Hulu’s Hidden Gems: A Guide to the Streaming Service’s Best Movies
Hulu, the streaming service that brought us the Emmy Award-winning "The Handmaid’s Tale," is making its mark beyond television with an impressive library of movies. While Netflix might dominate in the realm of original features, Hulu’s offering is a diverse mix of acclaimed films, hidden gems, and modern classics, offering something for every taste.
This guide will explore some of Hulu’s most compelling titles, highlighting the remarkable performances, intriguing narratives, and thought-provoking themes that make these films stand out. Whether you’re searching for a captivating thriller, a poignant drama, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a thought-provoking commentary on our times, Hulu has something to offer.
For the Drama Enthusiast:
1. "Ferrari" (2023): This biopic, directed by Michael Mann, plunges us into the tumultuous life of Enzo Ferrari (Adam Driver), the legendary race car driver and founder of the Ferrari car company. Set in the summer of 1957, the film captures Ferrari at a crossroads, facing bankruptcy, grappling with the loss of his son, and desperately trying to hide his past indiscretions. The film delivers a complex portrait of a man wrestling with ambition, tragedy, and the consequences of his choices. Penélope Cruz delivers a captivating performance as his estranged wife, Laura, providing a powerful counterpoint to Driver’s simmering intensity.
2. "Perfect Days" (2023): Wim Wenders, a master of cinema, crafts a poignant and understated masterpiece with "Perfect Days." The film follows Hirayama (Kōji Yakusho), a toilet cleaner in Tokyo, who finds contentment in the simple routines of his life. His days are punctuated by moments of quiet reflection, music, books, and nature. The film eschews dramatic storylines, instead focusing on the subtle interactions and unspoken emotions that enrich Hirayama’s existence. Yakusho’s nuanced performance imbues the film with a profound sense of calm and humanity.
3. "Origin" (2023): Writer-director Ava DuVernay continues to push boundaries with this engaging biopic that doubles as a historical document. "Origin" follows the life of Isabel Wilkerson (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), the first Black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in journalism. The film chronicles Wilkerson’s journey to write her groundbreaking book "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents," a profound exploration of caste systems across different cultures. DuVernay weaves together Wilkerson’s personal story with insightful commentary on societal structures and the power of storytelling.
4. "Anatomy of a Fall" (2023): This courtroom drama keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as a successful writer, Sandra (Sandra Hüller), becomes the prime suspect in the death of her husband. The film meticulously unravels the complexities of the case, exploring the interplay of memory, truth, and perception. Hüller delivers a masterful performance, portraying a woman torn between vulnerability and resilience. The film’s suspenseful narrative, exceptional cast, and compelling themes make it a captivating watch.
5. "Corsage" (2022): Vicky Krieps delivers a tour-de-force performance as Empress Elisabeth of Austria in this fictionalized biopic. The film follows Elisabeth after her forty-first birthday as she grapples with the restrictions of her position and yearns for the freedom of her youth. The film explores thematic elements of aging, societal pressures, and the desire for autonomy, offering a fresh perspective on the life of a historical figure.
For the Thriller Fan:
1. "Get Out" (2017): Jordan Peele’s directorial debut is a masterclass in horror, social commentary, and psychological suspense. Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a young Black man, visits his white girlfriend’s family estate in upstate New York, only to find himself caught in a terrifying and unsettling situation. Peele’s sharp writing and masterful direction turn "Get Out" into a chilling examination of race, privilege, and the insidious nature of prejudice.
2. "Fight Club" (1999): David Fincher’s cult classic explores the dark underbelly of consumerism and the allure of violence. An insomniac office worker (Edward Norton) finds solace in an underground fight club, led by the charismatic and rebellious Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt). "Fight Club" is a visually stunning and psychologically gripping film, raising questions about masculinity, identity, and the rebellion against conformity.
3. "The Contestant" (2023): This riveting documentary delves into the controversial Japanese game show "Susunu! Denpa Shōnen," where comedian Tomoaki Hamatsu lived in confinement for 15 months, nude and without human contact, all while being broadcast to millions. The film explores the ethics and consequences of such an experiment, examining its impact on Hamatsu and the viewers who were complicit in watching his isolation.
4. "The Royal Hotel" (2023): Julia Garner and Jessica Henwick star in this taut psychological thriller about two friends who take a job at a remote hotel in the Australian outback, unaware of the sinister secrets lurking beneath the surface. The film effectively builds tension, drawing the audience into a chilling atmosphere with a palpable sense of dread. Garner’s intense performance as Hanna, the skeptical friend who senses something is amiss, adds to the film’s potency.
5. "No One Will Save You" (2023): Kaitlyn Dever excels in this chilling home invasion thriller with a sci-fi twist. Brynn (Dever), a solitary seamstress, finds herself facing a terrifying threat within the walls of her childhood home. The film’s unpredictable narrative and Dever’s powerful performance create an intense and unforgettable watching experience.
For the Comedy Aficionado:
1. "Rushmore" (1998): Wes Anderson’s quirky and charming sophomore feature introduces Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman), an eccentric teenager who throws himself into extracurricular activities at the prestigious Rushmore Academy. His unorthodox path leads him to an unexpected friendship with a cynical millionaire (Bill Murray). "Rushmore" is full of Anderson’s trademark wit, visual eccentricity, and memorable characters.
2. "Sideways" (2004): This award-winning film follows the misadventures of middle-aged teacher Miles (Paul Giamatti) and his actor friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church) as they embark on a wine-tasting trip through California’s Santa Ynez Valley. The film’s sharp dialogue, relatable characters, and humorous exploration of friendship and midlife crisis make it a delightful watch.
3. "Self Reliance" (2023): Jake Johnson makes his directorial debut with this meta-comedy, starring alongside Anna Kendrick. The film follows Tommy (Johnson), a seemingly ordinary man who gets caught up in a bizarre reality competition where contestants fight for a million-dollar prize while being hunted by contract killers. "Self Reliance" blends dark humor with unexpected twists, creating an entertaining and often hilarious experience.
4. "Miguel Wants to Fight" (2023): This coming-of-age comedy follows Miguel (Tyler Dean Flores), a 17-year-old who’s never been in a fight, determined to get into one before moving away. The film captures the awkwardness and absurdity of teenage rituals with a blend of humor and heartwarming moments.
5. "Palm Springs" (2020): This modern take on the time-loop rom-com offers a refreshingly witty and irreverent take on the classic "Groundhog Day" formula. Nyles (Andy Samberg) and Sarah (Cristin Milioti) find themselves trapped in a repeating wedding day, leading to hilarious and insightful explorations of relationships and self-discovery.
For the Cult Film Fan:
1. "Fight Club" (1999): As mentioned above, David Fincher’s "Fight Club" remains a cult classic, with its themes resonating with audiences across generations. The film’s unique style, memorable dialogue, and thought-provoking concepts have cemented its place in cinematic history.
2. "Alien" (1979):** Ridley Scott’s sci-fi horror masterpiece "Alien" is a benchmark in the genre, featuring iconic creature design, intense suspense, and a strong female lead in Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley. The film’s enduring appeal lies in its masterful combination of horror, action, and philosophical themes.
For the Socially Conscious Viewer:
1. "Get Out" (2017): This film’s exploration of race and systemic prejudice continues to be relevant and powerful, prompting important conversations about social issues.
2. "Bad Axe" (2021): David Siev’s documentary paints a moving portrait of his family’s restaurant in rural Michigan, navigating the challenges of anti-Asian sentiment and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The film offers a poignant commentary on the impact of political polarization and the struggles of immigrants in America.
3. "How to Blow Up a Pipeline" (2022): Daniel Goldhaber’s film delves into the fight against climate change through an audacious heist thriller. The film’s engaging narrative and compelling characters spark dialogue about environmental activism and the urgency of tackling climate change.
4. "Triangle of Sadness" (2022): This Oscar-nominated film offers a sharp critique of wealth, privilege, and the absurdity of social hierarchies. The film’s darkly comedic approach and satirical edge expose the contradictions of modern society.
For the Rom-Com Lover:
1. "Rye Lane" (2023): Raine Allen-Miller’s charming rom-com offers a fresh take on the genre with its focus on self-discovery and the importance of connection. Yas (Vivian Oparah) and Dom (David Jonsson) navigate their post-breakup blues with humor and honesty, leading to an unexpected and heartwarming relationship.
2. "Palm Springs" (2020): The film’s quirky premise and intelligent humor make it a standout rom-com that defies convention. The unexpected relationship that develops between Nyles and Sarah provides a delightful blend of humor, romance, and existential pondering.
For the Art House Fan:
1. "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" (2019): Céline Sciamma’s beautifully shot and emotionally resonant film tells a poignant story of forbidden love set in 18th-century France. The film’s quiet intensity and captivating performances elevate it beyond the typical period romance.
2. "Spencer" (2021): Pablo Larraín’s film, starring Kristen Stewart, offers a unique and introspective look at Princess Diana’s experience within the confines of the royal family. The film’s surreal and atmospheric style creates a haunting and unforgettable watching experience.
3. "Nomadland" (2020): Chloe Zhao’s critically acclaimed film "Nomadland" is a poignant and visually stunning exploration of life on the road, following Fern (Frances McDormand) as she embraces nomadic living after losing everything in the Great Recession. The film is a powerful meditation on resilience, community, and finding meaning in unexpected places.
Hulu continues to expand its film library, providing viewers with access to a diverse range of movies that challenge, entertain, and inspire. Whether you’re seeking a cinematic escape, a thought-provoking experience, or simply a few hours of entertainment, Hulu’s diverse offering has something for everyone. This is just a taste of the compelling films available on Hulu. With new content being added regularly, there’s always something exciting and engaging to discover. So dive into the streaming service and explore the world of movies that await.
