Surprised by Love (2015)

A film loosely based on the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel, with major twists to the original story.

This horror, action, and fantasy movie released on Disney+ has a symbolic aspect.

A brave Indian woman rises from an oppressive background to become an inspired leader for women and men alike around the globe.

Netflix’s new comedy drama, Don’t Say Good Luck, is a heartwarming tearjerker as well as a love letter to the transformative power of being a theater kid. Directed by Julia Hart, Don’t Say Good Luck follows Sophie (Sunny Sandler), a theater kid who finally gets the lead role in her school’s production of Waitress - just as she finds out her mom Elizabeth (Melanie Lynskey) is dying of cancer. While the singing is by no means spectacular and Sandler’s acting is stiff, the film is grounded in the moving performance of Lynskey as a mother who wants nothing more than for her daughter to achieve her dreams, even if she can’t be there to see them.

Given Hollywood's history of racism and financial motivations, how much progress can we expect? Plus: a list of excellent films by Black directors.

Intergenerational friendships and community can be so powerful, and this was a great example.