If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably noticed the same films appearing on every “Top 10” list ever. Don’t get me wrong I love The Shawshank Redemption as much as the next person but what about the movies that slipped through the cracks?
As someone who watches a lot of films (maybe too many, if you ask my friends), I wanted to shine a light on a few that didn’t get the hype they deserved.
These six are total gems the kind that make you laugh, cry, or quietly say, “Why did no one tell me about this sooner?”
🌿 1. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Director: Taika Waititi
Taika Waititi wrote and directed this New Zealand treasure, and honestly, it’s one of his best. It follows Ricky Baker, a cheeky teen who escapes into the wild after his foster mum dies, only to be reluctantly joined by his grumpy uncle Hector.
It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and so well written. Waititi has this knack for turning chaos into comedy without ever losing the emotion. My favourite line? “I didn’t choose the skuxx life, the skuxx life chose me.”
Beautifully acted, beautifully shot this one’s a must.
🛼 2. Whip It (2009)
Director: Drew Barrymore
This indie gem is all about finding yourself (and your people) through the unlikeliest sport: roller derby. Elliot Page is brilliant as Bliss, a small-town girl who joins a roller derby team in Austin to escape the boredom of her hometown.
I didn’t even realise Drew Barrymore directed it until after watching and I love that raw, rebellious energy she brings. It’s funny, messy, and full of heart. Basically, it’s the movie equivalent of a shot of espresso.
💕 3. Rye Lane (2023)
Directors: Raine Allen-Miller
A love letter to South London and to modern romance. Rye Lane follows two twenty-somethings nursing breakups who spend one chaotic, colourful day wandering the city together.
It’s bright, fast, and full of personality the kind of rom-com that feels alive. The chemistry is electric, the visuals are stunning, and it proves that British cinema can be bold and joyful.
💭 4. Think Like a Man (2012)
Director: Tim Story
Honestly? This one doesn’t get nearly enough credit. Based on Steve Harvey’s book, it’s a clever, laugh-out-loud ensemble comedy about men whose love lives are turned upside down when their girlfriends start following “relationship advice.”
The cast is stacked Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, Regina Hall and it’s got just the right mix of wit, chaos, and charm. A perfect Friday-night comfort film.
🛣️ 5. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
Director: Rob Burnett
Paul Rudd plays a writer-turned-caregiver who takes a sarcastic teenager with muscular dystrophy on a road trip. What follows is one of the most unexpectedly emotional and funny movies I’ve seen in a long time.
It’s part buddy comedy, part healing journey, and it sneaks up on you with how touching it is. You’ll laugh, then immediately tear up and you’ll love it for both.
👑 6. Belle (2013)
Director: Amma Asante
A stunning period drama based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the mixed-race daughter of a Royal Navy Admiral. Raised by her great-uncle, she faces prejudice and questions of identity in 18th-century England.
Amma Asante’s direction is just breathtaking elegant and emotional, but with a strong social pulse. Maybe I’m biased (I love a good period drama and a true story), but this is one of the best.
🎞️ Final Reel
These six films might not top every streaming algorithm or critics’ list, but that’s exactly why they’re special. They’re the ones you stumble across by accident, fall in love with, and then immediately text your friends about.
So next time you’re scrolling endlessly through Netflix or Prime, give one of these a go. Who knows your new favourite movie might just be hiding in plain sight.