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THE TV ROOM — Looking back on movies that were released in 2017, it is hard not to think of the big films like “Guardians of Galaxy Vol. 2,” “Wonder Woman,” “Justice League,” and of course, “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” There was no shortage of major blockbusters.
Sometimes lost in all these blockbusters are lesser-known movies that for one reason or another didn’t get wide distribution or they were not able to draw people in with their marketing. And with all the options we have now with streaming, it is hard to keep up with all the movies that come out.
Here are four movies that flew under the radar in 2017 that we think are worth a watch.
We’ll be chatting about each pick in more detail on the KSL Popcorn Report podcast throughout the month of January. We'd love for you to rewatch the movies (or watch them for the first time) and give us your feedback on each, either in the comments or by tweeting us, @KSLPopReport.
Travis’ pick: “A Ghost Story”
“A Ghost Story” isn’t a movie I would recommend to everyone, but if you’re actually following along with the KSL Movie Club, you’re exactly the audience for this little indie film.
“Ghost Story” is a patient story. It’s the kind of movie that sits in the corner of a room and let’s life take place. It’s a story about time and heartbreak and purpose, and it’s a story that is in no rush to find the answers.
You know that one friend you have? The one you ponder the meaning of life with until 2 a.m.? That’s the friend you want to invite over to enjoy “A Ghost Story” with.
"A Ghost Story" is rated R for brief language and a disturbing image.
Dave’s pick: “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”
“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” is my pick for the most underrated movie of 2017. Although it has picked up some Oscar buzz, I feel like not enough people saw this film, and I want to get the word out.
"Three Billboards" contains a cast of great characters including Frances McDormand , Woody Harrelson, and my favorite, Sam Rockwell in one of the best performances of the year. The story wanders a little, but ultimately ends in the right place. Director Martin McDonagh expertly weaves comedy throughout what would normally feel like a heavy drama— so much so that I can’t say for sure if "Three Billboards" is a dramedy or a comedrama.
“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” is rated R for violence, language throughout, and some sexual references.
Curt’s pick: “Brigsby Bear”
This was easily one of my favorite films of 2017. It is also a film I feel like no one has ever heard of. The only reason why it was on my radar is because I am a huge fan of Kyle Mooney, who you might recognize from Saturday Night Live. He wrote and starred in "Brigsby Bear."
The synopsis of the movie from IMDb is: “Brigsby Bear Adventures is a children's TV show produced for an audience of one: James. When the show abruptly ends, James's life changes forever, and he sets out to finish the story himself.”
That does not even scratch the surface of what this movie is about. Even the trailers seem a tad confusing, but after watching the movie, I see why they chose not to reveal too much about the plot. The less you know, the better.
“Brisgsby Bear” is a very heartfelt movie, something I was not anticipating. It is also hilarious and had me laughing from start to finish. And it was filmed right here in Utah.
John’s pick: “Blade Runner 2049”
It may seem like cheating considering “Blade Runner 2049” was an insanely expensive movie, but the truth is, no one saw it and that’s a shame.
This “Blade Runner” sequel is one of the best sci-fi movies of the last decade and includes a deep and thought-provoking story, stunning visuals that included a seamless display of practical and visual effects and one of the best performances from an already impressive Ryan Gosling. I walked out of the theater with my jaw on the floor at what was accomplished, and I believe “Blade Runner 2049” is one of the best films of 2017 — and certainly the best film that no one saw.
“Blade Runner 2049” is rated R for violence, some sexuality, nudity and language.
Contributing: Travis Poppleton, Dave Clyde and John Clyde
