This Weekend's HBO Max Picks: 3 Underrated Movie Choices (March 14-16)

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 27, 2025

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Tired of the same old Hollywood fare? This weekend (March 14-16), ditch the predictable and discover three fantastic, underrated movies streaming on HBO Max. We've hand-picked these hidden gems to ensure your weekend movie nights are filled with surprising delights and captivating storytelling. Get ready for a cinematic escape with these HBO Max picks!

"The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" (2013): A Whimsical Journey of Self-Discovery

Stunning Visuals and a Heartfelt Story:

• Breathtaking cinematography showcasing Iceland's beauty: The film's stunning visuals are a major draw, transporting viewers to breathtaking landscapes and showcasing the power of cinematic imagery. The Icelandic scenery is integral to the narrative, adding another layer of depth to Walter's journey. Expect sweeping shots of glaciers, mountains, and oceans that will leave you breathless. Search for "Icelandic film locations" to learn more about the filming process.

• Ben Stiller's charming performance as a daydreamer finding his courage: Stiller masterfully portrays Walter Mitty, a man who finally breaks free from his routine and embraces life's adventures. His performance is both comedic and deeply moving, making Walter a relatable and endearing character.

• Explores themes of self-acceptance and pursuing dreams: At its heart, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" is a story about self-discovery and the importance of following your dreams. It's a film that inspires viewers to embrace their own passions and break free from the confines of everyday life. Related themes include self-belief and overcoming obstacles.

• A perfect blend of comedy and heartfelt emotion: The film expertly balances lighthearted moments with poignant reflections on life and purpose. This creates a truly engaging and satisfying viewing experience, perfect for a relaxing weekend.

• A feel-good movie ideal for a relaxing weekend: This is the perfect film to unwind with. Its optimistic tone and stunning visuals make it an ideal choice for a relaxing weekend movie night.

Why it's Underrated:

Often overlooked amidst bigger-budget releases, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" delivers a deeply satisfying experience that resonates long after the credits roll. Its blend of adventure, comedy, and heartfelt emotion makes it a hidden gem worth discovering. It's a testament to the power of smaller-scale storytelling and the importance of pursuing your dreams.

"Enemy" (2013): A Psychological Thriller That Will Keep You Guessing

A Masterclass in Suspense and Mystery:

• Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a powerful dual role performance: Gyllenhaal's captivating performance is the driving force behind "Enemy," showcasing his versatility and range as an actor. His portrayal of the two similar yet distinctly different characters will leave you questioning reality.

• Intriguing narrative with unexpected twists and turns: "Enemy" is a masterclass in suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable plot twists. The narrative unfolds slowly, building tension and unease until the climax.

• Exploration of identity, doppelgangers, and paranoia: The film delves into complex themes of identity, doppelgangers, and the unsettling nature of paranoia. It raises questions about self and the nature of reality.

• Visually striking with a dark and unsettling atmosphere: The film's visual style perfectly complements its dark and unsettling atmosphere, adding to the overall feeling of suspense and unease. The cinematography enhances the psychological tension.

• Perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and mind-bending cinema: "Enemy" is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and mind-bending cinema. Its intellectual approach and atmospheric tone make it a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

Why it's Underrated:

A critically acclaimed film that deserves more recognition for its intelligent screenplay and captivating storytelling, "Enemy" is a true hidden gem for those seeking a thought-provoking and suspenseful cinematic experience.

"The Farewell" (2019): A Moving Family Drama with Heart and Humor

A Multi-Generational Story of Family and Loss:

• Awkwafina delivers a breakout performance: Awkwafina's performance is both heartbreaking and hilarious, showcasing her talent for portraying complex emotions with subtlety and nuance.

• A unique and poignant exploration of family dynamics: "The Farewell" offers a nuanced and heartfelt look at family relationships, cultural differences, and the complexities of grief and loss. It explores the dynamics of a multi-generational Chinese family.

• Blends humor and heart to create a deeply moving experience: The film masterfully blends humor and heart, creating a deeply emotional and resonant experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

• Addresses themes of family secrets and cultural differences: The film explores the challenges of navigating family secrets and cultural differences, creating a universal story that resonates with audiences from diverse backgrounds.

• Ideal for those seeking a thoughtful and emotionally resonant film: "The Farewell" is a must-see for those seeking a thoughtful and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of family, loss, and cultural identity.

Why it's Underrated:

Despite critical acclaim and awards recognition, "The Farewell" deserves a wider audience for its exceptional storytelling and its ability to evoke powerful emotions.

Conclusion:

This weekend, ditch the mainstream and dive into the world of underrated cinema with these three exceptional HBO Max picks. From the whimsical adventures of "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" to the psychological suspense of "Enemy" and the heartfelt drama of "The Farewell," these films offer diverse cinematic experiences. Don't miss out on these hidden gems – start streaming your HBO Max movie choices now and enjoy a truly unforgettable weekend! Find more great underrated HBO Max movie choices by checking out our other articles!