conveying the battle of duty vs. anger, and the rest of the cast is phenomenal – Ben Foster (hey he’s back and he will be again), Rory Cochrane, Timothee Chalamet, Scott Wilson and Q’orianka Kilcher. NETFLIX / Fandango Now / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / DirectTV / Vudu / AMC Theatre on Demand
31. The Hudsucker Proxy (1994)
One of the lesser-known entries in the Coen Bros. oeuvre, I’ve always loved this whimsical period comedy. Sure, all the expected CB eccentricities are there, and it’s sweetly funny and super entertaining. After the head of Hudsucker Industries commits suicide, the Board of Directors decide to appoint a schmuck to run the company in hopes of devaluing the stock and then snatching it up. That schmuck is wide-eyed mailroom clerk Norville Barnes (Tim Robbins), who has bigger ideas than they hoped for. You know, for kids. Co-starring Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bill Cobbs, Steve Buscemi, Bruce Campbell, Charles Durning and the great Paul Newman. DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox
32. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) Taika Waititi’s endlessly creative and charming comedy drama stars Julian Dennison as Ricky Baker (a name you won’t get tired of saying in a Kiwi accent), a rebellious kid from the city who ends up being fostered by Bella (Rima Te Wiata) and Hec (a delightfully grumpy Sam Neill). When Bella passes away, Ricky goes on the run to avoid a return to the orphanage, and a reluctant Hec helps him stay off the grid. Also starring Rhys Darby and the director himself. Hulu / Hoopla / Kanopy / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV
33. In Bruges (2008)
Playwright Martin McDonagh wrote and directed this dark comedy about a pair of hitmen (Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson) told by their boss Harry (Ralph Fiennes, chewing scenery) to lie low in the fairytale like Belgian town Bruges. The dialogue is razor sharp and Farrell and Gleeson make an incredible team. This is one of those movies I will always leave on should I run into it on cable. You’re an inanimate f*&king object! HBO Max / HBO Go / DirecTV / AppleTV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / FLIX Fling / AMC Theatres on Demand
34. Johnny Guitar (1954)
Nicolas Ray’s Western masterpiece plays with gender roles, sexuality and McCarthyism to great effect in this entertaining oater. Joan Crawford as a gunslinger. I mean, what else to you need? I guess I’ll throw in Sterling Hayden, Mercedes McCambridge, Ward Bond and Ernest Borgnine. Totally unique and unforgettable. Prime Video / Hulu / Epix / Sling / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
35. The Kid (2019)
Another Western (I swear there’s just a handful or two on the list but I do love ‘em), this directorial debut of Vincent D’Onofrio (who also has a bit part) takes a look at Billy The Kid (Dane DeHaan) mythology through the lens of two kids on the run (Jake Shur and Leila George), who cross paths with Billy and his gang who are just a step ahead of Sheriff Pat Garrett (Ethan Hawke). More character oriented than action packed, it also showcases Chris Pratt playing against type as a really nasty heavy. Prime Video / Hulu / Hoopla / DirectTV / Epix / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
36. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
Starring Robert Downey Jr. in a role that got him back on the map and set him up to play Iron Man, this Shane Black outing is a meta action comedy with ridiculously quotable dialogue. Downey plays Harry Lockhart, an unreliable narrator who finds himself in the middle of a murder investigation alongside Detective Gay Perry (Val Kilmer) and his childhood crush Harmony (Michelle Monaghan) in Los Angeles at Christmas Time (because it’s a Shane Black movie and that’s what he likes to do!). With Corbin Bernsen, Larry Miller, Ariel Winter and Rockmond Dunbar. Fandango Now / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
37. Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002)
Totally stupid, in the best way possible. Comedian Steve Oedekerk takes an old Kung-Fu movie and, through CGI, inserts himself into the film as The Chosen One, who seeks to avenge the death of his parents at the hand of the villainous Master Pain. Oedekerk dubs all the dialogue and creates a new story – it’s often laugh out loud funny, and at a crisp 82 minutes, you’ll get a lot of bang for your comedy buck (or free, if you have Hulu). Hulu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
38. The Last Black Man in San Francisco (2019)
Both a love-letter and a letter-to-the-editor to San Francisco, Joe Talbot’s first feature is an incredibly beautiful poetic drama. From the opening bravura sequence, you’ll be hooked by the atmosphere and absolutely breathtaking cinematography. Jimmie Fails plays a version of himself, a third generation San Franciscan, who, like many others, was pushed out and now crashes with his friend Mont (Jonathan Majors) and his blind grandfather (Danny Glover) in Hunter’s Point. Jimmie is obsessed with reclaiming his childhood home, built by his grandfather, as he regularly fixes it up much to the chagrin of the current residents. A stunning look at gentrification and a city in flux, if you’ve ever spent time in the Bay Area this will definitely resonate with you (as it did me, since I spent over a decade there). Prime Video / Kanopy / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Redbox / DirecTV / Vudu / Microsoft
39. Leave No Trace (2018)
Hey, it’s Ben Foster again! The guy just makes great little indie movies, and this one is no exception. Foster plays Will, a soldier suffering from PTSD who lives off the grid in the wilderness outside Portland with his teenage daughter Tom (Thomasin McKenzie, from “JoJo Rabbit,” who is fantastic). They are forced into social services and try to fit in or find a way back to the forrest. Written and directed by Debra Granik (“Winter’s Bone”). Prime Video / STARZ / Kanopy / DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / AMC Theatres on Demand
40. Living in Oblivion (1995)
The quintessential 90s indie film sending up quintessential 90s indie films, Tom DiCillo’s black and white on-set comedy (only color when they are in the film themselves) is a bit inside baseball but captures the non-studio movie making process to hilarious effect. With Steve Buscemi as the frustrated director, Dermot Mulroney as a one-eyed DP, Catherine Keener and James LeGros as actors who don’t like each other much, Kevin Corrigan as an assistant cameraman and Peter Dinklage as actor Tito, who laments the role of little people in movie dream sequences. HBO Max / HBO Go / Kanopy / DirecTV / Pluto TV / Microsoft / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now
41. Living Out Loud (1998)
A sweet little film about unlikely friendship and finding yourself a bit later in life, Holly Hunter stars as Judith, recently divorced by her cheating husband, who gravitates towards Pat (Danny DeVito), her building’s elevator operator. Also starring Queen Latifah, it’s a film of little human moments that stay with you. From writer/director Richard LaGravenese (who penned “The Fisher King” and “Bridges of Madison County”). Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
42. Local Hero (1983)
This movie gives you all the feels. A magical fable of a movie if there ever was one, Bill Forsyth’s classic follows a Texas businessman names Mac (Peter Riegert), sent by his eccentric Oil company boss (a hilarious Burt Lancaster) to Scotland to buy up a little village so they can put refineries there. The townspeople are eager to sell, save for one. Co-starring a young Peter Capaldi, Dennis Lawson (Wedge!) and The Northern Lights. Fandango Now / Microsoft / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
43. The Long Goodbye (1973)
Robert Altman’s take on Chandler’s Philip Marlowe is not with its dissenters, but Elliot Gould is fantastic in the role. It’s your standard detective fair, with Marlowe trying to help a friend and instead getting involved in a murder plot, set apart by Altman’s great use of naturalistic tone and setting – Marlowe feeding his cat is especially great. With Sterling Hayden, Nina van Pallandt, Henry Gibson and, yes, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Prime Video / Amazon / Vudu
44. The Lookout (2007)
Overlooked modern noir caper film with Joseph Gordon-Levitt playing a star athlete named Chris Pratt (yep, Chris Pratt – who auditioned thinking he was a shoe-in with that moniker) with a brain injury who does night time janitor work at a small town bank. Chris can’t remember much and keeps a notebook with him to help. He soon is targeted by a crew looking to rob the place, led by Matthew Goode, and the film’s femme fatale Isla Fisher. Throw in a bearded Jeff Daniels and an excellent supporting cast – Carla Gugino, Bruce McGill and Alex Borstein, STARZ / DirecTV / Redbox / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu
45. Mad Hot Ballroom (2005)
Adorable documentary chronicling 11-year-old NYC school kids who have a passion for Ballroom Dance and compete in junior competitions. Funny and endearing, you’ll have your favorites that you’ll root for. Directed by Marilyn Agrelo. The Criterion Channel / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
46. The Matador (2005)
Brilliant comedic turn by Pierce Brosnan highlights this sly indie comedy from Richard Shepard. Brosnan plays Julian, a lonely hitman, who meets Danny (Greg Kinnear), a salesman, at a bar in Mexico City. The two become unlikely friends and creep into each other’s lives in unpredictable ways. Hope Davis, Adam Scott, Dylan Baker and Philip Baker Hall co-star. Amazon / Google Play / YouTube
47. Midnight Special (2016)
Second pairing of Michael Shannon and director Jeff Nichols, who previously teamed on the wonderful “Take Shelter” (very much worth renting). This sci-fi drama follows a father (Shannon) and his son (Jaeden Martell) with otherworldly powers who go on the run from the law and a cult who are interested in his gifts. The movie owes a lot to “Starman” with a similar feel and sense of wonder, and the performances are really great. Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver, Sam Shepard, Bill Camp and Paul Sparks round out the cast. HBO Max / HBO Go / DirecTV / Fandango Now / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / YouTube / Amazon / Google Play / Vudu
48. Modern Romance (1981)
Had to include something by my comedy hero Albert Brooks on here, and “Modern Romance” felt like one most might not be familiar with (ditto “Real Life” which is also excellent, and of course “Defending Your Life” and “Lost in America” if you haven’t already). Brooks plays a neurotic film editor who can’t seem to figure things out with his patient girlfriend (Kathyrn Harold). Chock full of great dialogue (“You’ve heard of a no-win situation, right? No? Vietnam? This?”) and a ridiculous sequence involving sound EFX post work of the Hulk running down a corridor. Oh, and Albert’s late great brother Super Dave Osborne makes an appearance as a sporting goods salesman. With Bruno Kirby, James L. Brooks and George Kennedy. Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV
49. Monsters (2010)
Director Gareth Edwards got tapped to helm the Godzilla reboot after the release of his small, creepy creature-flick. Scoot McNairy and Whitney Able play a journalist and an American tourist making their way through an infected zone in Mexico after an Alien Invasion, heading for safety at the border. The alien effects are really impressive considering the small budget of the film, and it’s always interesting. FLIX Fling / Roku / Hoopla / Tubi / Magnolia / Pluto TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Microsoft
50. Moon (2009)
Sam Rockwell plays the sole inhabitant of a lunar station, who’s only companion is a computer named GERTY (voiced by Kevin Spacey, but don’t hold that against it). He’s signed a three year contract and dreams of getting home to his wife and daughter – but the time is wearing on him and hallucinations are starting to occur. An accident occurs and everything changes. Directed by Duncan Jones (son of David Bowie), this sci-fi psychodrama is chock full of fun twists, breathtaking cinematography and an incredible central performance from Rockwell. Fubo / Showtime / DirecTV / Fandor / Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / AMC Theatre on Demand
51. Motherless Brooklyn (2019)
Edward Norton adapted Jonathan Lethem’s novel and changed the time period to the 1950s in this atmospheric detective story. Norton stars as Lionel, a P.I with Tourette’s Syndrome (which wasn’t diagnosable in the 50s, so he describes it as “like having glass in the brain. I can't stop pickin' things apart... twistin' 'em around, reassembling 'em”). He tries to solve a friend’s murder and ends up in a thick plot affecting the whole city. Norton’s mannered performance is extraordinary, as is the work by a stacked supporting cast including Willem Dafoe, Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Cherry Jones, Bobby Cannavale, Dallas Roberts and Michael Kenneth Williams. Plus a great moody piano ballad by Thom Yorke used to great effect. DirecTV / Vudu / Apple TV / YouTube / Fandango Now
52. My Favorite Year (1982)
Peter O’Toole got an Oscar nomination for his towering comedic performance in this love letter to the golden age of TV comedy. O’Toole plays a fallen matinee idol with a drinking problem named Alan Swann, who is guesting on a popular variety show. Benji Stone (Mark Linn-Baker, from “Perfect Strangers”) is the junior writer assigned to keep tabs on him. This much-beloved and near-perfect comedy from Richard Benjamin is still one of those movies a lot of folks seem to have missed. With Joseph Bologna, Jessica Harper, Bill Macy, Selma Diamond, Lou Jacobi and a scene-stealing Lainie Kazan as Benji’s mother. Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV
53. The Naked Spur (1953)
Brilliant but overlooked suspenseful Western from acclaimed director Anthony Mann. James Stewart stars as a bounty-hunter, long chasing an outlaw (Robert Ryan) and his girl (Janet Leigh), who is forced to take on two untrustworthy partners (Ralph Meeker and Millard Mitchell) to help apprehend them. The massive bounty tests alliances and splinters the group apart. The Criterion Channel / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu
54. Never Let Me Go (2010)
Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel is brought to the screen beautifully by screenwriter Alex Garland (“Ex Machina”) and director Mark Romanek (“One Hour Photo” and a million music videos). This bleak sci-fi drama follows three childhood friends (Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield and Keira Knightley) and their growing feelings for one another, despite the horrible future in store for them. It’s a powerful kick in the gut that stays with you. Also starring Domnhall Gleeson, Andrea Riseborough, Charlotte Rampling and Sally Hawkins. Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
55. Open Range (2003)
Kevin Costner stars and directs this character-driven oater with flashes of brilliantly executed action. Costner and Robert Duvall play former gunslingers leaving a peaceful life tending to cattle until they meet a corrupt sheriff and rancher (James Russo and Michael Gambon) who draw them back into a life of violence. Also starring Annette Bening, Diego Luna, Michael Jeter and Abraham Benrubi. HBO Max / HBO Now / Max Go / DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft
56. The Paper (1994)
Ron Howard directed this amusing newspaper office comedy (hey, print – remember that?) starring Michael Keaton as an editor who has to make some tough ethical decisions when a breaking story occurs. The cast is bonkers – Glenn Close, Robert Duvall, Marisa Tomei, Jason Robards, Spalding Gray, Catherine O’Hara, Jason Alexander, Randy Quaid, Roma Maffia, and, of course, Clint Howard. Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
57. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
My favorite film of 2019 – this wonderful Twain-esque “on the road” picture stars Zack Gottsagen as Zak, a man with down syndrome who idolizes a wrestler named the Salt Water Redneck. Stuck in a nursing home, he escapes one night and starts his journey to meet his hero. His path crosses with Tyler (Shia LaBeouf, doing career-best work here), a fisherman on the run and they become unlikely travel companions. Dakota Johnson plays the social worker trying to find Zak, while a nasty John Hawkes pursues Tyler. Funny and touching, it pulls at the heart strings without manipulating the viewer. Also starring Bruce Dern, Thomas Haden Church and Jon Bernthal. DirecTV / Epix / AppleTV
58. A Perfect Getaway (2009)
Thoroughly enjoyable thriller from David Twohy, which goes off the rails in the best way in the last third. Milla Jovovich and Steve Zahn play a couple on their honeymoon backpacking in Hawaii. They encounter some grouchy hitchikers (Marley Shelton and Chris Hemsworth) and a pair of free-spirited lovers (Timothy Olyphant and Kiele Sanchez) on the trails, and soon learn of a series of grisly murders in the area. Who can they trust? And are they being followed? Often funny, always suspenseful, and a really good time. With Dale Dickey and Holt McCallany. STARZ / DirecTV / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox
59. Philomena (2013)
Stephen Frears (“The Grifters”) directed this drama with some great moments of levity. Steve Coogan stars as a journalist who learns of the story of a woman (Judi Dench, in the titular role) who had her son taken away as a teen in a Catholic convent, and works with her to find him as he covers the quest for a magazine. Coogan and Dench have a likable chemistry together, but this is Dench’s movie, who reminds you just how amazing of an actor she truly is. FLIX Fling / IMDB TV / Roku / Hoopla / Vudu / Tubi / Pluto TV / Apple TV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Microsoft / DirecTV
60. Predestination (2014)
Based on a short story by Robert A. Heinlein, Ethan Hawke plays a temporal agent who travels through time to try to stop a heinous bomber who has eluded him at every stop. The crux of the movie lies in the relationship between Hawke and a character known as The Unmarried Mother, played by Sarah Snook in an outstanding piece of acting. Twisty, complicated, and a total mindf*#k, it’s surprising and incredibly rewarding if you stick with it. If you enjoy it, also watch “Dark” on NETFLIX, as the two feel like kindred projects. FLIX Fling / DirecTV / Fandango Now / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV / AMC Theatres on Demand
61. Pride (2014)
Lovely comedic drama centers on a squad of Gay Activists in 1984, who band together to support striking miners in a little Welsh town. The film celebrates diversity and how people from disparate walks of life can find common ground and come together to fight injustice. A bevy of Britain’s best character actors including Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, Andrew Scott, George Mackay, Russell Tovey and Paddy Considine work together beautifully for this can’t miss little film. Prime Video / Hoopla / Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Micosoft / AMC Theatre on Demand
62. The Professionals (1966)
A rip-roaring, action-packed Western from Richard Brooks, it stars Lee Marvin, Burt Lancaster, Woody Strode and Robert Ryan and a band of gunslingers who are hired by a rich Texan (Ralph Bellamy) to find his wife (Claudia Cardinale) who was snatched by an outlaw (Jack Palance). But has she really been kidnapped? The opening introduction for each character is brilliant, and the film moves at a brisk clip. Outside of “Silverado,” I can’t think of a Western adventure that’s more fun. Pluto TV / Amazon / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / Microsoft / DirecTV
63. Promised Land (2012)
Gus Van Sant’s unheralded look at fracking and small town livelyhood stars Matt Damon as a corporate salesman who is assigned to get townsfolk hit by the recession hard to allow drilling on their properties. Aided by his sales partner (a hilarious Frances McDormand), he meets resistance in the form of a retired school teacher (Hal Holbrook) and an environmental activist (John Krasinski). The script raises some great moral questions and the game cast really brings it to life – including Titus Welliver, Rosemarie DeWitt, Tim Guinee, Lucas Black, Scoot McNairy and Terry Kinney. NETFLIX / DirecTV / Microsoft / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox
64. The Proposition (2005)
Nick Cave wrote and scored this brutal Australian outback drama with Guy Pearce as Charlie, one of a band of outlaw brothers captured by Captain Stanley (Ray Winstone, chewing scenery). Stanley gives him nine days to hunt down and kill his older brother who is still at large (Danny Huston), or they will execute his younger brother (Richard Wilson). It’s a gripping, white-knuckle tale of family bonds and betrayal that can be hard to stomach at times, but it’s so deftly directed by John Hillcoat and acted by a uniformly excellent cast. With Emily Watson, John Hurt, Noah Taylor and David Wenham. Prime Video / Roku / Vudu / Tubi / Kanopy / Crackle / Pluto TV / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Microsoft / Apple TV
65. Queen of Katwe (2016)
Spiritual cousin to my favorite film of all time (more on that later), Mira Nair (“Monsoon Wedding”) helms this inspirational true story from the Mouse House that tells the tale of Phiona Mutesi (played by newcomer Madina Nalwanga), a teenage girl living in the slums of Uganda who finds she has a master-level understanding of chess. David Oyelowo plays her teacher who sees a way out of the slums and into university for her, while Lupita Nyong’o (excellent as always) plays her mother who worries she’ll forget where she came from. Incredibly well executed and engaging from frame one, it’ll have you cheering. Disney+ / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV / AMC Theatres on Demand
66. Quick Change (1990)
Totally underrated comedy from Bill Murray (who also co-directed), it’s chock full of laughs and fun situations and great chemistry from its trio of stars. Murray plays Grimm, fed up with NYC who plots to rob a bank dressed as a clown. Aided by Phyllis (Geena Davis) and Loomis (Randy Quaid), the three need to get out of town and to the airport before a police chief (Jason Robards) catches up to them. Easier said than done. A ton of great comedic actors have fun character bits including Tony Shalhoub as a cab driver who doesn’t understand English, Stanley Tucci as a mobster, Phil Hartman (man I miss him) as an apartment owner and Philip Bosco as an uptight bus driver. Vudu / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
67. Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)
Peter Gabriel scored this moving drama chronicling three half-white, half-Aboriginal girls who escape from a life of indentured servitude and set off on a harsh journey through the Australian Outback in 1931, in an era known as the “Stolen Generation.” Kenneth Branagh plays the government official working to stop them with the help of a Constable (Jason Clarke) and an Aboriginal tracker (David Gulpilil). Beautifully shot and paced by director Phillip Noyce, it’s a wonderful piece of filmmaking. Hoopla / Amazon/ Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV
68. Robot & Frank (2012)
He’s always been great in everything, but it’s nice to see Frank Langella front and center in this amiable comedy/drama. He plays Frank, a retired jewel thief who is battling dementia. His son (James Marsden) gets him a robot caretaker (voiced by Peter Sarsgaard), but Frank finds the robot to be a good aide in returning to a life of crime. A meditation on aging and loneliness, Langella shines here in one of his best roles ever. Also starring Liv Tyler, Susan Sarandon, Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Sisto and Ana Gasteyer. Prime Video / Roku / Hoopla / Vudu / Tubi / Kanopy / Amazon / Fandango Now / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / AMC Theatres on Demand
69. Rocket Science (2007)
One of the first starring roles for Anna Kendrick, this charming high school comedy about overcoming your challenges and taking chances is delightful. A boy with a bad stutter (Reece Thompson), joins the school debate team after being recruited by the overachieving Ginny (Kendrick), who mentors him and he falls hard for her. A great coming of age story, it also stars Nicholas D’Agosto, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Denis O’Hare and the amazing Margo Martindale. HBO Max / HBO Go / DirecTV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV
70. Role Models (2008)
David Wain’s hilarious comedy rides the bromance between Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott and a genuine love for Live Action Role Playing. Rudd and Scott play Danny and Wheeler who get sentenced to community service in the Big Brother program. Their charges – the awkward Auggie (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) and fast talking Ronnie (Bobb’e J. Thompson) – don’t like them at first, but grudgingly win their respect, culminating in a giant LARPing game. A genuinely good-hearted movie with lots of great one-liners and hilarious supporting actors Ken Jeong, Elizbeth Banks, Ken Marino, Kerri Kenney, Jane Lynch, Jo Lo Truglio, A.D. Miles, Matt Walsh and Keegan-Michael Key. Oh, and the best Wings song that never existed. FLIX Fling / STARZ / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox /DirecTV / AMC Theatres on Demand
71. The Rover (2014)
The movie that made me go, “Oh, Robert Pattinson is a really good actor.” A decade after a global collapse, a man (Guy Pearce) travels through the Australian Outback (boy, there seem to be a lot of outback movies on this list) trying to find the gang that stole his car. He finds himself taking one of them in tow for the journey – Rey (Pattinson), a young man with intellectual disability. A slow build that simmers with intensity, director David Michod (“Animal Kingdom,” also excellent) has crafted a simple yet effective action drama, elevated by the two leads and a cast that includes Scoot McNairy (I should tally how often he pops up in movies on this list), Tawanda Manyimo and David Field. NETFLIX / Kanopy / Amazon / Vudu / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Microsoft / DirecTV / FLIX Fling
72. Safe Men (1998)
“Sweet ‘stache. Thanks bro.” Just one of many ridiculous quotable lines from this silly indie comedy starring Sam Rockwell and Steve Zahn as two bad lounge singer, mistaken for pro safe crackers by a gangster (Michael Lerner), who orders them to crack three safes. His yes-man Veal Chop (a hilarious Paul Giamatti in clothing you won’t believe) keeps tabs on them as they try to figure a way out. It’s got a bunch of great 90s comedians and indie actors – like Mark Ruffalo, Josh Pais, Harvey Fierstein, Michael Showalter, Christina Kirk, Peter Dinklage and that kid that played “Gummo. -- How can it get more 90s than that? Directed by John Hamburg (writer of “Meet the Parents”). Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV
73. Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993)
I couldn’t do this list and not include my all-time favorite movie. It’s got everything – touching family drama, incredible performances, moving cinematography by Conrad Hall and a killer score by James Horner. Directorial debut by acclaimed screenwriter Steven Zaillian (“Schindler’s List”), it’s one of those rare movies that “gets kids right” and manages to make chess exciting. Featuring a naturalistic performance by Max Pomeranc as Josh, a child chess prodigy who learns from a master (Ben Kingsley) and a street player (Laurence Fishburne). Joe Mantegna and Joan Allen play his parents who want to help him use his gift, but remain a kid. It’s pure magic and I can watch it endlessly. Oh, and it also features William H. Macy, Dan Hedaya, Laura Linney, Tony Shalhoub, Austin Pendelton, David Paymer and Anthony Heald. Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV / Apple TV
74. Seconds (1966)
John Frankenheimer (“The Manchurian Candidate”) helmed this unsettling classic drama John Randolph as a middle aged man bored with his life who is offered the opportunity to be “reborn” in the body of a younger man, played by Rock Hudson. With his new identity and body, he finds himself set up in Malibu in a new exciting life. Only it doesn’t come without consequences… Shot in black and white with tons of dutch angles and fisheye lens camera work by the great James Wong Howe, it’s riveting, upsetting and unforgettable. The Criterion Channel / Kanopy / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
75. The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
A jaw-dropping family film from John Sayles (“Matewan”) that’s full of the wonder of myths and fairy tales. Set in a small Irish fishing village, a young girl named Fiona is sent to live with her grandparents by her grief-stricken father after the death of her mother and disappearance of her baby brother. She soon finds herself part of an unfolding fable as her brother is spotted on the Roan Inish, the island of the seals. It’s a marvelous, moving and truly cinematic experience for all ages. Prime Video / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
76. Seems Like Old Times (1980)
One of my favorite comedies of all-time, this Neil Simon-penned story stars Chevy Chase as Nick, reclusive writer forced to rob a bank by criminals. On the run, he turns to his ex-wife Gloria (Goldie Hawn) for help. She’s a public defender, but is now married to a prosecutor named Ira (Charles Grodin) who has it out for Nick. The three leads play so well off each other – this is my favorite Grodin performance. The dialogue is vintage Simon, the situations are hilariously farcical, and the supporting cast also includes T.K. Carter and Robert Guillaume, who utters one of my most quoted lines – “Love that Chicken Pepperoni!” Pluto TV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV
77. Seraphim Falls (2006)
Incredibly well done, unique revenge western. Just after the Civil War has ended, Carver (Liam Neeson) doggedly chases Gideon (Pierce Brosnan) across the west, with a posse in his pocket. Unwavering in his quest to hunt him and kill him, Carver and Gideon play a savage game of cat and mouse. The characters are well drawn and you find yourself not quite sure who to root for as their connection is slowly revealed over the course of the film. With Michael Wincott, Anjelica Houston, Xander Berkeley, Wes Studi, Jimmi Simpson and Ed Lauter. Fubu / Showtime / Amazon / Vudu / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV
78. The Sessions (2012)
John Hawkes gives an incredible performance as Mark, a man in an iron lung due to polio, decides he no longer wants to be a virgin (he’s 38), so he hires a sex surrogate (Helen Hunt, a match for Hawkes scene for scene) to help him. Based on a true story, the relationship that develops between them is well-drawn and multifaceted. The two have great chemistry, and the film is both funny and dramatic. William H. Macy co-stars as a priest Mark confides in. Also with Rhea Perlman, W. Earl Brown, Moon Bloodgood, Robin Weigert and Adam Arkin. Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
79. Shaolin Soccer (2001)
Stephen Chow’s ridiculous, over-the-top sports kung-fu comedy is delightful from frame one until the end. Chow plays Sing, a man trying to rekindle the traditions of Shaolin kung-fu, who teams up with a disgraced soccer coach to re-teach his brothers their skills, all the while applying it to the pitch. The hilarious CGI is eye-popping, and set the stage for Chow’s “Kung Fu Hustle” to come shortly therafter. Fubo / DirecTV / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / AMC Theatres on Demand
80. Shoot ‘Em Up (2007)
Speaking of over-the-top, this laughable actioner shoots the hell out of subtlety. A man named Smith (Clive Owen), delivers a baby during a shoot out and spends the next 90 minutes protecting it from a gang lead by Hertz (Paul Giamatti, gleefully embracing the villain role). The movie is hilariously tongue-in-cheek and a fun way to spend an afternoon. With Monica Bellucci and Stephen McHattie. Roku / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
81. Short Term 12 (2013)
An incredibly powerful and engrossing dramatic look at the foster care system, it stars Brie Larson as Grace, a counselor at a facility for at-risk teens, who takes a particular interest in Jayden (a sensational Kaitlyn Dever) who has a history of self-harm. The cast has so many amazing actors who all went on to bigger things – including Rami Malek, LaKeith Stanfield (then just Keith), Stephanie Beatriz, Melora Walters and John Gallagher, Jr. Written and Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, it was one of the best films of 2013. Prime Video / Peacock / Hoopla / Vudu / Tubi / Pluto TV / Amazon / Google Play/ YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Apple TV / Microsoft
82. Sing Street (2016)
This was the one that really resonated with me in 2016 – a sharp, funny, music-filled coming of age tale from John Carney (“Once,” “Begin Again”). Ferdia Walsh-Peelo plays Conor, a young man in 1980s Dublin struggling with his new school situation and his parent’s divorce. He falls hard for Raphina (Lucy Boynton), and forms a band to get her attention. Mentored by his older-brother Brendan (a scene-stealing Jack Reynor), Conor finds himself through music. The songs are all catchy and great (many written by Carney, Gary Clark, Glen Hansard and Adam Levine) and I found myself overcome with emotion at the end. With Maria Doyle Kennedy, Kelly Thornton and Aidan Gillen. Roku / Tubi / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Apple TV / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / AMC Theatres on Demand
83. Slow West (2015)
Don’t let the title dissuade you – yes, it’s a character based western, but it moves at a good clip and is only 84 minutes long. Kodi Smit-McPhee plays a young Scottish man who follows the girl he loves to America. Over his head, he takes up with a drifter (Michael Fassbender, chomping a cigar) who helps guide and protect him along his journey. Great performances and incredible scenery highlight this little film, with Ben Mendelsohn as a fur-wearing baddie. Also starring Caren Pistorius, Tawanda Manyimo, Rory “The Hound” McCann. NETFLIX / Hoopla / Kanopy / Amazon / Vudu / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Microsoft / DirecTV / FLIX Fling
84. Smoke Signals (2008)
Sherman Alexie’s novel comes to life in this sweet and funny look at American Indian culture. The film follows Victor Joseph (Adam Beach), who lives on the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation in Idaho. Learning his estranged father (Gary Beach) is dead, he travels to collect his remains along with his friend Thomas Builds-The-Fire (Evan Adams) in Phoenix, where he meets Suzy Song (Irene Bedard), who helps fill in the gaps about his past. Storytelling abounds with gentle humor in this unforgettable movie, part of the National Film Registry. Directed by Chris Eyre. Hoopla / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon/ Vudu / AMC Theatres on Demand
85. Son of Rambow (2007)
Man do I love Will Poulter (we’ll see him again towards the end of the list). Set in the 80s during an English summer, it follows two boys (Bill Milner and Poulter) who, armed with a VHS camera, make a war film inspired by “First Blood.” Anyone who made little movies with their friends growing up will certainly identify as I sure did, as the charming film is full of creativity and imagination. It’s sparked a quest in me to dig up my old VHS endeavors I made with my trusty Panasonic. Directed by Garth Jennings. Prime Video / Roku / Tubi / Kanopy / Pluto TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV / Fandango Now
86. Stardust (2007)
I’m a big fan of Neil Gaiman, whose work can be complicated to bring to the screen, but this adaption truly soars thanks to Gaiman’s screenplay and Matthew Vaughn’s deft direction. A fairy tale following a boy (Daredevil’s Charlie Cox) and a falling star (Claire Danes) has everything you’d want in this kind of film – action, romance, comedy, you name it. If you’re a fan of “The Princess Bride,” this is right up your alley. And the cast is full of heavy-hitters, including Michelle Pfeiffer as a witch tracking the star down, Robert DeNiro as a feared Pirate captain putting on a façade, Ricky Gervais as a shifty merchant, Peter O’Toole as a dying king and memorable turns from Sienna Miller, Rupert Everett, Mark Strong, Ben Barnes, David Kelly, Henry Cavill and Ian McKellen as the Narrator. FLIX Fling / NETFLIX / DirecTV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
87. Starter for 10 (2006)
Set in the 80s with a killer New Wave soundtrack, the film follows Brian (James McAvoy), who enrolls at Bristol and tries out for “University Challenge,” a quiz team, and falls for Alice (Alice Eve). The warm romantic comedy is a bit like a Brit John Hughes film, and is stacked with a who’s-who of character actors including Benedict Cumberbatch, James Corden, Mark Gatiss, Rebecca Hall, Catherine Tate, Dominic Cooper, Charles Dance, Lindsay Duncan and Simon Woods. HBO Max / HBO Go / DirecTV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV
88. The Station Agent (2003)
Incredible comedy/drama from Tom McCarthy (who also gave us the wonderful “The Visitor”), Peter Dinklage stars as a lonely man who moves to a New Jersey train depot after his only friend dies. Reclusive, he gradually lets in a fast-talking hot dog vendor (Bobby Cannavale), an artist (Patricia Clarkson), and a love interest (Michelle Williams). The chemisty is amazing between all the leads, and the amiable film is a joy to watch. Hoopla / MAX Go / DirecTV / Amazon / Vudu / Redbox / Google Play / YouTube
89. Still Crazy (1998)
This fantastic rock n roll comedy managed to fly under the radar, despite it’s handful of Golden Globe nominations (which happened before it was released stateside). Tony (Stephen Rea) endeavors to reunite his band “Strange Fruit” twenty years after they broke up. All doing menial jobs now, they reluctantly decide to give it a go, reigniting past love and rivalry. In a precursor to his role in “Love Actually,” Bill Nighy is a hoot as the clueless lead singer, and the rest of the band is top notch – Timothy Spall, Jimmy Nail and new recruit Hans Matheson. Co-starring Billy Connolly, Juliet Aubrey and Helena Bergstrom. Pluto TV / Amazon / Fandango Now / Apple TV / Vudu / Google Play / YouTube / Microsoft / DirecTV
90. Strictly Ballroom (1992)
Early film from Baz Luhrmann is a stylish and hilarious celebration of dance starring Paul Mercurio as Scott Hastings, champion of the Australian Ballroom circuit, until he starts dancing his own steps and is outcast. Enter Fran (a wonderful Tara Morice), the proverbial ugly duckling, who might just be the partner he needs to get back. The two have great chemistry and the dancing is phenomenal. With Gia Carides and Barry Otto. Hoopla / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV
91. Tell No One (2006)
Intriguing French thriller based on the book by Harlan Coben (if you want fun cliffhangers, watch his various series on NETFLIX), it stars Francois Cluzet as Dr. Alexandre Beck, whose wife Margot (Marie-Josee Croze) was murdered eight years ago. When two bodies are found where she was murdered, the case is reopened, and Alexandre is a suspect – and things get really complicated when he receives an email from Margot, who evidently is still alive. What follows is a twisty, Fugitive-like mystery that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. With Kristin Scott Thomas, directed by Guillaume Canet. Hoopla / Kanopy / Mubi / Fandor / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / Microsoft / Apple TV
92. Three O’Clock High (1987)
Fun 80s comedy from Phil Joanou (“State of Grace”) who uses a bunch of camera tricks to make it feel like it’s constantly moving. It stars Casey Siemaszko as Jerry, a soft spoken nerd who inadvertently pisses off the new-in-school Buddy Revell (Richard Tyson), who commands him to fight him at 3pm after school. With a rap sheet and rumors that he’s “killed a guy,” Jerry spends the day trying to figure a way out of the skirmish, only to make things worse. With Annie Ryan, Jeffrey Tambor, Stacey Glick, Philip Baker Hall, Yeardley Smith and Paul Feig as a Hall Monitor. STARZ / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV
93. Time After Time (1979)
H.G. Wells vs. Jack the Ripper in 1979 San Francisco – what more do you need? Nicolas Meyer (“Star Trek II”) helmed this sharp sci-fi thriller, with Malcolm McDowell as Wells and David Warner as Jack, and Mary Steenburgen as the woman who might just get Wells to stay in the future, if Jack doesn’t get to her first. Manages to be tense, funny, and romantic all in one. Fandango Now / Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu / DirecTV
94. The TV Set (2006)
Sly comedy from Jake Kasdan is a inside-baseball skewering of the entertainment industry, starring David Duchovny as a TV writer working on a pilot that gets noted to death by the network, including their insistence on a terrible leading man (Fran Kranz). Sigourney Weaver is brilliant as the cutthroat network boss – indeed everyone in the higher-ups are clueless to how it all works, and Mike has to try to make it work without completely selling out his vision. Lindsay Sloane, Ioan Gruffudd, Judy Greer, Justine Bateman, Simon Helberg, Willie Garson and Lucy Davis round out the star-studded cast. Peacock / Roku / Hoopla / Tubi / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Apple TV / Vudu
95. The Upside of Anger (2005)
Mike Binder’s sharp comedy about family bonds stars Joan Allen as Terry, left to raise her four independent daughters after her husband disappears, who soon finds herself involved with her ex-baseball player neighbor (Kevin Costner). Allen and Costner play well off of each other, but it’s the mother/daughter relationships that are exciting to watch – all four are played well by Erika Christensen, Alicia Witt, Keri Russell and Evan Rachel Wood. Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / DirecTV
96. Velvet Goldmine (1998)
Fans of the Glam Rock era will be enthralled with Todd Haynes’ musical fantasy, starring Christian Bale as a journalist covering two rockers (Ewan McGregor and Jonathan Rhys Meyers, channeling Iggy Pop and David Bowie), challenging the norms of persona and sexuality. Music by Eno, Shudder to Think, Slade, T-Rex, Bryan Ferry, Pulp, Thom Yorke, Grant Lee Philips and more. To be played at maximum volume. Also starring Toni Collette, Janet McTeer and Eddie Izzard. Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Vudu
97. We’re The Millers (2013)
Surprisingly cutting and funny comedy from Rawson Marshall Thurber (director of “Dodgeball”). A small-time pot dealer (Jason Sudeikis) creates a “family” to help move it across the border, with Jennifer Aniston posing as his wife and Emma Roberts and Will Poulter as his teenage kids. Laugh-out-loud dialogue pairs with some great outrageous moments – and it’s a treat to see Will Poulter rap his way through “Waterfalls.” Also featuring a scene-stealing Mark L. Young as Scotty “No Ragrats” P., Nick Offerman, Kathryn Hahn, Ed Helms, Thomas Lennon, Ken Marino and Luis Guzman. Fubo / DirecTV / Sling / TNT / Amazon / Apple TV / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Redbox / DirecTV / Microsoft
98. Win Win (2011)
Paul Giamatti stars in another Tom McCarthy entry on the list as a struggling attorney and volunteer high school wrestling coach who finds a star athlete (Alex Shaffer) while doing a sketchy deal with his grandfather (Burt Young). He mentors him, all the while wondering if everything he is doing is moral. Shaffer is very convincing, and the cast around him is phenomenal – Bobby Cannavale and Jeffrey Tambor as assistant coaches, Amy Ryan as Giamatti’s understanding wife, and memorable work from Margo Martindale, Melanie Lynsky and Nina Arianda. Microsoft / Redbox / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
99. Young@Heart (2007)
Sweet, funny, sad and touching documentary about the Young At Heart choir, comprised of senior citizens singing songs by Jimi Hendrix, Sonic Youth, The Clash, The Ramones, Allen Toussaint and more. You get to meet most of the choir and see how music unites them all and gives them something exciting in their golden years. You lose some new friends along the way, and you’ll never hear a more emotional rendition of Coldplay’s “Fix You.” IndieFix / Microsoft / Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / You Tube / Fandango Now / Vudu / DirecTV
100. Zero Effect (1998)
Bill Pullman shines as eccentric detective Daryl Zero in Jake Kasdan’s fun neo noir crime comedy. Ben Stiller plays his long suffering assistant, who does his best to aid him in as he tries to deduce who is blackmailing a wealthy executive (Ryan O’Neal). Quirky, genuinely surprising and well-constructed, it’s a shame it didn’t inspire a series of Daryl Zero mystery films. Apple TV / Amazon / Google Play / YouTube / Fandango Now / Vudu / Microsoft / Redbox / DirecTV
And here’s the list of titles that would have been included but weren’t on streaming devices:
American Movie, Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, The Hot Rock, King of the Hill, Mirage, Series 7: The Contenders, State of Grace, Terri, The Sure Thing, A Thousand Clowns, Trekkies and The Wrong Guy.
That’s it – hope you find some new favorites! Please pass this on, and don’t be a jerk – picks are subjective and I did this just for fun. Thanks!