As the world of independent film continues to grow and evolve, it has produced some truly remarkable hidden gems in the last decade. These indie films may not have received the same recognition as blockbuster hits, but they have captured the hearts and minds of audiences with their unique storytelling, powerful characters, and thought-provoking themes.
From heartwarming coming-of-age stories to spine-tingling thrillers, here are 15 hidden gems from the last decade of indies that are definitely worth adding to your watchlist.
1. The Florida Project (2017)
Directed by Sean Baker, this film tells the story of a precocious six-year-old living in a budget motel near Disney World with her young mother. It explores the harsh reality of poverty and childhood innocence in a colorful and heart-wrenching way.
2. Moonlight (2016)
This coming-of-age drama follows the story of a young African-American man struggling with his identity and sexuality. With stunning performances and a beautiful and intimate storytelling style, this film won three Academy Awards including Best Picture.
3. The Farewell (2019)
Based on director Lulu Wang’s own experiences, this film tells the story of a Chinese-American family who decides to keep their grandmother’s terminal illness a secret from her. It explores themes of cultural identity and familial bonds in a heartfelt and humorous way.
4. Eighth Grade (2018)
This comedy-drama follows the life of an awkward and insecure 13-year-old girl navigating her last week of middle school. With a raw and honest portrayal of adolescence, this film captures the struggles and triumphs of growing up in the digital age.
5. The Witch (2015)
Set in 1630s New England, this horror film delves into the fears and paranoia of a Puritan family who believes they are being terrorized by a witch. With haunting visuals and a slow-burning tension, this film will leave you on the edge of your seat.
6. The Handmaiden (2016)
Directed by Park Chan-wook, this South Korean erotic thriller tells the story of a young maid who is hired to help a wealthy heiress seduce and marry a con man. But things take a twisted turn as the two women develop a forbidden attraction.
7. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
This coming-of-age dramedy follows the unlikely friendship between a high school senior and a classmate who has been diagnosed with leukemia. With clever writing and endearing characters, this film will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between.
8. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Directed by Taika Waititi, this adventure-comedy follows a rebellious foster kid and his grumpy foster uncle as they become the targets of a nationwide manhunt in the New Zealand wilderness. With witty dialogue and heartwarming performances, this film is a must-watch.
9. Whiplash (2014)
This intense drama follows the story of a young drumming prodigy and his abusive relationship with his ambitious and perfectionist music instructor. With a powerhouse performance from J.K. Simmons, this film will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
10. The Big Sick (2017)
Based on the real-life romance of writers Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, this romantic comedy follows an interracial couple navigating cultural differences and family expectations while dealing with a serious illness. With heart, humor, and a stellar cast, this film is a crowd-pleaser.
11. Colossal (2016)
This sci-fi comedy follows a struggling woman who discovers she has a strange connection to a giant monster wreaking havoc in Seoul, South Korea. With unexpected twists and turns, this film explores themes of addiction, toxic relationships, and self-discovery in a unique and fun way.
12. Coherence (2013)
This mind-bending sci-fi thriller follows a group of friends at a dinner party who experience strange and unexplainable phenomena after a comet passes overhead. With a low budget and a high concept, this film will keep you guessing until the very end.
13. Lady Bird (2017)
Directed by Greta Gerwig, this coming-of-age comedy-drama follows a high school senior’s tumultuous relationship with her mother as she navigates love, friendship, and the pressures of college. With a heartfelt and relatable story, this film will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your own teenage years.
14. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)
This French romantic drama follows the passionate and complicated relationship between two young women over the course of several years. With stunning performances and a raw and intimate portrayal of love and sexuality, this film is a must-watch.
15. Parasite (2019)
Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this dark comedy-thriller tells the story of a poor family who slowly infiltrates the lives of a wealthy family with unexpected consequences. With sharp social commentary and a gripping plot, this film made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Oscars.
These 15 hidden gems from the last decade of indies prove that big budgets and flashy special effects are not necessary to create impactful and memorable films. From powerful dramas to thrilling adventures, these films offer something for every taste and showcase the incredible talent and creativity within the world of independent cinema. So why not give them a chance and discover your new favorite film?
