As the year draws to a close, I wanted to draw attention to some newer movies that have gotten less love than movies like “Wicked” and “Gladiator II”, but are no less deserving of attention.

Megalopolis

Less love doesn’t necessarily mean less press. Francis Ford Coppola, director of such classics as “The Godfather” trilogy, “The Conversation”, and “Apocalypse Now”, has been working for decades to try to get “Megalopolis” off the ground. It dropped in theaters a few months ago to mixed reviews and weak box office numbers, but now that it’s on digital, there’s another chance to check out one of the boldest visions to come out of American cinema in years. An architect and the Mayor of New Rome have different visions for the future in this highly stylized sci-fi epic that’s as earnest as it is nontraditional. Every frame, cut, and acting choice is made in support of the central metaphor instead of in support of the standard Hollywood story. The all-star cast is completely committed to the vision and I was deeply moved by it! “Megalopolis” is available to rent on most digital platforms.

A Different Man

Next up, one of the year’s great dark comedies that takes its time to reveal its sense of humor, Aaron Schimberg’s “A Different Man”. Edward is an aspiring actor with neurofibromatosis, played by Sebastian Stan under heavy makeup, who undergoes a new medical treatment. However, on the other side of the treatment, he meets Oswald played by Adam Pearson, who has neurofibromatosis in real life, and has his worldview rocked after he gets cast in an off-Broadway play inspired by his previous life. Stan, Pearson, and Renate Reinsve are sensational as our central three and this one revels in towing the thin line between comedy and tragedy. “A Different Man” will be released on Blu-ray soon and is currently available to rent on most digital platforms.

The Beast

“The Beast” has been making the rounds at film festivals since last year, but it’s now easily available to watch in your own home. Two souls, played by French actress Lea Seydoux and English actor George Mackay, continue to meet across time in a fascinating exploration of that trope. It comes with all the romance and tragedy normally associated with this type of story, but this one can also be downright terrifying. Lea Seydoux is as talented as she is gorgeous and Mackay continues to prove what an interesting actor he is. “The Beast” is smart science fiction bolstered by committed actors and striking visuals. It’s currently available to stream on the Criterion Channel and rent on most digital platforms.

The 4:30 Movie

Finally, the new film from 90s icon Kevin Smith “The 4:30 Movie”. Smith tells a semi-biographical of a young man trying to sneak into movies throughout the day while waiting for his date to arrive. Smith will likely never reach his 90s heights again, but aside from some forced jokes about things that will surely never happen in the future, this is an incredibly charming coming-of-age story about a kid who just wants to watch movies with the coolest girl he ever met. This is an easy recommendation for Smith fans and a quick comedy with plenty of laughs for everyone else. “The 4:30 Movie” is currently available on Blu-ray and UHD, and is available to rent on most digital platforms.