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Movies to Stream: Reflections & reckonings

Movies to Stream: Reflections & reckonings

An influential Japanese classic, two shocking documentaries, & one of last year's best films are among this week's streaming picks

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Matt Erspamer
Apr 05, 2024
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The Normal Newsletter
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Movies to Stream: Reflections & reckonings
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It’s time for a little perspective. Multiple perspectives, actually.

The theme for this week’s column is two-pronged: There are movies where the directors and/or their subjects reflect fondly on the past, and ones where they reckon with it.

As you’ll see, both of these can be horrifying. A war criminal talking gleefully about their crimes is more shocking and upsetting than someone who interrogates the root causes of violence.

You’re probably starting to gather that this week’s movies are pretty heavy. I don’t recommend watching all of these back to back, but I am starting with a double feature that is a perfect balance of moral reckoning and classic entertainment.

(Unless otherwise noted, all movies are available to rent from Apple, Amazon, etc. in addition to the listed streaming services. But if you watch them and like them, I’d consider buying physical copies 😃)

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