Stuck on what to stream this month? Unlike other lists, we’re on hand to recommend a variety of films for every mood, from tear-jerkers to trailblazers. Here are our picks for the best films to stream in the UK this month.
The Silver Screen Classic
My Fair Lady (1964) dir. George Cukor
My Fair Lady is a timeless classic that still holds the same enticing appeal as when it premiered in cinemas 57 years ago. There is nothing better than watching a magnificent movie musical that combines everything; beauty, finesse, panache, a flair for humour, and a sprinkle of magic. The plot revolves around Professor Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison), who transforms a flower seller, Eliza Doolittle (Audrey Hepburn), into a presentable member of elite society. Over time and against all odds, they form an unlikely bond and come under threat from an affluent suitor.
In the classic Hollywood trope of ‘boy meets girl,’ there’s a simple story with some of the best soundtracks, costume designs, cinematography, and writing. Not to mention megastars Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison bringing the iconic characters to life. They leave you spellbound with their charisma, outstanding performances, and endearing looks, making this delightful romantic comedy a must-see.
Available to stream on Apple TV+
The Underrated
Colossal (2016) dir. Nacho Vigalondo.
Colossal is a fantasy and comedy adventure that touches numerous points on the emotional spectrum. It explores a dark and witty premise that takes you on an unexpected journey. Escaping the city and with it hopefully her inebriated lifestyle, Gloria (Anne Hathaway) discovers that she has a strange connection to cataclysmic events in Seoul caused by a giant monster. The challenge now lies with her and Oscar (Jason Sudeikis) to figure out why her seemingly insignificant existence has such a profound effect on the world.
Colossal is as strange as it is delightfully unique. Nacho Vigalondo’s powerful vision and flawless, genre-defying execution are on full display, as are Hathaway and Sudeikis’ who both give stellar performances delivered. It is an intriguing fantasy tale worth experiencing. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but its originality shines through and leaves you cheering at the end. Prepare to be astounded.
Available to stream on Apple TV+
The Underseen
Murder Mystery (2019) dir. Kyle Newacheck
Murder Mystery has a summery vibe with an entertaining infusion of thriller and comedy, even if it isn’t exactly one to leave you in a convoluted headspin like many other mystery adventures. A cop and his wife go to Europe for a vacation to rekindle their relationship and romance, but they find themselves on a yacht with a chance encounter that leaves them accused for the murder of an elderly billionaire.
Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston’s acting skills and comic timing are unquestionable as well as evident, and their chemistry is believable and endearing. The script weaves a murder investigation with marriage crisis and Adam’s personal dilemma, which flows seamlessly and feels organic rather than hollow. The film is perfect for a Friday night binge with a glass of wine and a bowl of popcorn to unwind. There are no stakes, just some good laughs to be had.
Available to stream on Netflix
The Foreign Language Gem
Mimi (2021) dir. Laxman Utekar
Mimi is a surrogacy dramedy starring Kriti Sanon and Pankaj Tripathi that is compelling, inspirational, and heartwarming—all while tackling a sensitive topic. A young aspiring actress in a small town agrees to serve as a surrogate mom for an American couple without weighing the social, ethical, and legal ramifications. A surprising twist occurs when the couple refuses to take the child. Mimi’s dreams are then shattered until the unpredictability of life sends her an unexpected gift.
While the film tells a moving story about motherhood, it simplifies the theme through situational humour geared toward mass audiences. Without a doubt, the film’s performances and character arcs are top-notch, but the script is what truly elevates it. This film maintains its grip over you with a series of seamless transitions between drama and comedy.
Available to stream on Netflix
The Tearjerker
Tallulah (2016) dir. Sian Heder
Tallulah is an underappreciated gem that is immensely entertaining from beginning to the end. As an indie comedy-drama film, it boasts a stellar cast of outstanding lead actors (including Elliot Page and Allison Janney). Loosely based on a true account, it chronicles a heartbreaking story with a dash of comedy. The story touches on themes of family and forgiveness, revolving around accidental motherhood when a young woman impulsively takes a baby from a neglectful mother, then goes to her ex-lover’s mom seeking shelter on the pretence that the baby is hers.
With the characters trying to learn from their mistakes, the film has a profound ending that proves to be endlessly moving. With a dash of subtle humor, it is a stirring family drama that weaves well-developed, charming characters, engrossing scenes, impeccable dialogues, and exquisite acting that isn’t easy to watch but even harder to ignore the pains.
Available to stream on Netflix
The Feel Good
Love Hard (2021) dir. Hernán Jiménez
Set against the scenic backdrop of Christmas, this wholesome film boasts a familiar premise, well-worn clichés, and endearing characters, contributing to its success and popularity. Natalie Bauer (Nina Dobrev) discovers her perfect match on a dating app and flies 3,000 miles to surprise him for Christmas, only to find that she has fallen victim to catfishing. Josh (Jimmy O. Yang) then offers to set her up with her crush, Tag (Darren Barnet), if she pretends to be his girlfriend over the holidays.
Yang and Dobrev’s charming personalities effortlessly find a place in your heart, capturing warm and moving portraits of two imperfect people seeking love. Films like this remind viewers that authenticity is more valuable than selfish and shallow pursuits. Love Hard is an adorably romantic movie that’s perfect for snuggling up in a warm blanket with a hot cup of cocoa on a snowy winter day.
Available to stream on Netflix
The Trailblazing
Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings (2021) dir. Destin Daniel Cretton
Marvel continued its streak of excellence with this year’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, one of this year’s best movies and definitely worth the hype. This movie features a believable and sympathetic first Asian superhero (Simu Liu), a quirky best friend searching for her calling, and an intriguing villain with a fascinating backstory. Shang-Chi is pulled into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization, forcing him to confront the past he thought he had left behind.
This blockbuster film features action-fantasy adventure, high doses of adrenaline, well-choreographed and visually stunning action sequences, impactful cinematography, and a heartwarming story about family and pride. Furthermore, the stellar debut of a new superhero brings fresh blood into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, creating a platform for diverse cultural expression without feeling forced. The result is one of the most rewarding Hollywood surprises of the year.
Available to stream on Disney+
The Transgressive
The Piano Teacher (2001) dir. Michael Haneke
Michael Haneke has a unique style of directing, and a history of producing challenging and thought-provoking films. The Piano Teacher is one of his most controversial and intriguing works. Despite its graphic nature, it has a compelling story backed by a spectacular performance by Isabelle Huppert in the title role.
A sexually repressed pianist named Erika Kohut (Huppert) lives with her overbearing mother and meets a young man who begins to pursue her romantically. Isabelle Huppert is astounding, with a portrayal so shocking yet realistic that helps to make the film truly memorable. It is hard to watch Erika punishing herself and trapped in her private hell, without a crumb of hope for happiness. It is a psychosexual drama and thriller with unmatched quiet intensity, and you have likely never seen anything like it before.
Available to stream on Curzon on Amazon
Read More:
- Films To Stream In The UK In October 2021
- Films To Stream In The UK In September 2021
- Films To Stream In The UK In August 2021
- Films To Stream In The UK In July 2021
Words by Khushboo Malhotra
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