Think you’ve watched all the best movies of the past decade? Think again. Beyond the blockbuster hits and Oscar darlings, there’s a treasure trove of hidden cinematic gems that deserve attention but somehow never got their due. Whether overshadowed by larger films or quietly released without much fanfare, these movies excel in storytelling, performance, and creativity.
This list dives into 10 underrated movies from the last decade. Get ready to add some seriously entertaining and thought-provoking titles to your watchlist!
What Makes a Movie Underrated?
Before we jump into the list, you might be wondering what qualifies a film as underrated. For this list, we’re looking at movies that received less fanfare than they deserved, were overlooked at the box office, or struggled to find the audience they were made for. Despite low recognition, these films are critically acclaimed or beloved by those who’ve discovered them. Watch Movie SSR Movie
Now, grab some popcorn because these movies are worth every minute of your time.
1. Colossal (2016)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Dark Comedy
Plot Summary: Gloria, an unemployed writer (played by Anne Hathaway), discovers that her personal turmoil can control a massive kaiju wreaking havoc in South Korea. Yes, you read that right.
Why It’s Underrated: This quirky amalgamation of sci-fi and comedy failed to find its footing during its release. It’s bold, weird, and unexpectedly heartbreaking. If you’re a fan of unconventional storytelling, “Colossal” is a must-watch.
2. Blindspotting (2018)
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Plot Summary: Set in Oakland, two best friends, Collin and Miles, grapple with race, gentrification, and personal growth in their rapidly changing neighborhood.
Why It’s Underrated: While fiercely acclaimed by critics, “Blindspotting” didn’t achieve the wider recognition it deserved. Its raw performances by Daveed Diggs (who also co-wrote the script) and Rafael Casal combined with sharp social commentary, make it a unique voice in modern cinema.
3. Upgrade (2018)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Plot Summary: After being paralyzed in a mugging, Grey Trace agrees to an experimental AI device embedded in his spine that gives him superhuman abilities—but at a dangerous cost.
Why It’s Underrated: This cyberpunk thriller was overshadowed by bigger blockbusters, but its inventive visuals, precise storytelling, and high-octane action make it a hidden gem. Fans of “Black Mirror” will love its dystopian tone.
4. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Genre: Adventure, Comedy
Plot Summary: A rebellious young boy and his cantankerous foster uncle go on a hilarious and touching runaway adventure through the New Zealand wilderness.
Why It’s Underrated: While Taika Waititi has since gained mainstream fame for “Thor: Ragnarok,” this earlier work is just as charming and visually stunning. Balancing humor and heart perfectly, it’s a film that resonates deeply with its audience.
5. A Ghost Story (2017)
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Plot Summary: A man (played by Casey Affleck) returns as a ghost, silently observing the passage of time and the life of his grieving wife.
Why It’s Underrated: This poetic, minimalist film might not appeal to everyone due to its slow pacing, but those who connect with it will find a profoundly moving exploration of love, loss, and the cosmos.
6. The Florida Project (2017)
Genre: Drama
Plot Summary: Set in the shadow of Disney World, this heart-wrenching story follows a precocious six-year-old girl and her struggling mother trying to make ends meet while living in a budget motel.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite earning critical recognition, including an Oscar nomination for Willem Dafoe, this indie treasure deserved a wider audience for its vibrant storytelling and stunning performances.
7. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
Genre: Comedy, Adventure
Plot Summary: A young man with Down syndrome runs away from his care home to chase his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. On his way, he befriends a drifter played by Shia LaBeouf.
Why It’s Underrated: Possibly overlooked due to being a smaller indie film, it’s a heartfelt, feel-good adventure brimming with humanity. It leaves you smiling long after the credits roll.
8. The Art of Self Defense (2019)
Genre: Dark Comedy, Satire
Plot Summary: A shy, timid man (Jesse Eisenberg) joins a bizarre local karate dojo to gain confidence, only to find himself pulled into its sinister underbelly.
Why It’s Underrated: This sharp satire on toxic masculinity and self-improvement culture is darkly hilarious and thought-provoking. Unfortunately, its niche genre may have limited its mass appeal.
9. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Genre: Drama, Romance
Plot Summary: An 18th-century painter is commissioned to secretly paint the wedding portrait of a young woman but ends up falling in love with her instead.
Why It’s Underrated: While critically adored, this masterpiece is still relatively unknown to general audiences. Its lush cinematography, intimate storytelling, and focus on female artistry make it unforgettable.
10. Your Name (2016)
Genre: Anime, Fantasy, Drama
Plot Summary: Two teenagers randomly swap bodies and form a connection that transcends space and time in this visually stunning anime.
Why It’s Underrated: Despite being a massive hit in Japan, “Your Name” often gets overlooked by Western audiences. It’s a heartfelt exploration of fate and connection, paired with breathtaking animation.
Why You Should Give These Movies a Chance
Exploring underrated films isn’t just about flexing your cinephile credentials; it’s about discovering stories and perspectives that larger commercial films might miss. These titles reflect creativity, depth, and innovation, proving that great cinema doesn’t always come with a high profile.
Are there underrated movies you love that didn’t make the list? Share your recommendations in the comments!
