Film critic Brian Viner has compiled a list of 20 "hidden gem" films that he believes are worthy of greater attention and are currently accessible on streaming platforms. These selections range from overlooked releases to cult classics, with half produced since 2000 and the other half from the 20th century.
Viner defines a hidden gem as a film that may have had a limited theatrical run, achieved modest commercial success but has since been forgotten, or simply deserves more widespread acclaim.
Among the contemporary selections is "Dragonfly" (2025), a drama featuring Brenda Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough in performances Viner describes as "lifetime" achievements, exploring the relationship between two neighbors in suburban bungalows. "First Cow" (2019), directed by Kelly Reichardt, is lauded as a "quiet masterpiece" that meditates on male camaraderie in the Old West. The time-loop romantic comedy "Palm Springs" (2020) is noted for its intelligence and effervescence, particularly resonant during the pandemic. "The Skeleton Twins" (2014), starring Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, is highlighted for its blend of dark subject matter with moments of humor. "You Can Count On Me" (2000), a poignant family drama set in the Catskills, is recognized for its strong performances from Laura Linney and Mark Ruffalo, and its insightful writing by Kenneth Lonergan.
From the older half of the list, "Charley Varrick" (1973) features Walter Matthau in a rare straight role as a bank-robbing crop-dusting pilot, directed by Don Siegel. "It Always Rains On Sunday" (1947) is praised as a beautifully crafted thriller that also chronicles post-war working-class life in London's East End. "Jawbone" (2017), a British boxing film written by and starring Johnny Harris, is compared favorably to "Raging Bull." "Mississippi Grind" (2015) offers an "exquisitely observed character study" of compulsive gamblers, with strong performances from Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds. Meryl Streep's "Music of the Heart" (1999), a true story about an inspirational violin teacher, is noted as a surprisingly satisfying film even for those unfamiliar with it. The classic Will Hay comedy "Oh, Mr Porter!" (1937) is recommended for fans of "Dad's Army." "Pleasantville" (1998), a fantasy film starring Reese Witherspoon and Tobey Maguire, is described as witty and ingenious. "Requiem for a Heavyweight" (1962), starring Anthony Quinn, is an intense drama about a boxer that transcends the sport. Jonathan Demme's "Something Wild" (1986) is celebrated as a "joyously quirky" comedy thriller. Dario Argento's "The Bird With the Crystal Plumage" (1970) is identified as a classy example of the Italian "giallo" genre. Stephen Frears' crime thriller "The Hit" (1984) stars Terence Stamp and John Hurt. "Wild Tales" (2014), an Argentinian film co-produced by Pedro Almodovar, is a collection of six darkly humorous stories about vengeance. Finally, "Divorcing Jack" (1998) is described as a high-energy blend of rom-com, thriller, and chase caper set in Northern Ireland.
Viner notes that eight of the films on his list are British productions. The list aims to bring attention to films that, for various reasons, have not achieved the widespread recognition they arguably deserve, all of which are currently available to stream.