Watching a blockbuster movie from time to time is a tempting option, but independent cinema is attractive too, with streaming platforms like Netflix doing a better job than most at championing it. The indie movie scene is certainly throwing up several intriguing releases in general, although some like “The Shade Shepherd” aren’t without their flaws. On Netflix, though, the options are solid, overall.
Netflix is the go-to option for most movie fans which is why many smaller productions are keen to be a part of the platform and essentially open up a movie to a worldwide audience. In recent times, Irish films such as “Calm with Horses,” have been extremely well received, alongside other independent hits such as “Rocks.” The fact these movies can be enjoyed on the same smartphone devices we use to update our social media profiles or play slots like Anaconda Wild II is remarkable for the independent movie scene. As a result, some independent movies have gone on to make more of an impact than they would have done had they not been a part of platforms like Netflix.
Netflix is showing no signs of slowing down its indie cinema offering either despite facing scrutiny in recent times. The fact there is now an established platform for indie cinema can only be a positive thing for the overall scene. There are some fantastic options on Netflix at the moment, too. Here is a look at some of them.
Saint Frances
An indie comedy-drama that is regarded by many as being one of the best releases of 2020, “Saint Frances” is the story of a directionless 34-year-old woman who takes a job as a nanny for a lesbian couple. From there, the movie does a remarkable job at highlighting the overall female experience and what women go through with their bodies, such as menstruation, abortion, and post-natal depression. This powerful content accompanies the movie’s warm and funny tone to help create what is a truly fantastic release to watch from start to finish.
Chef
Jon Favreau is an avid supporter of the indie movie scene and “Chef,” his latest piece of work, is arguably up there with some of his mainstream titles like “Iron Man,” “Elf,” and “The Lion King.” Writing, directing, and starring in the movie follows the story of a chef who gets involved in a dispute with the restaurant’s owner in upmarket LA. Eventually, it comes to a head and he leaves for pastures new to Miami where he establishes himself once again.
The Dig
A quiet and bittersweet period drama, “The Dig” is about an archaeologist who is excavating Sutton Hoo in 1938. “The Dig”’s five BAFTA Film Award nominations should speak for themselves in what is one of the most memorable movies in recent years. Throwing up romance, the death of a loved one, and a war on the horizon, it’s a powerful watch right from the very first scene. Co-starring Ralph Fiennes and Lily James, who are both excellent in the movie, “The Dig” is well worth watching.
Circus of Books
A touching documentary by Rachel Mason, “Circus of Books” focuses on the life of her Jewish parents and the unusual businesses they own together, a gay bookstore and a porn shop. An entertaining sex comedy offering an insight into the gay lifestyle and how the couple managed to become immersed in the scene, “Circus of Books” is an interesting and witty watch.
Other indie movies worth checking out are “The Florida Project,” “Captain Fantastic,” “Paddleton,” “Roma,” “Atlantics,” and “Mistress America.”
