In an era where blockbuster films dominate the box office and streaming platforms are flooded with content, it's easy for some exceptional films to slip under the radar. While superhero franchises and big-budget epics often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of smaller gems that deserve more attention. These films may not have received the mass recognition they deserve, but they are well worth the watch for any cinephile looking for something unique, thought-provoking, or simply entertaining. Here’s a list of underrated gems from the last decade that you might have missed.
1. The Vast of Night (2019)
This low-budget sci-fi film, directed by Andrew Patterson, is a masterclass in atmosphere and storytelling. Set in the 1950s, it follows a switchboard operator and a radio DJ who stumble upon a strange frequency that could change everything. With its clever cinematography and immersive dialogue, The Vast of Night is a hidden treasure for fans of classic sci-fi and Twilight Zone-style mysteries.
2. Columbus (2017)
Directed by Kogonada, Columbus is a beautifully shot drama about architecture, human connection, and personal growth. Featuring nuanced performances from John Cho and Haley Lu Richardson, the film explores themes of family, obligation, and self-discovery against the backdrop of Columbus, Indiana’s stunning modernist architecture.
3. Under the Silver Lake (2018)
David Robert Mitchell’s neo-noir thriller is a surreal journey through Los Angeles, starring Andrew Garfield as a man obsessed with uncovering hidden messages and conspiracies in pop culture. Mysterious, weird, and visually striking, Under the Silver Lake has developed a cult following and is a must-watch for those who enjoy unconventional storytelling.
4. A Ghost Story (2017)
This deeply meditative film from David Lowery stars Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara in a poetic exploration of time, loss, and the lingering presence of the past. With minimal dialogue and a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, A Ghost Story is an emotional experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
5. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Although this French masterpiece received critical acclaim, it remains an underrated film in the mainstream. Céline Sciamma’s Portrait of a Lady on Fire is an exquisitely crafted love story between a painter and her subject, set in 18th-century France. Every frame feels like a painting, and the film’s themes of love, memory, and artistic expression are profound and moving.
6. The Nightingale (2018)
Jennifer Kent, director of The Babadook, delivers a harrowing and powerful historical drama with The Nightingale. Set in 1825 Tasmania, the film follows a young Irish convict seeking revenge in a brutal, colonial world. While it’s a tough watch due to its raw depiction of violence and oppression, it’s a stunningly crafted film with an unforgettable lead performance by Aisling Franciosi.
7. First Reformed (2017)
Paul Schrader’s existential drama stars Ethan Hawke as a troubled pastor grappling with faith, despair, and environmental catastrophe. First Reformed is a slow-burning, thought-provoking masterpiece that rewards patient viewers with its powerful themes and stellar performances.
8. The Rider (2017)
Chloé Zhao’s quiet yet profound drama about a rodeo rider coping with a life-changing injury is a beautifully told story of identity and perseverance. With non-professional actors playing fictionalized versions of themselves, The Rider is an intimate, heartfelt, and visually stunning piece of cinema.
9. The Farewell (2019)
Lulu Wang’s deeply personal film tells the story of a Chinese-American woman (played by Awkwafina) who returns to China under the guise of a fake wedding to say goodbye to her terminally ill grandmother. Blending humor, cultural reflections, and poignant drama, The Farewell is a touching family story that resonates across cultures.
10. Blindspotting (2018)
A socially charged drama with elements of comedy and spoken-word poetry, Blindspotting follows two lifelong friends navigating gentrification and racial tensions in Oakland. Written by and starring Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal, this film is a creative and impactful exploration of identity, privilege, and justice.
The Art of Cinematic Storytelling
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What are some of your favorite underrated films? Share them in the comments below!
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