Hidden Gems on Hulu: Uncovering the Underrated Movies

Having started as a television streaming app in 2007, Hulu has now diversified its content to include documentaries, miniseries, and movies. With the abundance of content in the past ten years, it is possible to overlook some of the exceptional movies available on Hulu. Let us explore some of the lesser-known titles and underrated gems that can be streamed. Hulu offers a multitude of good movies, but let us delve into the truly outstanding ones that may be hidden among them.

For additional suggestions, take a look at our curated lists of the finest movies and shows on Hulu, as well as the most overlooked gems on Netflix.

Editor's note: This article was updated October 2023 to include No One Will Save You.

Summer of Soul (2021)

Run Time: 1 hr 58 min | Genre: Documentary | Director: Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson

Starring Dorinda Drake, Barbara Bland-Acosta, and Darryl Lewis, Summer of Soul is the directorial debut of Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, renowned for his hip-hop band The Roots. This Oscar-winning documentary delves into the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, presenting captivating never-before-seen footage that highlights the vibrant music and Black excellence during the pinnacle of the Civil Rights movement. With engaging interviews featuring music legends like Gladys Knight, as well as influential activists such as Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, Summer of Soul immerses viewers in a mesmerizing historical context, creating a vivid tapestry of sound and color from beginning to end. Despite its well-deserved acclaim, this extraordinary documentary remains an undiscovered treasure that deserves to be witnessed by a wider audience.

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No One Will Save You (2023)

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Run Time: 1 hr 33 min | Genre: Horror | Director: Brian Duffield

Starring Kaitlyn Dever, Elizabeth Kaluev, and Zack Duhame, No One Will Save You combines elements from Signs and Home Alone to create a chilling story. The film follows Brynn, played by Kaitlyn Dever, who finds her home under attack by an unknown extraterrestrial force. As the suspense builds, cinematographer Aaron Morton skillfully keeps the audience on edge until the gripping and satisfying climax in the third act. The movie's minimal dialogue, consisting of only five words, allows Dever's captivating performance to shine in the midst of the silence. With its palpable tension, No One Will Save You is an underrated gem from 2023.

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Chevalier (2022)

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Run Time: 1 hr 47 min | Genre: History, Drama | Director: Stephen Williams

Starring Kelvin Harrison Jr., Samara Weaving, Lucy Boynton, and Ronke Adekoluejo, the film tells the true life story of Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a French-Caribbean composer. However, it is often overlooked, much like the subject of the story. Chevalier is an inspiring underdog tale, with Harrison Jr. taking on the role of a brilliant violinist who defies racial barriers in France to become the best in his field. The film shares similarities with the popular musical Hamilton, as both feature biracial prodigies who overcome adversity to make a lasting impact. With its captivating storytelling, Chevalier is a sleeper hit that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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Bad Hair (2020)

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Run Time: 1 hr 42 min | Genre: Horror, Comedy | Director: Justin Simien

Starring Zaria Kelley, Corinne Massiah, and Elle Lorraine, Black horror is currently experiencing a rebirth with incredible hits like Get Out, Nope, and Candyman captivating audiences with profound insights into the human experience from a fresh and innovative perspective. Among these standout films is Bad Hair, which may not have gained as much recognition, but deserves to be celebrated. A part of the collection of movies that address important Black issues in a surreal yet timely manner, writer/director Justin Simien (known for Dear White People) skillfully blends comedy, horror, and social commentary to craft a compelling narrative about challenging a society that seeks to change one's true identity right from the core. What sets this film apart is its exceptional ensemble cast, featuring talented stars such as Lena Waithe (from Master of None), Jay Pharoah (from SNL), Vanessa Williams (from Desperate Housewives), and James Van Der Beek (known for Dawson's Creek).

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Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

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Run Time: 1 hr 45 min | Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama | Director: Rupert Wyatt

Starring James Franco, Andy Serkis, and Freida Pinto, this reboot prequel offers a fresh perspective on the origins of the ape world depicted in the original Planet of the Apes film. It showcases impressive motion capture and visual effects, particularly highlighting Andy Serkis' remarkable portrayal of Caesar, a chimpanzee who becomes the focal point of a new Alzheimer's treatment. Alongside Serkis, James Franco and John Lithgow deliver grounded and vulnerable performances that captivate the audience. Given the current global pandemic, Rise of the Planet of the Apes holds even more significance as viewers can now truly comprehend the devastating impact a virus can have on humanity.

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Iron Mask (2019)

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Run Time: 2 hr | Genre: Action, Adventure | Director: Oleg Stepchenko

Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan, and Jason Flemyng, this fantasy period piece set in the early 1700s brings together two of the action genre's biggest stars. The film follows a Russian cartographer (Flemyng) on a mission to map the Far East, taking him to China where he must face off against witches, creatures, and the powerful Dragon King. Iron Mask seamlessly combines thrilling martial arts and enchanting wirework in a magical and mythical China, offering a fast-paced and entertaining plot with one epic set piece after another.

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Rye Lane (2023)

Run Time: 1 hr 22 min | Genre: Comedy, Romance | Director: Raine Allen-Miller

Starring David Jonsson, Vivian Oparah, and Poppy Allen-Quarmby, Rye Lane marks the impressive directorial debut of Raine Allen-Miller. This refreshing and vibrant romantic comedy follows the journey of two young individuals from South London, who bond over their recent break-ups. Allen-Miller's skillful cinematography shines through in the film, balancing a mix of energetic sequences with more contemplative shots that capture the characters' internal emotions. The on-screen chemistry between David Jonsson (known for his role in Industry) and Vivian Oparah (from Class) is captivating and they effortlessly bring the characters to life. It is truly a delight to witness their natural banter and connection. Rye Lane stands out as a rare depiction of messy and flawed Black-led romance, something that deserves recognition, especially when executed as masterfully as this.

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The Valet (2022)

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Run Time: 2 hr 4 min | Genre: Comedy Romance | Director: Richard Wong

The Valet takes the "Fake Relationship" trope commonly found in rom-coms like To All the Boys I've Loved Before, The Proposal, and Can't Buy Me Love and adds a new twist by incorporating a clash of cultures. While the story explores wider themes of naturalization, immigration, and gentrification, the focus remains on the romantic journey of the two main characters. Eugenio Derbez (How to Be a Latin Lover) portrays a charming and humble individual who perfectly complements Samara Weaving's (Ready or Not) entertaining performance as a self-absorbed celebrity navigating the challenges of Hollywood stardom.

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John Dies at the End (2012)

Run Time: 1 hr 39 min | Genre: Comedy, Horror | Director: Don Coscarelli

Starring Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, and Paul Giamatti, John Dies at the End is a film that we can't help but recommend, even though we don't endorse drug use. Adapted from Jason Pargin's web serial-turned-novel series, this movie is a wild, surreal experience filled with insane situations, graphic violence, and mind-bending visuals that you need to witness firsthand to truly appreciate. Furthermore, the cast is packed with brilliant character actors such as Paul Giamatti, Glynn Turman, Doug Jones, and Clancy Brown, all of whom deliver fantastic performances in every scene they inhabit.

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Elysium (2013)

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Run Time: 1 hr 49 min | Genre: Action, Sci-Fi | Director: Neill Blomkamp

Starring Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, and Sharlto Copley, Elysium, written and directed by Neill Blomkamp (known for District 9), offers a thought-provoking exploration of the wealth gap. Similar to Blomkamp's previous work, which metaphorically addressed apartheid in South Africa, this film employs dystopian satire to expose the manipulative tactics used by capitalists to profit at the expense of the working class. While not without its flaws, Elysium delivers an immersive experience filled with engaging action sequences and well-crafted sci-fi concepts, enhanced by impressive practical effects. Matt Damon's charismatic performance guides audiences through this shattered world, ultimately presenting an ambitious narrative that sheds light on class divisions and the mechanisms of our society.

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