Hidden Gems: 3 Underrated Netflix Movies For This Weekend

by Kenji Nakamura 58 views

Hey movie lovers! Are you scrolling endlessly through Netflix, trying to find something worth watching? We've all been there. With so many options, it's easy to get overwhelmed and miss some hidden gems. That's why I'm here to help! This weekend, August 15-17, ditch the doom-scrolling and dive into these 3 seriously underrated Netflix movies. Trust me, you won't regret it. These flicks are perfect for a cozy night in, a movie marathon with friends, or just some quality solo time. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get started!

1. Tau (2018)

If you're into sci-fi thrillers with a touch of horror, Tau is an underrated Netflix movie that's right up your alley. This film often gets overlooked, but it's a real gem for fans of the genre. Tau tells the story of Julia, a young woman kidnapped and held captive in a technologically advanced smart house. Her captor, Alex, is a brilliant but eccentric inventor who uses Julia as a test subject for his AI, named Tau. Tau is voiced by the amazing Gary Oldman, which instantly gives the film some serious credibility. Now, here's where it gets interesting. Tau isn't just some generic AI; he's learning and evolving, becoming more human-like as he interacts with Julia. This creates a fascinating dynamic between captor, captive, and artificial intelligence. Julia, being the resourceful and intelligent woman she is, starts to form a connection with Tau, trying to manipulate him to help her escape. The film explores themes of artificial intelligence, humanity, and the ethics of technological advancement. It makes you think about what it truly means to be human and the potential dangers of creating AI that's too intelligent. The suspense builds gradually, with tense moments and unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The performances are solid, particularly Maika Monroe as Julia, who brings a fierce determination and vulnerability to the role. Gary Oldman's voice acting as Tau is also superb, giving the AI a unique personality and depth. While Tau might not have the biggest budget or the most explosive special effects, it makes up for it with its clever plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. It's a sci-fi thriller that stays with you long after the credits roll. So, if you're looking for something a little different this weekend, give Tau a try. You might just discover your new favorite underrated Netflix movie.

Why You Should Watch It:

  • Intriguing Plot: The premise of a woman trapped in a smart house with an evolving AI is genuinely captivating.
  • Gary Oldman's Voice Acting: His portrayal of Tau is both chilling and sympathetic.
  • Thought-Provoking Themes: The film raises questions about AI, humanity, and ethics.
  • Suspenseful Atmosphere: The tension builds steadily throughout the movie, keeping you engaged.

2. Calibre (2018)

Okay guys, if you're in the mood for a nail-biting thriller that will leave you breathless, then Calibre is an underrated Netflix movie you absolutely need to watch. This Scottish thriller is a masterclass in suspense, with a dark and disturbing story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Calibre follows two longtime friends, Vaughn and Marcus, who travel to the Scottish Highlands for a weekend hunting trip. Vaughn is about to become a father and is looking for a break from the responsibilities of his life, while Marcus is more of a thrill-seeker, always pushing the boundaries. Their peaceful getaway takes a horrifying turn when a tragic accident occurs during their hunt. This is where things get really intense. The friends make a series of bad decisions, each one compounding the consequences of the last, leading them down a dark and desperate path. The film explores themes of guilt, morality, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect themselves. It's a chilling look at how quickly a situation can spiral out of control and the devastating impact of fear and panic. The performances in Calibre are outstanding, particularly Jack Lowden as Vaughn and Martin McCann as Marcus. They both deliver incredibly raw and emotional portrayals of men grappling with immense pressure and guilt. The stunning Scottish scenery adds to the film's atmosphere, creating a sense of isolation and dread. The director, Matt Palmer, does an incredible job of building suspense, with each scene ratcheting up the tension. Calibre isn't an easy watch; it's dark, disturbing, and emotionally challenging. But it's also a brilliant piece of filmmaking that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it. It's the kind of movie that you'll want to discuss with your friends and dissect its complex themes. So, if you're looking for a thriller that's more than just jump scares and explosions, Calibre is an underrated Netflix movie that you won't want to miss. Just be prepared for a wild ride!

Why You Should Watch It:

  • Intense Suspense: The film is a masterclass in building tension, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
  • Strong Performances: Jack Lowden and Martin McCann deliver powerful and emotional performances.
  • Dark and Disturbing Story: The film explores challenging themes of guilt, morality, and desperation.
  • Stunning Scenery: The Scottish Highlands provide a beautiful but isolating backdrop for the story.

3. The Ritual (2017)

Alright horror fans, listen up! The Ritual is an underrated Netflix movie that deserves a spot on your watchlist this weekend. This British horror film blends psychological dread with folk horror elements to create a truly unsettling experience. It's not your typical jump-scare horror flick; it's a slow-burn that gets under your skin and stays there. The Ritual follows a group of four friends who embark on a hiking trip in the Swedish wilderness to honor a recently deceased friend. They decide to take a shortcut through a dense forest, and that's when things start to go wrong. They become lost, and strange, unsettling things begin to happen. The group encounters bizarre symbols carved into trees, animal carcasses, and a palpable sense of dread. As they venture deeper into the woods, they realize they are not alone. Something is watching them, something ancient and malevolent. The film taps into primal fears of the unknown and the darkness that can lurk within the human psyche. It also explores themes of grief, guilt, and the fragility of male friendship. The performances are excellent, with each actor portraying the mounting fear and paranoia of their character. The Swedish wilderness is beautifully shot, but also adds to the sense of isolation and vulnerability. The creature design in The Ritual is particularly effective, creating a truly terrifying and unique monster that you won't soon forget. The film builds suspense gradually, with moments of intense horror interspersed with psychological tension. It's a movie that will keep you guessing until the very end. The Ritual is a must-watch for horror fans who appreciate a more atmospheric and intelligent approach to the genre. It's a film that will leave you feeling uneasy and disturbed in the best possible way. So, if you're looking for a genuinely creepy and thought-provoking horror movie this weekend, give The Ritual a try. Just maybe don't watch it alone in the dark!

Why You Should Watch It:

  • Atmospheric Horror: The film creates a palpable sense of dread and unease.
  • Unique Creature Design: The monster in The Ritual is truly terrifying and original.
  • Psychological Tension: The film explores the characters' inner fears and anxieties.
  • Folk Horror Elements: The film blends traditional horror with elements of folklore and mythology.

So there you have it, guys! Three seriously underrated Netflix movies to add to your watchlist this weekend. Whether you're in the mood for sci-fi thrills, a nail-biting thriller, or a creepy horror flick, there's something here for everyone. Happy watching!