Labor Day weekend is here, offering a chance to unwind and enjoy some downtime. While you could indulge in a good book, tackle some household chores, or catch up on summer blockbusters like “Alien: Romulus” or “Trap,” there are also plenty of cinematic gems waiting to be discovered on your HBO Max subscription.
While the recent release of “Furiosa” has been garnering praise, there are three movies, two from the 90s and one from 2017, that deserve a spot on your watchlist. Each offers a unique and captivating cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Great Expectations (1998)
Most adaptations of classic English literature tend to follow a familiar formula: faithfulness to the source material, English actors in the lead roles, and traditional orchestral scores. But the 1998 version of “Great Expectations” breaks the mold. Directed by a pre-Oscar-winning Alfonso Cuarón, this adaptation takes the beloved Charles Dickens novel and injects it with a fresh, modern energy. The film is streamlined, vibrant, and dare I say, sexy.
Ethan Hawke and Gwyneth Paltrow, both at the peak of their late 90s fame, bring an undeniable charisma to the roles of Finn (Pip in the book) and Estella. The film traces their relationship from their childhood meeting, where a young Finn falls for Estella, to their tumultuous adulthood as Estella, influenced by the manipulative Nora Dinsmoor (Anne Bancroft), becomes disillusioned with love. “Great Expectations” may not be considered a perfect adaptation, but its unique approach, stunning visuals, and captivating performances make it a truly engaging and memorable film.
Gattaca (1997)
Considered one of the most underrated films of the 90s, “Gattaca” presents a chilling vision of a future where your genetic code dictates your entire destiny. In this not-so-distant future, naturally born individuals are ostracized, while those born with scientifically enhanced traits rise to the top of society.
Ethan Hawke plays Vincent Freeman, a naturally born man with a heart condition that limits his social standing. His genetically engineered brother, Anton Freeman (Loren Dean), enjoys all the privileges Vincent can only dream of. Determined to escape his predetermined fate, Vincent enters into a deal with a paralyzed athlete, Jerome Eugene Morrow (Jude Law), to pass his genetic material off as his own and gain access to the Gattaca space program. However, as Vincent gets closer to his dream of reaching the stars, a brutal murder at the program threatens to expose his true identity as a “damaged good.”
The twist? The murder investigation is led by Vincent’s own brother, Anton. This film delves into themes of social inequality, the power of genetics, and the struggle for individual agency in a world where your genetic code defines your worth.
The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
Despite boasting a stellar cast including Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, and the breakout star of “Saltburn,” Barry Keoghan, and the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” didn’t receive the widespread recognition it deserved upon its release in 2017. This is a shame, as the film offers a chilling and thought-provoking thriller that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Colin Farrell portrays Steven Murphy, a successful cardiac surgeon living a seemingly idyllic suburban life with his wife, Anna (Kidman), and their two children. However, this comfortable existence is shattered by the arrival of Martin Lang (Keoghan), a mysterious teenager with a connection to Steven’s past. What does Martin want from Steven? The answer is simple, but the consequences are devastating, making it every parent’s worst nightmare.
“The Killing of a Sacred Deer” is a film that masterfully blends psychological suspense with unsettling surrealism. It’s a film that lingers in your mind, raising questions about morality, guilt, and the lengths we will go to protect our loved ones.
So this Labor Day weekend, take a break from the usual routine and immerse yourself in the captivating stories waiting for you on Max. From the captivating drama of “Great Expectations” to the chilling dystopia of “Gattaca” and the unsettling mystery of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” there’s a film that will keep you entertained and engaged.
