by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Welcome to the Buried Treasure of the Streaming World! This series takes a month’s worth of content at a time and sifts out the buried treasure that exists on all forms of streaming. These films most likely fly under the radar, but now it is time to shine that spotlight on them and give them the attention they truly deserve. Time to dive in, shall we?
Shtetlers (8/10) — VOD
Who doesn’t enjoy a beautiful snapshot of life from the past? Shtetlers is an engaging documentary that takes the audience on a trip to the past where shtetls still existed. These Jewish communities were tight-knit, and driven by tradition and productive engagement. There are only a few of them left post-Holocaust, and this documentary takes us on a history lesson and on a dive into modern life. Following the lives of nine individuals, this is a human and engrossing experience that shows the resilience of the Jewish people and the power of community.
Ocean Boy (7/10) — VOD
Who would have thought that Luke Hemsworth is the second-best Hemsworth by far? The new drama out of Australia, Ocean Boy, focuses on the relationship between a father and son on the run. Hemsworth provides a charismatic and tortured performance that sees his engaging façade fall to the side, revealing a vulnerable and flawed man. But this beachside journey is anchored by the strong and breakout performance of Rasmus King. There are thrills centered on drug running, familial drama centered on two inept and flawed parents, and a young romance that is the cherry on top.
Door Mouse (8/10) — VOD
Is this the coolest and slickest neo-noir in years? Door Mouse focuses on the story of a promising comic book artist who spends most of her days at a strip club. The injection of animated comic book graphics gives layers to the film’s visuals, and there is a strong mystery at the core of the narrative. Strippers are disappearing, and our titular heroine is the only hope to solve the mystery with the help of her (maybe) boyfriend from the club. A strong cast led by Hayley Law makes this film rise above any noir-ish tropes to deliver a worthwhile experience.
Blaze (9/10) — VOD
Australia is well-represented on this month’s list, isn’t it? Blaze is a wondrous and passionate film that focuses on the lasting effect of trauma on a young person’s mind. This might not be the most feel-good film of 2023 so far, but the magical realism is bold and impactful. The presence of dragons and such make for a unique and poignant atmosphere. But the humanistic elements are what brings the drama home. Simon Baker gives a strong performance as a father stricken with the challenge of breaking through to his traumatized child. Julia Savage is the real star, though, as our titular young woman who brings great empathy to this impactful film.
Sorry About the Demon (7/10) — Shudder
What if things are going so badly for you that even demons don’t want to possess you? Shudder has quite the horror comedy up their sleeve for you with this haunted rom-com. Sorry About the Demon focuses on a heartbroken man trying to get back with his ex who is tricked into accepting a great deal to rent out a haunted house. We are treated to zany moments of his rejections by the demons and his attempts to move on. The cast is solid, the laughs are funny, and the concept makes for a fun jaunt. This is a nice gem to enjoy on the spooky streaming service.
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