Starz may not receive as much attention as its larger premium cable and streaming competitors, but it has built an impressive collection of movies for its subscribers. While HBO boasts prestige, Starz offers a curated lineup of films that easily rivals the offerings of services like Netflix and Hulu.
In this article, we highlight the 10 best movies available on Starz in New Zealand, providing brief descriptions, cast information, and IMDb ratings for each film.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
| Director | George A. Romero |
| IMDB Rating | 7.9/10 |
“Night of the Living Dead” is a highly influential zombie film that has left a lasting impact on the horror genre. While the performances and pacing may not hold up as well today, the film’s classic story conventions and black-and-white cinematography continue to impress. It remains a must-see for any horror enthusiast.
Children of Men (2006)
| Director | Alfonso Cuarón |
| IMDB Rating | 7.9/10 |
Set in a dystopian future, “Children of Men” portrays a world on the brink of collapse where humanity faces infertility. Theo, a former activist, becomes involved in a mission to protect a pregnant woman, Kee.
The film masterfully captures a sense of dread and immerses viewers in its visually stunning and thought-provoking narrative.
The Red Turtle (2016)
| Director | Michaël Dudok de Wit |
| IMDB Rating | 7.5/10 |
“The Red Turtle” is a wordless animated film that explores profound themes through its beautifully crafted visuals and evocative score.
The story follows a man stranded on a deserted island, where he encounters a red turtle that changes his life in unexpected ways. It is a testament to the power of animation to convey emotion and storytelling without relying on dialogue.
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022)
| Director | Tom Gormican |
| IMDB Rating | 5.9/10 |
“The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” features Nicolas Cage playing a fictionalized version of himself. The film blends genres, combining elements of buddy comedy and spy thriller while showcasing Cage’s self-awareness and embracing his iconic persona.
Despite some weaknesses in dialogue and CGI, it remains an engaging and enjoyable movie, especially for Cage’s fans.
Parallel Mothers (2021)
| Director | Pedro Almodóvar |
| IMDB Rating | 7.2/10 |
“Parallel Mothers” is a powerful drama set in 2016 that follows Janice, a photographer in her 40s, and Ana, a young woman, both facing unplanned pregnancies. As they navigate motherhood and form an unlikely bond, the film delves into themes of family, history, and the impact of Spain’s past on present generations.
With strong performances, it offers a poignant exploration of complex emotions.
Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021)
| Director | Andy Serkis |
| IMDB Rating | 6.6/10 |
“Venom: Let There Be Carnage” is a fun and self-aware sequel that embraces the comic book roots of its source material. With Tom Hardy’s entertaining.
performance as Eddie Brock/Venom, the film delivers on action and humor. The introduction of the iconic villain Carnage, played by Naomie Harris, adds an extra layer of excitement to the story. While it may not reach the heights of other superhero blockbusters, “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” provides an enjoyable ride for fans of the genre.
The Farewell (2019)
| Director | Lulu Wang |
| IMDB Rating | 7.6/10 |
“The Farewell” is a heartfelt and bittersweet film that explores family, cultural differences, and the complexities of saying goodbye.
Based on a true story, it follows Billi, a Chinese-American woman, who learns that her grandmother has been diagnosed with terminal cancer but is not aware of her own condition. The film delicately handles themes of identity and belonging while delivering powerful performances, particularly from Awkwafina in a dramatic role.
Midsommar (2019)
| Director | Ari Aster |
| IMDB Rating | 7.1/10 |
“Midsommar” is a visually stunning and unsettling horror film that takes place in a remote Swedish commune. When a group of friends travels there to attend a midsummer festival, they soon find themselves immersed in a nightmarish and disturbing experience.
The film is known for its atmospheric cinematography, intense performances, and thought-provoking exploration of grief and trauma.
Booksmart (2019)
| Director | Olivia Wilde |
| IMDB Rating | 7.2/10 |
“Booksmart” is a hilarious and refreshing coming-of-age comedy that follows two high school seniors, Molly and Amy, who realize they’ve focused too much on academics and missed out on the fun side of their teenage years.
Determined to make up for lost time, they embark on an eventful night of partying and self-discovery. With its sharp writing, relatable characters, and strong performances, “Booksmart” offers a fresh take on the teen comedy genre.
Moonlight (2016)
| Director | Barry Jenkins |
| IMDB Rating | 7.4/10 |
“Moonlight” is an emotionally resonant and critically acclaimed drama that explores themes of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery.
The film follows the life of Chiron, a young Black man growing up in Miami, as he navigates his relationships with his family, friends, and love interests. With its intimate storytelling, powerful performances, and beautiful cinematography, “Moonlight” became a groundbreaking and award-winning film.
Conclusion
Starz in New Zealand provides a treasure trove of cinematic gems that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
With its impressive lineup of movies spanning various genres, from spine-chilling horror to heartwarming dramas, side-splitting comedies to pulse-pounding superhero action, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these captivating films.
So, whether you’re a film aficionado or simply looking for an entertaining movie night, Starz in New Zealand is a destination worth exploring. Its diverse range of content promises to transport you to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the art of storytelling.
