What Movies Have I Been Watching?

1. "Without a Paddle" (2004), Director: Steven Brill, Actors: Matthew Lillard, Seth Green, and Dax Shepherd

In my movie hunting, I have seen the “Without a Paddle” poster but never sat down to watch it. One night, I did. It’s one of those comedies that packs in all the humor it can. However, it’s a genuine ‘bro film.’ Matthew Lillard, Seth Green, and Dax Shepherd made a believable friendship. Their characters survive in the wild and adulthood. I have found more films about growing up in adulthood lately. We’re still finding ourselves. The story loses its focus in the climax, adding scenes that felt like filler. It’s worth checking out and having a laugh with friends. 

2. "Hot Fuzz" (2007), Director: Edgar Wright, Actors: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost

Since I have become a Simon Pegg fan, I added “Hot Fuzz” (2007) to my watch. My friend highly recommended it to me. The film rejoins the comedic duo of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost after their successful cult classic “Shaun of the Dead.” I cannot describe the comedy in the film as you have to witness it for yourself. Reunited with director Edgar Wright, Hot Fuzz brilliantly crafts an action-comedy. The razor-sharp comedy, visual gags, and energy makes every scene entertaining. If you have not seen it, put it on your watch list now. Comedies make the best medicine. 

3. "Take Me Home Tonight" (2011) Director: Micharl Dowse, Actors: Topher Grace, Anna Faris

“Take Me Home Tonight” is another film I discovered with a grown ups coming-of-age storyline. Topher Grace, who played Eric Forman in “That 70s Show,” stars as Matt Franklin. Anna Faris (Wendy) has been on my watch list lately. I felt Wendy had a stronger storyline than Matt. Like most films, Matt tries to impress the girl of his dreams. Director Michael Dowse was inspired by John Hughes. Growing up is tough, especially in your 20s. Make decisions that are right for you, and don’t be afraid to be your real self. We’re all taking stepping stones to our futures. 

4. Arthur Newman (2012), Director: Dante Ariola, Actors: Colin Firth, Emily Blunt

Arthur Newman is a quiet, introspective drama about identity, regret, and second chances. Arthur and Mike are two strangers, played by the talented Colin Firth and Emily Blunt. They go on a road trip to figure out their lives. The film also stars Lucas Hedges in an early role and the late Anne Heche. The subplot between Hedges and Heche set off major red flags and didn’t feel right with the story. Although the pacing felt slow, Dante Ariola’s direction allowed for a resonating film about finding your right direction. Arthur Newman is a sincere film. It’s streaming on Prime.

5. "Digging for Fire" (2015), Director: Joe Swanberg, Actors: Jake Johnson, Rosemarie Dewitt

“Digging for Fire” may seem like your average indie film that doesn’t have any coherent storyline, but there’s more to it than you think. Jake Johnson (Tim) and Rosemarie Dewitt (Lee) star as a married couple who take a break from each other for a weekend. Tim throws a wild party. One of the party guests is Sam Rockwell (Ray). He livens up any film he is in. Most of the film was improvised. I didn’t think there was a point until the end. You don’t realize what you have in your lives until you really stop to think about it. 

6. "Get a Job" (2016), Director: Dylan Kidd, Actors: Miles Teller, Anna Kendrick

Your 20s are harder than you think. That’s why several movies center on this storyline. “Get a Job” stars Miles Teller and Anna Kendrick. Getting a job after college isn’t as easy as you think. In fact, it’s one of the most reflective times of your life as you experience your first job and learn about the work world. It’s a typical comedy, with cliché storylines and characters, but it’s a good film. Director Dylan Kidd captures the anxieties of facing the unpredictable job market in a film. Movies take your mind off things and help you feel less alone.