Discover Hidden Cinematic Gems: Must-Watch Films You Might Have Missed
Explore a curated list of captivating films released in 2019 that flew under the radar, available on streaming platforms or overshadowed by blockbuster premieres.
We've compiled a selection of remarkable films from 2019 that either bypassed traditional theatrical releases in certain regions, debuted on streaming services, or simply didn't receive the widespread attention they deserve.
1. Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Portrait de la jeune fille en feu
- France
- Drama
- Duration: 121 minutes
- IMDb: 8.3
iVideos / YouTube
Set in mid-18th century France, this evocative drama follows Marianne, a painter commissioned to create a portrait of Héloïse, the daughter of a noblewoman. Héloïse refuses to pose as the painting is intended for her arranged fiancé. As the two women spend time together, an intimate bond forms, challenging societal norms.
Premiered at the Cannes Film Festival where it won Best Screenplay, this film reached broader audiences only later in the year.
2. Jojo Rabbit
Jojo Rabbit
- USA, Germany
- Drama, Comedy
- Duration: 108 minutes
- IMDb: 8.1
FoxSearchlight / YouTube
During World War II Germany, shy young Jojo Betzler copes with his struggles by imagining an eccentric version of Adolf Hitler as his friend. His world turns upside down when he discovers his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home. Directed by Taika Waititi, this bold satirical anti-war film explores themes of humanity amidst turmoil, with no tolerance for fascism.
3. Sorry We Missed You
Sorry We Missed You
- UK, France, Belgium
- Drama
- Duration: 101 minutes
- IMDb: 7.8
iVideos / YouTube
After the 2008 financial crisis, the Turner family struggles with economic hardship. Ricky invests his last savings in a delivery van, working grueling 14-hour days to make ends meet, all while juggling family responsibilities. Directed by Ken Loach, this poignant drama highlights the fragile balance between family life and societal pressures.
4. Dolemite Is My Name
Dolemite Is My Name
- USA
- Comedy, Biography
- Duration: 117 minutes
- IMDb: 7.4
HD Trailers / YouTube
Rudy Ray Moore, a struggling musician and store clerk, reinvents himself as the flamboyant pimp Dolemite, delivering risqué stand-up performances that rapidly gain popularity. This Netflix film, featuring Eddie Murphy's first starring role in three years, portrays the real-life story of a pioneer often credited as a father of modern rap.
5. The King
The King
- UK, Hungary, Australia
- Drama, Historical
- Duration: 140 minutes
- IMDb: 7.3
iVideos / YouTube
Based on Shakespeare's chronicles, this historical drama follows Henry V's reluctant ascent to the English throne and his leadership in the campaign against France. Featuring Timothy Chalamet and Robert Pattinson, the film delivers a gritty, unromanticized portrayal of medieval warfare.
6. The Dirt
The Dirt
- USA
- Biography, Drama, Music, Comedy
- Duration: 108 minutes
- IMDb: 7.0
Netflix / YouTube
This biopic chronicles the rise and fall of the notorious glam metal band Mötley Crüe, revealing the darker side of fame. Overshadowed by other music biographies, it stands out for its candid depiction of the band's wild antics and struggles.
7. Matthias & Maxime
Matthias et Maxime
- Canada
- Drama
- Duration: 120 minutes
- IMDb: 6.9
Russian Report / YouTube
Matthias, a soon-to-be lawyer preparing for his wedding, and his childhood friend Maxime, planning to move to Australia, experience a life-changing moment after filming a staged romantic scene for a student project. Directed by Xavier Dolan, this film explores hidden desires and self-discovery.
8. Triple Frontier
Triple Frontier
- USA
- Action, Thriller, Drama, Crime
- Duration: 125 minutes
- IMDb: 6.5
iVideos / YouTube
Veteran operative Santiago Garcia assembles a team of former special forces to take down a powerful drug lord in Colombia. Featuring stars like Ben Affleck and Oscar Isaac, this Netflix film blends intense action with a slow-burning drama about the unpredictability of missions.
9. The Laundromat
The Laundromat
- USA
- Biography, Drama, Comedy
- Duration: 95 minutes
- IMDb: 6.3
In Rating / YouTube
Following the tragic death of her husband in a boating accident, Ellen uncovers a web of shell companies used for tax evasion and money laundering. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this film uses a comedic yet insightful approach to expose financial corruption.
10. Little Monsters
Little Monsters
- UK, Australia, USA
- Horror, Comedy
- Duration: 93 minutes
- IMDb: 6.3
iVideos / YouTube
During a school field trip, a sudden zombie outbreak occurs in the area. To protect the children, a teacher convinces them it’s all part of a game. This dark comedy balances childlike innocence with sharp humor, brought to life by Lupita Nyong'o's outstanding performance.
11. Captive State
Captive State
- USA
- Science Fiction, Thriller, Drama
- Duration: 109 minutes
- IMDb: 6.0
iVideos / YouTube
After an alien invasion, nine years later in Chicago, resistance fighters struggle not only against the extraterrestrial occupiers but also human collaborators. Contrary to expectations of a typical action film, this is a thought-provoking sci-fi thriller focusing on survival and trust.
12. The Dead Don’t Die
The Dead Don’t Die
- Sweden, USA
- Horror, Comedy
- Duration: 104 minutes
- IMDb: 5.5
Universal Pictures Russia / YouTube
In a quiet American town, strange phenomena lead to the dead rising. A group of police officers must navigate this bizarre situation. Directed by Jim Jarmusch, this film blends postmodern surrealism with social critique, defying typical zombie comedy conventions.
Which lesser-known films captivated you recently? Share your favorites in the comments!
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