Five essential hidden gem movies to binge this weekend on Netflix

Among the popular blockbusters and trending series, there are hidden cinematic treasures waiting to be discovered on Netflix. 

If you’re tired of the mainstream and in search of something a little quieter but that packs a punch, look no further. We have curated five essential hidden gem films that deserve your attention this weekend.

In a world inundated with noisy action flicks and huge Hollywood ensembles, these indie films stand as a testament to the art of filmmaking, even on smaller budgets. Such movies can often slip by you, so there’s no better time to pitch up and cop a few of these great titles.

So, this weekend, step away from the familiar and immerse yourself in the world of these hidden treasures.

Five essential movies to binge on Netflix this weekend:

Village Rockstars (2017)

Directed by Rima Das, Village Rockstars is a heartwarming Assamese film that follows the journey of a young girl named Dhunu as she aspires to become a rockstar, encouraged by the best mom ever, despite growing up in a remote village with limited resources. This charming coming-of-age story demonstrates the power of dreams and determination.

Das captures the essence of rural life beautifully, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit against all odds. The film’s raw emotions and genuine performances make it a must-watch.

Farha (2021)

Fahra is a visually captivating and emotionally charged film that faced a lot of protests from Israeli groups to make it to the Netflix library. This historical drama, directed by Darin J. Sallam, depicts a 14-year-old Palestinian girl’s coming-of-age amid the Nakba, the 1948 displacement of Palestinians from their homeland.

The film is based on a true story that was recounted to Sallam’s mother by a friend who lived as a refugee in Syria. It is inspired by her experiences during the Nakba.

Burning (2018)

Based on a short story by Haruki Murakami, Burning is a South Korean psychological thriller directed by Lee Chang-dong. This hidden gem delves into the complexities of obsession, class disparity, and the enigmatic nature of human relationships. The film follows the unsettling interactions between the three characters, exploring the blurred lines between reality and perception.

With its slow-burning narrative and outstanding performances, Burning will keep you on the edge throughout.

Bulbul Can Sing (2018)

The director of the critically acclaimed Village Rockstars, Rima Das, brings us another poignant film, Bulbul Can Sing. Set in a remote Indian village, the movie revolves around the lives of three teenagers as they navigate their way through the challenges of adolescence and societal norms.

Das once again captures the authenticity of rural life, addressing issues such as gender identity and sexual awakening with sensitivity and grace.

Court (2014)

Court, a powerful Indian courtroom drama directed by Chaitanya Tamhane, offers a compelling glimpse into the intricacies of the Indian legal system and the social issues it grapples with. The film follows the trial of a folk singer accused of abetting a sewerage worker’s suicide through his lyrics.

Through its understated yet impactful narrative, Court exposes the flaws within the justice system while shedding light on class and caste disparities.