Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — Last week we gave you a list of 10 films you could waste the weekend away with. Now with the storm coming in and the bitter cold likely forcing us to stay indoors, here are 5 more films streaming on Netflix to pass the weekend with.
The World's Fastest Indian (PG-13)
In 2005 the independent film "The World's Fastest Indian" went largely unnoticed and it's a real shame. A bulk of the film, which is based on a true story, was shot here in Utah.
Anthony Hopkins plays Burt Munro, a motorcycle enthusiast, who spends his life savings to race his "home-made" 1920 Indian motorcycle on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
The film is funny, touching and inspiring. While the movie isn't for younger kids, the PG-13 rating is appropriate. There's not much in here to offend, but the PG-13 rating is about right for the thematic material.
Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (PG-13)
#poll
The Mission Impossible franchise has seemed to get better with time. While the first film was good I'm still trying to figure out exactly what happened. We'll pretend the second one starring a flock of doves doesn't exist and the third one was actually surprisingly solid.
Then, in 2011, we got "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol." Many consider the film the best of the series, and luckily for us it's streaming on Netflix.
Ghost Protocol is fast-paced, cleverly written, funny and well told. If you decide to watch it this weekend get your big-screen, hi-def TV hooked up to the Internet and make sure your connection is strong. Because, believe me, when the Burj Khalifa scene comes up you'll want to see it in crystal-clear hi-def.
"Ghost Protocol" is not for the kiddies, but your teens should love it and you will too.
True Grit (PG-13)
The 2010 version of "True Grit" is one of the best westerns in recent memory.
The performances in the film will leave you speechless at times, the emotion will put you on the verge of tears, the action will keep your knuckles white and the humor will make you laugh out loud.
The movie is worth watching for Jeff Bridges performance alone. Many didn't want to give the film a chance because of the 1969 John Wayne classic of the same name. That "True Grit" is also an amazing film, but the updated version gives you a different feel and it's well worth your time.
The violence in "True Grit" is frequent and often intense. While it's not necessarily gory, it is pretty constant. If western-style violence isn't your thing you'll probably want to avoid this one.
Hugo (PG)
How about one you can watch with the whole family?
The family-adventure "Hugo" earned a slew of awards nominations including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese.
The film about an orphan living in a French train station in 1930's Paris has something for everyone. Parents will appreciate the fine storytelling and breathtaking visuals. Kids will like the adventure and laughs.
While there isn't really anything to worry about with offensive content, "Hugo" may go over the heads of really little ones.
The Way (PG-13)
Much like "The World's Fastest Indian" 2010's "The Way" was lost in the shuffle of big-budget films. The comedy-drama, directed by Emilio Estevez, is a real joy.
Marin Sheen, Estevez's real father, plays the father of a deceased son, Estevez, who decides to walk the "El Camino de Santiago" that his son never had the chance to finish.
The film is understated and powerful. It's not a fast-paced film, but it's well-paced considering the content. Sheen is fantastic and Estevez actually proves himself as a competent filmmaker.
The film touches on themes of faith, familial relationships, despair and joy. It runs the gambit of emotions and does it in a low-key and humble way.
"The Way" is PG-13 mainly for the nature of the story itself. Dealing with death and depression cannot only be difficult on younger audiences but they'll likely be bored out of their minds. This is an adult film without the adult content.
Have you seen these films? Would you recommend them? Do you plan on watching any of these this weekend? I want to know. Tell me on the comment boards, Facebook or send me an email.
