While the hype surrounds the release of ‘Joker: Folie à Deux,’ there’s a good chance that fans of the original might be disappointed with the musical interludes and courtroom drama. If you’re looking for a more rewarding cinematic experience, look no further than the treasure trove of films available on HBO Max. Here are three underrated movies worth your time this weekend, all without the gruesome murders and My Way soundtrack of the new Joker film.
Interview with the Vampire (1994)
This cinematic adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel has always been a subject of controversy, with criticism focusing on the casting of Tom Cruise as the decadent vampire Lestat. However, despite the initial backlash, ‘Interview with the Vampire’ has stood the test of time and deserves a second look. Cruise’s flamboyant performance brings a unique energy to the character, and the film’s captivating visuals and powerful performances from Brad Pitt, Kirsten Dunst, and Antonio Banderas make it a must-watch. The story follows Louis, a reluctant vampire seduced by Lestat, as they navigate the complexities of their immortal existence and the adoption of a young vampire, Claudia. With its depiction of 19th-century New Orleans and the themes of desire, cruelty, and longing, ‘Interview with the Vampire’ remains a hauntingly beautiful and unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Perfect Host (2011)
David Hyde Pierce, best known for his role as Niles in the beloved sitcom ‘Frasier,’ shines in the underrated thriller ‘The Perfect Host.’ Pierce delivers a chilling performance as Warwick Wilson, a seemingly ordinary man who finds himself embroiled in a terrifying situation when a stranger, John, seeks refuge in his home. The film’s tension builds as John, desperate to escape the police, becomes Warwick’s hostage. However, Warwick is not what he appears to be, and John soon realizes that he has been caught in a web of deceit and danger. ‘The Perfect Host’ is a masterclass in suspense, with Pierce’s nuanced performance and the film’s claustrophobic atmosphere creating a truly unsettling experience.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
While the original ‘Gremlins’ remains a classic, its sequel, ‘Gremlins 2: The New Batch,’ is a chaotic and hilarious masterpiece in its own right. This unconventional follow-up embraces the absurd and delivers a wild ride that will leave you laughing and scratching your head. The story picks up with Billy, Kate, and Gizmo in a futuristic New York City skyscraper, where a new breed of Gremlins emerges, wreaking havoc with their unique abilities and quirky personalities. With its pop culture references, wacky visuals, and surprisingly endearing characters, ‘Gremlins 2’ is a testament to the power of creative filmmaking and a true celebration of the bizarre and the unexpected. Quentin Tarantino is a fan, and after you watch it, you’ll understand why.
