10 Excellent Overlooked Films Worth Discovering

      Tom Jolliffe presents essential films that were either overlooked upon release or have faded from memory over time.

      For various reasons, some movies fail to resonate with a broad audience. They may be released in the wrong era or take time to develop a cult following. Occasionally, films from the past appear even better in hindsight. It's delightful to rediscover works that lack the iconic status they deserve.

      Moreover, these films can often be hard to find on physical media or streaming services. Fortunately, cult Blu-ray releases are increasingly making these titles available, although rights issues can sometimes cause delays. Here are ten films you might not be aware of, but are certainly worth watching.

      **The Legend of the Holy Drinker**

      The late Rutger Hauer premiered this film on the festival circuit in the late '80s to acclaim. He portrays a destitute man who is given 200 francs, promising to return the money to the local church when possible. This initiates a sequence of ups and downs as the man encounters various challenges. Despite his noble intentions to repay the church, he continually faces bad luck and poor decisions.

      Presented like an ancient fable, the film is beautifully filmed and skillfully directed by Ermanno Olmi. It also features one of Hauer's most introspective performances, offering memorable moments that showcase his talent. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances prevented the film from receiving a proper US release, hindering its recognition from audiences and awards (it did win the Golden Lion at Venice).

      **The Interview**

      This Australian thriller shouldn't be confused with the more recent Rogen/Franco comedy involving Kim Jong Un. This film represents a masterclass in restraint and execution, featuring Hugo Weaving as an unsuspecting man brought in for police questioning. Under the watchful eye of internal affairs, Fleming (played by Weaving) initially seems to be a suspect in a stolen car case, but it soon emerges that he is being interrogated about a murder. His antagonist, Steele (Tony Martin), pressures him for answers.

      As the film progresses, mirroring the intimate skill of Bergman and Hitchcock, it becomes unclear who is truly manipulating whom. I discovered this hidden gem on Netflix, a delightful surprise that had eluded me. While it is likely more recognized in Australia, not all films make their way to Europe or the US. Had it been released a year or two later, it could have capitalized on Weaving’s impending fame from The Matrix.

      **Cypher**

      Directed by Vincenzo Natali, known for Cube, this intriguing sci-fi thriller, heavily influenced by Hitchcock, was somewhat of a find for film enthusiasts back in 2002. Released primarily on video in major markets, it was relatively hard to find despite gaining some recognition in the UK due to Jeremy Northam's leading role. Natali made a strong first impression with Cube, but Cypher did not garner the audience it deserved.

      Northam portrays a corporate employee caught in the rivalry between two pharmaceutical companies while learning about a man named Rooks. The film weaves a complex narrative without becoming overly convoluted. Northam's character transformation into his assigned persona is well-executed, and Lucy Liu shines as a mysterious femme fatale. It looks great and stands up to repeat viewings, revealing new details each time. If you appreciate twisty thrillers with nods to Hitchcock and Kubrick, this film is for you.

      **Mute Witness**

      Emerging from the mid-'90s, a period not renowned for horror films, Mute Witness is one that has been somewhat lost in time, despite its brilliance. This compelling story follows a mute makeup artist working on a horror film who becomes locked in the studio after hours, witnessing a murder, and then trying to escape the killer. The mute character's journey allows for inventive means of expression without dialogue, and Marina Zudina is exceptional in her role.

      Written and directed by Anthony Waller, the film is smartly constructed and richly atmospheric. It is visually striking as well. Interestingly, the film is more infamous for being Alec Guinness's last project; despite being filmed a decade apart, Guinness's cameo seamlessly integrates into the story.

      **Amsterdamned**

      This Dutch horror classic from Dick Maas is a childhood favorite of mine. I vividly remember persuading my dad to let me and my brother watch it while my mum was away. Rewatching it as an adult, I found it still held up and retained the iconic scenes that left a lasting impression.

      Amsterdamned presents a unique premise where a serial killer uses the Amsterdam canals for mobility, while Maas regular Huub Stapel plays the detective on the killer’s trail. It’s brilliant horror, distinctly Dutch, with an ending that stuck with me since I first watched it at 9 or 10.

      **Wake In Fright**

      In this gripping thriller from Ted Kotcheff, a teacher from a remote school in rural Australia journeys home for summer but stops in Bundanyabba (‘