Apple TV+’s Must-Watch Movies: From Postapocalyptic Thrillers to Heartwarming Dramas
While Netflix and HBO Max boast extensive collections of prestigious films, Apple TV+ is rapidly building a strong catalog alongside its expanding lineup of original series. From Academy Award winners to Sundance sensations, Apple’s streaming platform offers a diverse range of must-watch movies.
Mad Max: Fury Road – A Postapocalyptic Masterpiece
Released in 2015, Mad Max: Fury Road arrived three decades after George Miller’s last installment in the franchise, Beyond Thunderdome. This adrenaline-fueled film stood out amidst a sea of lackluster remakes like Fantastic Four and Terminator Genisys. Widely regarded as one of the greatest postapocalyptic movies ever made, Fury Road seamlessly blends style and substance. It also introduced Charlize Theron’s iconic character, Furiosa, a fierce advocate for women oppressed by the tyrannical Immortan Joe. With the highly anticipated follow-up, Furiosa, set to hit theaters in May, now is the perfect time to revisit this groundbreaking film on Apple TV+ before it leaves the platform at the end of April.
Napoleon – A Feel-Bad Masterpiece
While Napoleon may not have achieved the same level of critical acclaim as some of the other films on this list, it remains a thought-provoking and emotionally charged work of art. As we previously described it, Napoleon is “a feel-bad masterpiece” that demands to be experienced.
Fingernails – Exploring the Formula for True Love
In writer-director Christos Nikou’s latest film, an institute led by Duncan (Luke Wilson) claims to have discovered the secret to true love through technology. Anna (Jessie Buckley), skeptical of her relationship with boyfriend Ryan (Jeremy Allen White), decides to investigate the institute’s claims. As she works there, she encounters Amir (Riz Ahmed), who may be her true match.
Flora and Son – A Charming Dublin-Set Musical
Fans of Sing Street and Once, both delightful indie films set in Dublin, will find much to love in Flora and Son. Director John Carney returns with another heartwarming tale, this time focusing on a mother in Dublin attempting to bond with her son through music. Eve Hewson, daughter of U2’s Bono, delivers a standout performance as the titular character, showcasing her impressive musical talents.
The Beanie Bubble – The Rise of a Toy Phenomenon
The Beanie Bubble chronicles the story of toy salesman Ty Warner (Zach Galifianakis), who achieves unprecedented success after partnering with three women to create the wildly popular Beanie Babies. While reviews have been mixed, the film’s stellar cast, including Elizabeth Banks and Sarah Snook (of Succession fame), elevates this sweet dramedy, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in.
Stephen Curry: Underrated – The Journey of an NBA Legend
Stephen Curry, the beloved Golden State Warriors point guard, is widely considered one of the greatest players in the NBA. With two MVP awards and four championship rings, Curry has solidified his place in basketball history. Underrated, directed by Peter Nicks (known for his work on The Waiting Room), takes viewers back to Curry’s college days at Davidson, where he worked tirelessly to fulfill the potential his coaches saw in him.
Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry – An Intimate Look at a Pop Icon
Director R. J. Cutler’s Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry offers an unprecedented glimpse into the life and creative process of the young pop sensation. With candid discussions about Eilish’s songwriting collaboration with her brother Finneas and her experiences with Tourette’s syndrome, this documentary redefines the genre, providing an intimate portrait of an artist on the rise.
Cha Cha Real Smooth – A Sundance Darling
Cha Cha Real Smooth, a Sundance hit starring Dakota Johnson, proves that writer-director-star Cooper Raiff is a talent to watch. This heartfelt film follows a young man who works as a party starter at bar and bat mitzvahs, navigating the complexities of love and life.
The Tragedy of Macbeth – A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
Director Joel Coen brings a unique vision to the well-known story of Macbeth, a Scottish lord with ambitions of ruling his country. Shot entirely in black and white and featuring powerhouse performances from Denzel Washington as Macbeth and Frances McDormand as his formidable wife, this adaptation earned three Oscar nominations and offers a captivating new perspective on the Shakespearean classic.
Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues – Exploring a Jazz Legend’s Legacy
Louis Armstrong, one of the most iconic jazz musicians of all time, was also a complex figure in the fight for racial equality in America. Director Sacha Jenkins delves into Armstrong’s life and legacy, using a wealth of photographs, clippings, and even personal recordings made by the musician himself. While Armstrong broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry, he also faced criticism for not being more vocal in the civil rights movement. This documentary provides a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of the legendary artist.
Tetris – The Untold Story Behind the Game
Tetris, the movie, explores the fascinating history of the beloved video game’s creation and its journey from the Soviet Union to the rest of the world. A blend of historical drama and espionage thriller, the film may not be perfect, but it offers an engaging look at a little-known chapter in gaming history.
Causeway – A Poignant Exploration of Trauma and Connection
Causeway, directed by Lila Neugebauer, stars Jennifer Lawrence as a soldier who returns home after sustaining a brain injury in Afghanistan. This understated film delves into the nature of trauma and the importance of human connection in the healing process. It may have flown under the radar upon its release in 2022, but Causeway is a poignant and timely watch for those seeking a more introspective viewing experience.
Sidney – Celebrating a Hollywood Icon
Released in 2022, the same year as Sidney Poitier’s passing, this Apple TV+ documentary celebrates the actor’s remarkable career and lasting impact on American culture and politics. With interviews from luminaries such as Spike Lee, Morgan Freeman, and Harry Belafonte, Sidney goes beyond Poitier’s Hollywood achievements, tracing his journey from his childhood in the Bahamas to his pivotal role in the civil rights movement.
These must-watch movies on Apple TV+ showcase the platform’s commitment to delivering a wide range of high-quality, thought-provoking content. From pulse-pounding action to heartwarming dramas and insightful documentaries, there’s something for every viewer to enjoy.
5 Comments
Ready to cancel all plans; Apple TV+’s lineup is too good to resist!
Binge alert: Who needs social life when there’s a marathon waiting on Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is trying to claim all our weekends, and honestly, I’m not mad about it!
Sablee: Guess my couch is my new best friend, thanks to Apple TV+’s lineup!
Looks like my social life is taking a hit; those Apple TV+ films aren’t going to watch themselves!