Best 2017 Underrated Movies

2017 was a year that saw an avalanche of cinematic spectacles, many of which were monumental in their own right. From powerful blockbusters like Star Wars: The Last Jedi to the gripping drama of The Shape of Water, it’s easy to see why certain films were overlooked. However, amidst the sea of highly publicized films, there were a few gems that deserved far more attention than they received. In this article, we will dive deep into the best underrated movies of 2017 the ones that flew under the radar, but left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate enough to catch them. Get ready for an exploration of hidden treasures that will inspire you to revisit them if you missed out.

1. The Big Sick – A Heartfelt, Hilarious, and Refreshing Take on Love

Despite being a critical darling and earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, The Big Sick remains underrated in terms of its mainstream impact. Directed by Michael Showalter and written by real-life couple Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, the film tells the story of Kumail, a Pakistani comic who falls in love with Emily (Zoe Kazan), only for their budding relationship to face complications when Emily falls seriously ill. While the film was lauded for its humor and heart, it didn’t receive as much widespread attention as its quality deserves. With a perfect blend of comedy, romance, and cultural exploration, The Big Sick is a film that will stick with you long after the credits roll.

2. Colossal – A Darkly Humorous Exploration of Personal Struggles

Colossal was a bold, genre-defying movie from director Nacho Vigalondo. Starring Anne Hathaway as Gloria, a woman struggling with alcoholism and personal failure, the film takes an unexpected turn when her emotional instability coincides with the emergence of a giant kaiju (a massive monster). What starts as an absurd premise transforms into a profound commentary on the consequences of self-destructive behavior, and the need for self-realization. Colossal never quite found the large audience it deserved, but its originality and darkly comic approach to life’s challenges make it a must-watch for anyone looking for something unconventional.

3. Good Time – A Chaotic, Thrilling Ride Through New York’s Underbelly

The Safdie Brothers’ Good Time was one of the most intense, frenetic films of 2017. The film follows Robert Pattinson’s character, Connie Nikas, as he embarks on a nightmarish journey to bail his brother out of jail. The movie is a relentless, high-stakes thriller, driven by Pattinson’s riveting performance. Despite being a critical success and receiving praise for its pulse-pounding energy, Good Time remained overlooked by many moviegoers. Its gritty, fast-paced nature and dark humor are a testament to the Safdie Brothers’ unique filmmaking vision, and it deserves a much wider audience.

4. Brigsby Bear – An Oddball Indie Film About Healing and Finding Purpose

Brigsby Bear is one of those films that sneaks up on you with its tender, unexpected charm. Written by and starring Kyle Mooney, the film tells the story of James, a young man raised in isolation by his parents who are involved in a bizarre cult-like situation. When James discovers that his whole life has been a lie, he sets out to create a film based on the children’s show he loved, Brigsby Bear. The film is part dark comedy, part coming-of-age story, and it takes a refreshingly unique approach to topics like trauma, healing, and finding one’s place in the world. Brigsby Bear deserves far more recognition for its offbeat humor and poignant heart.

5. The Florida Project – A Heart-Wrenching Look at Childhood in the Margins

Director Sean Baker’s The Florida Project is a deeply moving, yet often overlooked, exploration of childhood and poverty. Set in the shadow of Disney World, the film follows a young girl named Moonee and her mother as they struggle to make ends meet while living in a run-down motel. With stunning performances from newcomers like Brooklynn Prince (Moonee) and veteran actor Willem Dafoe (the motel manager), The Florida Project offers a rare and unflinching look at life on the margins of society. The film’s compassionate and raw portrayal of people forgotten by the American dream is an experience that deserves a far larger audience.

6. The Disaster Artist – A Hilarious, Heartfelt Tribute to “The Room”

James Franco’s The Disaster Artist is an affectionate and wildly entertaining take on the making of the cult classic film The Room. Franco’s performance as Tommy Wiseau, the eccentric and mysterious director of The Room, earned him numerous accolades, but The Disaster Artist didn’t break through the way it deserved. With a mix of absurdity, charm, and heart, the film is both a love letter to creative passion and a fascinating glimpse into the process behind making one of cinema’s most beloved bad films.

7. Wonder Woman – A Groundbreaking Superhero Movie

While Wonder Woman may not be as underrated as some of the other films on this list, it still falls into the category of “overlooked” in terms of its cultural impact in 2017. Patty Jenkins’ film introduced Gal Gadot as the iconic superhero, and with it, delivered a much-needed breath of fresh air to the superhero genre. Wonder Woman was praised for its empowering feminist themes, compelling story, and strong performances, yet many overlooked the significance of the film as a milestone for female-led superhero movies. With its perfect balance of action, heart, and humor, Wonder Woman deserves to be celebrated more than it was in 2017.

Conclusion: Why These Movies Deserve More Attention

The movies mentioned above may not have made as much of a splash as their more famous counterparts, but they represent the diversity and depth of 2017’s cinematic offerings. Whether it’s a heartfelt love story, a dark comedy about addiction, or a gritty thriller, these films tackle everything from personal trauma to the intricacies of human relationships. These underrated movies offer more than just entertainment; they provide powerful messages, thought-provoking themes, and unforgettable performances. If you missed any of these in 2017, it’s time to catch up they’re waiting for you to discover them.

Personal Reflections on the Underrated Movies of 2017

When looking back at 2017, it’s clear that many of the year’s most underrated movies had something special. For me, The Big Sick stands out as one of the most powerful films about love, culture, and personal growth. As someone who’s passionate about stories that break stereotypes and tackle difficult conversations, the way The Big Sick approached these themes was refreshing. I was also drawn to the emotional depth of The Florida Project, which takes you deep into the lives of its characters, making it hard to forget long after the film ends. These movies not only entertained me, but they also opened my eyes to different perspectives and human experiences.

Another standout was Good Time, which left me feeling exhausted in the best way possible. The film’s chaotic energy matched the unpredictable journey it took me on, making it impossible to look away. Similarly, Colossal provided a unique viewing experience that combined personal drama with out-of-the-box creativity. It’s these kinds of films that remind me why I love cinema the ability of movies to push boundaries, evoke emotions, and challenge the way we see the world.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of mainstream blockbusters and forget the smaller films that deserve our attention. However, reflecting on these underrated 2017 movies has reminded me of the sheer diversity and richness that cinema has to offer. Each of these films, in their own way, challenges the norm and offers something that’s fresh, impactful, and real. I encourage everyone to seek out these gems, as they’re some of the most rewarding films you’ll come across.