Five films to watch this weekend…no matter your mood

From documentaries to horror, this list has a little something for everyone

Oct 23, 2020

Fall is in full swing but COVID-19 is still running rampant. So this may be the perfect weekend to stay inside and catch up on a few films you may have missed or check out some brand new offerings.

Whether you’re looking for something spooky to get you ready for Halloween or need a good laugh, a good cry, or a bit of both, this list has you covered:

The Way I See It

This fantastic film debuted to record ratings on MSNBC this week and earned the praise of Barack Obama in the process. Based on the New York Times #1 bestseller comes The Way I See It, an unprecedented look behind the scenes look at two of the most iconic presidents in American history, Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan, as seen through the eyes of renowned photographer Pete Souza.

As the official White House photographer, Souza was an eyewitness to the unique and tremendous responsibilities of being the most powerful person on earth. The movie reveals how Souza transforms from a respected photojournalist to a searing commentator on the issues we face as a country and a people. The film was helmed by Dawn Porter, the visionary behind John Lewis: Good Trouble and it’s not to be missed.

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm

This ridiculously raunchy sequel will be just what it sounds like, but it’s certainly worth a watch if you’re ready for a politically-tinged, raunchy ride. Sacha Baron Cohen is back up to his old tricks as Borat, and this time, his daughter is along for the fun. Be prepared to see some real-life racists doing what they do and even more questionable behavior from Trump stumper, Rudy Giuliani. To no one’s surprise, though, the only Black woman in the film is also the only person who has any sense, and this crass, funny flick may be the escape you’re looking for. Check it out on Amazon Prime Video.

On The Rocks

If you’re looking for a laugh, this little gem of a film written and directed by Sofia Coppola could be right up your alley. On The Rocks stars Rashida Jones, Bill Murray, and Marlon Wayans and is just what you need as a welcome respite from a tough week.

A young New York mother (Jones) thinks she’s happily hitched, but when her husband (Wayans) starts logging late hours at the office with a new co-worker, she begins to fear the worst. She turns to the one man she knows can help – her charming, impulsive father (Murray), who insists they investigate together. As the two begin prowling New York at night, careening from uptown parties to downtown hotspots, they discover that at the heart of their journey lies their own relationship. Check it out on AppleTV+.

Bad Hair

If you’re looking for a fright, this horror satire set in 1989 features an all-star cast of Black talent showing off their hair-raising skills in ways we’ve never seen. Stars like Elle Lorraine, Vanessa Williams, Lena Waithe, Laverne Cox, Jay Pharoah, Kelly Rowland, Blair Underwood, Ashley Blaine Featherson, and Usher Raymond are among the famous faces who have roles in this campy thrill ride now playing on Hulu. The film, from Justin Simien, follows an ambitious woman who gets a weave in order to succeed in the image-obsessed world of music television. Her flourishing career comes at a great cost when she realizes that her new hair may have a mind of its own.

Jingle Bell Bride

Even though we’re still in October, some people just can’t wait for the holidays to hit. The Hallmark Channel is already kicking off its long list of Christmas-themed films this weekend. Jingle Bell Bride premieres today and in it, Ronnie Rowe Jr. stars as Matt, a single man who helps an overworked, stressed-out wedding planner believe in the magic of Christmas in a rural town that refuses to conform to modern communication.

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