Top 10 Underrated Movies You Need to See

While some not-so-great movies inexplicably rake in millions, many genuinely brilliant films often get overlooked. It’s a tale as old as Hollywood itself! We’ve all stumbled across a movie that, despite its quality, remains hidden in the shadows of bigger, sometimes less deserving, blockbusters. Here are 10 criminally under-appreciated movies from the last 20 years that deserve your attention.

The Gift (2015)

“The Gift” begins with a happily married couple moving from Chicago to Los Angeles for a fresh start. Their lives take a dark turn when the husband’s old high school acquaintance re-enters the picture, becoming increasingly intrusive with unsettling intentions. The couple soon realizes that this reunion might not be a happy coincidence at all.

Starring Jason Bateman, Rebecca Hall, and Joel Edgerton (who also directed), “The Gift” defied expectations. This shockingly smart thriller features intense performances and a consistently twisting plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. A weak marketing campaign caused many to miss its initial release, but “The Gift” has since gained a cult following as one of the most unique thrillers in recent years.

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower (2012)

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” tells the story of Charlie, a 15-year-old dealing with clinical depression in the aftermath of his best friend’s suicide. As he navigates the dark and hopeless road ahead, Charlie starts to rediscover his zest for life through Patrick and Samantha, two eccentric seniors who embrace him and include him in their unconventional adventures.

Adapted from Stephen Chbosky’s novel, who also wrote and directed the movie, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” features Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller. Each performance shines, particularly Lerman as Charlie. This is one of the most emotional and well-crafted teen dramas of the last decade, deserving greater recognition than it received upon release.

Tokyo Godfathers (2003)

A unique Japanese Christmas film, “Tokyo Godfathers” is a heartwarming animated movie about three homeless individuals who discover an abandoned newborn in a dumpster. As they search the streets of Tokyo at night for the baby’s parents, their relationships and life choices are brought into sharp focus.

From director Satoshi Kon, known for “Paprika,” “Tokyo Godfathers” is a beautiful and powerful exploration of identity and family. The characters are incredibly relatable, thanks to the amazing writing. It stands as one of the most underrated Japanese animations, offering a glimpse into Japanese culture often unseen by Western audiences.

The Intouchables (2011)

“The Intouchables” tells the true story of Driss, a street-smart immigrant, and Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat who becomes quadriplegic after a paragliding accident. Philippe hires Driss as his caregiver, and despite their vastly different backgrounds, they form a friendship that transcends their worlds.

Starring Omar Sy and François Cluzet, this French film is full of emotion and humor. “The Intouchables” delivers its messages through fantastic storytelling and incredible characters. An American remake, “The Upside,” failed to capture the magic of the original and was widely criticized.

Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

Set 30 years after the original, “Blade Runner 2049” follows Agent K, a replicant who hunts down his own kind. He uncovers a secret: a replicant has given birth to a biological child, which poses a threat to humanity. K sets out to find the child first.

“Blade Runner 2049” was overlooked due to a misleading marketing campaign that portrayed it as an action film rather than the psychological thriller it truly is. Despite its mesmerizing visuals, fantastic acting, and beautiful story, it underperformed at the box office. It’s a modern sci-fi masterpiece.

The Wailing (2016)

This South Korean horror film tells the story of Jong-Goo, a police officer investigating a series of murders and illnesses potentially linked to a mysterious Japanese traveler. When his daughter falls ill, Jong-Goo races against time to uncover the truth and save her.

Directed by Hong-jin Na, “The Wailing” is a weird and creative film, not as widely known as other Korean creations like “Parasite.” Its engaging mystery and atypical storytelling will keep you glued to your seat. The acting is great, the writing is fantastic, and the dark atmosphere will send chills down your spine.

Good Time (2017)

Connie Nikas, a lowlife, finds himself in a desperate situation when his mentally troubled brother is arrested after a robbery gone wrong. Determined to bail him out, Connie embarks on a dark and violent night through New York City to obtain $10,000.

“Good Time” showcased Robert Pattinson’s talent beyond the “Twilight” saga. This A24 flick revealed him as a brilliant actor. The movie is a dark and realistic portrayal of survival, where a character with questionable morals does anything to help his loved ones.

Drive (2011)

Based on James Sallis’s novel, “Drive” follows a stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver. He develops a relationship with his neighbor, Irene, and her son. When Irene’s husband is released from prison and targeted by a mob boss, things escalate into violence and danger.

Upon its release, “Drive” suffered from a misleading marketing campaign that portrayed it as a brainless action flick. Despite this, it has gained a massive cult following and is now considered a great film of the 21st century. Featuring Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, and Bryan Cranston, “Drive” is expertly crafted with compelling characters and a deeply emotional story.

Equilibrium (2002)

In a futuristic totalitarian state, emotions are suppressed through mandatory daily injections. John Preston, a top officer, misses a dose and begins to experience emotions, questioning the government’s true intentions and feeling guilt over his wife’s execution for having emotions.

“Equilibrium” was ahead of its time, offering clever social commentary, great acting (especially from Christian Bale), and spectacular martial arts sequences. It’s a brilliant science-fiction thriller with amazing world-building that deserves more recognition.

The Nice Guys (2016)

Set in 1977 Los Angeles, “The Nice Guys” follows a private investigator who teams up with a more brutal investigator to find a missing young woman. Her disappearance may be connected to the death of a porn star.

Directed by Shane Black, “The Nice Guys” is an action-comedy reminiscent of buddy-cop films from the 70s and 80s. Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling shine as the star duo. Despite critical acclaim, the movie was overlooked by audiences, leaving the possibility of a sequel uncertain.

These films represent just a fraction of the under-appreciated cinematic gems out there. Each offers something unique, whether it’s a thrilling plot, emotional depth, or groundbreaking storytelling. Give these movies a watch; you might just discover your new favorite!

Which of these movies have you seen? Let us know in the comments below!