September is a month of transition, a prelude to the most exciting time of the year: the holiday season! Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are already dancing in our minds, making September a time of anticipation. But beyond the pre-holiday buzz, September stands as a month of its own, offering unique opportunities for enjoyment and reflection. It’s the perfect time to embrace the fall spirit and delve into the world of underrated cinematic gems.
Let’s face it, the current top movie at the domestic box office, the Halloween-friendly *Beetlejuice*, is a clear indication that the spooky season is upon us. And what better time to explore some hidden cinematic treasures that might otherwise get lost in the shuffle? From trippy horror movies to stories of longing and heartbreak, these hidden gems offer an array of experiences perfect for enjoying during this equally undervalued month.
Santa Sangre (1989)
Directed by the master of cinematic surrealism, Alejandro Jodorowsky, *Santa Sangre* is a captivating, yet disturbing, exploration of the human psyche. The film follows Fénix (Axel Jodorowsky), a former circus performer who escapes a mental hospital to reunite with his armless mother, Concha (Blanca Guerra), in a strange cult. Driven by a twisted sense of loyalty, Fénix becomes “her arms” by enacting horrific murders in her name.
If this premise sounds unsettling, it’s a mere glimpse into the depths of this arthouse horror masterpiece. Jodorowsky’s signature style is on full display, blending visual splendor with jarring imagery, leaving viewers captivated and perplexed in equal measure. *Santa Sangre* is a cinematic equivalent of a violent nightmare, impossible to look away from. It is available to stream on Tubi.
Baby Boom (1987)
Who doesn’t adore Diane Keaton? This Academy Award-winning actress has graced the silver screen with countless beloved comedies, and *Baby Boom* stands as a particularly underrated gem. Keaton portrays J.C. Wiatt, a driven career woman known as “Tiger Lady” for her assertive personality. Her carefully constructed world is turned upside down when she inherits a 14-month-old baby girl named Elizabeth from a long-lost cousin.
Forced to relocate to Vermont, J.C. finds herself navigating the uncharted territory of motherhood and confronting the priorities in her life. *Baby Boom* might not be the pinnacle of 1980s cinema, but it’s a wonderfully funny and heartwarming story that perfectly captures the essence of fall with its picturesque Vermont setting. Keaton shines in this role, delivering a strong and endearing performance that ranks among her sweetest. While *Baby Boom* offers a romanticized view of motherhood and the balancing act of parenthood and career, it’s a delightful escape that celebrates the joys of family. It is available to stream on Tubi.
Autumn Leaves (1956)
Joan Crawford embodies the ideal of a Classic Hollywood star – stunningly beautiful, poised, and seemingly flawless. While the reality was far more complex, her roles throughout the late 1940s and ’50s successfully conveyed this image. *Autumn Leaves*, the 1956 psychological drama directed by Robert Aldrich (later known for *What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?*), showcases this classic Hollywood allure.
Crawford portrays Millicent, a middle-aged woman whose marriage to a much younger man turns sour as he displays signs of mental illness. *Autumn Leaves* might not be the pinnacle of Crawford’s older-woman/younger-man romances (that honor belongs to the stunning 1946 film *Humoresque*), but it’s an intriguing addition to her filmography. The film showcases Crawford’s dramatic abilities, blending campy elements with genuine pathos. Aided by an equally impressive performance from Cliff Robertson, *Autumn Leaves* is a unique and captivating addition to any cinephile’s fall viewing list. It is available to stream on Tubi.
This September, as we revel in the anticipation of the holidays, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique charm of this often-overlooked month. Embrace the changing seasons and explore these underrated cinematic gems, each offering a unique and captivating cinematic experience. They’re available on Tubi, so what are you waiting for? Start streaming and enjoy the magic of these hidden treasures.
