Sure-Fire Streaming: Good Boys, Freedom Writers, and more
By Jordan Parker
Good Boys – Available On Netflix
I didn't quite know what to make of Good Boys when I first heard about it. But then I watched the trailer, and everything changed.
Director and co-writer Gene Stupnitsky – an Emmy nominee for The Office and Hello Ladies – creates an absolutely adorable, yet raucous, comedy.
This smartly written, hilarious film follows a trio of eighth graders who end up having an absolutely insane day together as they try to prepare for a party with their peers.
Starring lauded young actor Jacob Tremblay and hugely talented newcomers Keith L. Williams and Brady Noon, the chemistry between these young leads is incredible.
The talent around them includes names like Will Forte, Molly Gordon, and Lil Rey Howery, but it's these young teens who truly make the film scene.
You're going to be slackjawed at some of the things these kids say, but you won't be able to contain your laughter.
Freedom Writers – Available On Netflix
This little film came out of absolutely nowhere when I was in high school, and it's stuck with me for years.
Oscar-nominated director Richard LaGravenese takes the reins here and makes an affecting, emotional drama that really sticks the landing.
It follows a young teacher who shows her at-risk students about loving each other and bridging divides. She pushes them to pursue further education and follow their dreams.
Starring multiple Oscar-winner Hilary Swank, Oscar nominee Imelda Staunton, Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey and the incredible Scott Glenn, this is an absolute showcase.
It's a wonderful film, and guaranteed to bring some well-earned tears to your eyes. So many movies can lose their magic over time, but nearly 15 years on, this one's still got it.
The Father – Available On Prime Video
One of the absolute best films of 2020, The Father is an emotional rollercoaster and one of the best movies I've seen in years.
Director Florian Zeller – who won an Oscar for his screenplay adaptation on this one – does an absolutely phenomenal job.
It follows an elderly man with dementia who fights against his daughter as she tries to find the best way to care for him. He won't leave his home or accept nursing care, and his declining health begins to alienate those around him.
While the argument can be made – and I've made it – that Chadwick Boseman deserved a post-humous Oscar last year, it was Anthony Hopkins that took home the statue for his role here.
Oscar winner Olivia Colman, nominated here for her role as the helpless daughter, is fantastic, and Rufus Sewell is also truly fantastic here. Watch for young Imogen Poots to also impress.
This is a beautiful, truly fantastic character piece, and it left me in complete tears.
The Thing – Available On Netflix
This is one of my all-time favourite horror films, and it's a genre entry that is simply unforgettable.
Director John Carpenter – a master of suspense – is responsible here for one of the most creative, intelligent films of all time.
It follows a research team in a remote facility in Antartica that is pitted against a shape-shifting, ominous alien with murderous intentions.
This is the film that made Kurt Russell, and the supporting performances from Keith Davod, T.K. Carter, Richard Masur and more leave a lasting impression.
This is a thinking person's horror film, and it's truly worth rewatches, as you're bound to catch things you didn't the first time.
50/50 – Available On Prime Video
I guess I have a soft spot for tearjerkers this week. This one is a doozy, and it's an impeccably written and directed flick.
Director Jonathan Levine – in the news right now for show Nine Perfect Stranger – creates an adorable bromance movie with a soft heart.
The frequent Seth Rogen collaborator puts the comedian in a more serious role here, and the Canadian comic and actor absolutely shines.
He plays a man who commits himself to helping and caring for his 27-year-old friend who learns of a cancer diagnosis.
Based on a true story, the performances from Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Anna Kendrick all hit home here.
With a supporting cast that includes Bryce Dallas Howard, Anjelica Huston and Philip Baker Hall, you really can't go wrong.
Funny, sweet and heartbreaking in equal parts, it's a movie with rich characters you're bound to fall in love with.