Spectrum editor’s list of films to watch for Sept. 15
“Freedom Writers” (2007)
Based on the 1999 novel, an English teacher gets hired to teach at-risk students in California. After seeing the immense trauma the high school students routinely endure, the teacher, played by Hilary Swank, asks them to keep personal diaries about the terrors they experience. Over time, the students grow and become more comfortable addressing their feelings while further developing their understanding of the world.
Available on Netflix | 70% Rotten Tomatoes
“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020)
Starring Chadwick Boseman and Viola Davis, this 1927-set film tells the story of Chicagoan musicians who aim for musical success amidst the problems and prejudices they face. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” highlights the growth of today’s music that was built on the backs of blues and jazz singers. This film was nominated for five Academy Awards and won two.
Available on Netflix | 98% Rotten Tomatoes
“Catch Me If You Can” (2002)
This star-filled biographical crime film follows the intricate and large-scale cons carried out by 19-year-old Frank Abagnale, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, as he poses as a pilot, a prosecutor and a doctor in order to illegally earn millions of dollars. Over the span of multiple years, he manages to continuously elude the FBI and one agent who will stop at nothing to catch him.
Available on Netflix | 96% Rotten Tomatoes
“Million Dollar Baby” (2004)
Maggie Fitzgerald is an aspiring professional boxer who enlists the help of a retired boxing trainer, Frankie Dunn, who is now isolated and bitter toward the outside world. As Dunn begins to reluctantly train Fitzgerald and help improve her fighting skills, the two become unlikely friends and form a lasting bond through the sport.
Available on Netflix | 90% Rotten Tomatoes
“Bombshell” (2019)
Starring Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie, “Bombshell” details the true stories of the women who tried to expose Fox News CEO Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. In an effort to unmask the toxic ways in which the network treats its female employees, these women struggle to tell the truth while maintaining their careers.
Available on Hulu | 68% Rotten Tomatoes
“Hitch” (2005)
This classic comedy features Will Smith, who plays New York’s most notorious relationship expert, and Kevin James, whose character is desperately trying to win the affection of a beautiful and famous celebrity, played by Amber Valletta. As Smith’s character tries to win over a gossip columnist he’s fallen for, he teaches James how to win Valletta’s attention.
Available on Hulu | 69% Rotten Tomatoes
