10-05-2025
Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for May 9–15
This week, we feature a classic Japanese film about a famous swordsman and a wholesome family film about a boy and his redbone hounds.
New Release
'Desert Dawn'
Newly sworn-in Sheriff Luke Easton (Kellan Lutz) and his deputy John Sites (Cam Gigandet) are thrust into a dangerous investigation into a woman's murder. They uncover
ties to local power players and a sinister cartel.
This crime drama makes plenty of twists as the lawmen pursue justice. The action lands without going overboard, and the movie's stance against corruption emphasizes a positive message. The lead actors bring grit to a story that leans on atmosphere as much as tension. A solid watch for fans of thrillers with a purpose.
Action | Crime | Thriller
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Director:
Marty Murray
Starring:
Cam Gigandet, Kellan Lutz, Chad Michael Collins
Running Time:
1 hour, 29 minutes
MPAA Rating:
R
Where to Watch:
Theaters
Rated
: 3 stars out of 5
Family Pick
'Where the Red Fern Grows'
In Depression-era Oklahoma, young Billy Coleman (Stewart Petersen) dreams big—earning two redbone hounds through sheer grit. With help from his wise grandfather (James Whitmore), Billy and his dogs brave ghost coon hunts, deadly river crossings, and even a mountain lion.
A beautiful reminder of a time when hard work, family, and simple dreams meant everything. It felt incredibly moving to watch a young boy pour his heart into earning his pups, and then stand by them through every adventure and hardship. A truly special film.
Drama | Family
Release Date:
June 21, 1974
Director:
Norman Tokar
Starring:
James Whitmore, Beverly Garland, Jack Ging
Running Time:
1 hour, 37 minutes
MPAA Rating:
G
Where to Watch:
YouTube, Amazon, Apple TV
Rated:
4 stars out of 5
Second Chances and New Steps
'Finding Your Feet'
Imelda Staunton shines as Sandra, a refined woman whose world collapses when she discovers her husband's betrayal. Fleeing to her lively sister Bif's (Celia Imrie) cramped London flat, Sandra stumbles through heartbreak, unlikely friendships, and second chances.
This film expertly captures both heartbreak and hope with a magical, fairy-tale spirit. The British cast is brilliant, making it easy to laugh, tear up, and cheer right along with them. A charming reminder that it's never too late to start over.
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Comedy | Drama | Romance
Release Date:
March 30, 2018
Director:
Richard Loncraine
Starring:
Imelda Staunton, Celia Imrie, Timothy Spall
Running Time:
1 hour, 51 minutes
MPAA Rating:
PG
Where to Watch:
YouTube, Amazon, Apple TV
Rated:
3 1/2 stars out of 5
A Warrior's Journey Begins
'Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto'
Miyamoto Musashi, here known as Takezo (Toshiro Mifune), and Matahachi (Rentaro Mikuni) start as army hopefuls but are labeled traitors after they are defeated. As fugitives, Matahachi and Takezo eventually part company. Takezo undergoes many adventures before being trained by a Buddhist priest for something greater.
An engaging film that blends intense swordplay with deeper themes of struggle and redemption. The first of a trilogy, it charts Miyamoto Musashi's humble beginnings.
Action | Biography | Romance
Release Date:
Nov. 18, 1955
Director:
Hiroshi Inagaki
Starring:
Toshiro Mifune, Mariko Okada, Rentaro Mikuni
Running Time:
1 hour, 33 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch:
Amazon, Max, Apple TV
Rated:
4 stars out of 5
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