Epoch Watchlist: Aug. 26-Sept. 1

This week, we look at a wonderful animated film about a grand singing contest, as well as a harrowing disaster film that’s a classic of the ’70s.

New Release

‘ The Good Boss ‘

Javier Bardem plays Blanco, the owner of Blancos Basculas which makes industrial scales in a small Spanish village. He must ensure that everything is in order when a committee of inspectors visits to determine if the company merits an award for excellence.

This Spanish movie is funny and moving. Bardem, the character in this film seeks to help his workers by dealing with their workplace issues. This hilarious comedy fills almost two hours.

Comedy | Drama
Release Date: Aug. 26, 2022
Director: Fernando Leon de Aranoa
Starring: Javier Bardem, Manolo Solo, Almudena Amor
Runtime: 1 hour, 56 minutes
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Where to Watch: Theaters
Rated 3.5 Stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Sing’

“Sing tells the story of Buster Moon, a koala who is trying to save his theater from being closed. He attempts one more desperate action to save his theater from closing. It involves holding the grandest international singing contest.

Although there are some funny gags, this animated film is a great example of a well-rounded cast of voices and writers. It transcends the many cliche animated films. Although I wasn’t expecting to be captivated by the characters, it was surprising.

Animation | Comedy | Family
Release Date: Dec. 21, 2016
Directors: Garth Jennings, Christophe Lourdelet
Starring: Matthew McConaughey (voice), Reese Witherspoon (voice), Seth MacFarlane (voice)
Running Time: 1 hour, 48 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: Redbox, Vudu, DirecTV
Rated 3.5 Stars out of 5

One of the Best Disaster Films of the ’70s

‘The Towering Inferno’

Renowned architect Doug Roberts returns to the party for his new project, a skyscraper that is supposedly at the top of its class. When a huge fire breaks out and threatens the lives of guests, Roberts’ concerns about his wiring specs are justified.

Although the 1970s was a decade remembered for a slew of disaster movies, this is one of the best. It is a masterpiece of this genre, featuring a stellar cast and lots of excitement and spills.

Action | Drama | Thriller
Release Date: Dec. 14, 1974
Director: John Guillermin
Starring: Paul Newman, Steve McQueen, William Holden
Running Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: Redbox, Apple TV, Vudu
Rated 4 out of 5

stars

A Riveting Film About Alcoholism

‘Days of Wine and Roses ‘

Boozing Joe Clay (Jack Lemmon), meets Kirsten Arnesen, secretary (Lee Remick), at a party. Kirsten does not just fall for Joe, but is also drawn to him in alcoholism.

This is a sobering and real drama that examines the dangers of drinking and how it can lead to irreversible consequences. It is a masterfully directed drama that features outstanding performances from its co-stars.

Drama
Release Date: Dec. 25, 1962
Director: Blake Edwards
Starring: Jack Lemmon, Lee Remick, Charles Bickford
Running Time: 1 hour, 57 minutes
Approved
Where to Watch: Vudu, Amazon, Apple TV
Rated 5 out of 5

stars