Three true cinematic classics are ready for you to watch this weekend. While there are plenty of modern new releases available on streaming right now, some of thegreatest movies ever madeare also available to binge-watch. For those who want to look back on older gems, there are some great titles on major streamers.
Amongall of the classic moviesout there in the streaming world to enjoy, three titles emerge as perfect for this weekend’s movie watching. There is something for everyone, including a tense legal thriller from a master filmmaker, afantasy movie masterpiecefor all ages, and a gripping thriller that went unappreciated in its time.
312 Angry Men (1957)
Stream On Tubi
Courtroom dramas always attempt to capture the tension and thrills of high-stakes trials, but few have done it as effectively as Sidney Lumet’s brilliant12 Angry Men. Thecast of12 Angry Menis led by Henry Fonda as a man who stands against his fellow jurors, casting the only vote for “not guilty” in a murder case.
As Fonda’s grounded hero tries to plead his case to the other impatient, stubborn, and bigoted men, Lumet amplifies the tension through his filmmaking. The shots begin getting tighter, and the confined location of the movie works incredibly well as the argument rages on.
The movie has plenty of effective reveals and powerful moments, but the movie is really made up of very conversations around the same subject. Regardless,it is a gripping drama from beginning to end that celebrates the everyday hero who stands up for justice in society, however they can.
2The Wizard Of Oz (1939)
Stream On HBO Max
One of thedefinitive fantasy movies, it is hard to highlight just how influentialThe Wizard of Ozhas been as a piece of cinema. The story of young Dorothy Gale (Judy Garland) traveling to the wonderful land of Oz is a sweeping fantasy adventure, filled with memorable songs, stunning visuals, and iconic characters.
The Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion make for terrific allies for Dorothy on her journey, while the Wicked Witch still stands as an unforgettable movie villain. It is a movie that captures a magical feeling better than any other.The moment Dorothy steps out of her black-and-white world and into the Technicolor world of Oz is movie-making perfection.
Even with the acclaim and popularity of Wicked, as well as the excitement forthe upcomingWickedsequel, there is no comparing it to this classic original movie that changed cinema forever.
1The Night Of The Hunter (1955)
Stream On Prime Video
The Night of the Hunteris a movie that was not appreciated in its time,but has come to be regarded asone of the greatest thrillers ever made. Robert Mitchum gives the ultimate sinister performance as a proclaimed preacher who seduces a widowed mother of two in hopes of finding her husband’s hidden fortune.
The movie holds a distinct Southern Gothic feel, sometimes feeling like an early horror movie. Director Charles Laughton never stepped behind the camera again after the movie was poorly received, but he established himself as a true talent, with some incredible cinematic images that have influenced many other films that followed.
Over the years, more and more people have discoveredThe Night of the Hunter, helping it to earn its rightful reputation as a masterpiece. While it is certainly much darker than movies of its time, it is still one that modern audiences should seek out.
