(Credits: Netflix)

A plethora of films is released every day, and OTT platforms like Netflix have democratised their access and consumption. This can easily overwhelm the consumer with choices. Unable to choose, they may just watch something new because it is the talk of the town, or they may rewatch something to ease the choosing process. Needless to say, this may result in many good films being missed.

Films can be an escapist form of art and entertainment from the exhausting reality of life. Yet, along with that, they can be a mirror to that very reality. There is oddly a comfort in being able to face our parts of our lives in a manner from a distance that is comprehensible instead of being confrontational.

It is not a small loss when they are overlooked or missed when making the easier choice of picking something popular or familiar. First, because they are major pieces of art come to fruition through the efforts and contributions of many individuals.

Second, because they are essential for the impact that they leave on the viewer and the conversations that happen because of them. They tend to carry themes that connect with humanity at large. And such notions need to be reinstated in the minds to unfold the many layers such conversations carry.

Five essential films to binge on Netflix this weekend

‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ – Michel Gondry (2017)

This 2004 film takes a surrealist approach to memory and breakups, following a heartbroken ex-couple seeking a memory erasure procedure to forget each other. Considered one of the greatest films of the century by many, it has received much critical acclaim and accolades.

Through its surrealist and sci-fi elements, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is able to explore the understanding of memory and identity in love and relationships. The emotional depth presented through the characterisation makes the story feel just the right kind of personal. The subtlety in writing and performance ties these aspects beautifully and painstakingly, pulling the viewer in. The wisdom that it carries highlights the pain and pleasure that memory and love can bring.

‘Marriage Story’ – Noah Baumbach (2019)

Another critically acclaimed film that must be watched (and occasionally rewatched) is Marriage Story. It follows the heartbreaking and raw journey of a couple going through a divorce and its impact on their individual and collective lives. It dives deep into the complexities of love, passion, and sacrifice and their presence in a relationship and a family. This one does not shy away from getting into the vulnerabilities of its characters and, in turn, making the themes of the film even more poignant.

Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson’s impeccable performances are motivated by the openly emotional writing. The attention to detail in each moment draws the viewer in, from every moment of silence to each loud and raw breakdown. It speaks deeply and openly about separation in a relationship and the grievances it brings up, often more painful due to the sacrifices made in the name of love, which is now lost, but it does not condemn or confront. The subtlety and nuance make the film more approachable and thoughtful.

‘CTRL’ – Vikramaditya Motwane (2024)

The 2024 Indian film, CTRL, deals with the fast-tightening grip of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology over the life, relationships, and identity of a person. This thriller takes the screenlife filmmaking approach to emphasise its narrative, which not only helps build the arc of the story but also makes it more immersive and intriguing.

It discusses how it is not just AI that is doing its job, but the people behind it who possess a power far greater than one can imagine. Taking a premise that is highly relevant today, it opens up discourse related to aspects that many may be unaware or ignorant of. It knowingly poses unrealistic situations to push the viewer into thinking how far it really is from reality, considering the current speed of enhancement. There is no superficiality in the story or the intent; instead, there is appropriate concern that makes it more essential than ever.

‘The Truman Show’ – Peter Weir (1998)

The Truman Show is a 1998 film that may have been ahead of its time, with its expert satirical take and psychological approach to make commentary on socially relevant topics. The story involves a man living an ordinary life who does not know that he is stuck in a simulation constructed for mass entertainment. It tackles the theme of the existence of reality through the realms of privacy, surveillance, and manipulation. A blend of psychology, science, and philosophy, it remains relevant even more than two decades since its release.

Through themes that are reflective of the ethos of humanity, it spins a tale of emotional depth. It speaks of grand influences that possess greater control of lives than we know them to be, challenging the existence of reality and the human experience. Such notions draw in the audience of today as well because of their evergreen relevance, which is now even more enhanced through the development of high-tech surveillance technology and the need to live our lives online. The story delves into complicated questions of human reality and is an essential watch that leads to thought-provoking conversations.

‘Pieces of a Woman’ – Kornél Mundruczó (2020)

This 2020 film is a moving portrait of grief and loss, with a vulnerable and human story at its heart. More hard-hitting than the other four, it delves into themes of loss, grief, healing, identity, relationships, and motherhood. This intimate work tells a story of a couple who lose their child at birth and the impact it has on them and their relationship. The raw narrative brings the perfect amount of emotional intensity, leaving no space for glamourisation or romanticisation, hitting you with the full force of the tragedy.

The movie deals with themes that are personal and universal at the same time, making it something that speaks to many irrespective of background. The complex characters and plotlines present the viewer with questions of morality, loyalty, and sacrifice, engaging the viewer from the brain and the heart.