It happens to all of us. You spend way too long scrolling through all your streaming services just to end up watching hours of previews instead of an actual movie. While this can be fun, I know that the decision fatigue for choosing a movie is REAL. I’ve had many nights where I ended up choosing something that was just not that great, however, I’ve also lucked out and found some hidden gems (maybe they’re not so hidden) that I think are worth the watch. So save yourself the trouble and use this list to help you get through your next movie night without the fuss!

Indie, Emotional, Slow Burn

Personally, this is my favorite type of movie. The kind that is heavy on dialogue and gives all the VIBES to want to reinvent yourself or change your life. While these films have a somber and at times sad tone, they are also inspiring and make you want to celebrate YOUR life.

Stella’s Last Weekend (2018) Directed by Polly Draper

This is a story of two brothers (played by Nat and Alex Wolff) who reunite for the unfortunate event of putting their dog to sleep. Unexpectedly, the two brothers also find themselves in a love triangle, causing even more friction in their relationship. This is a film that I appreciated for it’s mix of humor and drama. It has both depth and a warmth to it that I believe can be used to get you through some of those tougher times. It is available for rent or buy on Apple, Google Play, or Amazon and currently to stream on Plex Channel or fuboTV.

The Skeleton Twins (2014) Directed by Craig Johnson

This film also deals with a sibling reunion, following two twins (played by Kristin Wiig and Bill Hader). I found this story to be all about rebuilding connection with others and with yourself. I think you’ll especially appreciate it, if you find certain family relationships in your life difficult. It won’t apply to every situation, but it can still be something eye opening and to ponder over. It also does focus on some darker themes and humor, but if you’re anything like me that is something you’ll down right love! Right now you’ll have to rent or buy this one through Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play or the Microsoft Store.

The Florida Project (2017) Directed by Sean Baker

I know this movie is pretty well-known but I watched it years ago while randomly scrolling through Netflix and it’s a movie that has really changed my inner compass. There is a unique quietness to it that is calm but captivating. The story follows a young child and her friends as they bring their wonder to a world that is full of hard times. It’s a movie that doesn’t need much but brings a lot to the table to think about and appreciate. I don’t really have much else to say, but that you absolutely need to watch this one. You can rent or buy this on Apple TV, Google Play, Amazon, or Youtube.

Feel Goods (with depth)

These next movies are bound to raise your spirits and leave you feeling a bit more inspired to walk through your days with some new perspective. Don’t worry, however, they are still full of depth and great storytelling that’ll make it worth your time.

Peanut Butter Falcon (2019) Directed by Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwarz

If you’re looking for a story that is all about unexpected connections that change your life, this is for you! It follows Tyler (Shia LeBeouf) and Zack (Zak) a young man, with down-syndrome. Tyler is helping Zack get to a wrestling school where he can finally live out his dream, but the real journey is in their unexpected friendship. This movie is witty, rounded, and one that I think everyone should see! You can rent or buy this on Amazon, AppleTV, Google Play, Amazon Video, and Fandango At Home.

Cha Cha Real Smooth (2022) Directed bt Cooper Raiff

This movie definitely took me by surprise and left me smiling! It follows another young man down on his luck, Similarly to Peanut Butter Falcon, his connection with the people he meets is what makes this story feel so full and whole. It really begs the question of, how are we treating the people around us? Is that something we can be proud of? Again, this film is full of depth but some truly enjoyable moments that make you laugh, smile, and perhaps dance? You can stream this movie on AppleTV+.

Brigsby Bear (2017) Directed by Dave McCary

If you’re in the mood for a movie that will definitely take you out of your typical mindset, this one can do it! The story surrounds James (Kyle Mooney) and his favorite show Brigsby Bear. This show has been going for as long as he can remember, but one day, it abruptly ends and sends him on a journey of his own. This story is full of twists, oddities, and a warmth that will leave you feeling satisfied and also going WTF? You can rent or buy this movie on AppleTV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video, or Microsoft Store.

Action/Fantasy

I know we don’t often think of big action movies as being an “unexpectedly A+” film, but there are some out there that I think are still understated but just as entertaining as those box office hits.

Reign of Fire (2002) Directed by Rob Bowman

Okay, this might be cheating because it is an older film but it’s one I don’t hear many people talking about these days. It’s full of fire, dragons, and survival. Everything you need to keep entertained and on the edge of your seat for a few hours. While definitely more of a fantasy, there is still a lot of heart in this film. There are notes of love, sacrifice, and survival— all of which will leave you feeling inspired and like a warrior in your own right. You can see this film by renting or buying it on AppleTV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video, or Microsoft Store.

Emily The Criminal (2022) Directed by John Patton Ford

Emily (Aubrey Plaza) needs money, so naturally, she takes on a shady job— like anyone else would right? This movie follows her schemes to get rich quick, but is it worth it? This story is full of entertaining and thrilling scenes, plus it’s Aubrey Plaza so you know it’s going to be good! You can rent or by on Amazon, AppleTV, Google Play, Fandango at Home.

In the Need for Some Romance?

We can’t complete this list without some love, right? These next few films are all about relationships and the complications of falling in/out of love.

Maggie’s Plan (2015) Directed by Rebecca Miller

Maggie (Greta Gerwig) wants to have a baby and she’s going to do it all alone. Well, that is until she falls in love with John (Ethan Hawke). Did I mention he’s older and married? I think that is all I need to say, but this is definitely a movie that I think is worth watching for the somewhat incredulous plot and of course amazing acting. You can rent or buy this film on Amazon, AppleTV, Google Play, or Youtube.

Black Bear (2020) Directed by Lawrence Michael Levine

This movie follows Allison (Aubrey Plaza) a filmmaker who needs to get out of town and find inspiration. She finds herself being entertained at a remote lake house by a couple. What starts off as a relaxing getaway quickly turns into a situation of deceit, games, and jealousy. It’s every partners worst nightmare realized, but it’s also too entertaining to look away. You can rent or buy on Apple TV, Google Play, Amazon or stream it currently on Fawesome or The Roku Channel.

So, what is next on your list? You can find this list on my Letterboxd— where I’ll be sure to update it with more Unexpectedly A+ films I find along the way.

For today’s song, Cinema by Harry Styles.

Thank you, I love you.

-Rae