Hidden Gems in Cinema: Unappreciated and Unknown Movies and TV Shows Everyone Should Watch

While the big blockbuster films continue to dominate the box office, there's a wealth of hidden gems that offer unique and thought-provoking narratives. These lesser-known films and TV shows have managed to captivate audiences with stories that challenge conventions and explore profound themes. Here are some of the unappreciated movies and TV shows that everyone needs to watch.

New Hidden Gems after 2000’s

Brothers Reunited

Vozvrashchenie (2003)

Step into the Russian wilderness with Vozvrashchenie, where two brothers confront a range of new, conflicting emotions when their father reappears, known only through a single photograph. This film explores the complexities of familial relationships and the unexpected reunion's consequences.

The Proposition (2005)

Join the lawman as he apprehends a notorious outlaw and gives him nine days to kill his older brother or face the consequences. This film delves into themes of justice, honor, and the complications that arise from seeking vengeance.

Romulus My Father (2007)

Get lost in the story of Romulus, his beautiful wife Christina, and their struggle to raise their son Raimond amid great adversity. This film is a powerful and emotional tale of resilience and love.

Contemporary Masters and Themes

White Material (2009)

Explore the turmoil and racial conflict in a Francophone African state as a white French woman fights for her coffee crop, her family, and ultimately for her life. This film offers a nuanced look at colonialism and race relations.

Tabu (2012)

Discover a unique elderly woman and her deceased neighbor's maid seeking out a man who has a secret connection to her past life as a farm owner at the foothill of Mount Tabu in Africa. This film evokes the african spirit and cultural traditions.

Ida (2013)

Witness the life of Anna, a young nun in 1960s Poland, on the verge of taking her vows when she discovers a dark family secret dating back to the years of the German occupation. This film is a poignant exploration of history and personal identity.

Global Conflict and Human Stories

Winter Sleep (2014)

Follow a hotel owner and landlord in a remote Turkish village as he deals with conflicts within his family and a tenant who is behind on his rent. This film is a powerful blend of family drama and socio-political tension.

Leviafan (2014)

Engage with the story of Kolya, a man in a Russian coastal town, who is forced to fight the corrupt mayor when he is told his house will be demolished. His quest for justice brings unforeseen misfortunes for him and his family. This film highlights the struggles of ordinary people against corrupt systems.

Dheepan (2015)

Meet Dheepan, a Sri Lankan Tamil warrior who flees to France and ends up working as a caretaker outside Paris. His precarious life and the challenges he faces are beautifully portrayed in this film.

Contemporary European Masterpieces

Toni Erdmann (2016)

Beyond the surface, Toni Erdmann offers an optimistic and heartwarming narrative of a man devising a brilliant plan to win back the love of his daughter. This film is a testament to the power of imagination and the lengths one will go to for their family.

Juste la fin du monde (2016)

Experience the life of Louis, a terminally ill writer who returns home to his family after a long absence with the news that he is dying. This film is a moving portrayal of the end of life and the importance of family bonds.

Nelyubov (2017)

Witness the heart-wrenching journey of a couple going through a divorce as they must team up to find their son, who has disappeared during one of their bitter arguments. This film beautifully captures the pain and resilience of parenthood.

Art and Identity

At Eternity's Gate (2018)

Dive into the life of painter Vincent van Gogh during the time he lived in Arles and Auvers-sur-Oise, France. This film offers a poignant exploration of an artist's struggle with mental illness and his passionate dedication to his craft.

The Silent Revolution (2018)

Embark on the journey of a group of twelfth-grade pupils as they decide to show their solidarity with the victims of the 1956 Hungarian uprising by staging two minutes of silence during lessons. This film is a tribute to youth activism and the power of silent protest.

La Noche de 12 Anos (2018)

Step back in time to 1973 when Uruguay is governed by a military dictatorship. This film recounts the events of one autumn night when three Tupamaro prisoners are taken from their jail cells in a secret military operation. It is a powerful look at resistance and the impact of authoritarianism on the lives of ordinary people.

Historical and Political Influences

Peterloo (2018)

Relive the 1819 Peterloo Massacre as British forces attacked a peaceful pro-democracy rally in Manchester during this tense and historically accurate film. This film is a stark reminder of the struggles for political rights and freedom of speech.

The Wild Pear Tree (2018)

Watch the life of an unpublished writer who returns to his hometown after graduating to seek sponsors to publish his book while dealing with his father's deteriorating addiction to gambling. This film is a poignant exploration of literary aspirations and family dynamics.

Portrait de la jeune fille en feu (2019)

Explore the life of a female painter on a remote island in Brittany, who is obliged to paint a wedding portrait of a young woman. This film offers a unique insight into the world of female artists and their struggles for recognition in 18th century Europe.

Modern Confrontations and Transformations

Lara (2019)

Celebrate Lara's 60th birthday as she prepares for her son's debut piano concert. This film is a heartwarming tribute to the sacrifices of a mother and the joy of artistic expression.

Und morgen die ganze Welt (2020)

Witness Luisa joining Antifa through her friend Batte and living in a commune where she meets Alfa and Lenor as the political right rises in popularity. This film is a contemporary exploration of counterculture movements and the resilience of youth in challenging times.

These films and TV shows offer rich, diverse narratives that challenge the mainstream and reward a curious and open-minded approach. They are a testament to the power of cinema to provoke, educate, and inspire. Everyone will find something valuable in these hidden gems.