Roku Weekend Watchlist (Feb. 21-22)
- “Ophelia” (2018): A reimagining of “Hamlet” from the titular lady-in-waiting’s POV (played by Daisy Ridley)
- “Hacksaw Ridge” (2016): A war movie starring Andrew Garfield as a conscientious objector who never fires a single shot
- “Fences” (2016): An award-winning period drama about a former baseball player who struggles with his son’s dreams of following in his footsteps
Want to take in a great new movie on one of these cold winter nights? Don’t even think about subscribing to a new streaming platform. As much as we sing the praises of the best streaming services, they don’t come cheap. Don’t bother when you can catch plenty of free movies on The Roku Channel — no sign-up, no subscription, no nothing.
‘Ophelia’ (2018)
Ophelia Ft. Daisy Ridley, Naomi Watts & Clive Owen – Official Trailer I HD I IFC Films – YouTube
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Claire McCarthy’s “Ophelia” is the ultimate take-back-the-narrative movie, reframing Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy “Hamlet” through the lens of its female characters, most notably the eponymous lady-in-waiting herself. Daisy Ridley of “Star Wars” fame stars as a rebellious Ophelia who’s taken under the wing of Queen Gertrude (Naomi Watts) and slowly wins the heart of Denmark’s doomed prince. Think of it as the power version of “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead,” with enough gorgeous cinematography and solid performances all around to keep you invested.
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Watch “Ophelia” on The Roku Channel now
‘Hacksaw Ridge’ (2016)
Hacksaw Ridge (2016) Official Trailer – “Believe” – Andrew Garfield – YouTube
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War movies aren’t usually my thing, but “Hacksaw Ridge” is the rare exception that I recommend whenever I get the chance. Andrew Garfield brings an infectious southern charm and genuineness as Desmond Doss, a real-life World War II medic who served in the Battle of Okinawa without ever firing a weapon. A devout Seventh-day Adventist, he refuses to carry or use a gun, which earns him significant opposition and ridicule from his fellow soldiers. The movie’s climax occurs during the fierce battle on Hacksaw Ridge, where Doss ignores orders to retreat to instead rescue wounded soldiers, single-handedly lowering them down a steep cliff until reinforcements arrive.
Watch “Hacksaw Ridge” on The Roku Channel now
‘Fences’ (2016)
Fences Trailer 2 (2016) – Paramount Pictures – YouTube
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Reprising the role that won him a Tony on Broadway, Denzel Washington both directs and stars in this movie adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. With such celebrated source material and a Hollywood titan on both sides of the camera, it’s no surprise the film chalked up a slew of Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Troy Maxson (Washington) works as a garbage collector in 1950s Pittsburgh after his pro baseball career fell short of the big leagues. Though he tries to provide for his family, long-simmering frustrations and regret over his lost dream threaten to boil over, especially after his son (Jovan Adepo) gets offered the opportunity he never had.
Watch “Fences” on The Roku Channel now
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