The Best Sundance Movies to Watch at Home
If you’re a fan of indie films, the Sundance Film Festival is like the Oscars for those hidden cinematic gems that don’t always get the attention they deserve in mainstream theaters. However, not everyone can make it to Park City, Utah, to experience the festival firsthand. Luckily, many Sundance films are available for home viewing. Here’s a list of some of the best Sundance movies you can enjoy from the comfort of your own couch.
1. “Whiplash” (2014) – Damien Chazelle’s electrifying music drama about a young jazz drummer and his ruthless instructor swept audiences off their feet and earned J.K. Simmons an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
2. “Boyhood” (2014) – Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, Richard Linklater’s groundbreaking narrative about growing up offers a unique cinematic experience that mirrors the very essence of life itself.
3. “Get Out” (2017) – Jordan Peele’s directorial debut turned the horror genre on its head with its incisive social commentary and chilling plot, which led to an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
4. “Manchester by the Sea” (2016) – This devastatingly raw drama showcases Casey Affleck’s standout performance as a man dealing with unimaginable grief and earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.
5. “The Big Sick” (2017) – Based on a true story, this rom-com drama by Kumail Nanjiani navigates the cultural clashes of a Pakistani comedian and his American girlfriend in a way that’s equal parts heartwarming and hilarious.
6. “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) – A beloved family road trip movie that combines humor and heartbreak as it follows a dysfunctional family’s journey to a child beauty pageant.
7. “Hereditary” (2018) – Ari Aster’s horror masterpiece that delves into psychological terror follows a family haunted after the death of their secretive grandmother.
8. “Moonlight” (2016) – Barry Jenkins’ powerful portrayal of African-American life and identity shot through with themes of love, pain, and self-discovery won Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
9. “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016) – Taika Waititi’s adventure comedy about a boy and his foster uncle becoming subject of a manhunt through New Zealand wilderness charms with wit and warmth.
10. “The Sessions” (2012) – A poignant story about a disabled man seeking to lose his virginity through a sexual surrogate; this film offers an honest look into the intersection between disability and sexuality.
Whether you’re looking to explore new genres or find thought-provoking stories, these Sundance movies provide diverse storytelling that resonates well after the credits roll. Happy watching!