BPR Top Picks – What to Watch in January 2024

As we step into 2024, the world of cinema continues to offer an exciting array of options. Whether you’re a fan of superheroes or mysteries, January has something in store for everyone.

Echo – 10 January, Disney+

Fans of Marvel heroes do not need to wait much longer for another thrilling series to watch. “Marvel’s Echo”, a spin-off from the “Hawkeye” series, puts the spotlight on Maya Lopez, also known as Echo. Played by Alaqua Cox, Echo is a deaf Native American character who tries to navigate the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The new series, which will be available on Disney+, will take a deeper look into Echo’s struggles and her life in the underworld. The mini series boasts actors like Vincent D’Onofrio as notorious mobster Wilson Fisk and other talented stars such as Devery Jacobs and Zahn McClarnon in supporting roles.

Poor Things – 12 January, (Cinematic release in the UK and Ireland)

“Poor Things”, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a dark, comedic tale of Bella Baxter, played by Emma Stone, a young woman brought back to life by Dr. Godwin Baxter, portrayed by Willem Dafoe. The film, shot at Origo Studios in Hungary, explores themes of identity, power, and societal norms, as Bella experiences life with a new perspective. While the film has already been released in the United States, it is only set to arrive in movie theaters elsewhere this month. The film has received rave reviews, and it also won the Golden Lion at the 80th Venice International Film Festival, with critics praising Stone’s performance in particluar.

True Detective: Night Country – 14 January, HBO Max

The fourth season of acclaimed series “True Detective”, directed by Issa Lopez is just around the corner. The season, entitled “Night County”, will move the setting to the chilly state of Alaska. Known for packing a lot of star power, this season won’t disappoint fans with its cast either, starring Jodie Foster as Detective Liz Danvers and professional boxer-turned-actress Kali Reis as Detective Evangeline Navarro. The season’s story unfolds during the polar night when a group of people mysteriously disappears from an arctic research station.

Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell  – 19 January, Theatrical release

“Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell”, directed by Thien An Pham, is a deep journey into grief, faith, as well as nature. The film’s story follows Thien, played by Le Phong Vu, a man in his thirties who decides to go back to his rural hometown from the big city after a tragic accident befells his family and, at the same time, start a process of self-discovery. The film enjoys nearly-universal acclaim, having won numerous awards, including the precious Camera d’Or at Cannes.