The past decade has seen a multitude of films that have captivated audiences and critics alike, but there are also those hidden gems that may not have received the attention they deserve. From thought-provoking dramas to underrated comedies, here are the top 10 underrated films of the decade that shouldn’t be missed.
1. “Paterson” (2016) – Directed by Jim Jarmusch, this film follows a bus driver and poet named Paterson as he navigates everyday life in a small New Jersey town. With a mesmerizing performance by Adam Driver, this quiet and contemplative film is a true hidden gem.
2. “The Spectacular Now” (2013) – Starring Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley, this coming-of-age drama explores the complexities of teenage relationships and the impact of past experiences. Touching and poignant, this film is a must-watch for fans of heartfelt indie cinema.
3. “Sunset Song” (2015) – Based on the novel by Lewis Grassic Gibbon, this period drama follows a young woman named Chris as she navigates life in rural Scotland at the turn of the 20th century. With stunning cinematography and a powerful performance by Agyness Deyn, this film is a hidden treasure.
4. “A Ghost Story” (2017) – Directed by David Lowery, this unconventional film follows a ghost as it watches over its former home and the passage of time. Poignant and thought-provoking, this film offers a unique perspective on grief and loss.
5. “Wildlife” (2018) – Starring Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal, this drama follows a teenage boy as he witnesses the unraveling of his parents’ marriage. With stunning performances and a haunting atmosphere, this film is a powerful exploration of family dynamics.
6. “Ingrid Goes West” (2017) – Starring Aubrey Plaza and Elizabeth Olsen, this dark comedy follows an unstable woman as she becomes obsessed with a social media influencer. With biting satire and sharp wit, this film offers a commentary on the dangers of online validation.
7. “The Farewell” (2019) – Directed by Lulu Wang, this heartfelt comedy-drama follows a Chinese-American woman as she navigates cultural differences and family dynamics when her grandmother is diagnosed with cancer. With a standout performance by Awkwafina, this film is a true hidden gem.
8. “First Reformed” (2017) – Directed by Paul Schrader, this drama follows a troubled pastor as he grapples with faith, ethics, and environmental concerns. With a haunting performance by Ethan Hawke, this film is a thought-provoking meditation on existential questions.
9. “The Florida Project” (2017) – Directed by Sean Baker, this drama follows a young girl living in a budget motel near Disney World as she navigates the challenges of poverty and childhood. With a breakout performance by Brooklynn Prince, this film offers a raw and empathetic portrayal of marginalized communities.
10. “The Witch” (2015) – Directed by Robert Eggers, this horror film follows a Puritan family as they encounter supernatural forces in the woods. With creeping tension and chilling atmosphere, this film is a standout in the genre.
These underrated films of the decade offer unique perspectives, compelling storytelling, and standout performances that deserve recognition. Film lovers should seek out these hidden gems to discover the rich diversity of cinema in the past decade.
Film digitization services can help preserve these underrated films for future generations to enjoy and appreciate. By digitizing old films, these hidden gems can be saved from deterioration and made accessible to a wider audience. Film digitization services play a crucial role in preserving the art and legacy of cinema for generations to come.