Film critic Brian Viner has compiled a list of 20 "hidden gem" movies that he believes deserve more recognition and are accessible on streaming platforms. The selection includes films from both the last century and the 21st century, with a notable portion being British productions.
Viner defines a hidden gem as a film that may have had a modest box office run or has been overlooked by audiences since its release. The curated list aims to introduce viewers to movies that might have passed them by but are nonetheless "wonderful."
Among the modern selections is "Dragonfly" (2025), a drama praised for the performances of Brenda Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough as neighbors in suburban bungalows. "First Cow" (2019), directed by Kelly Reichardt, is described as a quiet masterpiece exploring male camaraderie in the Old West through the tale of two unlikely entrepreneurs and a borrowed cow. Paul Haggis's crime drama "In the Valley of Elah" (2007), featuring a strong cast including Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron, is noted for its compelling narrative about an Iraq War veteran's murder, despite its limited box office success. The boxing film "Jawbone" (2017), starring and written by Johnny Harris, is compared favorably to "Raging Bull" for its gritty portrayal of a washed-up fighter seeking a comeback, supported by Ray Winstone and Ian McShane.
"Mississippi Grind" (2015) is highlighted as an exquisitely observed character study of compulsive gamblers, offering a glimpse into a less-often-seen side of Americana with Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds. "Palm Springs" (2020), a romcom starring Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, is noted for its effervescent take on the time-loop concept, resonating particularly during the pandemic. "The Skeleton Twins" (2014), featuring Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, is recognized for its potent blend of dark humor and touching moments centered on estranged siblings. The Argentinian film "Wild Tales" (2014), a collection of six revenge-themed stories, is praised for its wit and dark humor, co-produced by Pedro Almodóvar.
Older films on the list include Walter Matthau in a rare dramatic role as a crop-dusting pilot who robs banks in "Charley Varrick" (1973), directed by Don Siegel. "It Always Rains on Sunday" (1947), by Robert Hamer, is recognized not only as a masterfully crafted thriller but also for its depiction of working-class London life post-war. The classic Will Hay comedy "Oh, Mr. Porter!" (1937) is suggested for fans of "Dad's Army" due to its influence on the sitcom's creators. "Pleasantville" (1998), Gary Ross's directorial debut, is called a witty and ingenious fantasy about siblings trapped in a 1950s sitcom, whose box office failure is questioned.
"Requiem for a Heavyweight" (1962), starring Anthony Quinn, is lauded as a hard-hitting drama about a boxer that transcends the sport, even featuring a young Cassius Clay. Jonathan Demme's "Something Wild" (1986) is described as a joyously quirky comedy thriller with a strong cast including Jeff Daniels and Melanie Griffith. Dario Argento's "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" (1970) is cited as a classy example of the Italian "giallo" genre, a pulsating thriller with a memorable score by Ennio Morricone. Stephen Frears' crime thriller "The Hit" (1984), starring Terence Stamp, John Hurt, and Tim Roth, follows contract killers transporting their victim across Europe.
Also included is "Music of the Heart" (1999), a true story about an inspirational violin teacher starring Meryl Streep, directed by Wes Craven. "Divorcing Jack" (1998) is a dark but funny thriller-chase caper set in Northern Ireland, starring David Thewlis. Shane Meadows' "Dead Man's Shoes" (2004) is an unsettling but brilliant film about revenge in a Derbyshire setting, starring Paddy Considine. Finally, "You Can Count On Me" (2000), written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan, is noted as a poignant family drama with strong performances from Laura Linney and Mark Ruffalo.
