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101 Things Every Man Should Own

We here at Men’s Gear love helping our readers discovers some of the coolest stuff out there. In fact, the majority of the items we showcase here are so awesome that everybody wants them. That includes us of course, so we’re mixing it up a little and coming up with something a little different. Instead of listing our usual fare, this time we’re compiling 101 things every man should own.

Men are expected to be always ready for anything that might come our way. Thus, it is for that reason why we usually own multi-tools, EDCs, gadgets, tech, and a whole lot more. However, most of it we buy out of interest or maybe a passing fancy. The things we’re going to be detailing next will focus more on what we need.

Trust us, all of the stuff that will come up next will make you realize what you’ve been missing all these years. With our goal of helping you guys out, the staff will be looking into what are the must-haves that any man should have access to at any given time. This comprehensive list will include tips, information, and reasons for its existence. Hence, buckle up as we take a thrilling tour of the things every man should own. Just note that these are not ranked in any particular order.

1

By now, you’ve probably seen modern versions of the humble wallet. The new ones coming out feature metal components, integrated money clips, card holders, RFID protection, and so much more. However, never underestimate the class and elegance that you can get with a quality leather wallet.

The great thing about it is that even vegan consumers can own one made of synthetic leather. Men have been using this traditional design for quite a while now and it’s not going away anytime soon either.

We know that pockets are there for a reason, which is to keep stuff with you when going out. A reliable wallet can help keep everything organized with class.

2

Unless you’re planning to grow facial hair, shaving should be part of your daily routine. We actually have it good because modern razors are practically foolproof. Hence, a good traditional shaving kit should be included in a list of things every guy needs

Safety razors are undeniably more convenient to use, but men should learn how to shave the old-school way. We’re talking about a straight razor, shaving brush, and shaving cream. You’re going to need to practice a bit to avoid getting nicked, but it won’t take long until you get the hang of it.

3

The modern man cannot rely on fast food alone, which is why knowing how to cook is essential. Since cooking requires us to cut ingredients, a sharp and durable knife is required. We advise against bargain bin brands because it will not survive for long.

Instead, get yourself a top-shelf chef’s knife that will withstand all of the abuse in the kitchen. High-end brands use top-quality materials to craft their blades, hence you’ll own a tool that will virtually last a lifetime. Like all knives, it will require sharpening every now and then.

4

We know there’s nothing wrong with using a backpack or a duffel bag, and other types of luggage. However, if you might want to invest in a good suitcase for your adventures. Run-of-the-mill options are often of poor quality and can easily be forced open,

Therefore, don’t skimp out and invest in a premium suitcase. It’s preferable to travel with a slim and sturdy luggage bag that can survive the abuse it goes through when you check it in. Depending on your preference, you can go for ones with a hard case, but soft luggage might be advantageous if you need to squeeze it into smaller compartments.

5

It’s no longer common for people to own flashlights because modern smartphones are equipped with LED flash modules. However, these often have very limited range and brightness with just enough performance for emergency situations.

What we want to say is that a flashlight is a must-have item for guys to own. You can leave one at home and bring along a smaller EDC model. Heavy-duty models can also be used for self-defense when in a pinch. Moreover, there are various designs available that will be handy in low-light conditions.

6

You’re going to need a place to store all of your tools, which is why a rugged toolbox is required. First of all, just leaving all of your stuff lying around in a shed or garage is not a good idea. It will be easy to lose a couple of pieces or have one drop on your foot. We don’t want any of that to happen so we might as well keep them properly.

This item will help you organize your tools properly so you can quickly grab the one you need in a jiffy. Additionally, it makes it easier to transport your collection.

7

Let’s say that form a visual standpoint, you have all of the physical qualities that make men attractive. However, all of that will go to waste if you smell like a hobo that lives on the street. Scent plays a big part in how people perceive you, so never neglect to take a bath and splash on some good cologne.

Good looks can only get you so far, but with the right fragrance, it’s a guaranteed win. You’ll be surprised how it makes a difference when you’re wearing the right scent. Remember to apply it on pulse points such as your inner wrists and neck.

8

Generally, we would recommend our reader to dress for comfort. Unless your work requires a formal dress code, casual wear with a good pair of sneakers are our go-to option. Nevertheless, among some of the things every man should own would be a good pair of leather dress shoes.

Earlier, we suggested that a well-tailored suit should be in your wardrobe, which is why you need the appropriate footwear to match the style. Modern offerings are now available with comfort in mind, so don’t worry about getting sore feet after wearing them.

9Mechanical manual-winding Vacheron 4400

This is another accessory that is slowly being replaced by modern technology. These days, we can quickly check the time using our smartphones, digital watches, and smart wearables. However, there is just a persistent allure for men to own mechanical timepiece.

Perhaps it’s in our nature to appreciate the intricate inner workings of an analog wristwatch. Men’s Gears recommends that you go out and get one now if you don’t own one yet. On the other hand, you can always grab another one to add to your collection, which can be become an obsession for some people.

10Men

Like soldiers, modern gentlemen should always be prepared for anything. Certain products have become must-have items for men to own that will prove beneficial when circumstances call for it. Depending on where you’re living, the weather can be quite unpredictable, which is why a good umbrella becomes essential.

Don’t settle for those cheap ones made of plastic and other flimsy materials. Preferably go for the ones with wooden handles that use premium materials for the canopy. Don’t let mother nature stop you from looking good.

11

A Bottle Of Whiskey

Beer might be the drink of choice for most men, but among other spirits, whiskey appears to be the clear favorite. We know that others will argue that wine, vodka, tequila, and others are better, but let’s check out what makes whiskey so great.

Not only does a good bottle of whiskey smell and taste good, but there are also reported benefits regarding the amber spirit. Studies conducted probably by folks who love the drink reveal that moderate amounts can keep you away from certain ailments. Plus most of the bottles that hold it looks awesome.

12

Modern pots and pans make it easier to cook and clean with a non-stick coating. However, chefs will tell you that everyone should own at least one cast-iron skillet. This durable metal can withstand a lot of heat and conducts it better as well.

Once, you’ve tried cooking on one, you’ll never want to go back. This one of the things every guy needs to have in their kitchen. It’s basically a chemical-free and efficient food preparation tool that will last a lifetime with proper care.

13

Don’t you just love it when you get a waft of the wonderful aroma of roasted coffee beans? Just thinking about a steaming cup of java already gets us pumped. Yet, before you can draw out all of that energy-boosting goodness, you’re going to need to grind everything down.

Coffee grinders are must-have items for men who love to brew their own coffee. If using a manual hand-crank is too much work for you, there’s always electric-powered alternatives. Nevertheless, using a manual grinder with a little elbow grease should make savoring the drink all the more worthwhile.

14

As long as you’re not against using animal products, a good leather belt is one of the things every man should own. Other than to keep your pants securely in place, it stands out as a stylish accessory to your formal attire.

In fact, sometimes all you need to complete your look is a fancy leather belt around your waist. There are various types available such as a frame style, plate style, and box frame belts. Just remember that a good suit will look even better with the proper accessories.

15Best Men

This simple accessory is far from just another piece of a formal outfit. It might be just a long piece of cloth, but it represents a lot of things that men should be aware of. First of all, it is part of the ensemble that conveys a professional image.

Next is its function as a focal point for your outfit so people will be instantly drawn to the tie you’re wearing. Then, others claim that it creates a slimming effect as it draws attention to the middle. Finally, the ladies always love to see a man in a suit and tie.

16

Not only are book informative, but stories can be a great leisure activity. Reading a book likewise helps build your vocabulary and can expand your imagination. Most people start off with a few books and slowly add more to their collection.

You’re also going to need a bookshelf to hold all of your reading material and keep things organized. We know that modern technology offers the convenience of an e-book reader. Nonetheless, nothing beats sipping coffee and holding a good book in your hands as you turn the pages to see what happens next.

17

A knife was an essential tool for our ancestors that helped them hunt, cut, and craft various items using the sharp edge. Now, modern manufacturing methods and materials can forge a robust blade that can handle various tasks.

Instead of a full-size knife, a pocket knife is a must-have item for men. You can own a fixed blade or a folding version, but as long as it can take the abuse, it should be enough. This tool can help you in survival situations or as a means of self-defense. Just make sure that you go for top brands that will not fail when you need it the most.

18Executive Swiss Army Knife

Just like the usefulness of a pocket knife, the Swiss Army Knife is a versatile multi-tool that everyone should own. As the name suggests, it features a blade for your cutting needs. However, it goes one step beyond that by throwing in a bunch of tools that you never knew would be handy in a punch.

Just like a folding knife, it features components that fold into the handle. It’s available in various models that can hold almost all of the tools you’ll ever need. Never settle for knockoffs, because it’s likely going to break when you least expect it.

19

A Car

Depending on where you live, owning a car might be more of a hassle compared to public transportation. However, driving one is also makes it a significant entry to our list of 101 things every man should own. Personally, we recommend that our readers should learn how to drive both a stick shift and an automatic.

By nature, men normally gravitate toward all types of machines. Motor vehicles rank high up on our list and owning one gives us a feeling like no other. On the other hand, if you are worried about the environmental impact a petrol engine can have, all-electric models are available.

20

A Pet

Those of you who want another form of companionship because you’re not ready to make the commitment just yet should go get a pet. It can be a dog, a cat, or something else entirely, but as long as it requires your care, go for it. As they say “no man is an island” after all.

Exotic pets also count as long as you are aware of the risk involved and proper handling. In our opinion, a dog is one of the best among our furry friends because they shower their owners with unconditional love and affection. Cats come in a close second because they are more fickle and challenging to train.

21

Motorcycle

Earlier we gave you a rundown on vehicle ownership should be a must-have item for men. However, there are some disadvantages that go along with it like parking space, getting stuck in traffic, and loads more. Meanwhile, those of you who want a thrill every time you hit the road, a motorcycle is the answer.

Two-wheelers require more control and confidence compared to cars. Moreover, it can be a form of relaxation as you cruise along the highway in complete control. Although the risks are higher on a motorbike, the coolness factor it provides is on a league of its own

22

Let’s remember that each individual has their own musical tastes. Hence, if you’re blasting your stereo, it’s likely that your neighbors are not really having a good time. Whether you’re at home or out in public, the modern man should be able to enjoy their tunes without bothering other people.

A good pair of headphones not only keep your music private, but it can also create a virtual acoustic space where you’re in control. Fork over some cash for top-grade audiophile cans and experience some of the notes you’ve been missing all this time. If you don’t like the wires, Bluetooth variants are likewise available.

23

Just like a good pair of leather dress shoes, sneakers are things that every guy needs. Trust us, you’re not going to like moving around in your formal footwear. It’s not every day that you will need to dress up, so a pair of sneakers will pair nicely with your casual wear. Moreover, these are likewise designed for various sports and activities.

Meanwhile, sneaker culture is growing in popularity as popular brands release limited edition footwear. Collectors often purchase more than one pair so they can take advantage of the resale value. Nonetheless, sneakers are ultimately cool because of the comfort and performance they provide.

24

Nothing beats the sweet smell of meat grilling over an open fire. With an outdoor grill, you can create mouth-watering dishes as the wonderful aromas float through the air. Cook anything from steaks, burgers, hot dogs, and with the right equipment, even some pizza.

This is a must-have item for men who love to host outdoor parties at home. Impress your guest with culinary treats as you grab a beer and grill everything to perfection. In other words, we’re looking at a perfect weekend hanging out with buddies and just chilling.

25

If you enjoy camping, the importance of having a tent should be obvious. Depending on the weather and the wildlife, you can just use a sleeping bag with a campfire blazing. However, when mother nature refuses to cooperate, a form of shelter will be necessary.

Pitching a tent is not exactly rocket science, but there are easier alternatives out there. Take your pick from the inflatable, geodesic, quick-pitch, pop-ups, and a whole lot more. We recommend that you take the time to learn how to do it manually because you’ll never know when that skill will come in handy.

26

Dress shoes are for formal occasions, while sneakers are for everything casual. When the situation calls for some serious work, you’re going to need a reliable pair of boots. These are functional footwear that can keep your feet dry or provide protection when working with heavy objects.

Depending on the type of task you’re about to tackle, the appropriate types of work boots will keep you safe from any hazards. We can’t stress enough how steel-toe boots have saved people from limping for the rest of their life. So what are you waiting for? Go out and grab a pair right now.

27

We’ve been talking about formal wear, accessories, and footwear that go along with the set, but let’s not neglect the main star of the show. A properly-tailored suit should be included in the things every man should own. Sure, you can just grab one straight from the rack at your favorite shop, but we advise against it.

If you were wondering why, it seems the reason is how the suit fits and looks on you. There are instances wherein by some stroke of luck everything falls into place perfectly. Yet, most of the time, it will end up a couple of sizes too big or small. So just take our word for it and have one made, you’ll thank us later.

28

STDs are no laughing matter, we all know the pleasure and gratification we get from sex is amazing. Yet, the aftermath of unprotected intercourse can lead to a lifetime of misery for both parties. To be on the safe side, always remember to have some condoms handy in case you get lucky.

On the other hand, couples can also benefit from it as a form of contraceptive. After all, nobody wants to deal with an unplanned pregnancy. For the ladies reading this, there’s no shame in keeping a box inside your bag just in case your man forgets to buy one.

29

Its time that you throw away those reused plastic cups and finally get a proper set of glassware for your home. We understand that a real man just needs a container to hold the drink, but what about your guests. That’s right, just remember that you might not be the only one having some booze on any given day.

Furthermore, owning the correct glassware for the type of drink will certainly impress your friends. Each type of drinking vessel has a specific purpose and function that will enhance the taste and presentation of whatever it is you’re serving.

30

Now that we’ve given you some tips regarding facial hair, it’s time to take care of the rest. Personal grooming should be the top priority if you want to look and feel good. That’s why a grooming kit is a must-have item for men who care for their appearance.

This collection of tools will cater to your every need. These often include nail clippers, a small pair of scissors to trim your nose hair, and lots more. Most of the time, you can grab everything as a set that comes with a fancy carrying case. We’re just pointing out that women don’t have a monopoly over being vain these days.

31

All this talking about the coffee will eventually lead up to the coffee maker. Before you think of buying those fancy new models that use pods instead of fresh ground beans, listen up.

You can’t expect quality if you’re fond of taking shortcuts, which is why traditionally brewing one requires patience and appreciation for the process.

It might take a little longer, whereas instant coffee and pod machines are quicker, but you get to savor a cup that you personally crafted. Ultimately, this practice can save you a lot of money moving forward.

32

This one is pretty self-explanatory. By nature, fire is a dangerous element that can be destructive in certain conditions. However, it is also essential to keep us warm and cook our food. Many survival situations will most likely require you to start a fire for various purposes.

Thus, having a lighter handy will save you a lot of trouble. Traditional Zippo lighters might be cool, but the wind will quickly snuff the flame out. Anyway, wind-proof options are available so just take your pick and keep a couple handy just in case.

33

Now that almost everything is going digital, writing instruments are slowly becoming irrelevant. However, this does not mean that you abandon the pen entirely. Using digital pens and tablets is actually more sustainable than using paper, but we also need to preserve the traditional medium.

Furthermore, a lot of legal documents still require hand-written information and signatures. Meanwhile, there are cool EDC pens out there that are must-have items for men who want more than just a writing tool. Likewise, some tactical models can be used for survival and self-defense when the situation calls for it.

34

Insurance

Like it or not, life will randomly throw us a curve ball when we least expect it. Even with all the preparations in place, accidents will happen. To minimize your losses, responsible adults should consider getting an insurance policy on anything applicable.

Most of us have this flawed opinion that insurance companies are just a big scam. However, as long as you are aware of the fine print and within its parameters, you should be in the green. Nobody wants to become a financial burden to their loved ones, which is why life and health insurance policies are essential.

35

For most of us, a large towel is enough to dry off and to cover our bodies right after a bath. Unless you have a fit physique to show off, it’s better to wear something else.

If you’re not ready to change and just want to lounge around in comfort after a shower, then you’re going to need a good bathrobe.

Not all of us want to answer the door or bump into surprise guests with just a towel wrapped around. Hence, it’s better to use a bathrobe so you can maintain a level of decency even when you step out to grab the mail or a newspaper off your front porch.

36

Earlier, we gave you a couple of reasons why a pen is still relevant in modern society. To add to that, we’re reminding our readers to keep a journal. With this in your possession, men can record important events in their lives and practice their writing skills at the same time.

There’s no need to go fancy, but at least get one that looks cool. You’re not required to add entries every day, but the more you put in the better. Just imagine how awesome it would be for later generations to stumble upon your journal. It will give them an intimate glimpse idea of who you were.

37

After working hard all day, there’s nothing more inviting than a comfy sofa or bed. On the other hand, if you’re planning to just hang out at home, the best furniture you can have is a lounge chair. These are designed to give users the ultimate ergonomic comfort.

There are various types that will serve a specific purpose, but all of which are designed to help you relax. Personally, we would recommend recliners that are not fixed due to the versatility it offers. Just give us a good lounge chair, a cold beer, some music, and we’re in cloud nine.

38Home Gym Equipments

Eating and drinking are wonderful hobbies that can get out of hand pretty quick. It’s easy to neglect our well-being, which can lead to problems down the road. If hitting your local gym is not feasible for certain reasons, then working out at home is your best bet.

There are various activities that you can do that does not need equipment, but exercise equipment can have its advantages. A set of weights and maybe an all-in-one machine can go a long way. Along with a controlled diet, it won’t be long until you finish sculpting the body of an athlete.

39

Coffee, tea, and other warm beverages are best served in mugs. Unless you’re okay with using the first cup you can grab from the rack, a personalized mug will do the trick. With this in your possession, it can be a canvas to showcase your tastes.

It can have your name or any other design that will immediately stand out from other cups in the pantry. With a little luck, purchasing one won’t be necessary, as your friends or co-workers end up giving you one to show their appreciation for your awesomeness.

40

No matter how tough you think you are, injuries are bound to happen if you neglect protection. Just as work boots keep your feet protected from various hazards, a pair of work gloves will shield your digits from harm.

These are things that every guy needs when they’re working with power tools and materials that can cut bare flesh. There are even some models that are made for use in the kitchen.

These reliable accessories likewise enhance grip as well as other benefits to help improve overall productivity. More importantly, it reminds us not to do anything stupid that can lead to injury.

41

When cooking, a dash of salt and pepper can go a long way to add flavor to your dishes. Yet, if you want to create an explosion of flavor, spices and seasonings are things every man needs in the kitchen.

You can buy these in bulk and just use a spice rack to keep everything organized, thereby making it easier to find what you need when cooking. Liquid seasonings also work great for marinating various types of meat, or you can go for a dry rub to enhance the taste of whatever you’re planning to grill. Never hesitate to consult a recipe book if you’re in doubt.

42

Family Recipe

Just as we detailed earlier, a recipe book holds a wealth of information on the dish you want to prepare. It can be in the form of a book or maybe a website with almost any cuisine that your heart desires.

The flavor is essential, which is why spices and seasonings are must-have items, to begin with. On the other hand, another awesome way to go about it is to learn recipes from your family.

These are often handed down from generation to generation, which makes it so special and amazing. Remember that we men want it just like how mother used to make it.

43

A motorcycle is definitely a thrilling mode of transport with its fair share of risks. However, if you want to get some exercise in the process, a road bike will match your active lifestyle. These are not your average bicycles that are for leisure purposes.

These are machines that are tuned to take you wherever you need to go as fast as your legs can pedal. Just like a motor vehicle, road bikes allow you to shift gears to maximize your performance. These allow riders to tackle steep inclines and zoom forward on level surfaces.

44

For a lot of us guys, video games are the ultimate form of leisure when we don’t want to leave the house. In fact, research shows that gaming has its share of benefits on top of all that fun. Men who regularly play video games have better memory, problem-solving skills, coordination, social skills, and the list goes on.

There are various platforms available such as home consoles, mobile devices, and PCs. It does not really matter what platform you use for gaming as long as you are enjoying every moment. This definitely belongs in our list of 101 things that every man should own.

45

Now that we’ve established that gaming is a boatload of fun with functional benefits, its time to check out the flip side. Not all computers are for gaming, but gaming PCs are flexible and can handle anything you throw at it.

Therefore, why not hit two birds with one stone and build a gaming rig that can double as your desktop workstation. Even with all the fancy LED lighting and killer spec sheet, it will be worth the cost as long as you can get some work done using the machine.

46

When your work requires a computer, but you’re frequently on the road for whatever reason, a laptop is right for you. Not all companies provide it to their employees, so you might as well get one for both work and personal use.

In fact, a laptop is a must-have item for the modern man for various purposes. Moreover, there are models that are equipped for gaming on the go. Wi-Fi is practically available almost anywhere, which makes it convenient for you to play work or play whenever you want to.

47

A man should always be prepared to tackle any challenge that comes before him. Hence, we suggested earlier that its ideal to keep your tools organized. However, traditional heavy-duty equipment can be bulky and is not advisable to lug around except maybe in your vehicle.

Thankfully, some companies came up with the idea to squeeze a bunch of frequently used to a compact form factor for portability. EDC multi-tools are the currently the most popular among men, which is we’re adding it to our list of things every guy needs.

48

You’ll never know when your buddies might drop by for a couple of drinks, so be a gracious host and prepare. Playing video games or watching sports on TV are common activities, but a deck of cards is something else. As long as there are players available, a round of card games promises a lot of fun.

Right now, the most popular among guys is poker, wherein professional tournaments have insane prizes at stake. To make it more interesting play for some pocket change or maybe some favors that you can redeem at a later date.

49

Passport

When you’re next trip takes you abroad, a ticket will get you nowhere without a passport. As such, this document is truly a must-have item for guys who want to go on an adventure outside of the country. In fact, you should secure one and keep it handy as a form of identification.

Collecting awesome experiences during a trip is definitely worthwhile so we encourage our readers to see the world. Always remember to keep your passport in a safe place during your travels. A reliable anti-theft bag or backpack should be enough.

50

Travel Money

The idea of going on a trip is definitely exciting. All you need is your passport (for international destinations), a ticket, and some pocket money to spend on your adventures. Other than the passport, you’re going to need some extra cash for the latter two items.

Therefore, as early as now, we encourage you to put aside a portion of your earnings toward a travel fund. You can put it in a savings account, a piggy bank, or a glass jar.

It doesn’t matter where but as long as you allocate a share of the money, it will eventually serve its purpose. So hold off making unnecessary purchases for the meantime and save up for your dream vacation abroad.

51

Paintings

There are so many ways to decorate your home. It can be as simple as arranging the furniture or maybe adding a couple more. Proper lighting also adds a visual effect that can turn a plain room into something else. Truth be told, the possibilities are almost limitless as long as you have an eye for style.

However, to add a touch of class to your dwelling, a couple of paintings should give it a layer of finesse. Moreover, this does not need to be from well-known artists at all. In fact, we encourage you to choose the ones that call out to your soul.

52

You can brag all you want regarding the boatload of music you have on hand. It’s a good guess that most of us have a huge library of music accessible at any time. A digital collection allows us to search and play our tunes with a few clicks of a remote or a swipe and tap on various devices. \

Yet, there’s just something snazzy about owning a couple of vinyl to play on a good turntable system. You can shop online for the ones you want or maybe bargain hunting and hopefully score a good haul. Audiophiles out there will tell you that vinyl records are far superior to any digital format.

53

If you’ve been religiously following our list of must-have items for men, a couple of items might have caught your fancy. For those of you who are interested to start buying music on vinyl, you’re going to need a machine for playback.

To enjoy the intricacy, beauty, and acoustic quality of analog music, a quality turntable should do the trick. The cool thing about it is that there are modern models out there that even have Bluetooth connectivity on board. Therefore, you can wirelessly stream your music to any compatible speaker within your home.

54

Pickup Truck

The modern man should be as practical as much as possible. This is applicable when it comes to owning certain things in life. Just like any other products, choosing the right vehicle can be a difficult endeavor. As long as you have the money to cover the cost, the market has a lot to offer a potential buyer.

We know it’s so tempting to go for that awesome sports car that you’ve always wanted. However, you can’t beat the versatility that a pickup truck can offer. It’s a manly ride that provides exceptional utility and enough power to haul almost any type of cargo.

55

SUV

Nothing screams testosterone than a truck or SUV. The former is a great option if you need a solid workhorse for various tasks. Meanwhile, the latter is a powerful vehicle that is as capable as a pickup truck but with more room for passengers.

It appears to be a must-have alternative for men who have a big family or a lot of buddies that want to hitch a ride to have fun. Although a truck bed would be better for transporting cargo, most modern SUVs offer more than enough trunk space with the rear seats folded down.

56

There used to be a time before microwaves that required people to store food inside thermal containers. These were absolutely essential back in the day to keep your meals and drinks warm or cold.

Even until now, modern versions of these storage containers feature exceptional insulation that can preserve the temperature even longer.

In other words, a handy product that can hold various food items for transport. In other words, a great item to have when traveling or camping where a microwave is not accessible. Likewise, let’s not forget that it works on cold items too.

57

Shotgun

Among firearms, when it comes to close-range engagements, nothing is more intimidating than a shotgun. This weapon is insanely powerful in short distances, which is why the majority of individuals have one at home for protection.

As long as the target is within range, accuracy should be the least of your worries. Traditional models are a pain to reload and, but the newer ones can even be fully automatic. The scare factor alone from hearing a pump action shotgun is enough to send shivers down our spine. In other words, a badass weapon to consider.

58

Revolver

The iconic revolver is by far the manliest gun ever made. Blame it on the movies that painted an interesting picture of the American Old West and. Squabbles among men were settled with fists and guns. Meanwhile, the most prominent model on screen was the revolver.

A lot of creative liberties were taken to portray it as a formidable weapon, but in reality, there are some caveats involved. Other than ammo capacity and longer reload times, a revolver is a reliable and stylish gun to have in your possession.

59

Camping is basically a fun outdoor activity wherein you face nature alone or as a group and try not to die. Kidding aside, it is a challenging adventure that offers an escape from hustle and bustle of the city. Must-have items include a backpack, sleeping bags, a tent, food, and other tools to aid your survival.

A knife can handle a lot of tasks, but for thicker vegetation and other camping needs, a machete is essential. Use it to make short work of wood for setting up your campsite as well as gathering resources.

60

Let us say that your adventures normally take you to places with bodies of water. Swimming usually comes to mind, but there’s so much more that you can do with a kayak. This is one of the things men should have to explore rivers, lakes, and the sea.

Most people who try it find it relaxing and therapeutic, but it really depends on the situation. Moreover, you can use it to reach prime fishing spots that those on the shore can only dream of. If you’re not comfortable going solo, certain models can fit two or more people.

61

Earlier, we made a suggestion regarding a desktop workstation. If you’re one of the folks who agree with us pertaining the benefits a PC can offer then you’re going to this next item. Although any table or elevated flat surface will do, using an office desk will encourage productivity.

Depending on the model, there are parts that can help organize your setup. We’re talking about the cables, keyboard, speakers, printers, and other additional accessories. Just remember that decluttering your workspace can help you focus and get work done more efficiently. Moreover, it works great for laptop users as well.

62

This sounds a bit silly because almost everybody already owns a smartphone, wherein a camera is a regular feature. However, what we’re driving at it to own a regular point and shoot or a DSLR and its other variants. We want to encourage our readers to master the fine art of photography as it should be.

Modern digital cameras sport an auto mode that uses high-tech systems and programs to capture stunning shots. Meanwhile, real men rely on their skills, which is why you should take the plunge and go manual. This makes cameras a must-have item for men who love to take photos.

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All men want to be powerful just like the heroes we look up to. Hence, power tools are here to help with any task that mere mortals cannot accomplish alone. In reality, these bad boys are things that ever men should have at home, but preferably in the garage or workshop.

Sure a little elbow grease can take care of most stuff, but when it comes to heavy lifting, a set of power tools will make your life easier. Face any projects life throws your way with a complete arsenal at the ready.

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Just like the name says, a safe is a must-have item to keep important stuff under lock and key. Actually, depending on the brand, the locking mechanism can be different, but the function remains the same. Furthermore, a good choice is preferably a model that is both fire and water-resistant.

Life can sometimes deal a bad hand with natural disasters or acts of God causing untold damage to property. Thus, it’s better to be safe than sorry (pardon the pun) with a peace of mind that your valuables are out of harm’s way.

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Men are known to be independent creatures when it comes to many things. Sadly, there are some tasks that we still believe only women should do. You should know that modern society frowns upon that way of thought so it’s time to make some changes.

These days a lot of men are not afraid to go against common stereotypes. As such, learning how to mend common problems with articles of clothing is one step of being able to stand on your own. Thus, a sewing kit is a must-have item for men who want to be prepared for anything.

66

When your goal is to serve good food that people will enjoy, the taste is a crucial factor. Meanwhile, it’s easy to forget that visual presentation is likewise important. Now that you’ve taken care of these, the next order of business is to go grab some cutlery.

In case you were wondering, how can you expect guests to appreciate their meal when all you have are some mismatched utensils. Furthermore, don’t even think of using plastic ones for the sake of the environment. Stainless steel is the way to go so don’t skimp out of buying a high-quality set.

67

Unless you have a crazy vertical leap, practice Parkour, or the power of flight, you will need a ladder. It’s part of the package of essential stuff a man should own in their lifetime. This is useful for a lot of tasks that require you to reach elevated areas. It could be for cleaning, painting, carpentry, and a whole more.

You might argue that a chair or stool should be enough, but it won’t match the versatility of a ladder. Fixed wooden ones are a classic, but we suggest that you get the metal ones that can fold into a more compact form for storage.

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Fishing is a popular leisure activity among men due to relaxing nature. Imagine spending hours just lounging about waiting for the fish to bite. Furthermore, throw in a cooler with some refreshments and you’re golden. Depending on the type of fish you’re hoping to land, a durable fishing rod will make a difference.

Traditionally, these are made from bamboo, but modern ones are now made of far superior materials. We’re talking about carbon fiber, fiberglass, graphite, and a couple more thrown in. Fly fishing, on the other hand, is likewise fun but requires different gear and less sitting around.

69

Face it, all guys want to own a chainsaw. Reasons to get one might vary for each individual, but what matters is that you have one. Perhaps, its the raw power it offers to cut through wood like butter or something else entirely. Despite the ease of use, the risk of injury is certainly there. Another possible factor is its presence in pop culture.

Just like knives, men are inexplicably drawn to items that can be used for survival, self-defense, and the occasional project or two. As always, proper safety gear can save you from a trip to the emergency room in the future.

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Moving the lawn is not exactly a glorious chore to do around the house. Uncontrolled growth of the grass will eventually make your home stick out like a sore thumb in your neighborhood. In the first place, the decision to live in a residence with patches of grass up front makes it part of the package.

Regular push-powered mowers require a lot of effort, while self-propelled models are a piece of cake. A ride-on variant can be a lot of fun as you drive around sipping a beer on one hand. Finally, the best option among the bunch would be an automated version that takes care of everything after a quick initial setup.

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Bottled Liquor On Display

Drinking is a great way to relax and just hang out with friends. As always, guys usually go for a beer as the must-have item in ever cooler or refrigerator. On the other hand, booze such as whiskey, vodka, gin, and all other alcohol should likewise be included in your selection.

There’s nothing like showing off your fancy collection of liquor bottles to show everyone your sophisticated attributes. Make no mistake, because beer is still an amazing option, but it just pales in comparison to the presentation of spirits inside their classy containers.

72

Don’t you wish to take home the experience of gathering around a campfire with friends and talking about whatever comes to mind? If so, it is possible to replicate this with a fire pit at home. Not to be confused with a fireplace, which, in its own right, is another cool addition to your residence, this one is normally outdoors.

Not only does it keep you warm during those cold nights, but it can also cook your food. Not only does this add a cozy atmosphere, but the dancing flames and glowing embers will also be a mesmerizing spectacle for all.

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House

Finally owning a house is one of the things that men should have in life. Depending on your financial situation, not everyone can afford to purchase real estate. Nevertheless, some guys who want to settle down and start a family in the future must have this written down as a primary goal.

Home ownership means that you can do whatever the heck you want since it’s your property. So as early as now, shop around or contact your real estate agent to find more about the properties available in good neighborhoods.

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Music is one of the purest art forms that you can use to express whatever you want. In order to create one, you’re going to need to learn how to play a musical instrument. Guitars are must-have items for those who want to rock or maybe compose a beautiful ballad.

Meanwhile, let’s not forget the elegance of playing the piano. There are tons of ways to create music and learning how is a big challenge for men to undertake. A good tip would be to pick a genre you love and start from there.

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Plants

Oxygen and air free of pollutants are crucial if you suffer from allergies or other respiratory complications. Modern HVAC installations are usually equipped to handle these things. Likewise, nature already has the perfect system to help us out.

Plants are essential to sustain life on this planet. As such having plants inside your home will prove beneficial as research shows. Other than being stylish decorations, a bunch of these will reduce carbon dioxide levels and absorb certain pollutants.

Therefore, instead of relying on machines, let nature take better care of you.

76

Going out for drinks is always fun, but regular trips to your favorite bars can cost you a fortune in the long run. That’s why most men would rather enjoy drinking at home. We know that the atmosphere is never the same, but with the money you are saving, its a small sacrifice.

To organize all of the booze you’ve been keeping all this time, a home bar is an awesome option. Why keep your best spirits in the cupboard when you can flaunt them for everyone to see. You can shop for a pre-built model or you can craft one from scratch. Personally, we’d go for the latter.

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When you’re totally drained and just want to sleep, a sofa or a lounge chair will not matter. In contrast, a full-size bed with a top-notch mattress will take you on a journey of supreme relaxation. In fact, some individuals don’t even want to get up and do other stuff anymore.

However, getting good sleep will often leave you feeling refreshed and ready to face the world like a champ. If you’re into DIY stuff, just grab a good mattress and craft a bed according to your personal specifications. As long as it is going to be something that you want to sleep in, price and looks won’t matter.

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Listening to music can have a lot of positive effects that can help people relax, find inspiration, and evoke emotions. Depending on who tells you, a pair of high-end headphones can produce the best playback. However, if you plan to share the audio, a high-quality sound system should deliver the acoustic performance you need.

Moreover, this device should come in handy if you are entertaining guests or having a dance party at home. The latest models now come with Bluetooth and wireless streaming so you can throw your beats over the air to compatible speakers throughout the house.

79National Geographic Pro Series Metal Detector

Since we were kids, finding lost treasure is a fantasy that men will carry to the grave. We can’t deny the allure of stumbling upon untold riches continues to intrigue us to this day. However, modern treasure hunters no longer need a map to find uncover what is hidden.

Metal detectors are the ideal tools to help search of stuff beneath the ground. Don’t lose hope if you keep finding junk on the first couple of tries. Eventually, Lady Luck will smile upon your efforts and you can finally hit a jackpot.

80

Owning an ax can mean a lot of things. One thing for certain is that as long as its purpose is for anything else other than harming others, every man should own one. Probably with the exception of self-defense, an ax is an ultimate survival tool.

It can quickly chop wood for fuel while you’re camping. If you want a workout, drop that chainsaw and take that tree down the old-fashioned way. Moreover, in an emergency, you can use the tool to break through locked doors. In other words, another must-have item for men.

81

A regular vacuum cleaner is intended for cleaning up inside the house. In contrast, a shop vac is a heavy-duty machine that is designed for extreme versatility. It makes quick work of messes around construction sites and woodworking shops.

The powerful motor can suck up stuff that normal vacuum cleaners will have trouble with. Additionally, some models are so reliable that it can be used to draw water from flooded areas, but it’s not meant to replace a pump. Keep one in our workshop or garage, you’ll never know when the need arises.

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Just like safety razors to keep our facial hair in check, hair clippers will keep our heads prim and proper. Of course, we still recommend the occasional trip to your local barbershop for that new hairstyle.

On the other hand, if what you need is a regular trim or maybe a buzz cut, this machine is perfect for the task. You can go for the rechargeable kind that will prove convenient for those trips that take you places where there are no barbers around for miles. Don’t forget to throw in your shaving kit along too.

83

All men have their secrets and most of us want to keep it that way. Privacy is a serious matter, which is why we invest a lot on software and services to keep our data away from the prying eyes of hackers.

Therefore, it makes a lot of sense to protect our material riches in a similar fashion by using a safe or locking our cabinets. To secure our homes and properties, a reliable lock can give us that peace of mind. There are many types and functions, but all of it works to deter people from accessing what’s on the other side.

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Security cameras function as modern crime deterrent gadgets. This means that as soon as people are aware that somebody is watching them, they tend to think twice about doing something stupid.

Another advantage of having these around your home is being able to remotely communicate with people as long as it supports two-way audio.

Think of it as a cutting-edge baby monitor where instead of an infant, you’re observing adults trying their best not to make a fool of themselves on camera. Thus, this can be a form of entertainment depending on how you look at it.

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For those of our readers who are on the process automating their homes, a smart hub is a must-have item. If you’re planning to upgrade a lot of your stuff with smart features, you’re going to need a device to help control their functions.

Getting the right one depends on the voice assistant that you are planning to work with. As it stands right now, Amazon’s Alexa boasts compatibility with almost all of the best ones out there. Of course, Google Assistant is our next recommendation. Meanwhile, Apple users only have the HomePod.

86

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, there are various ways to open a bottle sealed with a cork or other materials like it. Sure, heating the neck with lighter and watching the cork fly off with a pop is cool and all, but the traditional way still matters. Using a corkscrew is not that difficult, but we often forget to keep one handy. Luckily, most EDC gadgets such as Swiss Army knives usually include one.

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This one is pretty obvious. Unless you would rather spend your free time reading books or using a mobile device, television is the go-to choice for entertainment. Bigger is always better when it comes to displaying size, but expect to pay a premium as you go up in size. Pair it with a decent home theater sound system and you will the ultimate setup ready to go.

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Learning how to fight is essential in order to defend yourself properly during a confrontation. We’re not encouraging our readers to start one, but if the situation arises it’s better to be prepared. Speed and accuracy matter a lot during a fight, but power can mean victory.

Hence, a boxing bag will give you an intense workout and develop your punch and kick strength over time. Meanwhile, likewise, grab a pair of boxing gloves to protect yourself from injury.

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This one is a major lifesaver if you’re always using your car to travel. A dead battery is the bane of all motorists and nobody wants to be stuck on the road at any time. However, if it does happen, you’re going to need to jump start your ride with the help of another car. Usage is pretty straightforward as long as you have jumper cables handy.

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As men we are proud to show off our strength every now and then. For example, carrying all the groceries in one trip is something to boast about. However, it’s foolish to force ourselves to haul a heavy load that can cause injury. Traditional models can be used for flat or inclined surfaces, but modern variants are capable of much more. Some can even climb stairs with relative ease.

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Real men embrace change but also hold on to traditions. As such, modern technology is slowly turning us into a paperless society. For the sake of sustainability and the reduction of environmental impact on trees, this sounds ideal.

However, we must also value the old-fashioned form of communication and documentation using a pen and stationery. Writing something down on paper is more personal, which helps convey your thoughts sincerely.

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Face it, drinking liquor inside a paper bag is not the most pleasant of practices. In fact, it makes you look uncultured. So why not do it the proper way and consume your alcohol in public via a flask.

A real gentleman drinks using appropriate glassware, but if it’s not available, directly from the flask is likewise acceptable. Some establishments might not allow you to bring one, but you can always find a way to sneak it in.

93QardioBase2 WiFi Smart Scale and Body Analyzer

This measuring tool was traditionally used to weigh goods, but as more people become conscious of their health, it now resides in bathrooms everywhere. Most modern scales are now digital and more accurate compared to the analog types of old.

Fact is, there are high-tech models that support wireless connectivity with a smart device or fitness tracker. This should help users with their weight management regimen as dictated by their physicians.

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It doesn’t matter even if the bed is constructed from the most expensive materials. As long as the mattress is of poor quality, you’re going to have a bad time sleeping tonight. Don’t let budget hold you back, because this is a thing that men should have.

As long as the price is within reason, getting a good night’s sleep should be your top priority. Good ones will quickly whisk you off to slumberland with the most pleasant of dreams.

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A lot of guys use bags, backpacks, and a bunch of other luggage options. Some even go as far as using a fanny pack during travel. These are all great tools or carrying our stuff, but if you’re after something slightly formal, then a briefcase is what you want.

Holding one these look absolutely stylish in most cases. Moreover, these are the perfect accessories when you’re wearing a suit to work.

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Whether its a party at home, a tailgate, a picnic, or practically any occasion with beverages, a cooler is essential. How else are you going to keep your drinks cool when you’re away from the fridge.

Other than using it for storing food and beverage, this container can also keep fish and other types of game fresh for transport. In conclusion, another must-have item for men to consider when shopping.

97Survival First Aid Kit For HomeOutdoor Use

Mishaps can happen when we least expect, which is why a first-aid kit should be available on hand. Without proper care, some injuries can potentially become life-threatening. Men are encouraged to at least learn basic first aid practices.

Since most of us are outdoorsmen by nature, we should at least prepare and pack a basic kit at before we head out. There’s no telling what might happen on the way.

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Fire Extinguisher

I’m sure that men would agree that we have a certain affinity for stuff that our ancestors used for survival. For example, blades, farming, hunting, fishing, building, and starting a fire. Armed with the proper knowledge, we can quickly snuff out flames before they go out of control. However, if the situation takes a turn for the worst, a fire extinguisher can mean life or death for those involved.

99WRAPTIE™ tie-down strap

When you’re hauling big stuff on your truck, tie down straps are must-have accessories to keep your cargo from moving around. Moreover, these can help keep taller items upright while in transit.

You might be tempted to go for the elastic ones but the types with ratchet mechanism work the best. Just be careful not to overtighten the straps, because it can cause damage and serious injury.

100NOS NSJ0302 3-Ton Aluminum Service Jack

When we buy a new automobile, car companies often include a set of tools to help owners with certain tasks. Getting a flat tire can be dangerous when the vehicle is in motion, hence always pull over safely if you can.

Changing tires is basically foolproof, but lifting the car up requires a jack. The one we got from the dealership is quite basic, so plunk down a few bucks for a hydraulic floor jack instead.

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Modern homes are now equipped with power outlets on every corner. However, there are occasions wherein we need to plug in our tools or devices but there are no sockets nearby. A simple problem requires a simple solution. Therefore, an extension cord will make our lives a lot easier. Never hesitate to check the wires because it can wear down after some time.

15+ Best Disaster Movies On Netflix

When you hear the word “disaster,” you think destruction, deaths, calamities, famine, or other large-scale chaos that brings about any form of tragedy. Often, we associate it with the natural, a brunt of Mother Nature’s ire against the mistreatment of resources. You have hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, avalanches, and so on.

Then you have the manmade disasters: explosions or acts of terrorism, fires, oil spills, floods, and the list go on. These are the destructions that are the result of man’s actions, incompetence, and stupidity, which also contribute to nature’s decline.

Disaster films mostly revolve around these elements because they are terrifying and inspiring. They evoke raw human emotions of fear, grief, loss, happiness because they are believable. It happens and it has happened.

However, as of late, filmmakers have also swayed to the fictional or fantastical kind: zombie apocalypse, alien invasion, which are also entertaining but at times not so much affective. Regardless of how you define disaster and look at it from different perspectives, it still leads to loss of life and the mass eradication of resources – animate or inanimate alike.

These are the reasons why disaster films are such a hit and why they are one of cinema’s oldest genres because the truth is, disasters are mostly inevitable. It’s the aftermath that pulls the audience in and gives the movie its depth and meaning: how the victims or humankind survive and persevere. How they learn from the event, pick up the remnants of their previous life, and move on to open another chapter were they hopefully come out strong and remain optimistic.

With all that said and to get you in the mood, we’ve sifted through the offerings on Netflix to give you only the best of the disaster films from its back catalog. These are the best not just based on ratings but on the “disaster” factor if you know what I mean.

We have everything from Arctic escapades gone wrong, animal attacks, earthquakes, zombie apocalypse, chemical disasters, and the list goes on.

Watch Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson become the ultimate hero who saves the day during a massive earthquake in San Andreas. Then you have Brad Pitt on a race against time to stop the spread of a deadly disease that turns humans into rampaging zombies in World War Z.

Foreign films such as South Korea’s Pandora focuses our attention to manmade disasters especially those of the nuclear kind, while Norwegian film The Wave hits close to him with its premise about the dangers and ramifications a tsunami can bring to unsuspecting victims.

Disaster films can be fictional such as the Korean zombie flick Train to Busan and those alien invasion types including Extinction and Beyond Skyline.

Then, of course, disaster films do not have to be entirely fiction, since there are also those based on true stories. You have Everest, a tragic tale about the loss of lives during a commercial climb up the famous mountain and there’s Deepwater Horizon, which tells the horrors of an oil drilling rig explosion.

Netflix has a plethora of these type of films but can be hard to locate. This is why we have picked out only the best from its back catalog and compiled them for your convenience. Check out the titles below so you can start binge-watching these disaster movies on Netflix.

1

World War Z (2013)

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Life for a former United Nations investigator and his family, and all of humanity for that matter, takes a sudden drastic turn when a mysterious infection turns the human population into raging zombies. A single bite from a person infected with the lethal virus turns people vicious and feral.

Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt) and his family nearly survive and as the pandemic spreads, he feels it’s his duty to find the source of the infection and find a way to stop its spread.

This film jives with the usual virus-turns-people-into-zombies premise but there’s a twist to the story: the infection is selective. It’s very particular with whom it attaches to. Halfway through the film, you’ll realize that it only spreads to healthy people and saves the already sick from getting worse.

This one is a thrilling and engaging film with all the adrenaline you can possibly get from a zombie flick: tension, chases, destruction, jump scares, and not to mention the hide-and-seek (lots of ‘em).

Fans of this genre and of the survival kind will find a gem in World War Z because the zombies in this film are not those you see in The Walking Dead. Instead, they are fast and slightly smarter.

Directors: Marc Forster – Screenplay: Matthew Michael Carnahan, Drew Goddard, Damon Lindelof – Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Peter Capaldi, Daniella Kertesz – Run Time: 1h 56 min

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San Andreas (2015)

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A father will do anything to protect the ones he loves. In this case, you have Raymond Gaines (Dwayne Johnson), a helicopter rescue pilot who never imagined that his love for his family and his skills would be put to the test in the most grueling way.

In the aftermath of a massive earthquake in San Andreas, California, the biggest earthquake in history, Gaines and his estranged wife Emma (Carla Gugino) journey amidst the chaos, destruction, and danger to find their daughter Blake (Alexandra Daddario).

San Andreas has a simple survival and rescue story but it makes a great disaster movie because of its amazing special effects. The tsunami scene looks so extreme it’s unbelievably scary.

Moreover, there is depth in the characters. You become invested in the main characters’ story from the get-go and you want to see them come out of the destruction alive.

San Andreas is a nail-biting piece of action film and edge-of-your-seat suspense with a dash of romance and drama. It leaves you wondering about the possibility of it happening in the future, especially since the disaster is a work of Mother Nature and that the San Andreas fault is real. Add to the worry is the fact that the fault has been terrorizing Southern California residents in the past few days with small quakes.

Directors: Brad Peyton – Screenplay: Carlton Cuse, Andre Fabrizio, Jeremy Passmore – Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario – Run Time: 1h 54 min

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The Wave (2015)

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This is hands down one of the best tsunami disaster movies of 2015. This nerve-wracker of an impressive film puts Hollywood disaster movies to shame with its brilliant cast, acting, cinematography, and storytelling.

It has all the elements that make you feel all sorts of emotions: happiness, anger, fear, terror, grief, pain, disbelief (I can go on but best if you watch it yourself to know what I mean). The tone even makes the danger even more appalling.

The film starts out slow and sets up the “calm before the storm” atmosphere really well. Then tragedy strikes and there’s nothing left to do but try to survive.

There are no other words to describe this movie except that it’s deeply emotional and upsetting, which is what makes a disaster movie great, because it focuses on raw human emotions to make a compelling story than totally relying on scenes of destruction.

Directors: Roar Uthaug – Screenplay: John Kåre Raake, Harald Rosenløw-Eeg – Cast: Kristoffer Joner, Ane Dahl Torp, Jonas Hoff Oftebro – Run Time: 1h 55 min

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Train to Busan (2016)

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This South Korean zombie flick was not only a hit locally but also internationally. It gained mixed reviews but on the positive side, it’s a thrilling treat if you’re a fan of running or swift zombies.

It pulls viewers with its unique storytelling and creative concept of a zombie onslaught. Imagine having to fight off hordes of these vicious monsters inside the claustrophobic environment of a train. You have to be creative in your means of escape let alone in how you dodge their attack.

The pacing is also just right as not to bore viewers or put an abrupt end to the film. There are moments of danger and suspense mostly presented in the most unexpected way.

What makes this film even more affective is its use of the family setting to bring out the human side of the story. It’s not all about the chases, the scares or the thrill. You also get to bond with the characters, even the minor ones, as the story progresses.

You have a pregnant wife and his brave, courageous husband who would risk everything to save his family. Then you have a young girl who only wants to feel loved and be close to his estranged father. Their bond is put to the test in the most horrendous way (should I say tragic?).

When it comes to disaster films like Train to Busan, you can only hope that the families don’t break apart or none of them ends up dead, which is, of course, becomes mere wishful thinking.

Directors: Sang-ho Yeon – Screenplay: Joo-Suk Park, Sang-ho Yeon – Cast: Yoo Gong, Yu-mi Jung, Dong-seok Ma, Su-an Kim – Run Time: 1h 58m

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Pandora (2016)

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One way to show how large-scale businesses manipulate its people and how the government turns a blind eye to obvious problems is through movies and this is what Pandora is about.

It’s a story about a nuclear disaster that our protagonist, a simple power plant worker and family man, tries hard to contain using minimal resources and just his bravery and strength.

Pandora is a South Korean disaster movie about a nuclear explosion that happens in the aftermath of an earthquake. Pyung-Sub (Jung Jin-Young) expresses his concerns to the government about the conditions at the power plant at a small Korean town where he works, but nobody from the government wants to listen to him.

Things escalate from there after an earthquake strikes the town and causes the power plant to explode. The disaster spirals out of control and threatens the entire nation. The workers have no choice but to take it upon themselves to contain the destruction and prevent another nuclear disaster even if it means putting their lives at risk.

Pandora is such an emotional journey because it features characters that represent real people with a sense of duty. It makes the film more relatable and you get to invest emotions for all the characters because their stories are given time to develop.

It’s a great disaster movie with a moral story. It leaves you puffy-eyed from all the crying.

Directors: Jong-woo Park – Screenplay: Jung-Woo Park – Cast: Do-bin Baek, Seung-Hoon Choi, Bae Gang-Yoo – Run Time: 2h 16m

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Everest (2015)

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Commercial expeditions up Mount Everest always present a threat to life. It’s a thrilling adventure but not one to be taken lightly, especially when you have Mother Nature bent on ruining your climb.

This is what happened to two expeditions: one led by New Zealand’s Robert Edwin Hall, the other by Scott Fischer. Based on the true tragic May 10, 1996 event that took the lives of many, Everest retells the horrors of that day when the group makes their final ascent toward the summit.

A vicious storm strikes without warning and engulfs the climbers in one of the fiercest blizzards ever experienced by man. They had to brave the harsh cold temperature and fight to stay alive.

Everest is one of those man vs. nature type of disaster and survival film in that it highlights the men’s plight to live in the wake of the disaster. It also exposes the bravery and sense of heroism in each of the climbers as they try to save one another and seek help.

It’s tense and terrifying and the cast did well in eliciting these emotions from the viewers with their superb acting.  It’s a decent enough film about a disastrous event caused by Mother Nature’s wrath and how man tries to cope with the consequences.

Directors: Baltasar Kormákur – Screenplay: William Nicholson, Simon Beaufoy – Cast: Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, Jake Gyllenhaal, Thomas M. Wright, Keira Knightley – Run Time: 2h 1m

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Deepwater Horizon (2016)

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Ordinary people become extraordinary and turn into your everyday heroes in this emotional tribute to the real-world disaster Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010. This film is a disturbing recollection of that tragic day on April 20, when the oil-drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico exploded and ignited a massive fireball that took the lives of many.

The film realistically presents and depicts the actual incident very well. It’s an engrossing and emotional story but don’t expect it to be very intense action wise, compared to those high in visual effects like San Andreas and 2012.

Similar to Pandora, this film tells viewers about the dangers of cutting costs or cost-cutting measures when safety is at risk and supposedly of prime importance. It also educates viewers on the technicalities of deepwater drilling.

Deepwater Horizon is a good disaster movie with great acting from its cast. Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell take center stage as the heroes who try their best to survive and rescue their coworkers despite the uncertainty of their fate. It definitely has its touching moments and one that makes you appreciate your job behind the desk.

Directors: Peter Berg – Screenplay: Matthew Michael Carnahan, Matthew Sand – Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, Douglas M. Griffin, John Malkovich – Run Time: 1h 47m

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Extinction (2018)

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Sci-fi fans are in for a treat with the Netflix original movie Extinction, an alien invasion type of film but with a twist. Despite its low ratings, it has a pretty solid and entertaining storytelling from start to finish.

It’s an engrossing film but don’t get fooled by its slow buildup. It has a slow pace so you can really understand what’s going on. There’s no action in the first 20 minutes or so and the story relies on dialogue.

Once the movie picks up you can bet sweaty palms and heart-racing moments as the survivors try to escape the invasion. And just when you have an idea where the story is heading, you are presented with a big blow of a realization about what’s really happening. There is not just one but several twists in the story, so better watch out for them.

Acting wise, the lead stars Michael Peña and Lizzy Caplan are good examples of bad chemistry but for a good reason (it’s what the filmmakers want). I won’t spill more details on that for you but let’s just say their chemistry (or lack of it) serves the purpose of the story.

Directors: Ben Young – Screenplay: Spenser Cohen, Brad Kane, Eric Heisserer – Cast: Michael Peña, Lizzy Caplan, Amelia Crouch, Mike Colter, Tom Riley – Run Time: 1h 47m

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Beyond Skyline (2017)

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Another surprisingly entertaining alien invasion film is Beyond Skyline, which follows a group of survivors as they try to escape the onslaught through the underground subway tunnels. The story kicks off when strange blue lights lure people and suck them into various spaceships.

Mark Coley (Frank Grillo) leads a group of survivors to safety while on a quest of his own to rescue his estranged son from one of the alien spaceships.  The film has its weakness such as predictable storytelling and a bit of weak acting and poor character development. The action scenes are very good though.

Regardless, it’s engaging from start to end. The filmmakers also didn’t rely purely on CGI for visual effects but incorporated practical effects as well. The alien costumes look downright horrendous and genuine, and at times comical.

Beyond Skyline also filled in the gaps from the first film Skyline. It’s a good supplement to the original since it reveals what happened to Jarrod and his family. If you watch this film with an open mind then you’d enjoy it.

Directors: Liam O’Donnell – Screenplay: Liam O’Donnell – Cast: Frank Grillo, Bojana Novakovic, Jonny Weston, Iko Uwais – Run Time: 1h 46m

10

2012 (2009)

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2012 is a disaster movie of epic proportions. It becomes so unrealistic going forward but you can’t stop yourself from watching. It’s thrilling and engaging despite it being a popcorn cinema.

You don’t have to work out your brain trying to understand the concept or analyze the details. You simply have to enjoy the movie for what it is, which is a massive ride of disaster one after the other.

It packs clichés and soap-opera-ish drama as you get to watch even the minor characters get their emotional moment (which only prolonged the story). As with other films from Roland Emmerich, 2012 is not what you can actually call a good emotional cinema. It lacks in human drama although it highlights a father’s plight to save his family from the disaster.

What really grips your attention is the cataclysmic action. This is what you call a general disaster movie because its best features are the explosions, the horrors of the catastrophe, and the magnitude of the destruction. This film is definitely subjective: you either love it or hate it.

Directors: Roland Emmerich – Screenplay: Roland Emmerich, Harald Kloser – Cast: John Cusack, Thandie Newton, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Amanda Peet, Oliver Platt – Run Time: 2h 38m

11

Aftershock (2012)

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If you’re looking for a dark disaster film with a touch of horror then watch Aftershock, which goes beyond the tsunami premise. When you have Eli Roth (Hemlock Grove, Cabin Fever) as one of the screenwriters, then you can bet the story is bound to get gruesome.

The story follows a group of earthquake survivors who seeks shelter amid a tsunami warning. However, they soon realize that they must live out not just Mother Nature’s wrath, but also the threat of their own kind when a nearby prison collapses and its dangerous inhabitants escape.

Mayhem and death immediately follow as the criminals ravage the city, killing, raping, and stealing everything they can find. The situation quickly spirals out of control and turns into a nightmare. Things quickly escalate and become very violent and bloody.

This film truly stands by its tagline, “The only thing more terrifying than Mother Nature is human nature.” The story swiftly swayed from the natural disaster premise to focus on the monstrosity of the inmates as they go about their evil ways while the others desperately try to avoid their path and seek safety amid the blaring sound of the tsunami warning.

The story becomes surreal but in some ways shows a bit of reality especially when in times of disaster: people still think to steal and kill for their own good.

Directors: Nicolás López – Screenplay: Eli Roth, Nicolás López – Cast: Eli Roth, Ariel Levy, Nicolás Martínez, Andrea Osvárt – Run Time: 1h 29m

12

Piranha (2010)

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Who knew a disaster movie about piranhas can be as entertaining and exhilarating as watching a horror or action film? When you have hordes of these pre-historic flesh-eating fishes torment guests at a popular resort, then chaos and destruction of another kind are bound to ensue.

This film especially caters those who have an insatiable appetite for gore. It’s a disaster movie in itself because of the mayhem the piranhas bring.

Don’t expect a complex and smart story because it has none of the two. It’s full of sleaziness and stupidity which are meant to lighten the mood and bring fun to what could have been a bloody film with a simple plot of fishes attacking humans.

Directors: Alexandre Aja – Screenplay: Pete Goldfinger, Josh Stolberg – Cast: Elisabeth Shue, Jerry O’Connell, Richard Dreyfuss, Christopher Lloyd – Run Time: 1h 28m

13

Supervolcano (2005)

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A film about the possibility of a supervolcanic eruption is no laughing matter especially when it involves the popular Yellowstone National Park, which sits atop a volcanic hot spot. When you have a real-life supervolcano at the heart of a fictional disaster movie then it’s bound to create a sense of dread and panic.

In this film, a magma leak from the Yellowstone is initially taken lightly by residents. However, when news of a possible massive eruption breaks, people of the world feel threatened. The disaster does happen and leaves millions of people dead and others barely alive in bunkers.

The US as we know it is never the same following the explosion. It becomes uninhabitable and beyond saving with the dangerous ash covering the atmosphere and dead people buried behind molten lava.

If you’re in for a slow but realistic disaster movie that gives you scientific knowledge behind a volcanic eruption, then Supervolcano does that for you. It’s not all about the gnarly and horrific deaths.

Directors: Tony Mitchell – Screenplay: Edward Canfor-Dumas – Cast: Michael Riley, Gary Lewis, Shaun Johnston – Run Time: 2h

14

The Rezort (2015)

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Set in a time when the humans have outsmarted and outlived the zombies and the authorities are once again in control and are quick to dispose of any zombie that crosses anyone’s path. It’s a period when people make a hobby out of shooting at the undead.

Humans, especially the rich, go to an amusement resort where they live out their anger and exact their revenge against these monsters. The resort gives them the chance to shoot at the restrained zombies in the wild.

However, little do the guests know that they are in a highly controlled environment where the hosts make sure that the undead are kept at a shooting distance. Things take a turn for the worst when curiosity gets the better of one of the visitors enters the control room, changes the setting, and inadvertently unleashes a fresh outbreak.

The visitors’ safety disappears in a blink of an eye and the living dead once again partake of human flesh. Think of this film as Jurassic Park but instead of dinosaurs you have zombies wreaking havoc and devouring humans.

This film doesn’t have any stellar reviews at all and even has unexceptional cast. The only familiar name on the list is Dougray Scott. It has an intriguing and promising concept though that sadly didn’t live up to its expectation due to the poor screenplay, lack of action, and character story.

The plot is also predictable and needs more room for exploration. Regardless, if you’re looking for another entertaining zombie flick then The Rezort is one of them.

Directors: Steve Barker – Screenplay: Paul Gerstenberger – Cast: Dougray Scott, Jessica De Gouw, Martin McCann, Claire Goose – Run Time: 1h 33m

15

The Impossible (2012)

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Probably the best disaster film is The Impossible, which is based on the massive tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in 2004. It came in surprise killing thousands and displacing facilities and homes.

The film’s story focuses on one family’s harrowing experience as one of the victims and survivors. What starts out as a happy vacation at a resort turns into a traumatic experience for the family who got separated by tragedy but never lost hope.

Be warned this is no easy watch. It’s an emotional rollercoaster from the moment the disaster strikes to the very end.

The effects are utterly satisfying even when the wave rolls you are instantly hit with a feeling of doom. Coupled with the visceral quality to the sound and atmosphere, you really gravitate toward the plight of the survivors to reconcile with their families.

This film is not for everyone especially for the faint of heart. It’s a disaster film that’s very affective, effective, and compelling in its retelling of an actual tragic event.

The cast is remarkable and excels in captivating viewers and eliciting raw human emotions of despair, sorrow, and terror. Even the young actors held up their end on the acting level.

You can see the fear in everyone’s eyes, in their voice, and their body language. You feel their anguish and desperation. You cry with them out of joy and sorrow.

The Impossible is filmmaking at its finest with a stellar cast full of chemistry and smart compelling storytelling. It’s very realistic and resembles the exact situation and emotions that people face during or in the aftermath of a disaster.

Despite it being a disaster movie, it never falters in its message about the importance of family love, of hope, and of believing in miracles. It also touches on the important theme of unity regardless of gender, race, and nationality.

Directors: J.A. Bayona – Screenplay: Sergio G. Sánchez, María Belón – Cast: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland – Run Time: 1h 54m

16

Armageddon (1998)

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Armageddon is a timeless disaster film and a famous one at that, despite its lack of complex premise and compelling storytelling. It’s one of those movies that quickly come to mind when we think of a disaster film about asteroids and space missions.

This star-studded action-adventure and sci-fi film is purely for enjoyment and adrenaline rush. If you’re looking for something with more context and depth in the story, then look elsewhere (try Interstellar or the First Man).

Armageddon’s story is as simple as it gets. A giant asteroid the size of Texas is bound for Earth and if its strikes, it could mean the end of all of humankind and other living things for that matter. NASA and the U.S military join forces to stop this tragedy from happening.

They have roughly 18 days before the asteroid strikes and they decide to place the fate of all the people on complete strangers. It’s up to a ragtag team of misfit drillers and geologists to save the day and so they embark on a space mission to save Earth and risk their lives in the process.

Despite its mixed reviews: some call it lackluster and too melodramatic, while others praise it for its entertainment factor, this movie is still worth a watch not only because Ben Affleck and Bruce Willis are in it. It packs thrill, tension, excitement, and the special effects are spectacular, something that should be expected from a Michael Bay film.

There are also moments that play with your emotions, so Armageddon is not just a disaster film per se. It’s also a movie about father-daughter relationships and about the making of heroes out of ordinary men.

Director: Michael Bay – Screenplay: Jonathan Hensleigh, J.J. Abrams – Cast: Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Ben Affleck, Steve Buscemi, Owen Wilson – Run Time: 2h 31m

20 Shows On Netflix Similar To ‘Game of Thrones’

Black Sails

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History and fiction come together in this American adventure series that features famous historical figures like Jack Rackman, Captain Charles Vane, Anne Bonny, Governor Woodes Rogers, Ned Low, Blackbeard, and more. Then you have your favorite Treasure Island characters Captain Flint, and of course, Long John Silver.

This Emmy-winning TV show takes us 20 years before the events in Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous classic novel and during the Golden Age of Piracy.  The narrative follows Captain Flint as he leads a younger crew in search of treasure after treasure. Along the way, they must learn to fight for survival as every nation has declared the pirates of New Providence island a threat and enemies to all.

Black Sails is spectacularly entertaining with a story that may seem convoluted to some but actually piece together nicely with quite a few surprises that add to the tension. This is not just your typical seafaring drama with lots of pirate exploits. The plot is actually far more complex than it initially seems when you watch the first few episodes.

Character developments and backstories happen smoothly and slowly as the show progresses and deviates from the usual flashback trope, which can sometimes be confusing and annoying.

Visually, Black Sails is compelling in its depiction of the pirates in the 1700s (costume, props, graphics, and all…the ships are especially astonishing). This show doesn’t also lack in sex, nudity, and violence.

Directors: Peter Hoar, Jon East, Anthony Byrne – Screenplay: Robert Levine, Jonathan E. Steinberg – Cast Jessica Parker Kennedy, Toby Stephens, Hannah New – Run Time: 56 min

Men’s Gear Announces Netflix Gear: Daily List of New Additions on Netflix

Men’s Gear tries to consistently stay ahead of the times and give its viewers the best possible experience they can get. This led us to come up with a new Netflix tool called “Netflix Gear“, where we bring you latest new additions on Netflix [US Only] including the New Movies, TV Series, Documentaries, Netflix Originals and New-Standup.

Not only do we post daily updates of every addition as soon as they are added to Netflix but we also give you the option of selecting what content you want to see by toggling on and off categories such as Netflix Originals, Documentaries, Foreign Films, Movies, Standup Specials and TV Series.

Netflix Gear will have all categories ticked as standard buy you can untick any of the categories you’re not interested in to see only the content you’re interested in.

Netflix Gear Console

How does it work?

Netflix Gear allows viewers of the site to look through multiple titles of shows, stand-up specials, international movies, and documentaries. If it’s on Netflix in America you can rest assured we’ll have it here. The best part is that this is a daily updated tool by our editors manually entering each and every information available about the new addition.

This will involve the addition of new material daily and the removal of the content that Netflix itself no longer wishes to feature on their service. Due to our continuously updated model, you’ll never have to wonder what may or may not be present. It offers peace of mind as we do all the legwork and research for you.

All you have to do is check out Netflix Gear when you want to know what’s new on Netflix.

What information is available about new additions?

This tool allows you to search through various titles of shows, stand-up specials, international movies, and documentaries that are available on the streaming site. It makes it easy to see how many titles were added on Netflix for a specific month and year.

The titles are grouped according to specific details. You have the category or genre, e.g. action, comedy, drama, horror. You also have the type of addition, whether it’s a film, a documentary, TV series, or stand-up special, and lastly, the date of availability, which tells you when it was added on Netflix U.S.

Moreover, each title has supporting details including synopsis, cast, director or creator, runtime, language, year of release, and an IMDB rating. A link to the trailer is also provided if you want to see a preview and a direct access to its Netflix page saves you time in manually searching for the title yourself.

Check it out for yourself.

NETFLIX GEAR

19+ Best Dog Movies You Can Watch On Netflix

Turner & Hooch

This beloved classic, considered one of the most important dog films ever made, stars Tom Hanks, a detective working in a small California coastal town. One day, a man named Amos Reed is murdered, shocking the entire town. No one saw what happened — except for this smelly mutt named Hooch.

Surprise, surprise: Hanks’ character isn’t particularly fond of dogs, and despises Hooch, too. But because he’s the only reliable witness that can solve this murder, they are compelled to work together, with Hooch even making Hanks’ home his temporary home in the process.

Of course, they end up being solid friends by the end of the film. It doesn’t take a genius to figure that out. The fun, instead, is in watching how these two work together and come to be friends. It’s a fun journey, filled with laughs, trills, intrigue, and a whole lotta heart. You will see Turner & Hooch mentioned in every definitive list of dog films ever made, and for good reason: aside from being a heartwarming buddy cop movie, it’s a genuinely fun and affecting film in general.

Turner & Hooch is a pleasant, silly, offbeat, but ultimately cheerful film that provides more delights than ponder-worthy plot points. But you didn’t really click on this list expecting any of these films to have complex, Oscar-worthy plots, did you?

Director: Roger Spottiswoode – Screenplay: Dennis Shryack, Michael Blodgett, Daniel Petrie Jr., Jim Cash, Jack Epps Jr. – Cast: Tom Hanks, Mare Winningham, Craig T. Nelson – Run Time: 1h 37m

18 Shows Similar To Vikings On Netflix

The Crown (Nov. 2016 – )

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This Netflix original drama series chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II (Claire Foy). It explores her early life from the 1940s and covers her marriage to Prince Philip.

Much like Reign, every season covers a different time in her life, with the second about the events that happened during 1956 to 1964. The third covers the period from 1964 to 1976 and the fourth is set in the 1980s with the introduction of Lady Diana Spencer.

The Crown covers most of Queen Elizabeth’s life from younger years to her reign and digs into the events that helped revive the British Empire from its decline during a time of political disarray. It provides an intimate look at the private life of the longest-reigning British monarch from masterfully researched scripts. The series gives a glimpse into the scandalous lives of the British royals.

Despite it being a historical drama, this show is superb in every way from the cast, cinematography, acting, storytelling, costume, and more. Each character portrayal is done very well, and need I mention the background score by Hans Zimmer, which is very accurate to any situation.

This series isn’t a Golden Globe winner for nothing. Even the minute details are captured in hawkish quality (you get to see white hairs in Winston Churchill’s nostril).

This show tells the truth which history books do not. It brings so much life to a period piece and leaves little to no room for contention since the story is told based on real-life events. Even Her Majesty approves of the stories told in the series and her endorsement clearly speaks volumes.

The Crown is definitely an engrossing series and one that captivates you from start to finish. Above all else, it gives a powerful message about courage, devotion, integrity, and honesty, qualities that can win any person even a country.

Similar to Vikings, Ragnar’s courage to sail oceans in his search for a better future led to him being one of the revered and feared conqueror and Viking king.

Directors: Benjamin Caron, Philip Martin, Stephen Daldry – Screenplay: Peter Morgan – Cast: Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Olivia Colman, Tobias Menzies, Vanessa Kirby– Run Time: 58 min

151+ Best Hobbies For Men

For a lot of us, our happiness relies on our success. Depending on the goals that you have, simply having a job, owning a business, or working as a volunteer can be fulfilling. There are others who aim for close-to-impossible targets but still manage to achieve them. Nevertheless, at the end of the day and during our free time, we can enjoy a hobby to relax.

However, we should understand that life is not just about working, earning, eating, and sleeping. People who are just following this cycle tend to feel empty and sometimes end up with depression or anxiety. This is exactly why we should take up a hobby. In other words, push yourself to do things that you naturally find interesting.

On the other hand, if you’re only trying activities within your comfort zone, you might be missing a lot. We’re not implying that it’s a bad thing, but as men, we should have the desire to step away from the familiar. It’s always good to encourage ourselves to bravely face our fears and grow as an individual. It’s just like gathering up the will to approach other people and strike up a conversation. Hence, you’ll never know success if you never try. Just like that, interesting hobbies both new and old help our mind and body to enjoy life.

Sports, gaming, fishing, building model kits, and a whole lot more are just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll be surprised to know what would qualify as a hobby for us men. Even though some of these activities require us to exert some effort, it still manages to help us unwind. Who knows, you might even make new acquaintances along the way.

Moreover, here’s the kicker, there’s an almost endless supply of cool stuff that you can try in your lifetime. For the longest time, health experts have studies that people who engage in more cool hobbies tend to live longer than others. It’s our duty here at Men’s Gear to introduce some of the coolest stuff out there. Now, we’re extending a helping hand to search for unique and awesome activities. Some of these are best enjoyed with buddies so feel free to share what you eventually like with them.

1

Video Games

Ever since the first video game platforms came out, men have been fascinated with the entertainment it offers. The feeling of having control over what happens on the screen keeps us glued to the TV.

Not only does it help us relieve stress, but this hobby also improves our hand-eye coordination, according to studies. Moreover, it can be a social activity that helps you build bonds with friends.

2

Hiking

Nothing beats working out to get the blood pumping. Finding new ways to challenge yourself keeps you goal-oriented. Perhaps the feeling we get after conquering rough terrain and natural obstacles makes us stronger.

Hiking does not require you to learn new skills, but it needs a little stamina, which you build along the way. Just make sure you are well-equipped and in good condition before you go

3

Fishing

Imagine lounging around near a river, lake, ocean, or maybe a pond. You have a cold beer on one hand, a rod and reel on the other and the relaxing sound of nature in the background.

You can call it doing nothing right until a fish tugs the line and the battle begins. This is one awesome hobby that pits your patience and strength against marine life.

4

Boxing

Not only is boxing a great workout, but it also teaches you how to use your fists as weapons. Training will help you develop your footwork, stamina, speed, and strength.

Moreover, it is great for self-defense, but like all other martial arts, never use it to start a fight. Overall, its a powerful combination of exercises that will make you fit as a fiddle.

5

Camping

Every man should know how to rough it up. Years of being pampered by the comforts of urban living can make us weak. Hence, invite a few buddies and plan a weekend of camping in the great outdoors.

Use all your survival skills and have fun at the same time. Just don’t forget to let other people know your destination just in case of an emergency. Finally, always prepare your camping gear ahead of time for those unplanned adventures.

6

Shooting

Knowing how to handle firearms is not really a requirement, but it’s a good skill to have nonetheless. On your free time, book a day at a shooting range so you can learn how proper gun safety. Plus, studies also show that shooting firearms is a great stress buster. This can be a stepping stone for another hobby in the future.

7

Kendo

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a badass samurai or ninja, then learning basic swordsmanship might be up your alley. You start off with bamboo swords and learn how to strike as well as battle strategies to outsmart your opponent.

Just like other martial arts, you can use Kendo for self-defense. Being able to play with swords and duke it out with a rival is our idea of a fulfilling way to kill time.

8

Car Repair

Despite sounding like a line of work, basic car repair can be an enjoyable hobby. On the plus side, understanding how to fix basic problems with your ride can be a big advantage in the long run.

Who knows, you’ll probably turn into a regular grease monkey. Once you get good at it, never hesitate to charge for your services or maybe accept a couple of beers for a job well done. It all depends on you.

9

Wall Climbing

Now, this is one ultimate test of stamina and strength as you make your way up to a challenging series of grips. Don’t worry about falling because instructors will equip you with safety gear and guide you along the way.

As you gather more experience, even the most challenging routes can be traversed with ease. If you find hitting the gym too boring, this is one awesome alternative you can check out.

10

Rock Climbing

Assuming that you’ve given wall climbing a try and loved it. You’ll soon be searching for something even more challenging. So it’s time to put apply your skills in real life by rock climbing.

Instead of conquering a man-made wall, you’re up against a natural rock face with unpredictable weather and limited gripping sections. Just remember to take all the necessary safety precautions and equip proper gear.

11

Cooking

In the past, the kitchen was seen as the domain of women. Now, you’ll notice that there are now more men enjoying cooking. Eating is one awesome hobby and what better way to spend your spare time than to prepare food.

Trust us, hearing your friend and family compliment your gastronomic creations is super satisfying. Furthermore, use your skills to impress your date.

12

Homebrewing

Considering that most of us usually knock back a cold one almost every day, wouldn’t it be cool if you can just make your own? Understanding the art of homebrewing will make turn you into a respected brewmaster.

You can easily find the ingredients and tools you need online. With a little patience, perseverance, as well as a whole bunch of trial and error, you’ll eventually never want to drink commercial brands ever again.

13

Chess

The modern man now has thousands of entertainment options available. You can say that almost everything is now going digital. Nevertheless, chess is one strategy game that has become timeless since its creation.

Visit your local chess club or maybe hit up a friend who knows how to play. In fact, research reportedly shows that the strategies you learn in chess can be applied in certain real-life situations.

14

Archery

Earlier, we listed shooting firearms as a potential cool hobby for you to try out. Yet, when you’re after a similar concept albeit with an old-school essence, then archery could be the answer.

We must admit that some of the most badass characters we’ve seen and read about are monsters with the bow and arrow. Understanding how to properly shoot one can lead to another form of hobby later on.

15

Hunting

Let’s face it, without modern technology for farming, our species will still rely on hunting and gathering for nourishment. Going by the traditional method does not really sit well with certain groups, but the thrill it offers is supposedly unequaled.

That’s why a lot of individuals still enjoy it as a hobby. Just make sure that you are aware of your local regulations and have the appropriate gear and permits.

16

Bodybuilding

A lot of the best manly hobbies that we will be including in the list will definitely involve some form of exercise. It’s unavoidable because studies have shown that physical activity releases happy hormones.

When your goal is to sculpt your body into that of a god, then bodybuilding is the way to go. Furthermore, fitness centers are available almost anywhere and anytime, you can always consider becoming a gym rat as a healthy pastime.

17

Scuba Diving

Despite images of breathtaking underwater landscapes, marine life, and more, scuba diving is not something you just pick up and get into. Just be patient and go through the necessary certifications and you’re in for an awesome treat. Don’t forget to grab a dependable action camera so you can photos and videos of your adventure.

18

Building Scale Models

Back multimedia entertainment was still in its infancy, hobbies were all you have to save you from boredom. Other than outdoor activities some individuals prefer to do something with their hands.

As long as you have a steady grip and saintly patience, working on scale models is quite rewarding. Moreover, the finished product usually ends up as centerpiece that you can be proud of.

19

Toy Collecting

Looking at the value of classic toys, you’ll be amazed how much a mint condition item can fetch at auction. It makes us regret that we greedily tore open the boxes and packaging so we can start playing with them.

Now’s a good time to start a new collection so that you’ll be potentially sitting on a gold mine later in life. Personally, we would rather grab two of each item. One for playing or display and the other for reselling in the future.

20

Building LEGO Sets

For those of you who are nostalgic, assembling classic LEGO bricks are a great way to kill time. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a challenge, then go for those gigantic sets with thousands of pieces.

On the other hand, when creativity is knocking on your door, then crafting cool gizmos with the LEGO Technic is absolutely perfect. The possibilities are almost endless as long as you use your imagination

21

Classic Car Restoration

As long as you have the budget, time, and effort to spare, bringing classic cars back to life is an outstanding hobby for men. Get down and dirty as you rely on a little elbow grease to restore a classic ride.

If you don’t feel like hunting for parts in scrapyards, most online automotive shops can sell and ship what you need. Depending on how bad the condition of your project is, it will take some time to craft your old-school machine.

22

Magic Tricks

Unless there’s really some hidden power that we’re unaware of, magic tricks rely on sleight of hand and misdirection. Performing these for your friends and coworkers successfully will leave them with amazement for days.

Just don’t give in to the temptation explaining how it’s done, because a good magician never reveals his secrets. Additionally, we heard that a trick or two works better than any cheesy pick-up line anyway.

23

Paintball

A great way to have some fun on a weekend is to engage in tactical warfare with a group of like-minded individuals. Paintball is an exhilarating hobby that requires a steady aim, team tactics, and a high tolerance for pain.

Don’t let the ammunition fool you, because, without proper protection, it can hurt like hell. To make it even more interesting, try playing at nighttime with glow-in-the-dark paintballs.

24

Airsoft War Games

Paintball can only take the illusion of warfare so far. One reason for this is the design of the guns. When you want to immersive experience and realism, airsoft models look like the real deal. Enthusiasts often go the extra mile to wear combat gear and even come up with tactics before the battle begins.

The honesty system must be upheld at all times because the pellets do not leave a visible mark on clothing. Not unless someone gets hit on an exposed body part then the welt will tell the tale.

25

Running

One of the best ways to jump-start your journey to wellness is to slip on a pair of running shoes and head on out. Make sure to gradually work up your pace and never be ashamed to take breaks when you need to.

Over time, people eventually get to a point where they join marathons. This activity also releases hormones that combat depression, which is why a lot of runners get addicted to the activity.

26

Surfing

When the wind and sea are calling out to you, surfing might be in your blood. As with any other sport, practice makes perfect. Hit your local beach or travel somewhere with just the right conditions for perfect waves.

Grab a surfboard, wipe out a couple of time, rinse and repeat. Chances are, if you know your way around a skateboard, you’ll quickly get the hang of it.

27

Woodworking

You’ve probably seen images of tough-as-nail cowboys carving away a piece of wood. History tells us that men should be able to create and build something using their hands.

Woodcraft allows you to express your artistic side as you turn pieces of lumber into furniture, sculpture, and other stuff. You can even sell your work for a good price. So start whittling away on your days off and discover handicraft like a boss.

28

Coaching

When you’re good at something, never do it for free. If going pro is out of the question, then maybe lending your talents as a coach can help out others. The process of turning greenhorns into cold-blooded killers on the field or court is a badass gift.

So check if your local team is looking for a mentor that will turn them into hometown heroes. The road to your professional career has to start somewhere.

29

Photography

Now that we are enjoying the benefit of digital cameras, photography is as easy to pick up as ever. There is a boatload of online tutorials to help you out. Don’t be ashamed to start out with a basic point-and-shoot camera, but if you want all of the nuances of control, then an entry-level DSLR will do nicely. Moreover, some camera clubs welcome new members who want to learn the finer points of photography.

30

Playing in a Band

As long as you know how to sing or play and instrument, grab a couple of friends and start a band. Get enough practice and cover some songs if you have to. Once all of you are confident with your performance, start playing for a local crowd. At least you can always skip boring gatherings by telling people that you need to practice with your band and rock on.

31

Competitive Gaming

After years of playing video games, you’ve probably honed your skills to the point that you can play competitively. Look at it this way, you are potentially going to earn money and fame by doing something that you already enjoy.

Therefore, check online for local tournaments and make your way up the ladder. Additionally, you’ll get to meet new people who share your passion for gaming. Overall, it’s a win-win situation no matter what.

32

Spear Fishing

Earlier we talked about the enjoyable and relaxing sport of fishing. It’s where you kick back and just wait for the fish to bite then maybe struggle for a bit and land your catch of the day. Spear Fishing is where you take it up a notch and go underwater to hunt for your prey. Just be aware of your surroundings because there’s always a bigger fish in the water.

33

Car Racing

You might be thinking of illegal stop-light races, which, despite its manly appeal, is a stupid thing to do. However, what we’re referring to are the ones you have on a race track. Tune your car and test your driving skills as you maneuver around the circuit trying to beat your best time. Once you are confident about your performance, take on other races and earn a podium finish.

34

Off-Roading

When racing against other cars loses its appeal, it might be time to switch over to another automotive sport. Trade your sports car for a 4×4 SUV or truck and learn to navigate through natural obstacles.

The rush of adrenaline is real as you struggle to maintain control over your ride in the most unforgiving terrain. Enthusiasts swear that it is one of the most satisfying & cool hobbies if you love the outdoors.

35

Snowboarding

If you love the cold weather and the fresh powder, it’s likely that you’ll love snowboarding. Ditch the conventional skiing equipment and shred downhill on your snowboard. Just like surfing, good background with skateboards will make the transition a lot easier. This can be a seasonal hobby so keep it in mind the next time winter knocks at your door.

36

Sports Officiating

Unfortunately, as much as we love certain sports, some of us just not cut out for it. Nevertheless, by sports officiating as a hobby, you can still be part of the competition. Become the person that everybody looks up to when your call can determine victory and defeat. Start off small and make your way all the way to professional games. Finally, nothing can beat the on-court seats you have all the time.

37

Motorcycle Riding

Once you get bored of driving around in a car, switching over to a two-wheeler can offer a new experience. So park your vehicle, get a motorcycle, and travel the open road like a man. Make new friend as you join motorbike clubs and ride as a group.

Never forget to equip proper gear because accidents on a bike can be fatal without the right protection. On the other hand, if you’re aware of the risk as well as enjoyment it offers you might never go back to driving a car again.

38

Content Creation

To start off, you’re going to need the proper gear to record and edit your photos and videos. It’s important to come up with something original, but doing something that you’re good at will work as well. You can choose from how-to videos, reviews, music, and a whole lot more.

Experiment with what works for your viewers and grow your online presence with regular content updates. This hobby can potentially become a full-time career in the right circumstances.

39

Flying Model Planes

The ongoing popularity of remote-controlled drones is still overwhelming. Old-school hobbyists are trading in their vintage toys for these new gadgets. Nonetheless, if you love being in control of an aircraft, flying model planes is a great hobby.

Most of these RC replicas are powered by miniature engines, but you can purchase modern all-electric models. Unlike the automatic one-button landing and hover of drones, you’re in full control from takeoff, flight, and landing. Ultimately, one step closer to being a licensed pilot.

40

Mixing Drinks

Show off your sick mixing skills behind the bar as you craft the perfect cocktail. Learning the intricacies of preparing various types of booze is an awesome hobby. Impress your guests as you whip up delightful drinks to tickle their taste buds. Moreover, it’s cheaper and more convenient to knock back a few, pass out, and sleep it off at home.

41

Wine Making

This is one is a little similar to homebrewing, yet it is a bit more challenging in a lot of ways. Don’t hesitate to look up information online or get help from experts who are willing to lend a hand. Soon, you’ll be spending your free time sipping on your own vintage and serving them during gatherings with family and friends

42

Programming

If you’re a whiz with computers and programming, you can make money while coding for as a hobby. There are a lot of companies that are hiring freelance programmers, so you might as well get paid doing what you like anyway.

There’s a big chance that if the pay is competitive enough. It might become a full-time gig later on. A great way of looking at it is an opportunity to telecommute and bask in the comforts of your home.

43

Landscaping

In order to let our inner artists manifest hidden talent, it takes some trial and error with different mediums. Try to see if you have what it takes to remodel your lawn or backyard. Some find it relaxing to get some work done and turn the exterior features of your home into a neighborhood master. This hobby also involves some gardening as part of the package.

44

Gardening

Nothing is more satisfying for a man to see the seeds he plants thrive and grow. Not only does this hobby work in tandem with landscaping, but you also have the pleasure of harvesting some vegetables while you’re at it. Saves you the money and trip going to your local farmer’s market or grocery to grab fresh produce. Proudly serve some of your homegrown salad the next time you host a party.

45

Blogging

Similar to content creation, blogging is a hobby wherein you express your opinions and reactions to various stuff through writing. Just be ready to encounter various feedback ranging from positive to negative. Just remember that the pen is always mightier than the sword, hence let your voice be heard by netizens all over the world.

46

Skydiving

Another one for adrenaline junkies out there. Thrillseekers out there will attest that hurling yourself out of a plane or chopper at high altitudes is rush like no other. There’s always the risk that a parachute malfunction will ruin your day. Yet, if all goes well, it going to be one heck of an experience that you’ll remember forever.

47

Bungee Jumping

This hobby is a close relative of skydiving where you entrust your life to a piece of equipment. However, instead of a parachute, you’re relying on a really thick rubber band to bail you out of harm’s way. Prove your manliness by jumping off some of the tallest structures out there and feed your desire for adventure and insane fun.

48

Podcasting

Just like a radio broadcast, podcasting allows you to reach online audiences around the world. Talk about anything that’s relevant for you and for sure there will be people willing to lend an ear. Just like other online hobbies, there will be feedback and opinions that go both ways. Additionally, people have the option of downloading your podcast to listen to at a later time.

49

Golf

For some, this is the ultimate hobby for men with too much time on their hands. The concept is simple, just whack the ball across the course until it goes into the hole. The one who is able to do it in the least amount of tries wins. Just be wary of the occasional stray golf balls flying about because these can seriously cause some injury. There are those who will swear that this sport is a great stress buster.

50

Bowling

A lot of manly hobbies usually involves various kinds of balls. Bowling is a sport that requires precision and brute strength to hurl a heavy ball across a wooden lane and knock down some pins. Personally, we found this hobby as a great way to let off some steam and just have fun. Maybe order a few beers if its available and observe as precision goes out the window.

51

Ham Radio

Man’s fascination with communication is not showing any signs of slowing down, Even today, we are still coming up with new ways to transmit voice, images, and data. For enthusiasts who want to play around with vintage technology, being a ham radio operator has been a fun and manly hobby for a while now. Moreover, in times of emergency, your humble setup can even help out to broadcast relevant information to others who are in range.

52

Playing The Guitar

Thanks to the unique appeal and fun offered by rhythm games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero, guitars are more popular than ever. Knowing how to play at least one instrument can be a productive hobby. After understanding the basics and getting good over time, you can audition for a band. Furthermore, we have it on good authority that ladies love a man who can shred on the guitar.

53

Dancing

Before you back out from this suggestion, hear us out. It continues to be a mixed bag when it comes to busting a move. However, we know that dancing can be a great way to express your artistic side and show off your capabilities at the same time.

Additionally, all that moving around is an awesome way to keep in shape and impress the ladies at the same time. Give it a try and you might just have found a new hobby.

54

Metalworking

Hearing about this hobby makes us remember when being a metalsmith was as manly as it gets. Aside from being a butcher, the ability to turn raw ore into various tools and weapons is remarkable.

Just like woodworking, you apply your skills to craft various items and even fix broken metal fixtures. If you’re already a certified grease monkey, knowing how to weld and craft metal will be of great help with your projects.

55

Comic Book Collecting

This one is a lot like toy collecting, but instead of action figures and other playthings, you’re handling something else entirely. If you’re hobby already involves reading comic books, then you’re already one step ahead of being a collector.

The challenge here is to keep your stuff in pristine condition or even fo as far as buying two copies each time. Over time, some of these issues will move up in value and fetch a handsome price at an auction.

56

Leatherworking

Back in the days when men still hunted game for food and trade, leather was a byproduct sought after by traders. Knowing how to fashion good out of the material is one hobby that can showcase your survival skills. With the right tools and a lot of practice, you can practically craft your own wallet, belt, shoes, and a whole bunch more. If you don’t like the idea of sourcing the real deal, synthetic options are readily available.

57

Playing Pool

This game is a great way for you to relax and have fun. This is a great hobby to enjoy with your buddies as you play a couple of games with drinks on the side. In order to win, players must have a basic grasp of strategy and the skill to back it up. Plus, the game can be played solo, yet there are variations that allow more than two players to join the fun.

58

Hang Gliding

Let’s assume that you took our advice and finally tried skydiving. Other than the rush of you free-falling, you’ve probably enjoyed the view when you’re safely parachuting down. Hang gliding lets you do the latter part, but gives you more control and airtime. The only caveat is that you need to be really high up in the first place to launch your glider. Despite how easy and relaxing it looks, this is not for the fainthearted.

59

Cycling

Although a bit similar to motorcycle riding, this activity relies entirely on your stamina. It’s just you, your bike, and the path that’s in your way. For serious hobbyists, a performance-tuned ride can cost almost as much as a brand new car. With enough practice, cyclists can go for miles before needing a break. Just make sure that you have proper safety gear on at all times.

60

Flying A Plane

This hobby is one step above flying model RC planes. In a sense, those who start off with remote-controlled toys usually end up wanting to fly the real deal. Unlike some of the stuff we’ve listed above, its something that you can’t just pick up and go. However, if you’re willing to go through all the nitty-gritty stuff, then a career as a professional pilot is waiting for you at the end of it all.

61

Reading

Picking up a good book and reading a few chapters is our idea of relaxation. What’s great about this hobby is how it expands your knowledge and encourages your imagination. Comic books are definitely included, hence you can justify grabbing that new issue you’ve been waiting for a while now. Just a word of warning, some of you might lose track of time when a particularly good story has you in its grasp.

62

Ghost Hunting

It’s a bit odd to have this as a hobby, but men are born to explore the unknown. For starters, you’re going to want to have a couple of buddies with you as you visit places with reports of paranormal activities.

Also, make sure that you have the equipment to capture video, sound, and other phenomena that ghost hunters swear prove spirits exist. If you have nerves of steel, try going solo and live-stream your adventure into the unknown. Who knows, you might be the first person to prove that the stories are real.

63

Lock-Picking

Locks are designed to keep people out of homes, away from precious items, and other valuable stuff. However, for an experienced locksmith, there are workarounds that can overcome these security measures.

We’re not encouraging you to turn to a life of crime, but this hobby can come in handy in situations when you lose a key or forget a combination to a padlock or safe. Just remember, in the words of Uncle Ben, “with great power comes great responsibility.”

64

Drawing And Painting

Remember the times when you doodled stuff on your notebook instead of paying attention in class? Maybe you’re also doing it right now at work or while waiting. When scribbling and coloring feel refreshing for you, it’s time to unleash your inner artist on a proper medium.

It doesn’t matter what your subject is, just take a blank canvas and let your imagination run wild. Don’t be afraid of feedback and criticism because beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

65

Graphic Design

Let’s just say that you are already a gifted artist who loves to draw and paint. Turn your hobby into a career and offer to do graphic designs for a fee. You’ll be surprised to learn that there’s a big demand for your talent. There are a lot of business out there that are looking for a man of your talents to turn their ideas into illustrations. In other words, an outstanding way to get your art out there.

66

Sculpting

Artwork does not only refer to work done on a two-dimensional medium. Some artists prefer to use their hands to craft tangible pieces. Sculpting is a cool hobby that lets you create a masterpiece using clay, wood, stone, and other materials. Just try out various different platforms and choose what works for you.

67

Mixing Music

A lot of people normally mistake this hobby as being a DJ. Although it might seem like the same thing, mixing music can be a different pastime. Using samples of different beats, instruments, and songs, you can create a remix or an entirely new sound. Just be careful of copyright restrictions if you’re planning to make money off of your work.

68

Live-Streaming

This is a hobby that is directly related to content creation, gaming, and eSports. Instead of recording footage of your activities and uploading them online after some edition work, you’re broadcasting everything live.

This is a great medium for professional gamers and artists to showcase their talents and skills to a live audience. Nonetheless, you have to be mindful not to do something stupid that would immediately go viral online. Moreover, some streaming platforms also have some content restrictions in place, so read up before you start.

69

Metal Detecting

You’ll be surprised at how many people stumbled upon something valuable while using a metal detector. To get started, this hobby just requires you to have a reliable metal detector and a lot of leg work. To make it even more interesting, try making your own tool from scratch, which is a sub-hobby in itself. With a little luck, you might hit a jackpot in some remote area out there.

70

Social Work

Best Hobbies don’t really have to be about you all the time. There are individuals who would rather spend their free time helping out other people. Nothing is more satisfying than to see another person smile because your actions made a difference. There a lot of non-profit organizations and institutions that would welcome your assistance. We have nothing but respect for these volunteers who just want to pay it forward.

71

Geocaching

Are you looking for a unique hobby that is fairly new? Thanks to the commercial availability of GPS tracking technology, we can now participate in a recreational activity called geocaching. What you need is a map, a compass, and a willing body to go on an adventure.

Using a GPS receiver does make it easier, but going at it the old-school way is even better. Just visit a geocaching website to jump-start your journey.

72

Traveling

Now, this is something that a lot of you would gladly jump on in a heartbeat. Staying in one place for a long time can be very depressing, which is why you should travel every now and then. Spend your leisure time discovering new stuff to engage your senses. Unless you have the budget, traveling does not mean that you take a trip to another country. Plan or no plan, just be ready to take a step into the unfamiliar.

73

Rafting

To all of you who love the outdoors, common recreational activities like camping and hiking will eventually lose their charm. To rekindle your love affair with nature, check out the challenge offered by rafting. All you need is an inflatable raft or kayak, paddles, and a team of like-minded pals crazy enough to take on a river.

74

Yoga

As stress builds up, you begin to feel drained, anxious, and even depressed. There are various techniques to overcome these hurdles and meditation is one of them. Yoga takes this to the next level as you focus on the mind and body. This involves a lot of stretching and holding a position for lengths of time. Hence, you end up with the flexibility of a gymnast, with a mind that’s at peace.

75

Watching Movies

Unless, you’ve never seen a TV show or movie in your lifetime, this hobby is pretty simple. You can use a TV, smartphone, or tablet and just enjoy a film or binge-watch a new series. Additionally, when a blockbuster flick is available, take your date or join some buddies and just enjoy the film. Let’s not forget that snacks can make the experience even better. Popcorn anyone?

76

Visiting Museums

A museum is a wonderful place where you can view and enjoy various works of art. On the other hand, special exhibits can also teach and inspire you in many ways. This hobby does involve a lot of walking and standing, but there are some areas that offer seats so you can admire paintings and sculptures. When traveling, always make a mental note to try and visit a local museum and enjoy what it offers.

77

Fly Fishing

Unlike regular fishing, where you cast the line and just wait for marine life to nibble on the bait, fly fishing requires something else. The bait is designed to look like an insect and is made to hop on the surface of the water. This possible with a practiced flick of the wrist and a pull on the line. However, just like the standard way, a little patience will go a long way.

78

Paddle Boarding

It’s easy to mistake paddle boarding as just surfing with an oar on one hand, but the equipment used is a little different. Although it does look like the one used for surfing, it is usually thicker and wider. There’s more surface area for you to stand on so you can leisurely cruise along at a relaxing pace. However, you can always catch a wave to make it back to shore quicker.

79

Skateboarding

As a popular mode of transportation in an urban environment, there are a lot of stylish tricks you can pull off on a skateboard. Knowing how to ride can help you quickly adapt to other recreational sports like snowboarding and surfing. Using a motorized model can also help you climb steep inclines, which continues to be a formidable challenge for a standard skateboard.

80

Table Tennis

A regular game of tennis is usually played on an outdoor court. If you’re looking for the same experience but in a compact and indoor form, tables tennis is the one. You can play singles or doubles and smack a little plastic ball back and forth.

A set usually ends quickly, but professional players can have rallies that last a lifetime. It’s a good sport to pick up and help you break a sweat.

81

Car Customization

Ever since the first The Fast and the Furious film hit the silver screen, car customization became a worldwide passion. Chances are if you love messing around with cars, this hobby is a match made in heaven for you. The abundance of detailed guides available online will become your bible. There are plenty of forums with experts willing to help out, so go ahead and try it

82

Building Rigs

We get it, the hobby sounds like it has something to do with drilling for oil, but it’s actually a whole different scene. Most of the time, PC gaming enthusiasts want nothing to do with pre-built models that you can buy from stores or online.

This is a supplemental hobby to those who want to play games on a computer with the best specs money can buy. Nothing is more satisfying than to see your all your hard work turn on and boot up without a hitch the first time you press the power button.

83

Carpentry

A lot of times people confuse this with woodworking. The former and carpentry share some similarities because of the material being used. Hover, the latter is more focused on the construction of houses, buildings, ships, and a whole lot more.

If you’ve already tried your luck with furniture and other smaller projects, you might want to step it up a little and try being a carpenter on your free time.

84

Investing

Money management is very important if you want to make a little more for the future. It’s likely that you know someone that works for investment companies that can get you started. Men are risk-takers by nature and investing can be downright risky if don’t know the nuances of the market. As you start to earn, let compound interest take over as you scout for your next investment.

85

Collecting Vinyl Records

Music can have different effects on people. It can inspire, motivate, evoke feelings, and help you relax. Right now, the most popular music format is digital. This allows you to carry a huge collection of tunes on your smartphone or portable music player.

Nevertheless, audiophiles and music experts agree that it cannot compare to the sound produced by vinyl. Give it a try and make sure that you get a decent turntable and amplifier. According to a lot of people, you’ll never want to listen to digital music again.

86

Flying Drones

As long as we can remember playing around with remote-controlled toys have always been an enjoyable hobby for men. We used to have RC boats, cars, planes, and helicopters, which we bust out for recreational pleasure.

Now, drones are all over the place so we might as well adapt to the new generation of RC toys. Start off with entry-level stuff and work your way up to professional-grade models later on.

87

Interior Decorating

Let’s be honest. Hearing the word interior decorator is not really our idea of a manly hobby. Nevertheless, we should understand that there’s nothing wrong with making our homes look stylish.

Remember, a lot of us spend most of our time at home when not at work or going out. Thus, we might as well make it look good and comfortable for our own enjoyment. Moreover, you can always take pride when guests come over and shower you with compliments.

88

Doing Laudry

Believe it or not, there are individuals who find this chore enjoyable. Not unless you’re doing it the old way by hand, this can be a great time for you to kick back and relax while waiting. While the machines are doing all the work, you can read a book, watch TV, have a beer, and all other stuff.

89

Drinking

First of all, we’re telling you to turn into an alcoholic. Studies show that having a few drinks every now and then can be beneficial. Moreover, this can encourage you to hang out with your friends or coworkers. So what are you waiting for? Don’t hesitate to pop open a cold one or knock back a few after work for that relaxing buzz.

90

Swimming

Not only is swimming an excellent hobby to keep you in shape, but it’s also an essential skill to learn for survival. This activity also helps clear your mind as you focus on your stroke and breathing. Don’t even attempt to try other recreational activities that involve water if you don’t know the basics of how to stay afloat. Knowing how to swim can also help you branch out to other water sports.

91

Animal Shelter Volunteer Work

Don’t you just feel bad seeing abandoned pets? If you want to make a difference and help them out, spend some time to help out at your local animal shelter. You’ll spend the day helping these unfortunate creatures find homes or just tending to their needs. There’s also a possibility that you will end up adopting a few. This is a noble and awesome way to make use of your leisure time.

92

Abandoned Storage Unit Auction

This hobby has some similarities with gambling, but the rewards can be attractive. With luck on your side, you can stumble upon hidden treasures that are worth more than what you invested. Depending on the auction rules, bidders can view the open units or sometimes take a risk for unopened lockers. Overall, it’s taking a chance that something valuable sits inside one of those abandoned storage units.

93

Doing Laundry

Believe it or not, there are individuals who find this chore enjoyable. Not unless you’re doing it the old way by hand, this can be a great time for you to kick back and relax while waiting. While the machines are doing all the work, you can read a book, watch TV, have a beer, and all other stuff.

94

Sewing

Before you say no, just remember that your mom or girlfriend won’t always be there in an emergency. This hobby can help you learn how to mend common problems like lost buttons, broken zippers, and other clothing repair work.

Furthermore, with enough skill, you can even patch a hole on various fabrics and a whole lot more. Don’t forget to keep an emergency sewing kit and a few extra buttons handy when traveling.

95

Dog Walking

Dog owners already know that just like us, our furry companions also need some exercise. Spending too much time indoors can also stress them out. The solution is as simple taking your dog out for a walk. It’s practically hitting two birds with one stone. You and your pooch will be getting a good workout and a chance to meet new people in dog parks.

96

Origami

This hobby has its roots in Japanese culture and teaches you how to fold paper into various shapes or objects. If you’ve wondered how they make those paper cranes and a bunch of other cool stuff, learning Origami is the key. Impress other people as you craft cool paper masterpieces. We encourage everyone to use recycled paper to keep it eco-friendly and sustainable.

97

Watching A Concert

A hobby for music lovers out there who want to catch their favorite artist’s performance live. You’re going to be mingling with a crowd that loves the same tunes as you do. The experience is both auditory and visual that cannot be replicated by video. You’ll soon find yourself moving along to the beat and singing along with everyone else.

98

Stand-Up Comedy

Gather your courage and step up the stage as you rely on your wit and humor to entertain a crowd. When you clearly have a talent for cracking a joke, then this is the hobby that you need. In order to get an idea of how things work, drop by establishments that feature a stand-up comedy show. Learn how to roast people and prepare to get roasted as well once in a while. Ultimately, never take things seriously and just have fun.

99

Studying Foreign Languages

Always remember that when visiting another country, you are the foreigner and not the other way around. Learning the native language is an awesome way to impress the locals during your trip. Meanwhile, fluently speaking another language is a big advantage career-wise because a lot of companies have overseas partners and offices.

100

Treasure Hunting

Movies and stories that talk about hidden treasures are obviously exciting. Therefore, hunting for hidden caches in real life is undeniably better. Just don’t expect to see a treasure map like the ones from fiction.

Clearly, there are risks involved, but the payout would be enormous if you manage to find one. If you know how to scuba dive, then the hundreds of shipwrecks around the world are your playground,

101

Roasting Coffee Beans

By now, most of us already know how ridiculously overpriced coffee shops can be. Although there are a few exceptions, roasting your own beans can save you a lot of money in the long run. Not only is it cost-effective, but the smell and taste of your own blend can give you a satisfaction like no other. Plus, you can proudly flaunt your accomplishment the next time you serve a cup

102

Crossword Puzzles

Most newspapers regularly feature crossword puzzles to test your knowledge. However, instead of buying a newspaper, you can always play these online or on your mobile device. Some of you might find it boring, but it’s an entertaining challenge for intellectuals who want to sharpen their minds.

103

Playing Board Games

Now, this is a hobby that is ideally played with a group. Grab a few friends for game night and kill time with a couple of drinks. Also, we recommend that you check out some of the more modern offerings. A lot of these are insanely funny and encourages your think outside the box.

104

LARP (Live Action Role-Playing)

When traditional role-playing games start to become boring, other versions can offer a change of scenery. The old-school way relied on our imagination as well as a freakishly good Dungeon Master to guide us on our journey. Videogames, on the other hand, made it even better.

However, when you desire a slightly more realistic experience, then LARP will likely give it to you. This takes the concept of role-playing games into the real world as you dress up and act like your favorite character. It’s like cosplay but with more action and adventure mixed in.

105

Jigsaw Puzzles

Completing jigsaw puzzles for a hobby is not exactly for everyone. Depending on the number of pieces, finishing one can take anywhere between hours, days, weeks, and even years. The best approach is to start with the borders, then move on to the inner pieces based on the picture for reference. You can even up the difficulty by getting one that doesn’t feature an image, but only a single color instead.

106

Rubiks Cube

Successfully solving this puzzle cube is a hobby that will test your patience and willingness to learn algorithms. Again, this is a toy that will not appeal to everyone but provides an entertaining challenge for those brave enough. Once you get the patterns down, you can reportedly solve with 20 moves or less.

107

Poker

What started off as a card game that was designed for gambling. Even though you can play it without betting, it’s more interesting to have something on the line. Just a like the other items detailed above this is one of the few creative hobbies that require more than one player. Now, it’s so popular that professional games are even televised with a generous sum on offer.

108

Beekeeping

Another handy hobby to have is caring for a bee farm. These amazing insects are essential to the ecosystem and responsible for pollinating various plants. Furthermore, these little workers take nectar and produce delicious honey. Wear proper gear because you will get stung if you’re harvesting without protection,

109

Smoking Meat

instead of buying from your local deli or supermarket, learning how to properly smoke meat is a great hobby. With a lot of practice and the right equipment, you’ll soon be making aromatic and mouthwatering goodness with every batch. Moreover, the heavenly scent that lingers is a testament of your mastery. Smoked meat keeps longer and tastes heavenly.

110

Robotics

These days, the components and technology to make robots are more accessible than ever. There are kits that you can purchase online to get started. Just note that it will require a bit of knowledge with programming to get things working. Once you’re all set, you can begin automating a lot of stuff.

111

3D-Printing

When it comes to printing, we’ve come a long way since the first commercial model came out. Modern printers can now print on almost any surface and use various kinds of inks. Meanwhile, a new hobby that’s growing in popularity is 3D-printing. With the right gear, you can finally print almost anything you want such as toys, machine parts, and prototypes of your 3D model.

112

Freerunning/Parkour

Do you remember the time when you were dreaming to become a ninja later on when you grow up? The good thing is that there’s a new hobby that somehow teaches you to move like one. Parkour is a very rigorous activity with its fair share of risks, but once you master the movements, you can traverse almost any obstacle in your path quickly and efficiently.

113

Nerf Battles

This is one cool and fun hobby that you can play indoors with your friends. The great thing about Nerf blasters is the safety of its projectiles. Nevertheless, getting hit with the foam dart in the eye can still hurt. However, the fun you’re going to have outweighs the risks involved. Sneak in a small blaster to work and declare war during your break.

114

Fishkeeping

So far, most of the hobbies we listed involve animals in one way or the other. If you’ve always been fascinated by the fish tanks you’ve seen. then this hobby might be up your alley. Despite how simple it might seem like, there are some professional tips that you can follow to ensure success.

Likewise, keep in mind that some species of marine life are not meant to be kept in a single tank. Once everything is set up, you’ll enjoy the mesmerizing sights of the fishes swimming about

115

Raising Chickens

For those of you that have a big space available outdoors, you might want to consider raising chickens for a hobby. As long as the noise the birds make do not disturb your neighbors, you can have a lot of fun. Furthermore, chickens eventually lay eggs, so it technically pays for itself after a while.

116

Shopping

Whoever said that only women enjoy shopping? Actually, men also love to purchase a couple of stuff on occasion. You can turn this into a hobby the next time you’re after a new gadget or whatever. For convenience, buy stuff online and just wait for it to be delivered at your doorstep.

117

Shoe Collecting

This is a fun but expensive hobby where you buy limited edition releases of certain kicks. If you’re lucky, grabbing a pair of the most sought after sneakers will do wonders for your collection. Reselling is quite common for those who want to make big bucks, but hardcore collectors just want to keep it for the sake of owning one.

118

Building LEGO Sets

Let’s be real here, no man ever outgrows the toys of his childhood. That’s why building LEGO sets continue to be a top hobby for most guys out there. Moreover, the company keeps releasing new playsets that are so awesome. The brick building also encourages us to use our imagination and encourages creativity. Just be wary of stray pieces lying around because stepping on one is not a fun experience.

119

eSports Commentator

Competitive gaming is showing no signs of slowing down these days. The sheer number of games and genres available will surely entertain a wide range of viewers. For those of us who want to participate in other ways, there are options available.

If you’re knowledgeable with the nuances and gameplay, becoming a commentator is a cool hobby for you to try out. You get to interact with top players and establish your own brand of fun.

120

Sailing

When the sea is calling, you might have a sailors blood running through your veins. Learning how to properly man a sailboat can be a handy life skill. Furthermore, the more you develop your sea legs, the more this unique recreational activity will appeal to your senses. On the other hand, it’s the perfect opportunity to pretend to be a Pirate captain sailing the seven seas.

121

Video Editing

Even though you are using the most advanced and high-end camera, without basic editing skills, your footage can end up a mess. However, with enough practice and an artistic viewpoint, you can craft stellar videos. Additionally, there are a lot of job opportunities out there for a good editor, so strike while the iron is hot and you’ll be doing your hobby and getting paid at the same time.

122

Reviewing Stuff Online

For those of you are looking for cool stuff to do to engage viewers on your channel, doing reviews can be enjoyable. Of course, in the beginning, you will be shelling out for the items you want to feature.

However, when your channel is raking in the views and receiving stellar feedback, companies will eventually send over material that you can use. Take note to always focus on value for the consumer and the rest will follow.

123

Horseback Riding

By now, you’ve probably tried motorcycles, bicycles, and other two-wheeled modes of transport, Hence, why not learn to ride the old way on horseback. If you’ve ever hoped to become a cowboy when you were a kid, now is the time to make it your dreams come true.

Despite how easy it looks when professionals are doing it, this requires a lot of practice. Yet, once you’re good enough, it’s one of the most exhilarating hobbies to have.

124

Recycling

Mother Nature needs our help and its evident that we have to do something fast. A lot of our resources are dwindling and trash keeps piling up and damaging the ecosystem. Therefore, let’s also consider recycling as a worthwhile hobby to contribute to the recovery of the planet. It might not seem much but for every person who helps out, it’s one step to a brighter future for the next generation.

125

Upcycling

Once you’ve made it a habit to recycle, there’ another hobby that you might want to take up. Upcycling taps into your creative side to come up with new ways to reuse stuff you don’t need anymore.

Just look around for objects or accessories that you can repurpose into something else entirely. On the other hand, this hobby can let you sell some of your creations online where others might snap up for a quick profit.

126

Terrarium

Potted plants can be great decorations to have around the house or office. However, you can actually mix and match some of these into eye-catching centerpieces with a little effort. A terrarium is basically a glass container that house a variety of plants arranged in an artful way. Varying in size from a small glass bowl to a display that’s as big a room.

127

Listening To Music

It’s exactly what it says, just lounging around with the tunes pumping out your sound system. On the other hand, it can be a private affair using a pair of comfortable headphones. If the beat courses through your soul, don’t be afraid to stand up and bust a few moves. Just remember to do so at home unless you want to be embarrassed in public.

128

Farming

Make our ancestors proud as you take up a hobby that puts food on the table. Furthermore, learning the process of growing and cultivating will make you appreciate the work farmers do. The knowledge you gain is likewise essential just in case the apocalypse comes. There’s nothing more manly than understanding and applying a tradition that has been handed down for generations.

129

Building Gundam Model Kits

For the uninitiated, building Gundam model kits are some of the most satisfying hobbies you can do. A lot of us grew up loving shows that featured towering robots and other mechanical marvels. That’s why this recreational activity is so popular the world over. The kit comes with all the parts and decals you need to craft the highly-poseable toy.

130

Baking

Learning how to cook is an essential skill that helps you create culinary delights. Therefore, it might be a good idea to also master baking. Just like dishes, there are various types of bread and pastries that you can learn along the way.

Find out the best one that will pair perfectly with your main dish. Moreover, you can likewise enjoy the aroma of baked goods wafting around your house as you wait for the timer to go off.

131

Vaping

Smoking a cigarette or cigar has been seen as a manly hobby since time immemorial. However, due to the apparent health risks involved, an alternative was needed. Thanks to modern technology, vaping is now trending among those who want to quit their unhealthy habit.

Right now, research is still ongoing regarding the potential health hazards e-cigarettes and vaporizers might have to the human body. Nevertheless, its the only option smokers have right now that is the lesser evil anyway.

132

Tai Chi

Meditation and yoga are some of the best recreational activities to try out to help you relax. On the other hand, Tai Chi reportedly delivers a similar experience. The movements are slow and deliberate, which actually enhances your flexibility and strength.

A lot of practitioners likewise claim that it can help them meditate during the process. Give it a shot and pretend that you are a kung-fu master at the same time.

133

Becoming A Foodie

No, we’re not telling you to turn into a glutton that stuffs their mouths at every opportunity. Instead, we are talking about a hobby where you give yourself a treat and taste something new. Eating is one of the best hobbies to have, hence take your taste buds on a gastronomic tour on your free time.

134

Dog Training

Among pets, dogs are reportedly one of the best companion creatures to have around the house. Most dogs should be taught the basic so that they don’t create a mess indoors. On the other hand, you can also teach your pooch cool tricks. Doing so is not really rocket science, but it will take time and patience. When training is a success, you can impress a lot of people with your dog’s performance.

135

Knife Making

A good knife is a man’s best friend. It’s a versatile tool that can save your life and help protect you from danger. In fact, seasoned survivalists rely on it for a living. A manly endeavor you can try is to forge your own blade.

Learn the basic or ask a smith to help you along the way so that you can successfully make one. We think that it’s cool that you can craft a knife based on your specifications and style.

136

Watching Anime

Before anyone tells you otherwise, it’s important to understand that anime is not your Saturday morning cartoon fare. The stories are deep, the action is intense, and the characters are memorable.

It’s a hobby that will surely keep you entertained because there is a lot of new stuff that comes out on a regular basis. Just check out streaming services if you want to watch shows as soon as they air in Japan.

137

Free-Diving

Scuba diving already has its fair share of risks, but the hunt for extreme activities must continue. A brave few opt to descend into the depths of the sea with breathing equipment. Free-divers train rigorously to be able to take deep breaths of air and hold it in while they dive down. It’s an extreme hobby that only a few will dare.

138

Base Jumping

This extreme sport shares a similarity with sky diving, but instead of jumping out of an aircraft, you will need a really tall structure. Always check with the local authorities if it’s permitted, but just know that a lot of the ones you see on videos can be considered trespassing. On the other hand, if all goes according to plan, you will jump off, deploy your parachute, and safely glide down to a designated landing spot.

139

Fantasy Sports

Don’t you ever wish that you can build a team of superstars that can take on other teams and emerge the victor? Such is the fulfillment offered by fantasy sports. Where else can you take real-life statistics of each player and craft a dream team? You can then play simulated games online with friends or random gamers and hope that your team wins.

140

Poetry

Depending on the artform you choose to pursue, we encourage you to express what you feel without holding back. Painters have their canvas, musicians have their instruments, and poets have their voices.

Of course, you can also write down what your heart tells you and let the world read or hear your musings. There are a bunch of poetry websites and clubs that can help you mingle with other people who share your passion so get going and check out this hobby.

141

Collecting Stamps

With emails and social media changing how we communicate, the traditional written medium is dying out. Collecting stamps is a hobby that’s going to be extinct in the future, but it doesn’t mean you can’t start now. Knowing that these paper treasures will soon increase in value makes it interesting. Check with your local post office to get started.

142

Coloring Books

Can you recall spending hours just with your crayons with a good coloring book in hand? The activity teaches us to color within the lines and helps grow our creative side. Experts understand that this hobby does not really die out once we grow up, so we now have adult coloring books available in the market. Unlike the ones kids use, these feature intricate patterns that will have you coloring for hours on end.

143

Grilling

Another hobby that branches out from cooking. This time, instead of being cooped up in the kitchen, you are outdoors working your magic on the grill. This is an awesome hobby where a man crafts mouth-watering dishes that pair nicely with a bottle of cold beer, some tunes, and the company of friends.

144

Astronomy

For the longest time since men looked up the sky at night, we are mesmerized by the universe. Using a good telescope, you can explore the heavens and even our closest neighbor—the moon. You can learn to recognize constellations and so much more that can aid you with navigation. Overall, it just makes us wonder if we are really along in the universe. This is one cool hobby nonetheless.

145

Watching Sports Games

Another manly hobby that you can do with friends. It’s pretty easy to set up, which makes it a good spur-of-the-moment activity. This can be done at a sports bar where you find a spot to chill and enjoy the game. The other option is to view the match at home with a cooler or fridge full of beer with snacks on standby when the munchies hit hard.

146

Making Movies

Before you get any funny ideas, we are talking about short films that can showcase your directing chops. Ask your friends to help out with your project. It helps if you bribe them with drinks and snacks. Don’t expect stellar acting on your debut film, but it will be something that you can look back on and laugh later on.

147

Bonsai

We adding another hobby that originates from Japan. A lot of you would agree that the Japanese are the ultimate zen masters on how to chill. That’s why this hobby will help you develop patience and an eye for art. With the right shape and size of a bonsai tree, you can create a truly stunning masterpiece. Check some of the professional stuff online and you’ll understand what we mean.

148

Growing A Mustache Or Beard

Believe us, this is a valid hobby that only men can do. We don’t want to sound misogynistic, but this actually needs a lot of facial hair. Challenge your pals to grow, groom, and live the ultimate hirsute lifestyle until somebody gives up. Sadly not all men are created equal so those with barely a few whiskers should just give up.

149

Joining A Club

This one is pretty easy, but the challenge is to avoid getting kicked out. We’re talking about becoming a member of a social club or fraternity. This allows you to share ideas and work closely toward the same goal. A lot of these groups often work to help the community so it will definitely help you build character and become a functional member of society.

150

Glass Blowing

By nature, a real man should be good with his hands. That’s why handicraft is normally a popular hobby among men. Working with delicate components showcase our skills, which is why glass blowing can be interesting. You can craft beautiful pieces that will be proudly on show in your office or your home.

151

Keeping A Journal

As men, we want to make our mark in the world. We want to be able to chronicle our journey from humble beginnings to our rise to greatness. Things don’t always go our way, but keeping a journal is a great way to relieve stress. You can even read it and look back at all the stuff you’ve done in the past in great detail, which hopefully helps you avoid the same mistakes in the future.

15 Most Binge-Worthy Shows On Netflix

The OA

In the OA, a blind woman presumed dead returns to her hometown, and, inexplicably, she can see. There, it’s immediately clear she’s less interested in reconnecting with her parents, reminiscing old memories, making up for lost time, than she is running about and gathering a crew of strangers. Well, at first they’re strangers.

Pretty soon, they become kindred souls who listen, with hawk-like attention to detail, to Prairie’s stories. Where she’s been while she was gone. What happened to her. And what she’s here to do. They involve murderous men, glass prisons, near-death experiences, and voluntary drowning. And quite impossibly, the universe, the galaxies, fates, mystery, and all phenomena larger than us human beings but somehow still embedded in the mystery of how we express ourselves, how we connect with each other, and perhaps most importantly, how we listen to other people’s stories. How we believe.

Was that vague? Well, that’s only fitting for a show that’s brimmed in so much mystery it’s sometimes frustrating to continue watching. But like a rainbow, there’s a reward waiting at the end if you’re bold enough to go through this whole journey. There’s only two ways you will receive this ending — you will love it, and it’ll be the best ending you will have seen in the history of serialized dramas. Or you will absolutely hate it and consider the whole eight-chapter arc a complete waste of your time.

Either way, The OA is worth talking about. Even if you disagree with its artistic choices, of which there are plenty to question and critique, it’s still one of the most ambitious, no-holds-barred shows in the last few years, or even decades. When it goes “there,” it really goes there — then takes it even further. Abandon all logic if you dare enter its world. The first and second seasons are available to stream now.

Episodes That Deserve Special Mention: Homecoming, Forking Paths, Invisible Self

Director: Zal Batmanglij, Andrew Haigh, Anna Rose Holmer – Screenplay: Brit Marling, Zal Batmanglij, Melanie Marnich, and more – Cast: Brit Marling, Emory Cohen, Scott Wilson – Run Time: 2 seasons, around 50 minutes per episode

15 Best Kids Movies On Netflix That Parents Can Enjoy Too

Wreck-It Ralph

In Wreck-It-Ralph, the villain is the star of the story. One day, Ralph, a video game character perennially playing the role of the bad guy in a video game called Fix-It Felix, becomes tired of the way things are. Felix gets all the love, friends, niceties, rewards, and the good reputation among players. For so long, Ralph has been wanting to take the spotlight, or at least share it with Felix. And for once, he decides to do something about it.

And so, he sets off on a journey across the arcade, hopping from one game to the next to find a place in the video game world. Along the way, he meets Vanellope von Schweetz, a glitching character in candy-brimmed racing game Sugar Rush, who’s also having trouble fitting in and finding a place in her own world. Together, they forge an unlikely friendship and slowly and painfully discover the true meaning of being a hero.

Wreck-It-Ralph may have some of Disney’s storytelling tropes, but it’s far too unique and smartly written to be labeled as common Disney fare. It’s endlessly creative, filled with humor some of which only adults will understand, and it offers up a heartfelt story of what it means to be someone’s friend, to be a hero, and to be there for somebody else at all costs. There are no powerful anthems here like Let It Go in Frozen, but there’s an abundance of things to love here, including Ralph himself, whose own journey proves that no matter who you are, you deserve a place in the world.

Director: Rich Moore – Screenplay: Rich Moore, Phil Johnston, Jim Reardon, Jennifer Lee, John C. Reilly, Sam Levine, Jared Stern – Cast: John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch – Run Time: 1h 41m

10 Best Netflix Original Movies of 2019

Netflix has come a long way from being a small video rental business in 1997 that delivered DVD movies by mail. It eventually amped its business strategy by also providing Blu-Ray films to its customers.

However, modern times and advanced technology call for a far more progressive service and process. The business, of course, had to move with the times as well.

Now, Netflix is the biggest subscription-based online streaming media service and has over 100 million paid members as of April 2019. Its huge number of paid subscribers speaks for its popularity not just in the US but in other international countries.

This is why Netflix opened its doors to foreign members.  It offers an immense collection of films and television shows from any country and region.

Netflix also doesn’t slow down in its release of content. It provides daily fresh content, which makes it hard even for the movie and TV show binge-watchers to keep track of the titles that have been added, removed, and put back.

It’s a good thing that there are sites, including Men’s Gear’s Netflix Tool, that keep tabs on these changes on a daily basis.

The year 2012 marked a big leap for the streaming giant when it became active in sourcing and producing content, which it aptly labels as “Netflix Original.” These originals can be a movie, a documentary, TV show, or a stand-up special.

With the way things are progressing, it seems there is no slowing down for this entertainment magnate as it continues to release in-house media to its increasing number of loyal subscribers. We are already halfway through 2019 and the number of Netflix Originals continues to pile up instead of go south.

Which brings us to the list below. Call it a guide or review if you will. The list contains the titles of the Netflix Original movies that have come out in the first part of 2019.

However, these are not just any or all of the movies released since the start of the year. They are by far the best based on storyline, audience impact, and cinematography. You may have seen these titles pop up in your Netflix homepage or in your recommendation page every now and then.

Movies such as the Triple Frontier, which oozes with so much machismo that women automatically click Play when they see Ben Affleck and Charlie Hunnam on the screen before they could even see the preview or read the synopsis.

Then a quick scroll through the collection of movies gives you a film that stars Jake Gyllenhaal, who this time plays a bisexual art critic and not a homosexual brokeback cowboy. And since you don’t want to miss the opportunity to see another of his fine performances, then you watch him peruse and write about art in Velvet Buzzsaw.

You also happen to see a new title from filmmaker Steven Soderbergh, who has since repeatedly expressed his desire to retire from directing. You give High Flying Bird a go not because it might be the Oscar-winning director’s last film, but the fact that it was shot entirely through a smartphone intrigues you.

Then you click Play on Chiwetel Ejiofor’s directorial debut to see how good and compelling of a filmmaker and writer he is as he is an actor in 12 Years A Slave. Suffice to say, there are plenty of praise-worthy movies on Netflix and there are bound to be a few more additions in the coming days and months.

But for now, we have compiled for you ten of the best Netflix Original movies of any genre. We have action, comedy, drama, sci-fi, and biopic. These films are definitely worthy of your time and attention, so better check them out before it disappears on the streaming service (cross fingers that this doesn’t happen).

1

Velvet Buzzsaw

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When it comes to versatility in acting, you can bet that Jake Gyllenhaal is among the veteran actors who can pull off any character. He’s been in every film genre there is and has been a prince, a warrior, a boxer, a love and sex addict, a homosexual, and the list goes on.

It seems there’s nothing he can’t do. This July, he graces theatres with his performance as Marvel’s Mysterio in Spider-Man: Far From Home.

However, he certainly looks nothing like a superhero in the Netflix original film Velvet Buzzsaw, where he plays a bisexual art critic, a character who’s not remotely heroic but nonetheless important in the story.

This film is part thriller, mystery, and horror and revolves around the dangerous allure of art– specifically the paintings of a mysterious deceased artist.

Supernatural accidents transpire after greedy art profiteers attempt to sell his works. Mysterious occurrences and tragic events ultimately befall those who sell or own his works.

Suffice to say, that his paintings were not meant to be sold or showcased to the public. Instead, per the owner’s instruction prior to his death, they were supposed to be burned to ashes. Serves the greedy ones right for trying to claim what’s not rightfully theirs in the first place.

What’s misleading about this movie though is its title. It doesn’t have any relevance to the whole story aside from it being the name of the band from which one of the art profiteers is a former member.

Director: Dan Gilroy –  Screenplay: Dan Gilroy – Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Zawe Ashton, John Malkovich –  Run Time: 1h 53m

2

High Flying Bird

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In this age of modern times, you’d think that the only means of capturing good cinematography and coming up with high-quality film is by using high-tech video equipment. Well, Steven Soderbergh’s work is proof that you can make a movie out of anything that can capture movements.

The Oscar-winning director continues to test the limits of creative filmmaking technology, as he has done in the past with Unsane (shot by iPhone 7+). He filmed the entirety of High Flying Bird using an iPhone 8+ equipped with an anamorphic lens from Moondog Labs.

The movie gained positive reviews when it premiered at the Slamdance Film Festival not just for its unique cinematography, but also for its story, which teaches a valuable lesson about power and race in the NBA.

The premise follows sports agent Ray Burke (André Holland) who pitches a rookie basketball client in the midst of a pro basketball lockout. His action prompts a question of authority when he manages to outmaneuver all the power players.  High Flying Bird makes up for the lack of action with smart and witty dialogues to drive the story forward.

Director: Steven Soderbergh –  Screenplay: Tarell Alvin McCraney – Cast: André Holland, Melvin Gregg, Eddie Tavares –  Run Time: 1h 30m

3

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

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Chiwetel Ejiofor directs and writes the screenplay about the real-life boy who harnessed the wind and saved his family and village from famine.

The film is based on the inspiring true story of William Kamkwamba from Malawi, who at 14-years old, built a wind turbine from recycled parts. His interest in physics and his ingenuity allowed him to create the machine out of old batteries and bicycle parts.

His creation powered an electric water pump that saved his family’s crops in the midst of a drought. The windmill still stands to this day outside his home.

This movie is a promising directorial debut for Ejiofor who manages to mellow scenes of conflict among families, neighbors, and politicians with a gentle nudge of humor here and there. There are a few of these scenes though as the story mostly focuses on the boy, his thirst for knowledge, and his determination to help his family.

Overall, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a heartwarming and emotional movie full of depth and inspiration. It is a great eye-opener about the practices and strife in other cultures and countries, which makes it a relevant film to watch among those with environmental and corporate themes.

Director: Chiwetel Ejiofor –  Screenplay: Chiwetel Ejiofor – Cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Maxwell Simba, Felix Lemburo –  Run Time: 1h 53m

4

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

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Joe Berlinger’s take on the infamous Ted Bundy story is not an introduction into the man and his murders. It’s more of an added info or a companion story about the serial killer since it explores his personal life.

The film is not even your typical serial killer flick in that it doesn’t rely on graphic violence, gruesome imagery, or any of the usual horror-ish trope. Instead, it’s a movie about Bundy’s love life and about his relationship with his family and the media, to which he tirelessly tries to convince of his innocence as he presents himself as a charming man in court, far from the stereotypical character of a serial killer.

The movie provides a look into the criminal’s life inside his prison walls. It gives a unique perspective into Bundy’s life through the eyes and experiences of his former girlfriend Elizabeth Kloepfer (Lily Collins), the very same woman who told the authorities about her suspicions of her longtime boyfriend being a murderer during a widespread manhunt for a serial killer whose victims are all women.

It’s a fitting view of the narrative given that Kloepfer’s memoir, The Phantom Prince: My Life with Ted Bundy, is an inspiration for the film.

The film has its weak moments since it doesn’t really tell the horrors of Bundy’s murders but only the reaction to his actions. It also doesn’t dig into the killer’s motivations, instead, it glamorizes him.

Moreover, Zac Efron, who plays Bundy, tries his very best to impart his knowledge about the killer through his performance. He comes out looking more like a wild maniac though when he opens his eyes wide, which make for a rather amusing sight rather than being terrifying.  

However, Efron’s striking physical resemblance to the actual killer is downright disturbing, which in some way, helps make for a convincing portrayal as the charismatic, shrewd, yet belligerent and damaged Bundy.

Director: Joe Berlinger –  Screenplay: Michael Werwie – Cast: Lily Collins, Zac Efron, Angela Sarafyan    Run Time: 1h 50m

5

The Wandering Earth/ Liú làng dì qiú

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Hope and trust in humanity and sacrifice for the greater good drives the message of The Wandering Earth, an epic of a sci-fi film about the survival of humankind when faced with an unavoidable disaster.

The sun is dying and Earth is under threat of being devoured by a red giant.  Ten-thousand stellar engines are created to propel Earth to another solar system. It’s a 2,500 year-long journey with the planet wandering and becoming vulnerable to unexpected dangers along the way.

This is not your typical superhero sci-fi movie where one unique person sacrifices his life for the sake of others, although it features the very same type of people in every sense of the word.

In this story, we have ordinary people entrusted with a huge duty to become superheroes in their own way in order to save humanity from extinction. They all give their best and choose to hold on to the hope of survival despite all the odds thrown against them.

The Wandering Earth is one of those films that leave you holding your breath as you watch the tension unfold and build. It also takes a lot to ponder on storywise especially when it begs the serious question of what you would do when faced with an irresistible danger.

Regardless, the amazing visual effects that fill up much of the death-defying sequences should be enough to entertain and sit you through the entire two-hour run.

Director: Frant Gwo –  Screenplay: Frant Gwo, Gong Geer, Junce Ye, Yang Zhixue, Yan Dongxu  Cast: Jing Wu, Chuxiao Qu, Guangjie Li    Run Time: 2h 5m

6

Triple Frontier

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Testosterones run high in this star-studded, action-packed film about five former Delta Force operatives who go on a mission this time not for their country but for their selves.

They carry out a heist job of a South American drug lord. The plan seems simple enough: steal the cash as stealthily as possible, leave few to zero casualties, and escape unnoticed.

However, trouble is bound to happen when someone in the group becomes greedy. Ultimately, the plan backfires and events take an unexpected turn and threaten to spiral out of control.  The men find themselves battling for their lives in unknown territories in their efforts to keep as much of the stolen wealth as possible.

Triple Frontier starts out slow but gets pretty exciting moving forward. It has strong acting from a stellar cast, beautiful landscape cinematography, and action scenes packed with tension.

The film is a treat for fans of shoot-’em-up sequences since it has plenty of them. It’s good entertainment if you dig the heist genre (although this film goes beyond that) and if you find excitement in chase scenes, plane crashes, jungle firefights, and other action mayhems that inspire your inner risk-taker.

Director: J.C. Chandor –  Screenplay: Mark Boal, J.C. Chandor – Cast: Ben Affleck, Garrett Hedlund, Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam, Pedro Pascal    Run Time: 2h 5m

7

Paddleton

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Ray Romano returns to the big screen as his equally lovable character in the sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond in Paddleton, a dramatic comedy that revolves around the friendship of two neighbors.

Romano plays Andy, who goes through great lengths to delay his neighbor Michael’s (Mark Duplass) wish to die following his cancer prognosis. He wants a quick death through medication so the pair takes the six-hour trip to the closest pharmacy.

They spend the final moments together on some fun and adventure and they learn more about each other along the way.  Andy eventually comes to terms with the fact that his only friend is dying and must respect his wishes to have a pain-free death.

Paddleton moves slowly and may be excruciating for some but the wait is indeed worth it. The first hour intends to drown the reality of sorrow through laughter but it eventually reaches a poignant conclusion that is both harrowing and tender.

Romano and Duplass make the movie entertaining and deeply moving. They have such strong chemistry together that it delivers the film’s message loud and clear: that what better balm can there be to loneliness than an encompassing friendship.

Director: Alex Lehmann – Screenplay: Mark Duplass, Alex Lehmann – Cast: Christine Woods, Mark Duplass, Ray Romano –  Run Time: 1h 29m

8

The Highwaymen

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Bonnie & Clyde’s exploits made headlines in the 1930s and even up to this day, stories about the duo always become a cinematic influence. They remain an inspiration in films and TV because of their daring heists made sensational by the media.

However, behind every notorious criminal are those who uphold the law and vow to capture criminal offenders no matter the stakes. This is what The Highwaymen is about, which tells the untold story of two legendary detectives who come out of retirement just to bring down the outlaws.

The film follows former Texas Rangers Frank Hamer (Kevin Costner) and Benjamin Maney Gault (Woody Harrelson), who are called by the FBI to assist in the arrest of the infamous pair, which has become a very daunting task as the days pass.  The two men must rely on their gut instincts and old school knowledge to track, lure, and successfully capture the criminals.

The Highwaymen gives a fresh take on the infamous Bonnie & Clyde account and may as well be a companion story. As with other detective films, it too has its potholes but its eye-catching moments and tension make up for the lack of character buildup and of chemistry between the two male stars.

Nevertheless, it’s a must-watch and an entertaining film for anyone who follows the Bonnie & Clyde history.

Director: John Lee Hancock  – Screenplay: John Fusco – Cast: Kevin Costner, Woody Harrelson, Kathy Bates, John Carroll Lynch –  Run Time: 2h 12m

9

Walk. Ride. Rodeo.

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As far as inspirational true stories go, Walk. Ride. Rodeo. is a must-see for its theme on perseverance and courage. It drives a good message about getting back up after a fall and pushing forward despite the odds.

The story follows professional barrel racer and now motivational speaker Amberley Snyder, who at nineteen became a paraplegic after she got into an automobile accident from which she nearly survived.

Told that she would never walk again, let alone ride her horse, Snyder defied her prognosis to reclaim her place in the sport she loves. With her determination, the support of her family, friends, and physical therapy, she was back in the saddle to compete in just 18 months after the accident.

This film becomes even more inspiring knowing that the real Amberley was part of the production. She performed her own stunts on the horse and played a stunt double in the post-accident scenes.

Director: Conor Allyn – Screenplay: Sean Dwyer, Greg Cope White – Cast: Spencer Locke, Missi Pyle, Bailey Chase, Corbin Bleu –  Run Time: 2h 12m

10

The Breaker Upperers

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When two brokenhearted women decide to make a profit out of their situation, hilarious consequences and life-changing events ensue that would test the limit of their friendship.

The Breaker Upperers is a New Zealand romantic-comedy film about these two friends who run an agency for people who need help breaking up with their significant others. They use various creative methods including but not limited to impersonation, deception, and other dangerous means like kidnapping.

However, their methods soon land them in real trouble and in disagreements when one of them falls for a client and befriends the other. Soon the agency becomes a mess.

But as with other friendship stories, the two eventually reconcile. Their experiences taught them that relationships can have both scenarios–breaking up and making up.

The Breaker Upperers is a witty, fun, and laugh-out-loud buddy movie filled with energy from its smart-mouthed performers. Co-stars Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek make you want to dance, sing, and laugh in stitches with every breakup deliveries and at the same time, makes you cringe in anticipation for their next attempt at a breakup song.

Director: Conor Allyn – Screenplay: Madeleine Sami, Jackie van Beek – Cast: Madeleine Sami, Jackie van Beek, James Rolleston –  Run Time: 2h 12m

20+ Best Westerns To Watch Now On Netflix

Filmmakers produce countless films across various genres n Hollywood since the birth of motion pictures in the 1880s to early 1900s. To name a few, there is noir, romantic comedy, action, fantasy, horror, action, western, and the like. The western is one of the oldest genres and remains a favorite among movie fans today.

What makes western films enticing to movie buffs is it takes you back in the American Old West, in the second half of the 19th century. The narrative typically revolves around a wandering, gunslinging cowboy riding his horse, armed either with a revolver or a rifle.

Often, you find yourself at the edge your seat watching outlaws and law enforcers fighting for survival in a dangerous land. You will dig the thrill and suspense that come with the intense action.

The Western genre may not be as popular now as it was before. However, there are still many great films that will feed those who have an appetite for Western movies. If you have a craving for the best Westerns, you can explore a solid collection, both films and TV shows on Netflix.

You can dust off some of your favorite Western classics from Netflix’s vast library and watch them all over again. Also, you can relish a slew of more recent releases on this specific genre. Make some new discoveries of lesser-known titles that are just as great to watch, too.

Over the years, the giant streaming platform has succeeded in offering the best selection of western movies of all time. There are not too many westerns to choose from. But Netflix quite has a sizeable choice of movies in this genre. It also offers a number of TV series any movie fan would truly enjoy, too.

Digging up the best ones out of Netflix’s deep roster of movies could be daunting, however. So, once again, we at Men’s Gear concocted for you 20+ best Westerns you can stream right now on Netflix. We take the pleasure to help you with this list for your next binge-watch session.

Out top choices include The Wild Bunch, No Country for Old Men, The Hateful Eight, Dead Man’s Burden, and more. Excellent western TV shows, meanwhile, include Godless, Hell on Wheels, Longmire, and more. But if you have some in mind, let us know in the comment section.

You may also check out our guides for the best revenge movies, best German movies, and best survival movies currently streaming right now on Netflix.

New on Netflix

1Dead Man

Dead Man’s Burden (2012)

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Dead Man’s Burden is an indie film. Despite that this oater only had a low budget, it is a powerful one. The film has more focus on the storyline, the acting, and the landscape instead of action scenes.

This 2012 western film is set during the post-civil war. It tells David-and-Goliath kind of a story of a family that struggles against a mining corporation. Martha lost her father and soldier brothers during the war. Now, she and her hubby, Heck, are compelled to sell their land in the middle of nowhere to a copper company that gets too eager to take it.

But before they could close the deal and move to the big city out West, Martha’s ill-tempered brother Wade surprisingly comes home. He deserted the Union Army and wanted to see his old man. Although they are family, the gap between them widened during those years. They do not trust each other with their own secrets.

Dead Man’s Burden is a slow-burning film, gradually unfolding an unchangeable tragedy. It surely has the elements of a great western movie that appeals to every indie-film savvy audience.

The less-known cast is a sure winner. Producer-turned-filmmaker Jared Moshe brilliantly wrote the story with clever twists and rich characters. It is even likely that you would watch Dead Man’s Burden twice.

Director: Jared Moshe – Cast: Barlow Jacobs, Clare Bowen, David Call

Running time: 1 hr 33 min

2Gone Are The Days

Gone Are the Days (2018)

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Gone are the Days is quite a good western movie to watch. It is not a “shoot-them-up” adventure that is often seen in classic westerns. However, you will undoubtedly dig the film’s slower and a tender love story.

This film follows the story of Taylor Flynn, a notorious outlaw. Falling ill and aging, he is no longer able to recognize the man he has turned out to be from the man he was.

Flynn is dead-set to face his end in the most dramatic way but things take a wrong turn and did not go as planned. He discovers that his estranged daughter is imposed to live a wretched life. He now intends to save her, but it does not come easy for him. The lead character is faced with his personal struggles traveling the road to redemption.

Gone are the Days excels in its narrative and does not get complex. The film’s moral story revolves around aging and redemption. Critics say that lead actor Lance Henriksen is perfectly fit for the role and delivers a superb performance. Co-actor Tom Berenger also impresses for his character as the eccentric sheriff.

Director: Mark Landre Gould – Cast: Lance Henriksen, Tom Berenger, Billy Lush

Running time: 1 hr 39 min

3The Homesman

The Homesman (2014)

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The Homesman is based on the 1988 novel of the same title penned by Glendon Swarthout. This western drama helmed by Hollywood icon Tommy Lee Jones takes place on a journey from east to west. The travel from Nebraska territory to a town in Iowa quite opposes the course of the archetypal western route.

Although this movie is titled The Homesman, it actually tells the adventure of three women. They are not your damsels in distress. Rather, they serve as the heart of the action and heroines of strength and bravery.

Propelled by the rough settler life in the American frontier, reverent self-reliant Mary Bee Cuddy takes on the task to save the women. They head east in a covered wagon to Iowa. It doesn’t take long for Mary to realize the perils and relentless threats involved along the way, however. That’s when she hires George Briggs, a low-life drifter.

The Homesman veers away from the typical premise of the Wild West as a realm for cowboys and Indians. It is in fact critically acclaimed and received various nominations for its dark, generally bleak narrative of morality.

Director: Tommy Lee Jones – Cast Tommy Lee Jones, Hilary Swank, Grace Gummer

Running time: 2 hr 2 min

4The Salvation

The Salvation (2014)

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The Salvation could be one of the lesser-known films included in our list of best westerns you can stream on Netflix. Nevertheless, it boasts a unique take on a western genre that it is worth checking out.

Western films, in general, usually hinge on the premise of the American Old West era. The Salvation tells an immigrant’s tale of a man who seeks to build a new home with his family. But little did he know about the dangers he is getting into.

This movie, though, makes a classic western revenge movie with a fresh view of a customary tale. The brother of one of the first revenge victims is now plotting his revenge. The villains are big baddies while the good guys are not totally good, but definitely right.

The Salvation also gets a boost from its stellar roster of actors, with Mads Mikkelsen in a surprising lead action role. The presence of beauteous Eva Green is a compelling one as ever. However, Jeffrey Dean Morgan shines as he takes on the villain role really, really well. He is quite a scene-stealer here.

Aside from superb acting, photography, and direction, the soundtrack stands out, making it a spellbinding movie to watch. You may see this movie pay homage to director John Ford film The Searchers, which is arguably one of the greatest westerns ever made in the history of filmmaking.

Director: Kristian Levring – Cast: Mads Mikkelsen, Eva Green, Jeffrey Dean Morgan

Running time: 1 hr 32 min

5Hostiles

Hostiles (2017)

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Hostiles is another western film that is set in 1892, which follows the adventure of a legendary Army Captain (Christian Bale). He embarks on a harrowing journey through the perilous territory, from Fort Berringer, a remote Army outpost in New Mexico, to the grasslands of Montana.

Despite rigid reluctance, he is compelled to escort an ailing Cheyenne war chief (Wes Studi) and his family back to the tribal lands. Their journey takes an interesting turn when the two former rivals met a young widow (Rosamund Pike). Her family was killed on the plains.

Now, all three of them have to work together to deal with the terrible landscape and defeat hostile Comanches along the way. It appears, the hostiles the movie title refers to are the Comanches.

As most westerns use the trope of cowboys vs. Indians, Hollywood often depicts the Native Americans as vile savages. In fact, this has become a flawed aspect of this genre. This film, however, is one of the few that attempts to show the brutality faced by each side of the conflict.

Nevertheless, Hostiles features a well-founded setting for a western narrative. The film’s stunning visuals and superb acting performances of Bale, Pike, and Studi also help boost its appeal to the western movie fans.

Director: Scott Cooper – Cast: Scott Shepherd, Rosamund Pike, Ava Cooper, Christian Bale

Running time: 2 hr 14 min

6Ballad Of Buster Scruggs

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)

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Brothers Joel and Ethan Coen always have a penchant for the western genre. Their latest western anthology movie, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, reflects black comedy that is known to be the Coen Brothers’ trademark.

The duo tells a six-part tale about American Frontier through their unparalleled vocals. The parody of each chapter set in the Old American West represents a striking narrative about the archetypal western movie characters. The film’s separate short stories also include ones of a singing cowboy, bank robbers, and prospectors.

The first chapter of the six-part series called The Misanthrope literally kicks off with a bang. Tim Blake Nelson plays Buster Scruggs, the titular character. An outlaw who is known as “The Misanthrope,” Scruggs sings and yee-haws as he travels the road to a Western town, leaving laughter, singing, and carnage all behind.

The second part titled “Near Algodones” headlines James Franco, a bank robber. He gets punished for his crime in some dragging fashion, it turns comical.

The third chapter, “Meal Ticket,” stars Liam Neeson, the grizzled and quiet traveling impresario. Each night in frontier towns he opens his mobile stage featuring his legless and armless orator.

The fourth of the six-part series is titled “All Gold Canyons.” The story follows a lonesome prospector, played by Tom Waits, who found a major gold zone. The fifth chapter revolves around twosome loners (Zoe Kazan and Bill Heck) on the Oregon Trail who get to like each other.

The final part, “The Mortal Remains,” transpires nearly inside the stagecoach. Tyne Daly, Brendan Gleeson, Saul Rubinek, Chelcie Ross, and Jonjo O’Neill play as a small pack of strangers who find themselves talking with one another about their past lives. Together, they share a surprisingly fervid destination.

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs does not feature repeated characters. The location throughout the movie spans from the outback towns, prairies, to mountain passages.

Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen  – Cast: Tim Blake Nelson, Willie Watson, Clancy Brown

Running time: 2hr 13min

7The Hateful Eight

The Hateful Eight (2015)

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The Hateful Eight is an American western thriller film written and directed by one of Hollywood’s acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino. So, you can expect that it is packed with violence, the Tarantino way.

It is known how the Kill Bill director loves westerns, so much that two of his 10 movies are of the genre. The Hateful Eight is not as big as Django Unchained in terms of scope, as it has a small setting.

However, it has its own great qualities, with an amazing cast. Samuel L. Jackson, Walton Goggins, and Jennifer Jason Leigh all stand out in their performances.

The Hateful Eight tells the story of a group of dangerous strangers who are traveling to Red Rock.   Two bounty hunters and a prisoner take shelter with five other suspicious characters in a small cabin in Wyoming during a blizzard.

Amid unraveled secrets and pasts explored, bodies start to pile up. They soon begin doubting one another, wondering who they can trust.

This is a lengthy film lasting for more than three hours that makes it a tough sit. Still, it is a movie for fans who love anything Tarantino.

Hateful Eight earned Italian composer Ennio Morricone an Oscar for Best Score. Cinematographer Robert Richardson shot the film on 70mm that makes it look incredibly great.

Director: Quentin Tarantino – Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh

Running time: 3 hr 7 min

8Slow West

Slow West (2015)

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Slow West is an old-school western with gripping twists from musician-turned-filmmaker John Maclean. This movie might disappoint fans who dig archetypal intense gunslinging action in westerns.

Not all westerns, however, need to have endless gun shooting scenes to be riveting. In fact, there is much more to love about this slow-burn western.

Slow West, as the title suggests, first invests in good storytelling with powerful characters. And then, sift through the gunfights.

Slow West tells a story of a 16-year-old boy on his journey to 19th century Frontier America to find the woman he loves. The young Scottish boy happens to meet mysterious traveler Silas. He is an outlaw who is willing to serve as his guide in his quest across rugged, dangerous territories.

Michael Fassbender is pretty convincing and a charmer as the mysterious bounty hunter who keeps his true motive a secret from the unsuspecting Scottish teen. Ben Mendelsohn has once again proved himself as an effective cinematic villain in this movie.

Director: John Maclean – Cast: Silas Selleck, Michael Fassbender, Jay Cavendish, Kodi Smit-McPhee

Running time: 1 hr 24 min

9Dances with Wolves

Dances with Wolves (1990)

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Dances with Wolves is arguably the most popular in our list of best westerns that you can currently stream on Netflix. It is an American epic western film that hit the big screens in 1990.

Directed by Kevin Costner who also starred in the lead role, this was lauded by fans and critics alike. It won seven Academy Awards. In fact, it beat Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece, Goodfellas, to win Oscar’s Best Picture.  It also won the Golden Globe Award for best drama.

Dances with Wolves tells the tale of the Union Army Lieutenant John Dunbar. After his heroic acts during the Civil War in Tennessee, he was offered an outpost of his choosing. He asked to be assigned to the western frontier.

In this territory, John develops a bond with the Lakota Indians tribe. Lured by their simple lifestyle, he desires to live with them, leaving everything that he was behind.

Based on how the tribe sees him, he is given the name “Dances with Wolves.” He then falls in love with a white woman who has been raised by the tribe.

It did not take long there is no more frontier. That is when things start going south and tragic for John and the natives that are now his people. The Union soldiers arrive and advance on the plains. John must make a decision that will impact his life and the whole Lakota tribe.

At the peak of his stardom, Costner was able to produce something that is not short of greatness.  It is a blockbuster film thanks to the phenomenal revival of the Western genre in the 90s.

Director: Keven Costner   – Cast: Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene, Rodney A. Grant, Floyd Red Crow Westerman, Tantoo Cardinal, Robert Pastorelli, Charles Rocket

Running Time: 3 hr 56 min

10Hell Or High Water

Hell or High Water (2018)

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Hell or High Water is a modern take on the western genre. It centers on two brothers who embark on a bank robbing road trip and a clever lawman tracking them.

Bank robbery is rather a common subgenre for western films. However, what makes Hell or High Water unique is it transpires in a modern America setting, particularly in oppressive West Texas.

Viewers should not expect it to be fun and lively. Rather, this movie tells a tale of two desperate brothers in an unkind world. They rob banks to come up with the money they need to pay their mortgage.

It would have been less complicated if one of them was more careful and the Texas Rangers weren’t on their tail. In this movie, you would find yourself torn between sympathizing with the outlaw and siding with the lawmen.

Hell or High Water has received a number of Academy Awards nominations and a sleeper hit at the box office.

Director: David Mackenzie – Cast: Dale Dickey, Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges, Gil Birmingham, Katy Mixon, William Sterchi, Buck Taylor

Running Time: 1 hr 42 min

11The Wild Bunch

The Wild Bunch (1969)

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The Wild Bunch is a 1969 western movie created by filmmaker Sam Peckinpah. The western genre always is a violent one.

But Peckinpah even raised the bar higher in defining violence, something mainstream Hollywood had not ever done in the 60s. The western standard in this day and age, however, would make

The Wild Bunch a relatively more tamed version. It has, however, the sheer nihilism that truly makes it stand out from other movies classified in this genre.

Set in Texas in 1913, this film tells the story of aging outlaws with a single purpose: pull off one last big heist before the Old West is thoroughly no more. Pike Bishop leads the gang in a robbery of a railroad office that keeps a stash of silver. They were ambushed by Deke Thornton, Pike’s former partner, along with a group of bounty hunters that were hired by the railroad.

The Wild Bunch has heavily influenced action movies of today. Peckinpah was the first to use the slow motion and quick edits in action scenes that are seen in contemporary films.

The remake of Peckinpah’s classic western adventure masterpiece is currently in the works.

Director: Sam Peckinpah – Cast:  William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan, Edmond O’Brien, Warren Oates

Running Time: 2 hr 25 min

12No Country For Old Men

No Country for Old Men (2008)

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No Country for Old Men is basically a classic western masterpiece yet has a more modern take of the genre. It is said to be Coen Brothers’ creating an absolute action movie that features a slew of superb, crafted set pieces.

The No Country for Old Men is a faithful adaptation of author Cormac McCarthy’s novel of the same title. The movie tells the story of a man named Llewelyn Moss who finds a bag of drug money in the desert. He is then pursued by ruthless killer Anton Chigurh, who is the owner of the money.

You’d feel a white-knuckle thrill watching the tense and brutal chase between Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem in the movie. The heart of the story, however, centers on a jaded lawman, Sheriff Bell.

The aging sheriff follows the trail of violence and helps save Moss from the doom the vicious Chirgurh leaves behind every time. Moss, however, could have not gotten himself into deep trouble has he not taken the money for himself.

Majority of western classics are set in the post-Civil War era and dig into how Americans changed during the tie. But No Country for Old Men brilliantly explores the post-Vietnam War. It’s entirely a different era of change to explore.

The film has the merits of a classic western but the lesson of the story is far more complicated. It, too, has an anticlimactic ending that draws a mixed reaction from the audience. The ending is in fact divisive.

No Country for Old Men disappointed a lot of viewers who anticipated to see the gunslinging hero and villain fight to the death in a more conventional fashion.

Director:  The Coen Brothers – Cast:  Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem

Running Time: 2 hr 3 min

13The Killer

The Killer (2017)

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The Killer is one of the most recent Netflix originals created by director Marcelo Galvão. This 2017 film is a gritty, heavyweight western to watch. It represents the streaming company’s growing success in its foray into the international audience.

As a Brazilian shoot-‘em-up flick Portuguese language film, The Killer tells a winding story and leaves no bloody details. The movie gets to send its point across the movie lovers in up-close-and-personal details.

Titled O Matador in its global release to other countries, The Killer features Portuguese actor Diogo Morgado portraying the lead character. As a manchild assassin, Cabeleira looks for his adopted father through the badlands of Pernambuco, Brazil.

The story starts unfolding as a man doing what he can to keep his children safe and away from criminal brothers. The film dives deeper into a quietly told tale with a personal connection.

The Killer is grime, exaggerated kind of movie but highly entertaining with Morgado’s powerful performance. Apart from the fact that it is in Portuguese, this movie transports viewers into a whole new definition of the Wild West. It is not western but it rather has the look and feels of Brazil’s hinterlands.

Director: Marcelo Galvão – Cast: Diogo Morgado, Nill Marcondes, Deto Montenegro, Maria de Medeiros, and Etienne Chicot

Running Time: 1 hr 47 min

14Casa de mi Padre

Casa de mi Padre (2012)

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Casa de mi Padre is a western comedy, a rich western subgenre, released in 2012. However, there are only a few offerings in this subcategory. Mel Brook’s Blazing Saddles, for one, is hailed as one of the best American comedies of all time.

The Ridiculous 6 and A Million Ways to Die in the West are more recent, but lackluster ones. Will Ferrell-led film Casa de mi Padre is one of the few memorable western comedies that fans will love.

Casa de mi Padre is told in Spanish with English subtitles. This movie is as much a comedic tribute to Spanish TV series stereotypes as westerns.

It tells a tale of a rancher who has lived and worked on his father’s ranch in Mexico all his life. Now, he has to fight for his family, his new love, and his place against the country’s most dangerous drug lord.

Directors: Andrew Steele and Matt Piedmont – Cast: Will Ferrell. Gael Garcia Bernal, Diego Luna Genesis Rodriguez, and Pedro Armendariz, Jr.

Running Time: 1 hr 25 min

15Wind River

Wind River (2017)

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Wind River is a 2017 neo-Western murder mystery movie helmed by screenwriter by Taylor Sheridan in his directorial debut. Set in the wintry, vast lands of Wyoming, this film a gripping drama.

This film tells the story of an FBI agent and a game tracker. The two work together as they try to uncover a mysterious murder. Wildlife officer Cory Lambert discovers a dead local Native American girl out on a Native American reservation. FBI officer Jane Banner arrives to investigate the murder case.

Most western movies commonly take place in the Old West at a specific period of time. However, Wild River is one of few that utilizes the western archetype in a modern setting.

The film’s casting is somehow controversial as it features two white actors in the story of Native American struggle. Both Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen, though, delivered strong performances in their respective roles.

While having the story of the Native American struggle feature two White actors aren’t ideal, Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen are solid in the roles. Critics say Wild River is among the tensest standoff movies at present.

Director: Taylor Sheridan – Cast: Jeremy Renner, Elizabeth Olsen, Kelsey Asbille, Graham Greene, and Jon Bernthal

Running Time: 1 hr 50 min

16Strange Empire

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Strange Empire is a western drama series that premiered on CBC Television in October of 2013. This Canadian TV show follows the story of three women who fight for survival following the killings of their men.

Set in the 1860s near Alberta-Montana border, the series revolves around racial prejudices, family relationships, and the people living in a young town. Critics say that Strange Empire proves to be a powerful show with its unconventional storyline.

Strange Empire departs from the archetypal white gunslinging heroic men dominating the western genre. Rather, it highlights the strength of female protagonists as pivotal characters.

Until now, it remains a mystery as to why Strange Empire had only lasted for a single season. Fans think it could have deserved a few more seasons.

Unluckily, after a one-season run, CBC Television canceled Strange Empire in March 2015. Those who haven’t watched this western show yet can stream all 13 episodes via Netflix.

Creator: Laurie Finstad- Knizhnik – Cast: Cara Gee, Tattiawna Jones, Melissa Farman

Running Time: 1 season, 13 episodes

17Godless

Godless

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Godless is an Emmy-winning Netflix original production that premiered globally in 2017. This western series is created by Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Scott Frank. Notably, this show has a nice score to boot.

Its strong cast ensemble features two great actors Jack O’Connell and Jeff Daniels in major roles. With its observant and smart writing, Godless was lauded both by The Washington Post and Vanity as one of the 10 best TV series of 2017.

The plot of the series tells the tale of Roy Coode, a wounded outlaw who’s on the run from his infamous criminal ex-boss Frank Griffin. Frank takes refuge in a remote mining town mainly operated by women.

Godless is a mini-series that only ran for seven episodes. Despite that the show has a short runtime, viewers will get enough out of watching it. It is definitely worth your while

In fact, it received positive reviews, with an 8.4/10 score on IMDb and an 88 percent fresh rating from Rotten Tomatoes.

Creator: Scott Frank – Cast: Jeff Bridges, Jack O’ Connell, Michelle Dockery, Scoot McNairy, Merrit Wever, Thomas Brodie Sangster, and Sam Waterston

Running Time: 1 season, 7 episodes

18Hell On Wheels

Hell on Wheels

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Hell on Wheels is dubbed as one of the best American western shows to have ever hit the small screen in the past decade. AMC quietly offered this series in 2011. It became available for online streaming on Netflix in the United States in August 2018.

This show takes its name after the mobile encampment that follows an army of Union Pacific railroad workers. They are heading west to construct the First Transcontinental Railroad in North America during the 1860s.

It transpires at a time when everyone struggles to earn money to buy food. Hell on Wheels features Gambling houses, saloons, brothels, and gambling houses assembled with light and easily managed materials.

This western show’s main plot is a recurring one, which centers on the railroad construction. Hell on Wheels follows the lives of people involved with the road construction. These are laborers, sex workers, surveyors, and even mercenaries.

It appears, though, that Hell on Wheels, along with other more recent series, have gone unnoticed, when AMC’s programming started to wane. However, this western drama surrounding the railroad construction makes a big, bold, and badass show that is worth your while.

Creator: Joe and Tony Gayton – Cast:  Anson Mount, Colm Meaney, rapper Common, and Dominique McElligot

Running Time: 5 seasons, 57 episodes

19Frontier

Frontier

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Frontier is a historical period drama, which was co-created by Netflix and Discovery Canada.  It heavily adapts the hallmarks of a western genre but it is not set in the United States like other western movies. Instead, it takes place in Canada.

Set in Canada, Frontier chronicles the power struggles and engrossing greed amid the North American fur trade in the 1700s. The show’s protagonist played by Aquaman actor Jason Momoa, an outlaw that is part-Irish and part-Cree.

This series is packed with intense, gory action. So, you will completely dig it if you are into violent and mindless westerns as a form of entertainment. While it may lack substance, Frontier makes a good selection for binge-watching.

Frontier was renewed for a second season earlier than the show’s premiere in October 2016 and spanned two more seasons. It has been distributed internationally by Netflix since January 2017.

Creators: Rob Blackie and Peter Blackie – Cast: Jason Momoa, Landon Liboiron

Running Time: 3 seasons, 18 episodes

20Hatfields & McCoys

Hatfields & McCoys

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Hatfields & McCoys tells the story of America’s most renowned rival families. This limited series debuted in May 2012 as the first aired and biggest scripted drama on The History Channel.

Starring Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton, Hatfields & McCoys boosted the network’s ratings. The three-part mini-series also received various accolades, including five Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.

This western show revolves around two bitterly feuding rural families in West Virginia and Kentucky around 1860s to 1890s. It is specifically set in the Appalachians, along the Tug Fork of the Big Sandy River. The production, however, was mainly shot in Romania, outside Brasov wherein the Carpathians stand in as the Appalachians.

Hatfields & McCoys is lauded by fans and critics alike, it earns a high IMDb rating of 8.0/10.

Director: Kevin Reynolds – Cast: Kevin Costner, Bill Paxton, Tom Berenger, and Powers Boothe

Running Time: 3 episodes

21Longmire

Longmire

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Longmire is an American Western crime drama TV series that has a modern backdrop. It first premiered in June 2012 on the A&E network. It then became the highest-rated television series of the network.

The show is based on a series of novels of Walt Longmire Mysteries authored by best-selling author Craig Johnson. The series is then adapted for the small screen by creators John Coveny and Hunt Baldwin.

A&E decided to cancel Longmire after a three-season run. However, during the advent of the streaming era, it is one of the shows saved by Netflix. The streaming giant picked up the show and renewed for three more seasons.

Longmire follows the story of widowed sheriff Walt Longmire, played by Robert Taylor, in the fictional city of Absaroka County, Wyoming. The plot of the series centers on the titular character’s investigation of major crimes transpiring within his designated territory.

The series is a modern take on the archetypes of the western genre. Thus, it may not satiate the appetite of solid fans of westerns. Longmire is still a well-rounded western show to watch, though.

All the episodes of six seasons can be streamed on Netflix online in North America and Australia.

Creators: ohn Coveny and Hunt Baldwin. –  Cast: Robert Taylor, Katee Sackhoff, and Lou Diamond Phillips

Top 10 Cleanest Countries In The World

Traveling to some of the magnificent places in the world is a life-changing  experience. You exponentially expand your view of the world. A famous quote from Saint Augustine of Hippo reads, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”

If you are one of those that agree with Saint Augustine, then most likely, your bucket list includes feeding your wanderlust. The question is when?

More or less, you think you hardly have the time or money. But the time is now. They say that money will come back, but time simply won’t.

So, now, you might want to realize your dream of taking your well-needed vacation and explore countries in Europe, Oceania, or Asia. Imagine yourself diving in the most pristine beaches, taking a selfie at ancient landmarks, discovering the richest culture, or walking down the cleanest streets in the world.

However, the world consists of more than 180 countries and you do not want to regret when you get there, right? Hence, the key is to narrow your choices. You can first check out which are the safest or the cleanest countries to visit.

Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2019 Report

Good thing, though, is that the good folks at Yale University and Columbia University jointly conducted research that ranks countries from the cleanest to the dirtiest ones in the world.

The researchers collaborated with the World Economic Forum for this project. It aims to measure the cleanliness and environmental friendliness of countries across several variables.

The EPI index considers various criteria such as air quality, water, sanitation, forests, climate change, as well as other key factors. The EPI takes into account 50 percent of a country’s environmental health and the other 50 percent pertains to its ecosystem vitality.

One of the environmental metrics that affect a country’s EPI score is Air Quality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution has become one of the leading threats to public health. In fact, it has now become a global issue.

Another factor is Water and Sanitation wherein a country has access to clean water. A source of clean water is crucial for human development, the environment, and the country’s economy. Other determining factors of a country’s EPI also include the climate and energy issue, forests, fisheries, use of heavy metals, and more.

2019 Top 10 Cleanest Countries In The World

Based on the data collected in 2019, let us take a quick look at the top 10 cleanest countries in the world and their respective EPI ranking.

  1. Switzerland
  2. France
  3. Denmark
  4. Malta
  5. Sweden
  6. United Kingdom
  7. Luxembourg
  8. Austria
  9. Ireland
  10. Finland

Other countries that have high EPIs and therefore considered some of the cleanest places to travel include Iceland that scored 78.57. Spain scored 78.39, Germany got 78.37, Norway received 77.49, and Belgium got 77.38. Favorite destination Italy has a 76.96 EPI. New Zealand lands on 17th spot with 75.96. Netherlands received a 75.46 EPI while Israel scored 75.01, and Japan has 74.69 EPI.

The United States, meanwhile, sits at no. 27 in the 2019 EPI with 71.19. It registers strong scores on some issues, such as Water and Sanitation with 90.92 and Air Quality with 97.52. However, It has a weak performance on deforestation with 8.84 and GHG emissions with 45.81.

Countries With Low EPI Scores

For comparison, the countries that are at the bottom of 2019 EPI rankings include Nepal with an EPI score of 31.44. India is also one of the dirtiest countries in the world with an EPI of 30.57, along with the Democratic Republic of the Congo with 30.41, Bangladesh with 29.56, and Burundi with 27.43.

Apparently, low EPI scores show the lack of national sustainability as well as efforts to improving air quality, protecting biodiversity, and reducing GHG emissions.  Countries that have poor EPI scores could succumb to a public health crisis that requires immediate action.

So, now, we dig deeper into each of the top 10 cleanest countries in the world. Arguably, these nations are the most beautiful countries in the world, too.

1Switzerland

Switzerland

Switzerland gets the crown as 2019 cleanest country in the world with an impressive EPI of 87.42. It is known for its thick forests, wildlife, as well as safe and clean water. This explains why it bested 179 countries in the aspect of cleanliness.

This majestic nation is located in Western Europe, with Germany to the north, Italy to the south, France to the west, and Austria to the east. The country’s population is estimated at 8 million people. They speak either one of the country’s four main languages, i.e. German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Notably, this thriving nation has one of the incredibly lowest crime rates in the world among all developed countries. Also, the country has an ideal climate. Although it has four seasons, Switzerland’s climate never gets too cold or too hot. Thus, it sees booming tourism all year round.

Switzerland is also home to the world’s most coveted luxury watches brands such as TAG Heuer, Tissot, and Rolex. The Swiss are also famous for their positively sinful, scrumptious chocolates.

In addition, they can be as innovative as they can get. The fact is Swiss chocolatiers managed to add edible gold to their chocolates.

Tourism

Switzerland is also known for its elaborate landscape and is one of the best tourist dreamlands, too. This cleanest place on Earth has more than 1,500 lakes and each is less than 10 miles away from another lake.

The Swiss economy is as well popular for being one of the most stable and thriving economies in the world. Lined by the Swiss Alps, it is definitely a beautiful country that you need to add in your list of go-to places on the planet.

Switzerland

Moreover, Switzerland offers a myriad of prime, breath-taking tourist spots to visit in one’s lifetime. These include The Matterhorn, Interlaken, Lucerne, Davos, Lake Thun, and Lake Geneva.

When in Switzerland, you should not miss to also experience the train journey to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe”, in the beautiful Bernese Oberland. The Great Aletsch Glacier, known as the longest glacier in Europe, starts at Jungfraujoch.

2

France

France ranks as the second cleanest country in the world with an EPI score of 83.95. Found in Western Europe, it is the third largest country on the continent.

This rich country has a population of 62 million people. However, its large populace does not have a negative impact on the cleanliness of the nation’s environment.

France gets to be among the world’s most environment-friendly and tidiest countries. It received a high score on air quality, water sanitation, and fisheries.

Despite the fact that France is industrialized, 79 percent of its electricity depends on nuclear energy. This makes France the largest consumer of nuclear power in the whole world. That is why it has a low score on carbon dioxide emissions

Moreover, France has a total nominal GDP of $2.61 trillion, with a per capita GDP of $41,141. Thus, France is indeed the wealthiest country in Europe and the world’s fourth wealthiest nation.

Tourism

France is not just one of the cleanest nations, but it is also the no. 1 tourist destination in the world. Based on data gathered by the UN World Tourism Organization, it ranks first in the world tourism ranking. More than 83 million foreign tourists visit France each year.

The world’s most visited country has a total of 37 world heritage sites. It has a lovely climate, too. France is also known to have superb beaches, historic castles and museums, and grandiose gardens and parks.

France

If you are into arts, Paris is home to one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. It contains 35,000 pre-historic objects, such as Egyptian antiques, crown jewels, old paintings, and many more.

The top three most popular attractions in France include The Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and the Palace of Versailles. You can check out other must-see sites like the Côte d’Azur, Loire Valley Châteaux, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, and Provence.

France encompasses an area of 551,000 sq. km., which is almost a fifth of the EU’s entire area.  France comes in a six-sided shape, which is why it is also called l’hexagone.

3Denmark

Denmark

Sitting at no. 3 as the cleanest country in the world is Denmark, with an EPI score of 81.60. Apparently, this country in the Nordic region emphasizes the use of renewable energy.

As of 2019, Denmark only has a total population of 5,754,356 people. It is the southernmost part of other Scandinavian nations that include Finland, Norway, and Sweden.

Denmark is not just one of the world’s cleanest countries. The country also sits at no. 2 in the list of the happiest countries in the world according to the survey by the Gallup World Poll.

Interestingly, it appears the Danes are arguably the most social people that walk this planet. This is the very reason that explains their happiness. Another Nordic country, Norway, tops the list while Switzerland ranks third.

Other than that, Denmark also holds another superlative. Statistics indicate that it is the least corrupt country in the world.

Tourism

Also, Denmark is a top-rated tourist destination for travelers. You will find Europe’s oldest functioning tower and observatory, Rundetaarn, here. Other best spots include the Tivoli Gardens, the second oldest amusement park in the world.

Denmark

Other amazing tourist attractions in the country include Nyhavn, the National Museum of Denmark, the National Gallery of Denmark, Christiansborg Palace, Frederiksborg Palace, and the famous Little Mermaid statue.

The Klitmoller, otherwise known as Cold Hawaii, in Scandinavia is known as one of the best beaches to surf on. Because of this, Denmark has also turned into a surfer’s country.

4Malta

Malta

Malta ranks fourth in the 2019 cleanest countries in the world with an EPI score of 80.90. The intensified efforts of the Maltese government to take care of the environment in recent years has paid off. It is now in the list of top 10 tidiest countries to visit.

It does not mean that it is precisely spotless, though. But most parts of the country have a high index of air quality and are kept clean.

It is interesting to know that Malta neither has forests or rivers across the country’s seven islands. It is mainly made of limestone and its hills stand less than 300 meters.

Do you also know that Malta is one of the world’s smallest nations? In spite of its size, it is densely populated with an estimate of 450,000 residents.

Tourism

The country’s tourism is continuously thriving. It is among the most visited tourist destinations in Europe, thanks to its elaborate and pristine beaches. In fact, the peak beach season in Malta lasts until the middle of the fall season.

Malta

The Maltese Islands, namely Malta, Gozo, and Comino, take pride of ancient history proven by the ruins of the oldest existing edifices today. Among these three islands, Gozo is the most flourishing destination.

The capital of Gozo known as Victoria is also called Rabat. It boasts the magnificent Cittadella, which dates back to the medieval era.

Visitors who look forward to a nice, relaxing weeklong stay will absolutely love the place’s picturesque landscape, quiet towns, and immaculate beaches.

Comino, meanwhile, is the smallest among the three islands. It remains virtually unoccupied. The Blue Lagoon serves as the island’s biggest attraction and from the looks of it, you won’t ever ask why.

5Sweden

Sweden

Sweden sits at fifth spot of the world’s cleanest countries in 2019 with an EPI score of 80.51. Some may even argue that it should be crowned the cleanest country in the world.

All Scandinavian countries have three common characteristics. They are clean, peaceful, and well-developed. Sweden is no different as it is consistently in the list of cleanest countries of the world over the years.

This Nordic country has a population of only 9.1 million people. The Swedish government gives importance to keep a cleaner environment by increasing its greenery. The country has clean air and water, thousands of acres of preserved forests, and majestic lakes.

It is also known for being a master in recycling, wherein it has set policies on recycling trash. The country even has the most efficient trash recycling system. It has to import trash from other countries to keep them functioning.

Apart from this, the country is naturally using renewable energy sources, thereby decreasing its CO2 emissions.

Tourism

Moreover, Sweden is the perfect choice for your next trip to Europe. It is one of the most beautiful places on Earth you might get to visit one day. Sweden boasts of its garbage-free streets, minimal air pollution, and sanitary facilities wherever part of the country your feet will lead you to.

It is even dubbed as traveler’s paradise simply because of its rich history and diverse landscapes. If you are into outdoor adventure, Sweden is the go-to place.

Sweden

Tourists can explore a slew of Sweden’s best attractions. These include opulent The Royale Palace, Skansen, the Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan, and the world-famous Ice Hotel.

Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, is called the “Venice of the North.” It is an epic city built around water covering 14 islands and over 50 bridges on an extensive Baltic Sea archipelago.

6United Kingdom

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom makes it to the 2019 top 10 cleanest countries in the world. It sits at no. 6, with a score of 79.89.

The country has received perfect scores in Drinking Water and Sanitation. It did excellent as well in two categories, such as Marine Protected Areas and Biome Protection.

The UK also has a high Air Quality index of 94.43. It also displays intense efforts in protecting the environment with a 96.69 score in Biodiversity and Habitat.

The United Kingdom encompasses four countries, i.e. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Relative to its size, the UK has a population of 63.1 million people. It is estimated that 8.1 million people live in London, UK’s capital.

The United Kingdom has reached the pinnacle of being one of the richest countries in the world. This great nation has a total GDP of $2.434 trillion. Its per capita GDP of $38,591. Their total nominal GDP is the 6th highest in the world. It ranks as the third largest economy in Europe.

Tourism

The country’s majestic landscape is mostly defined by steep mountains and low valleys. It is also known as the sixth most visited countries in the world.

There are infinite possibilities of things to see and do when you are in the UK. It has 28 world heritage sites that date back to the medieval period. These include Bath, Canterbury, and Chester. The 3,000-year-old Stonehenge that stands on Salisbury Plain is more ancient than Egypt’s Great Pyramids.

United Kingdom

The country is home to Windsor Palace, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. In 2019 alone, a total of 40 million foreign tourists came to visit, spending a total of $31.93 billion.

Famous tourist attractions in the United Kingdom include The Tower of London, The Roman Baths and Georgian City of Bath. Some of the other iconic landmarks to visit are York Minster and Historic Yorkshire, and Canterbury Cathedral. You can also explore the Eden Project, The Cotswolds, Warwick Castle, Royal Museums Greenwich, and a lot more.

7Luxembourg

Luxembourg

Luxembourg ranks as the 7th cleanest country in the world with an EPI score of 79.12. This small European country is surrounded by Belgium, France, and Germany.

Luxembourg is a small country encompassing less than 1,650 sq.km. This nation has a population of fewer than 600,000 people.

Most parts of Luxembourg are rural. North part of the country has dense Ardennes forest and nature parks. The east part has narrow rocky valleys of the Mullerthal region and the southeast part has the Moselle river valley.

Luxembourg’s capital, Luxembourg City, is also home to a preserved medieval old town settled on mere cliffs.

Tourism

In terms of its tourism, the vibrant Luxembourg City features the main points of interest and top tourist attractions in Luxembourg. UNESCO has also declared the city’s old quarter as a world heritage site.

Also, it is worth your while to discover several of the country’s small towns. Old fortresses, mighty castles, and other picturesque backdrop make Luxembourg one of the top tourist destinations among world travelers.

Luxembourg

One of the landmark sites to visit in Austria is the Bourscheid Castle perched on a plateau. The ruins were declared a historical monument in the 1930s.

You may also visit other spectacular places in Luxembourg like the Walls of the Corniche. You should not miss to also see Upper Sûre Natural Park and Esch-Sur-Sûre, Larochette, and the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art.

8Austria

Austria

Austria sits at 8th spot in the list of cleanest countries in the world in 2019. It has an EPI score of 78.97. Situated in Central Europe, it is a landlocked country with mountainous terrain. That is why it stays clean. More importantly, it is safe from oceanic waste that has raised a global concern at present.

This wealthy country has vast and dense greenery. Two-thirds of its entire area is blanketed by meadows and forests. It is also home to the beautiful Krimml waterfalls.

As of 2019, this German-speaking country has a total population of 8.75 million people. They are typically conservative but friendly. Austrians have a high standard of living given its consistently high per capita GDP of $49,436.

Austria’s neighboring countries include Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and the Czech Republic.

Tourism

France is a go-to destination for travelers who love walking or hiking. Austria has the magnificent Alps that is perfect for snow sports, such as Alpine skiing and snowboarding.

The country also boasts historical landmarks. In Vienna, you can find both The Wurstelprater, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, and The Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the oldest zoo in the world.

Ice Cave Entrance, Austria

Foreign visitors can also explore Eisriesenwelt, the world’s largest ice cave, which is found in Werfen, Austria. This cave extends more than 26 miles or about 42 kilometers.

Other famous tourist attractions in Austria include the Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, Mirabell Palace, Salzkammergut, and many more.

9Ireland

Ireland

Ireland occupies the ninth spot in the list of top 10 cleanest countries in the world. It garnered an EPI score of 78.77, a tad bit higher than that of Finland.

Dubbed as the “Emerald Isle,” Ireland is a majestic green country situated in northwest Europe. Apart from being one of the cleanest places on the planet, the country is also the 20th largest island in the world. It measures around 84,421 sq. km. of land.

An estimated 6.4 million people live in Ireland. The country’s capital city, Dublin, serves as home to 1.273 million people. Majority of the residents speak in English. However, the country’s official language also includes Irish, the native tongue of families that live on the island for generations.

Ireland’s nominal GDP amounts to $217.3 billion, with a per capita GDP of $47,478.

Tourism

“One of the things that I love about Ireland is that nearly everywhere you visit there is something unexpected,” Cindy Thompson, from Irish Fireside, said about Ireland.

Well, isn’t she right? The Republic of  Ireland is renowned for having a vast number of castles. This mystical island also offers infinite and abundant places to visit. The most popular attractions for tourists include state museums, prehistoric heritage sites.

In addition, there are a host of outdoor adventures to enjoy all throughout the country, such as horse riding, golf, sailing, and of course, exploring its pristine islands.

Dublin alone boasts of striking iconic landmarks such as the St. Patrick’s Cathedral that dates back to 1220. In fact, Irish people grandly celebrate Patrick’s Day in Ireland. They feast on traditional Irish food, which includes beer, pink bacon, and savory chicken.

You will truly find Ireland an enchanting and wonderful place to visit. The country had witnessed fights for power in the past. However, Ireland now thrives as a peaceful, independent nation.

10Finland

Finland

Finland is the third Scandinavian nation that made it in the latest ranking of the world’s cleanest countries. It occupies the 10th spot with an EPI score of 78.64.

It is as well viewed to be among the most liveable countries in the world. Finland is recognized for its excellent air quality. This country is known for its lofty forests and incredibly breath-taking natural landscapes.

It produces minimal air pollution and utilizes environment-friendly energy resources. This could mean Finnish people will not easily be susceptible to illnesses that are associated with environmental risks.

Tourism

Additionally, the country’s high level of cleanliness has contributed to its thriving tourism. Business Finland reported that Finland has marked a new record in tourism. It saw growth in the number of international tourists, attracting 6.6 million in 2019.

“Finland is a new destination. We still have plenty of potential for growth,” said Paavo Virkkunen, from Visit Finland unit.

Furthermore, Finland is dubbed the “Land of the Midnight Sun.” This country is most famous with its enchanting Northern Lights. Many tourists consider this phenomenal attraction the icing on the cake.

SantaPark, Finland

Other than that, some amazing highlights of your dream trip to beautiful Finland include Winter Wonderland experience at SantaPark. You can also explore Siida Museum, Olavinlinna, Suomenlinna, Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, and other dazzling tourist spots.

Best 12 Japanese Horror Movies To Chill Your Summer Nights

Marebito (2004)

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Takuyoshi Masuoka is a cameraman obsessed with capturing the sensation of fear near death. He sees a man commit suicide near Tokyo’s subway and wonders what the man must have felt before he died.

He wants to experience the same fear and so he goes to the subways of Tokyo. It’s where according to an urban legend, spirits haunt the living. What he sees there changes the course of his life but also fulfills his quest.

Takuyoshi sees a naked woman chained to a cave. He takes her home and names her F. He tries to feed and tame her but she doesn’t want food or water. She wants blood.

Marebito is a slow but eerie film that borders between fantasy and urban horror. The protagonist’s venture into the subways leads him into another dimension, that of the underworld, where the mysterious woman and other creatures live.

Meanwhile, the horror dwells in the gruesome acts the delusional Takuyoshi does in order to quench his guest’s thirst. The acts also give him a reason to satisfy his curiosity about fear.

There is also something scary about the image of faceless people staring at you and talking to you telepathically. Of course, as with Takashi Shimizu’s other films (The Grudge, Reincarnation), Marebito has a few surprising ghost appearances here and there.

This Japanese horror movie has a disturbing twist at the end. The revelation comes to a head when Takuyoshi confronts his inner demons.

The realization will leave a sour taste in your mouth. It will leave you re-watching and perpetually analyzing every detail of the film to understand the story better.

Director: Takashi Shimizu – Screenplay: Chiaki Konaka – Cast: Shin’ya Tsukamoto, Tomomi Miyashita, Kazuhiro Nakahara, Miho Ninagawa, Shun Sugata, Masayoshi Haneda, Junko Amagi  – Run Time: 1h 32m

The 21+ Best Korean Mystery Thrillers Of All Time

Memories of Murder (2003)

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This crime mystery thriller follows the hunt for a serial killer who rapes and murders his women victims. Local detectives Jo Young-Goo (Kim Roe-Ha) and Park Doo-Man (Song Kang-Ho), and Seo Tae-Yoon (Kim Sang-Kyung), a detective from Seoul, take charge of the investigation.

Two of the detectives do not see eye-to-eye because of their differing practices. Doo-Man uses violence to force a confession out of every small-time crook, while Tae-Yoon meticulously goes over documents related to the case to find clues.

However, with the bodies mounting up, they are forced to cooperate with each other and sets up a trap after Tae-yon notices a pattern among the victims’ profile. Their attempt is futile though when another body turns up dead.  The detectives are forced to resort to rude measures to crack the case.

This film uses dark humor to downplay the horror but grips the audience with its provocative storytelling about real murders that occurred in the Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province from 1986 to 1991.

Director: Bong Joon-Ho – Screenplay: Bong Joon-Ho, Shim Sung-Bo, Kim Kwang-Rim – Cast: Song Kang-Ho, Kim Sang-Kyung, Kim Roe-Ha, Song Jae-Ho, Byun Hee-Bong, Ko Seo-Hee, Jeon Mi-Sun, Park Hae-Il, Park No-Shik, Seo Yeong-Hwa, Ryu Tae-Ho, Woo Ko-Na – Run Time: 2h 12m

Top 15 Best Sunglasses Brands In The World

Sunglasses are arguably a man’s best friend. It is a staple accessory in a male’s wardrobe. Since it was invented, a pair of shades has been used as a fashion statement to look sharp and bold.

The sunglasses have the power to  transform a man’s overall look in a snap. Let’s say from a striking debonair, cool rock star, or a la Tom Cruise’s Maverick in Top Gun.

A set of eyewear can as well be a significant element in establishing a man’s identity. For example, the legendary Beatles member John Lennon was identified with his famous round shades, which are Ray-Ban RB3447s.

The Main Purpose Of Sunglasses

No matter what look you dig, however, sunglasses were invented for a much greater purpose. That is to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

You must stay away from sporting cheap dapper that is made with plastic lenses, though. More or less, you are damaging your retinas instead of protecting them.

So, how would you know you are not using shades that will roast your retinas? Simply, look for the “CE” or “ANSI” mark on one of the temples. It means that the lenses meet the quality standards, thereby shielding 95 percent of UV rays below 380 nanometers. Harmful UVB rays are about 320 to 390 nanometers.

Sunglasses Brands And Styles

Any brand of sunglasses created in the male fashion universe varies in style. Each style is designed to flatter a person’s face shape. It comes in sleek, classy, sporty, oversized, classic aviator, handsome, and modern frames.

Many designers come up with high-quality shades that are quite expensive but worth your money. Some of the best choices are the heritage global brands like Ray-Ban, Oliver Peoples, Persol, and Oakley, Inc. Relatively newcomer Warby Parker and hip brands like Mykita are also popular today.

Some brands, meanwhile, offer practical choices, however, such as polarized lenses. Polarized lenses can reduce glare and eye fatigue. They are also perfect for a long drive or a beach getaway.

A wide array of sunglasses in different styles are available in the fashion industry. You may be asking yourselves which brands to go for that perfectly suit your sophisticated style.

We have compiled a list to help you narrow your choice. But before that, here are some tips that you have to first consider when picking your new pair of sunglasses.

Thing To Consider Before Buying

Each pair of sunglasses can be made of plastic or glass lenses. The plastic lenses are made of CR-39, a plastic made from hard resin, or polycarbonate, a synthetic material. They are lightweight but prone to scratch. The glass lenses, on the other hand, are heavier but are scratch-resistant.

In terms of frames, plastic ones are lightweight but not durable. The ones made of metal are corrosion-resistant. Moreover, a set of quality shades features springs at the hinges to let the arms open wider when worn. Also, the sunglasses have padding at the bridge so they fit nicely at the top of your nose.

So, here is our list of top 15 best sunglasses brands in the world. Just remember that bottom line, your choice of sunglasses all boils down to product quality. You are willing to pay for a pair of shades of a reputable brand that can protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging UV rays.

1Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban

It’s a no-brainer that Ray-Ban automatically sits at the top of the list of the best sunglasses brand in the world. The eyewear maker remains famous as a global heritage brand of fashionable high-quality sunglasses.

The company offers a range of high-end classic styles but at relatively fair price points. So, you don’t have to break your bank. This explains why Ray-Ban is still arguably at no. 1 amid tough competition with other sunglasses brands.

Founded in 1937, it has been around for more than 80 years now. Originally established an American eyewear company, Ray-Ban was bought by Italian eyewear giant Luxottica for $640 million in 1999.

Following the company’s sale to Luxottica, some fashion critics argued that the quality of Ray-Ban sunglasses has suffered. However, the brand continues to dominate and stays as a top choice of sunglasses enthusiasts.

Ray-Ban’s most popular products range from the Wayfarer, Clubmaster, and the timeless Aviator sunglasses. Ray-Ban’s sunglasses were initially created for US Air Force pilots in the 1930s.

It did not take long when Ray-Ban shades also made its way to Hollywood. Then-famous actor Marlon Brando sported aviators in The Wild One.

The Blue Brothers wore the Wayfarers as well as fashion icon Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Tim Roth also sported the Clubmaster in Reservoir Dogs. Ray-Ban is the brand to go for if you want to score an irresistible movie icon look.

2American Optical

American Optical

American Optical is another top sunglasses brand that is nearly two centuries old. Founded in 1826 by William Beecher in 1826, it is one of the long-running eyewear brands in the world.

But it was only in 1876 when the American Optical its first sets of sunglasses. The earliest form came in regular eyeglasses with lens tinted in various colors. American Optical became popular when it specially created the sunglasses worn by astronaut Neil Armstrong and the rest of the crew of Apollo 11.

This American brand has built itself a household name for its line of sturdy sunglasses. A pair of American Optical shades last for years that it makes a good investment.

The company offers excellent quality products for reasonable price points. You can grab a pair of American Optical shades for as low as $100. This is quite a deal you cannot say about other brands of eyewear.

3Oakley

Oakley, Inc.

Oakley is another world-renowned brand of superior sunglasses to own. The company, like many companies, has a humble beginning. It was in 1975 when founder James Jannard started producing motorcycle grips in his garage. It also made ski goggles.

In 1984, Oakley released the Factory Pilot Eyeshades, its first pair of sunglasses. The brand’s sporty feel signature has set itself apart from the competition. Several years later, Oakley shades became a hit.

The hype peaked in the 1990s when almost everyone you bumped into was sporting an Oakley. The company produced most of its sporty eyewear with polarized lenses that protect your peepers from unwanted glare.

Oakley shades are a must-have accessory for those who have a more active lifestyle. It is perfect to wear for the summer or driving in broad daylight.

Italian eyewear giant Luxottica, which has also bought both Ray-Ban and Persol, acquired Oakley in 2007. You can purchase some of Oakley’s best-seller eyewear between $100 and $200 price points.

4Maui Jim

Maui Jim

Maui Jim is also one of the top-caliber global brands to go for when you are shopping for your next pair of sunglasses. Founder Jim Richards first established it as a private company in Hawaii in 1980.

The company had produced its line of sunglasses in Hawaii for eight years. Then, it expanded its market reach in the mainland US in 1988.

Until now, Maui Jim is making huge waves in the world of high fashion. It creates sports and trendy eyewear as well as prescription or non-prescription sunglasses. The company’s marketing efforts usually involve water-related theme to pay homage to the brand’s Hawaiian roots.

Maui Jim successfully competes with other brands of luxury sunglasses with its durable, exceptional quality eyewear. It continues to be a top choice among frequent travelers and beach lovers.

Maui Jim sunglasses do not come cheap, however. The price of the latest eyewear from this brand is tagged at more than $300.

5Persol

Persol

Persol is another trusted name in the international arena for a good pair of dapper. It is touted as the only brand parallel to Ray-Ban in terms of company history that goes back to the 1900s. Just like Ray-Ban, Persol is owned by Luxottica.

Persol comes from the Italian phrase “per il sole”, which means “for the sun” in English. Giuseppe Ratti founded the company as an Italian maker of eyewear in 1917. That is 20 years earlier before Ray-Ban was even born.

It has been around for more than a century now. Thus, it is one of the oldest sunglasses manufacturers in the world.

Persol introduced its hallmark yellow-brown lens as early as 1the 920s when Ray-Ban was not even conceived yet. The brand became a huge hit when the 60s counterculture icon and King of Cool Steve McQueen sported a Persol sunglasses in the 1968 thriller film, The Thomas Crown Affair.

Since then, the brand’s iconic Steve McQueen Persol 714 has become the most popular picks from its wide selection of sunglasses. Persol offers durable sunglasses that come in great styles.

Persol is tested and proven to last for many years. It is definitely worth every penny that you pay for it. You can find some models in the catalog that are sold for as low as $260.

Here’s an interesting tidbit about Persol: it holds the patent for the world’s first flexible stem system. This technology allows for a bend. That means, Persol’s sleek frames can adapt to the shape of your face.

As for the price, you can get a pair of Persol for at least $100, which sounds affordable for most. The brand’s top-shelf sunglasses range from $200 to $300.

6Oliver Peoples

Oliver Peoples

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Oliver Peoples started as a Hollywood brand in the 80s. Decades later, the company is making a noise in the fashion industry. It has now become one of the world’s leading brands of sunglasses.

The company opened its first boutique on Sunset Boulevard in 1986. So, Oliver Peoples rapidly became a popular eyewear brand in Hollywood movies. If you are a fan of the hit comedy-drama TV series Entourage, you know that Tyler Durden, Patrick Bateman, and Vincent Chase all sported a pair of Oliver Peoples sunglasses.

Oliver Peoples stand out from competitive brands out there. Its designs are retro transformed into a modern-day look. Despite being a Tinseltown brand, its eyewear has conservative styles to it.

You can rely on a 100 percent UVA protection when you wear an Oliver Peoples shades. Most standard sunglasses only have three-barrel hinges on the frames but this premium brand has seven. Thus, the sunglasses have more chances to survive when you take your seat and forget they are still in your jean’s back pocket.

Oliver Peoples is also one of the brands on this list that is now owned by Luxottica. Oakley first bought the company in 2006. A year later, Oliver Peoples became a subsidiary of Luxottica upon its purchase of Oakley.

Oliver Peoples sunglasses are known for its detailing and distinct frames. All of its products come in outstanding quality courtesy of the materials used by the company.

Sunglasses by Oliver Peoples are pretty pricey where several models sell more than $400. But it is fair enough if you are after top-notch quality eyewear made of superior materials.

7Mykita

Mykita

The award-winning Mykita also joins our list of top 15 best sunglasses brands in the world. It is an eyewear company headquartered in Berlin, Germany.

Founded by Harald Gottschling, Daniel Haffmans, Philipp Haffmans, and Moritz Kruger, Mykita first entered into sunglasses manufacturing in 2003. The company had its first work area at a former children’s daycare or Kita in German.

For the last 15 years, Mykita continues to produce hand-assembled eyewear. It has also collaborated with other chic sunglasses brands such as Maison Margiela and Moncler.

In the aspect of designs, Mykita keeps their sunglasses simpler. In terms of prices, this sunglasses brand made in Germany is much more expensive than its competition.

Mykita prices can go as high as $800, with a few pairs in the catalog tagged as low as $300. However, you definitely pay for the brand’s excellent quality shades, so it’s worth it. You can expect your pair of Mykita sunglasses to last for many years.

8Tom Ford

Tom Ford

The Tom Ford brand also makes a mark in the fashion universe since its inception in 2005. The name speaks for itself. Tom Ford himself is well-known as one of the most successful designers in the world.

In 2004, he left the multi-billion fashion house Gucci because of some disagreements with the CEO over artistic control. In that same year, Ford built his own company that is now known as the Tom Ford brand.

It first debuted its beauty collection and the eyewear collection in 2005. Then two years later, Ford opened his first menswear store in New York City.

He received critical acclaim for his designs from some of the most popular fashion critics in the industry. More than a decade later, Tom Ford now envisions to open 100 retail stores in different locations around the world in succeeding years.

As for its eyewear and sunglasses collection, the Tom Ford brand has since become massively popular. To date, the brand is one of the most desirable and best sunglasses brands in the international scene.

All lenses of Tom Ford sunglasses have 100 percent UV protection for your eyes. Its sunglasses are best-known for its slimmer frames that never go out of style.

The designs come in a modern spin of wayfarer that is a perfect pick for summer. That is on top of the brand’s aviator, cat eye, or wrap designs.

The collection also includes the overly large square-shaped ones for those who want to nail that all-out VIP look. Oh, and did we mention it’s a favorite of James Bond, too?

The Tom Ford sunglasses sell about $400, with some being sold more than $1,500.

9Randolph Engineering

Randolph Engineering

Randolph Engineering is the way to go if you are after durability. This luxury sunglasses brand makes some of the world’s most durable sunglasses. A pair of Randolph Engineering eyewear is touted to be indestructible.

The quality is 100 percent guaranteed. This is backed by the fact the brand’s loyal customer is the US government itself. Randolph Engineering has been making tons of sunglasses for the US Air Force, the US, Navy, and the US army for many years now.

The super brand’s lenses come in anti-reflective, scratch-resistant lenses that are distortion-free. These are capable of blocking 100 percent UVB and UVA light to protect your eyes.

While high-end sunglasses come in hefty price tags, You can grab a decent pair of Randolph Engineering aviator sunglasses at $200 price points.

Big Hollywood names such as Tom Cruise, Zac Efron, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Johnny Depp have worn Randolph Engineering eyewear. Founded in 1972, the American eyewear company is headquartered in Randolph, Massachusetts.

10Warby Parker

Warby Parker

Warby Parker is way too young compared to Ray-Ban or American Optical that have been around for centuries. Bu the company is gaining popularity because it is where affordability meets style.

In fact, it is safe to say that it is the cheapest, but great-quality sunglasses brand on this list. So, you can check this one out. You can never go wrong with Warby Parker as it offers superb value for its price.

In this day and age, everyone seems to be living in a fast lane. Warby Parker understands that well that it mainly sells its products online. Its polarized sunglasses only cost as low as $95.

What is even more interesting about this brand is its effort to give something back to society with its buy one, get one (BOGO) business model. Each time a customer buys a pair of Warby Parker sunglasses, the company pays to have another one made. Then, the money goes to charitable institutions or non-profit organizations.

This American sunglasses brand was established in 2010 by David Gilboa, Neil Blumenthal, Andrew Hunt, and Jeffrey Raider.

11Moscot

Moscot

Moscot is one of the best brands to look for if you are shopping for a long-lasting pair of sunglasses. This super brand was first established in 1915 by founder Hyman Moscot in 1915.

Moscot has been around in the eyewear industry for around 104 years. So, it is one of the oldest landmark names that join the ranks of Ray-Ban, American Optical, and Persol.

Apart from being one of the oldest and the best brands of sunglasses in the world, Moscot is also one of the long-running New York-based companies. Until now, it remains as a privately-owned business managed by the Moscot family. The fourth-generation Moscot, Harvey Moscot, currently sits as the company president.

As a world-famous sunglasses manufacturer, Moscot sets itself apart from other brands by its bold and classic designs. The company makes excellent quality products that also come in fair price tags. For example, the Macher Sun is pegged at $320.

So, anyone who chooses this premium brand will have to dig deep into their pockets to get a pair of Moscot shades. A number of Hollywood male celebrities, including Johnny Depp, Paul Rudd, Jeff Goldblum, and James Franco, are avid fans of Moscot.

12ic! berlin

ic! berlin

Other than Mykita, our list of top 15 best sunglasses brand includes ic! berlin as another German eyewear manufacturer. It is touted as one of the most innovative sunglasses makers, too.

For 23 years, the company has toppled competition with its own expertise. The brand has been awarded various accolades recognizing its revolutionary designs.

The German eyewear brand is widely known for its light and flexible sunglasses. If you are in search of the comfiest eyewear in the market, ic! berlin is the go-to brand.

While a pair of ic! berlin is sold quite expensively, you are paying for the brand’s standard quality and durability. It is guaranteed to last for a long time, which is something that fashion enthusiasts love about this brand.

ic! berlin was founded in 1996 by Ralph Anderl. The company’s headquarters are presently based in Berlin.

13Prada

Prada

Prada is a household brand of high fashion that needs no introduction. The iconic Italian brand is synonymous to class, elegance, and luxury.

It makes a wide range of products such as high fashion clothes, leather goods, shoes, perfumes, and of course, sunglasses. The company gets a nod for its elaborate designs that wow both the fashionistas and fashion critics from around the world.

Its broad eyewear collection is nothing but a definition of sophistication and style. A pair of Prada sunglasses have impeccable designs — from colorful to eccentric, vintage to innovative.

Prada’s designer eyewear range from a butterfly, cat eye, and oval frames. Its distinctive appeal never goes out of style, which is why Prada is still a leading brand in eyewear business today. Prices start from $250 to $300.

Prada, originally named Prada Brothers, has been doing business for more than 105 years. The world-famous fashion house was founded in the year 1913 in Milan, Italy by brothers Mario and Martino Prada.

14Carrera

Carrera World

Founder Wilhelm Anger built his sports goggles company in 1956. He branded it Carrera Panamericana – a name after the fastest and most dangerous race in the world. For Anger, it means the future and forward thinking.

Carrera offered its first new line of sports glasses in 1977. Two years later, the brand launched its revolutionary line of sunglasses known as the Carrera Porsche Design Collection.

The company collaborated with motorcar designer Ferdinand Alexander Porsche to come up with this special eyewear collection. This pair of sunglasses was introduced in the market with folding glasses and interchangeable lenses.

The brand also worked with famous designers like Jimmy Choo. In 2014, the Austrian sunglasses maker and Choo launched the exclusive capsule collection for Men.

This eyewear brand is known for its popular oversized aviator-style frames. It has marked its fashionable comeback in fashion in recent years with sleek urban frames made from ultra-lightweight and scratch-resistant materials.

Aside from its timeless classic signature styles, the brand rewrites history as it debuts its legendary Champion model known for its perfect fit and modern flair. Prices of some of the brand’s eyewear sell for $150 to $200.

The Carrera trademark belongs to Safilo Group S.p.A. that makes and designs sunglasses and sports eyewear. Although it was established in Austria in 1950s, it is now headquartered in Padova, Italy.

15Best Sunglass Brands

Cutler and Gross

Cutler and Gross round up our list of the top 15 best sunglasses brands in the world. The British designer eyewear company was founded in 1969 by Graham Cutler and Tony Gross, hence, the company’s name.

In the last 50 years, Cutler and Gross have become one of the biggest luxury brands in high fashion eyewear. The name constantly appears on catwalks around four major fashion weeks. Cutler and Gross have also built its own museum.

This designer eyewear brand takes pride in mixing cool style and its stellar Italian craftsmanship. This superior sunglasses brand is also uniquely creative. Since its inception, sunglasses and optical frames have trademark numbered designs and without a fancy logo.

Some of Cutler and Gross’s frames come in classic choices. But on top of that, you can also go for its bold, angular designs in brighter colors.

This supreme brand also offers palladium frames, which is one of the rarest and extremely shiny silvery-white metals to find. They all come in the highest UV protection, too.

Over the years, Cutler and Gross have stayed to be a popular choice among the most famous designers, artists, musicians, actors, and other influential people that walk this planet. At present, the company has retail shops all over the UK, North America, and Canada.

Some of the newest pairs of Cutler and Gross sunglasses are priced at about $400 to $500.

Best 15 Korean Movies Released in 2018 / 2019

Much like other international films, Korean cinema also offers vast entertainment for viewers: from action, drama, horror, crime, comedy, romance, thriller, you name it, they have it. The draw usually lies in not just the actors’ ability to captivate the audience with their superb acting but also in the storytelling.

Korean films often start out slow then leads to a build-up that leaves you hooked and wanting more. The cinematography is beautiful and smartly done to capture the mood and emotion of the story.

The year 2018 gave Korean movie aficionados vast film choices and 2019 is no different with upcoming titles already slated for release. However, for those who have yet to watch last year’s selection, they can start with the list of best Korean films below or they can do a head start on the 2019 movies that have already been released.

1Keys to the Heart

Keys to the Heart

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Keys to the Heart is a film about the love of family and siblings. Washed-up boxer Jo-ha (Lee Byung‑hun) reunites with the mother (Youn Yuh-jung) who abandoned him and with his autistic brother Jin-tae (Park Jung-min). He comes to live with them and eventually learns what it means to be a family.

This 2018 movie is a light-hearted drama that tells a story about a brother’s love for his brother who has savant syndrome. Jin-tae is at first scared of his brother who prefers to hurt people to get what he wants.

However, the two soon bonded over his love for music. Jin-tae is a gifted pianist and Jo-ha is determined to showcase his talent to other people. In the process, he learns to accept and love his brother for who he really is.

Director: Choi Seong-hyeon – Screenplay: Choi Sung-Hyun – Cast: Lee Byung‑hun, Park Jung-Min, Han Ji-min, Choi Ri, Moon Sook, Kim Sung-ryung, Youn Yuh-jung, Jo Kwan Woo, Baik Hyun Jhin, Lee Joo-young, Hwang Seok-jeong, Kim Seo-won – Run Time: 2h

2The Spy Gone North

The Spy Gone North/Gongjak

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This entry to the 2018 Cannes Film Festival takes viewers into a conspiracy surrounding the North and South Korean dealings of nuclear weapons. It follows Seok-young Park (Jung-min Hwang), an army major in the South Korean military intelligence with the code name “Black Venus,” on a daring, thrilling, and risky mission of espionage.

He is assigned on a mission to infiltrate the North Korean nuclear facility. To do so, he must gain the trust of the elite members. He disguises as a South Korean businessman on a joint project with North Korea and befriends Myong-un Ri, a high-ranking official stationed in Beijing.

From there, Seok-young laid the groundwork for his mission. He eventually succeeds in gaining the trust of the Communist people in power. However, what he later discovers threaten to derail his mission.

Don’t expect thrill rides or nerve-racking action sequences like the ones you see in Hollywood spy films including Mission Impossible and James Bond. Instead, this film takes viewers on the mundane side of intelligence operations, which involves lots of patience, paperwork, and secret meetings.

The Spy Gone North is based on the true story of the infamous South Korean spy Park Chae-Seo. In 1993, he was sent to infiltrate the North Korean nuclear facility after news leaked that the communist country is developing nuclear weapons.

Director: Jong-bin Yoon– Screenplay: Kwon Sung-hui, Yoon Jong-bin, Cast: – Hwang Jung-min, Le Sung-min, Cho Jin-Woong, Ju Ji-Hoon, Kim Eung-soo – Run Time: 2h 17m

3Be With You

Be With You

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This South Korean remake and a movie adaptation of the Japanese novel Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu by Takuji Ichikawa tells of an emotional story about love and loss. It revolves around the emotions and struggles that are left behind when a loved one departs.

The movie explores the lives people lead following the passing of a loved one. The narrative centers on Woo Jin (So Ji-Sub), a single dad who takes care of his son alone after his wife Soo A’s (Son Ye-Jin) untimely death. Before she died, she promised to come back on a rainy day a year after. One year later, she miraculously appears albeit without any memory of her previous life.

Thus, Woo Jin woos his wife back to help her regain her memories. Flashbacks recount the couple’s romance from high school to courtship days.  Soo A eventually assimilates back into family life but is all too aware that she will disappear again when the rainy season ends.

Be With You turns you into a soggy mess. The emotions run high in this romantic family drama that explores a mother’s love for her family.

Director: Lee Jang-Hoon – Screenplay: Su-jin Kang, Jang-Hoon Lee Cast: So Ji-Sub, Son Ye-jin Son, Kim Hyun‑soo, Park Seo-Joon, Lee You‑Jin, Kim Hyun‑soo, Ko Chang-Seok – Run Time: 2h 12m

4Burning

Burning

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Based loosely on Haruki Murakami’s short story Barn Burning, this movie tells the story of jealousy, love, and obsession and told through the experiences of three individuals.

The film kicks off after a chance encounter between old acquaintances. Jonsu (Ah-in Yoo) bumps into former neighbor Haemi (Jong-seo Jun) during a delivery and the latter asks him a favor to look after her cat while she is away on a trip to Africa.

Haemi returns with Ben (Steven Yeun), a rich guy she met in Africa. Jonsu suspects something sinister about Ben and his suspicions grew when Ben tells him about his fascination with burning abandoned houses.

Burning is a psychological slow burner that leaves you in perpetual uncertainty even after the credits roll.  The takeaways are debatable and yet you end the film still unsure of what you just saw. It is a suspenseful and strange film, nevertheless engrossing.

Director: Lee Chang-dong – Screenplay: Oh Jung-Mi, Lee Chang-dong – Cast: Steven Yeun, Yoo Ah-in, Jun Jong-seo, Kim Soo-Kyung, Mun Seong-kun, Choi Seung-ho – Run Time: 2h 28m

5The Negotiation

The Negotiation

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This fast-paced, psychological thriller puts a woman at the forefront of a tense negotiation with a deranged kidnapper. Ha Chae-youn (Son Ye-jin) is called back to work after she tendered her resignation to diffuse a hostage situation.

Min Tae-gu (Hyun Bin), a charming arms dealer, has taken a policeman and a journalist hostage and specifically asks for Chae-youn. With a 21-hour deadline hanging over the abductees’ lives, Chae-youn attempts to crack the perpetrator’s unusually calm demeanor and force him to reveal his true motives. Eventually, the shocking truth begins to unravel.

This film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with the constant curveballs and surprises, while Son Ye-Jin and Hyun Bin’s superb performance fuels the tension and suspense.  The Negotiation is a roller-coaster ride of clues and hints that leave you with even more questions than when you started with.

Director: Lee Jong-seok – Screenplay: Choi Sung-Hyun – Cast: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-Jin, Kim Sang-ho, Lee Jia, Lee Juyoung, Jang Young-nam – Run Time: 1h 54m

6MIss Baek

Miss Baek

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In this movie, the protagonist Baek Sang-A (Han Ji-min) keeps to herself and shies away from human interaction because of her past. She is a former convict who was imprisoned for trying to protect herself from abuse.

Due to her troubled past, she grew up closed off from other people. She prefers not to be sociable although she works as a masseuse and as a car washer.

However, her life takes a drastic turn and she becomes a furious fighter after a chance encounter with Ji-eun (Kim Shi-a) on the street. She finds the young girl wearing rags for clothes and covered in bruises.

She later finds out the depressing truth about the child’s life. The girl is a victim of domestic violence and Miss Baek, who sees herself in the young girl, makes it her mission to save her from the cruel world.

This film speaks about the stigma that comes with being a convict and the social injustice toward former prisoners of the law. In this story, Ji-eun’s mother Mi-kyung (Kwon So-hyun) paints Miss Baek as a child kidnapper. She uses her beautiful and saintly appearance to tarnish and frame the protagonist as a kidnapper.

Director: Lee Ji-won – Screenplay: Lee Ji-won – Cast: Han Ji-min, Lee Hee-joon, Kwon So-hyun, Kim Joon-Bum – Run Time: 1h 38m

7The Vanished

The Vanished

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This South Korean psychological thriller puts viewers on a quest to track down a missing woman’s body. Presumed dead, Yoon Seol-Hee’s corpse lies at the morgue of the National Institute of Scientific Investigation. However, she disappears, putting a detective and her guilt-stricken widower on a classic game of “whodunit.”

The search for the missing affluent woman takes place in the course of one night with Detective Woo Joong-sik (Kim Sang-Kyung) taking the lead in the investigation. His suspicions lie on the husband, who insists that his wife is alive. As the story progresses, viewers learn the surprising truth about the woman’s disappearance.

This film is a remake of the popular 2012 Spanish thriller The Body, The Vanished by Oriol Paulo. It is made uniquely South Korean with its tone and the unpredictable and engrossing plot.

Director: Lee Chang-hee – Screenplay: Lee Chang-hee – Cast: Kim Sang-kyung, Kim Kang-woo, Kim Hee-ae, Han Ji-an, Lee Ji-hoon – Run Time: 1h 41m

8Unstoppable

Unstoppable/Seongnan hwangso

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Actor Ma Dong-seok (Train to Busan) stars in this fast-paced action film as Dong-Chul, a husband who would stop at nothing to find his wife (Song Ji-Hyo).

Dong-Chul is a former notorious gangster who has since changed his ways. He now leads a happy life with his wife Ji-Soo and stays away from trouble. However, this soon changes when he comes home and finds his house in disarray and Ji-Soo missing.

He receives a phone call and someone offers him money for his wife. Dong-Chul refuses and instead vows to save her. In order to rescue Ji-Soo, he must resort to his old self and this is when the tracking and intense fighting begin.

This film has a Taken vibe to it in that it revolves around a husband’s mission to save a loved one. It also deals with human trafficking.

Although Unstoppable has its own charm because the action scenes are not excessively frenzied. You also get to sympathize with Dong-Chul and Ji-Soo as the story unfolds.

Director: Kim Min-ho – Screenplay: Kim Min-ho – Cast: Ma Dong-seok, Song Ji-Hyo, Kim Seong-oh, Kim Min-jae, Park Ji-hwan- Run Time: 1h 56m

9Golden Slumber

Golden Slumber

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Based on the 2007 novel of the same title by Kotaro Isaka, the film follows Gun-Woo, an ordinary parcel delivery man who lives a model-citizen life in Seoul after he saved a K-pop star’s life.

However, his idyllic life takes a downward spiral after he witnesses the assassination of a presidential candidate in a bombing accident. Gun-Woo is set up as the main suspect although, from the onset of the film, viewers already know that an old friend who suddenly resurfaces in his life is the real perpetrator.

Gun-Woo vouches for his innocence but all the evidence: security camera footage, fingerprints, and witness testimonies, say otherwise.  Thus begins the breathless chase as he tries hard to escape capture.

However, the more he flees the more he puts everyone close to him in danger.  His only consolation is his trust on former secret agent Mr. Min (Kim Eui-sung) to clear his name on time before it is too late.

Director: Noh Dong-Seok  – Screenplay: Lee Hae-Jun, Cho Ui-Seok – Cast: Gang Dong-Won, Kim Eui-Sung, Han Hyo-Joo, Kim Sung-Kyun, Kim Dae-Myung Kim You-Jung, Choi Woo-Sik, Jung So-Min, Yoon Kye-Sang, Yoo Jae-MyungRun Time: 1h 48m

10Believer

Believer

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Believer is an edge-of-the-seat crime thriller that explores the underground world of drugs, notorious kingpins, and the desires of the servants of the law to persecute them. The film is a remake of the 2012 Hong Kong action extravaganza Drug War by Johnnie To.

The South Korean version attempts to do an original take by adding more twists and character backstories and in this film, we follow detective Won-ho (Cho Jin-woong) as he attempts to take down the elusive drug kingpin Mr. Lee. He teams up with Rak (Ryu Jun-yeol), who previously works for Lee’s gang and is now on a revenge quest against the boss following his mother’s death.

The partners go through a series of secret meet-ups with unpleasant drug men who may or may not be Mr. Lee. Naturally, tension rise during these sham meetings in between the stare downs and confrontations.

If you are looking for a well-paced action crime thriller then Believer fits this description. The scenes are riveting enough to glue you to the scene and the suspense to Mr. Lee’s reveal makes you want to stick around for the 2-hour-long run.

Director: Lee Hae-Young – Screenplay: Lee Hae-Young, Chung Seo-kyung – Cast: Cho Jin-Woong, Cha Seung-won, Kim Sung-ryung, Kim Ju-hyuk, Ryu Jun-yeol, Park Hae-Joon, Kang Seung-hyun – Run Time: 2h 3m

11The Witch: Part 1: The Subversion

The Witch: Part 1: The Subversion

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This South Korean mystery action film uses amazing visuals and nail-biting action sequences to keep you invested in the story. The narrative centers on Ja-yoon, a high school student who is not who she seems to be.

Ja-yoon grew up with no memory of her past including her name and age. An old couple takes her in and raises her to be a normal and bright student. Her seemingly normal life starts to change after she appears on national television.

Strange people who know about her previous life start appearing and cornering her. They want something from her and they ultimately turn her life upside down in a blink of an eye. In the process, Ja-yoon learns the unsettling truth about her past.

This film belies its title because it does not involve the supernatural. Instead, it’s a superbly executed action movie that involves a girl with super human abilities. This is by far the best South Korean action film of 2018 that can very well beat other Hollywood superhero flicks.

Director: Park Hoon-jung – Screenplay: Park Hoon-jung – Cast: Baek Seung-chul, Kim Byung-Ok, Choi Woo-sik, Jo Min-soo, Jung Woorim, Kim Da-mi, Go Min-si, Park Hee-soon, Kim Han-na – Run Time: 2h 5m

12Dark Figure of Crime

Dark Figure of Crime

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This 2018 crime thriller takes viewers into the dark and twisted mind of a killer. The story revolves around the psychological confrontation between the murderer and a dedicated police detective.

The film follows Hyung-min (Kim Yun-seok), a detective in Busan who could care less for promotions. Instead, he lives to solve criminal cases.

His latest case involves a murder that happened a decade ago. The perpetrator Tae-oh (Ju Ji-hoon) upfront tells him that he was paid to kill and was about to reveal the location of the dead body when another team of detectives arrest him.

In a surprising twist, Hyung-min receives a call from Tae-oh in prison where he again confesses to killing 7 more people.   Tae-oh promises to give him clues to the location of the bodies if the detective visits him in jail.

Hyung-min must now prove that Tae-oh is telling the truth and sets out to find the victims without knowing their identities. He must also discover the perplexing reason why the convict is offering him information that could only lengthen his prison sentence.

Dark Figure of a Crime is loosely based on the murders in Busan that were never reported or investigated and the bodies never found. It is inspired by the 869th episode of a South Korean investigation TV program called Unanswered.

Director: Kim Tae-Gyun – Screenplay: Kim Tae-Gyun, Kwak Kyung-Taek – Cast: Kim Yun-Seok, Ju Ji-Hoon, Moon Jeong-Hee, Jin Seon-Kyu, Lee Bong-Ryun, Kim Jong-Soo, Bae Hae-Sun, Ko Chang-Seok, Joo Jin-Mo – Run Time: 1h 50m

13Take Point

Take Point

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Take Point is a fictional political story between North Korea and the US. It is the year 2024 and the day of the U.S. presidential election. Captain Ahab (Ha Jung-woo) leads a group of his fellow mercenaries on a CIA mission to abduct North Korea’s Armed Forces Minister.

The men capture the official in an underground bunker of the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). However, their mission is derailed when another group of private military contractors comes after them for the same target. Tensions between the two groups escalate to the brink of World War III.

Take Point offers lots of action sequences filled with explosions and gunfire. It’s an entertaining and gripping film that entices political commentary about the United States and its leaders.

Director: Kim Byung-woo – Screenplay: Kim Byung-woo – Cast: Ha Jung-woo, Lee Sun-kyun, Jennifer Ehle, Kevin Durand, Malik Yoba, Spencer Daniels, Jack Lyons, Paul Meixner, Jeff Bosley, Julián Juaquín, Kade Vu, Liviu Covalschi – Run Time: 1h 59m

14Extreme Job

Extreme Job

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This 2019 South Korean film takes a comedic jab at the lives of police detectives. The plot centers on a team of unlikely drug squad who goes on an undercover drug-bust operation.

The squad consists of Chief Go (Ryu Seung-ryong) who is up for retirement, the unreliable Detective Jang (Lee Hanee), the young Detective Jae-hoon (Gong Myung), the goal setter Young-ho (Lee Dong-Hwi), and Detective M, whose chicken recipe is to die for. The group disguises themselves as humble employees of a fried chicken joint in order to stake out an organized crime gang.

However, things take for an unexpected turn when Detective M’s chicken recipe becomes a hit and transforms the rundown restaurant into a local success story. The team becomes busier than ever and fears that the success of the restaurant could blow their cover.

This film offers the usual amusing and laugh-out-loud scenes akin to several hit South Korean comedy films. The plot then becomes complicated as the story unfolds. The movie offers a fine balance between action sequences and workplace comedy.

Director: Lee Byeong-Hun – Screenplay: Lee Byeong-Hun, Bae Se-Young – Cast: Ryoo Seung-Ryong, Lee Ha-nee, Jin Seon-Kyu, Lee Dong-Hwi, Gong Myung, Shin Ha-kyun, Kim Eui-sung, Oh Jung-se, Yang Hyun-min, Heo Joon-seok – Run Time: 1h 51m

15Malmoe The Secret Mission

Malmoe: The Secret Mission

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This film tells of the preservation of the Korean language, more specifically of the spoken and written words, in the 1940s. It revisits the period when the Korean language was gradually disappearing.

The story follows Pan Soo (Yoo Hae-Jin), who resorts to pickpocketing to support his son after losing his job at the movie theater. Coincidentally, a man he tries to rob happens to be Jung-Hwan (Yoon Kye-Sang), the executive director of the Korean Language Society that he’s trying to land a job at.

Jung-Hwan offers Pan Soo a job in the condition that he learns how to read and write Korean. The former thief eventually learns the value of the Korean Language.

Along with the society, Pan Soo is working against the clock to finish the MALMOE (means “collection of words”) before the Japanese imperial government shuts them down.

This film offers an entertaining lesson on Korea’s history, language, and culture. It offers both seriousness and comedy although this may appeal more to viewers who have a strong interest in Korea and its language.

Director: Uhm Yoo-Na – Screenplay: Uhm Yoo-Na – Cast: Yu Hae-Jin, Yoon Kye-Sang, Jo Hyun-Do, Park Ye-Na, Kim Sun-Young, Kim Hong-Fa – Run Time: 2h 25m

25 Best Comedy Shows To Watch Now On Netflix

The Inbetweeners

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The Inbetweeners, just like a slew of comedies that put a focus on those awkward years of teenagers, is as excruciatingly funny as it can get. This British anti-Entourage sitcom revolves around the story of four friends who struggle to make it through high school.

Nevertheless, you will get plenty of LMAO moments out the quartet’s boneheaded antics and horrendous luck. Uncool and not slick, they all go through perils and pitfalls of high school life, such as the bullying woes, underage drinking, and so much of those thwarted sexual encounters in their awful young lives.

The boys can easily revert to their archetypes sometimes. The snobby nerd protagonist, Will, simply cannot do or say the right thing, the cynical Simon, and the goofy Neil. Then, there is the crude sex-obsessed Jay, whose virginity is the bane of his existence.

All these four suburban teenagers find themselves an outcast who do not belong to any group other than their own band of misfits.

The Inbetweeners evolves as a now-classic, cringe comedy. It poignantly reflects teen’s horrific years in high school, or how it is typically conceived to be, at the very least.

The show’s humor is outrageously profane but wonderfully done. The show has shorter seasons, thus, it is an easy binge-watch, especially if you stomach the cringe. On top of it, you will love the show’s kickass soundtrack.

Creator: Damon Beesley, Iain Morris — Cast: Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley, Blake Harrison

3 seasons, 18 episodes

IMDb: 8.3/10

20 Mind-Bending Movies On Netflix

Black Mirror

Some shows portray dystopian futures with zombies, artificial intelligence gaining sentience, and intergalactic travel. Black Mirror just needs a smartphone to show you how damning the future could be, how society could end up too reliant on technology to the point where we lose what makes us human in the first place. In many regards, that is already happening.

In this anthology series — these are standalone episodes, meaning you can watch in any order — the future could be either one of these:

A mother who, so keen on protecting her daughter, monitors her every move using a highly advanced tablet hooked up wirelessly to the child’s brain; a reclusive programmer so bitter about not getting recognition from his colleagues at work he creates digital clones out of their DNA and takes them to Star Trek-like hijinks across a made-up world where he reigns supreme; a society in which people can record everything they see and play it back on command.

Obviously, what these episodes have in common is their bleak portrayals of the future — but what makes them truly terrifying is that they’re grounded in psychological fears that feel authentic, concerns very urgent in this day and age where most of our intimacies occur facing a screen. Whis is all to say Black Mirror’s portraits of dystopia seem only a few steps away from our real present.

The show is intelligent, thought-provoking, and comically sinister, a modern-day Twilight Zone. It takes on a prescient voice without in any way sounding preachy or didactic. It is, after all, called “Black Mirror,” which could be referring to us seeing dark and twisted reflections of ourselves in trying times.

Creator: Charlie Brooker – Screenplay: Various – Cast: Daniel Lapaine, Hannah John-Kamen, Michaela Coel – Run Time: Various

19 Best Love Stories On Netflix That Aren’t Rom-Coms

Lust Stories

Lust Stories, a Netflix original film, peels away the luster of Bollywood to open the table for discussions pervasive Indian culture typically shy away from. At the center is lust, and the show is concerned, mainly, on how that emotion makes ruthless, unreasonable, and imperfect animals out of us. More especially, how lust can interfere with the emotional aspects of our sex lives.

The anthology film is made of four parts, all from prominent Indian directors, namely Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerjee, and Karan Johar. Between them are discussions of sex, attraction, and, of course, lust — topics that you won’t normally hear aloud in modern-day India.

Each story centers on a stigma: One centers on a relationship between a teacher and a student; one is a relationship between two people who belong in different social classes; another follows an adulterous marriage; and to complete the four is a story that explores sexual satisfaction.

None of these stories are told quite as neatly as we’d like, but that’s the nature of love, sex, and even lust. They’re messy, torrid affairs that more often than not end in dissatisfaction, if not guilt or shame. Even still, Lust Stories is richly layered and multi-dimensional, offering a nuanced, eye-opening take on pressing matters shared often only in whispers.

Directors: Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerjee, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap – Screenplay:Cast: Radhika Apte, Bhumi Pednekar, Manisha Koirala – Run Time: 2h

The 15 Best Historical Documentaries On Netflix

Hard times make you want to look away. These days, political turmoil is the norm. Hate speech seems like it’s part of the vernacular. And people debate diversity rather than celebrate it. We seem to be living in a dystopia. Right now, even acknowledging that there’s turmoil is a Herculean undertaking.

That’s why information is key. Below, you’ll find historical documentaries that demonstrate human folly. They also discuss fragility of peace. Most importantly, they show how easy it is to lose touch with others over perceived differences.

Yes, they show the tolls of war, demonstrate the importance of liberation, or dig deep in search of personal closure. But they also illustrate perseverance, resilience, and a desire for connection. They keep us from looking away, and we need them now more than ever.

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1She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry

She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry

She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry documents the onslaught of second-wave feminism in America during the ’60s. Also, more generally, when the plight of women’s cries for liberation began.

Mary Dore, the director, is no stranger to stories of struggle. In 1984, she released her documentary The Good Fight, about the a crew of fascism fighters called the Abraham Lincoln Brigade.

Decades later, she wipes her lenses and puts the focus on women and their harried persistence on claiming agency.

We’re at a time where even the legitimacy of factual news is contested, where history is disagreed with by rewriting it haphazardly.

Dore reminds everyone what happened that time by deconstructing the phenomenon into a series of archival footage, documents, anecdotes, and talking heads. The result is a less romanticized version of that storied fight in favor of a more a visceral account.

Sad to say that She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry remain an urgent documentary to this day. Women in many parts of the world are still fighting for equal rights, equal pay, and protection from harassment, to name just a few.

Director: Mary Dore – Cast: Alta, Chaude Pamela Allen, Judith Arcana, Nona Willis Aronowitz, Fran Beal, Heather Booth – Subject/Topic: Feminism, Liberation, Gender Politics – Release Date: 2014 – Run Time: 1h 27m

2Five Came Back

Five Came Back

This mini-documentary series explores the stories of five Hollywood filmmakers who enlisted in the armed forces to document the Second World War.

Adapted from Five Came Back: A Story of Hollywood and the Second World War by journalist Mark Harris, the series focuses on U.S. directors John Ford, William Wyler, John Huston, Frank Capra, and George Stevens and their frontline war work.

Their artistic comes into careful but rigorous analysis with the help of modern directors. Paul Greengrass, Steven Spielberg, Francis Ford Coppola, Guillermo del Toro, and Lawrence Kasdan pick apart and put them back together again.

As much as it’s a deft, delicate portrait of war, Five Came Back is also a meditation on the role of art as evidence in very trying times. It draws on over 100 hours of archival footage and studies the impact and legacies of the all the directors’ work.

Director: Laurent Bouzereau – Cast: Francis Ford Coppola, Guillermo del Toro, Paul Greengrass, Lawrence Kasdan, Steven Spielberg – Subject/Topic: Second World War, Art, Cinema – Release Date: 2017 – Run Time: Varies

3Wormwood

Wormwood

One of documentary veteran Errol Morris’ first Netflix projects, Wormwood is a six-part docu-drama series centered on Frank Olson, a scientist who may have unwittingly joined a controversial program called Project MKUltra.

Project MKUltra was a secret government biological warfare project. It’s hard to get into this subject without writing a thousand paragraphs on it, but for word count reasons, let’s just call it the CIA mind control program.

Olson died under mysterious circumstances in 1953. It was suicide, the people up there said. But posthumous investigations have raised suspicions of a coverup of an alleged murder.

Much of Wormwood focuses on Eric Olson, the son of Frank, who aims to find out what really happened to his father.

Ultimately, Wormwood is about the fragility of facts, even if we perceive them to be true. Morris says, “What Wormwood tries to do is tell a story about how we know what we know and how reliable is that knowledge.”

Director: Errol Morris – Cast: Peter Sarsgaard, Molly Parker, Christian Camargo, Scott Shepherd, Tim Blake Nelson, Jimmi Simpson, Bob Balaban, Michael Chernus – Subject/Topic: Government, Psychology, Mind Control – Release Date: 2017 – Run Time: 4h 1m

4The Civil War

The Civil War

The Civil War might be the documentary of documentaries, and also one of, if not the finest anti-war documentaries ever made.

Released in 1990, The Civil War pulls the curtains off Virginia’s tumultuous history and reveals horrors of human doing. Bloodshed and the perishment of innocence are the themes it focuses on.

A deeply poignant miniseries, The Civil War plays out with staccato-like verve. It’s at once delicate, somber, and unapologetic about the romanticism it tries to denounce. So much so that Burns has often been criticized for pushing the “Lost Cause” sentimentality too aggressively.

But Burns is unwavering in his conviction. Instead of playing coy about the murderous spree of that era, he instills its horrors sharply. The War, indeed, was fought over slavery. And the South almost burned the entire country down for that racial hierarchy to remain.

Director: Ken Burns – Cast: Sam Waterston, Jason Robards, Julie Harris, Morgan Freeman, Garrison Keillor, Arthur Miller, George Plimpton – Subject/Topic: American Civil WarRelease Date: 1990  – Run Time: 11h 30m

5Paris Is Burning

Paris Is Burning

Paris Is Burning takes us to the world of drag balls: Harlem in the mid-to-late 1980s. This historical documentary, deemed one of the most invaluable pieces of evidence in drag ball culture, chronicles the lives of African-American, Latino, gay, and transgender communities at the time.

New York City then was very different from what it is now. You can walk down the streets of Harlem today in stilts and no one will bat an eye. But it was a different case then. They needed “houses” as a way to form and foster marginalized LGBTQ communities.

Jennie Livingston offers a harrowing, sensitive, and unflinching portrait of New York when it was not quite New York still. Race, class, and gender intersect in this authentic portrait of oppression. But ultimately, it is a celebration of identity and culture.

Director: Jennie Livingston – Cast: Dorian Corey, Pepper LaBeija, Venus Xtravaganza, Octavia St. Laurent, Willi Ninja, Angie Xtravaganza, Sol Pendavis, Freddie Pendavis, Junior Labeija, Paris Dupree – Subject/Topic: Drag Culture, LGBTQ, Gender Politics – Release Date: 1990 – Run Time: 1h 18m

6Raiders of the Lost Art

Raiders of the Lost Art

Discover the history behind some of the most iconic art heists in history. From the too-crazy-to-be-true episodes of the Monuments Men to the hunt of the missing Fabergé eggs.

Each episode of this docu-series illustrates how these heists went down. Some are downright ridiculous. Some, however, are pretty impressive. Through re-enactment, rare archival documents, and expert commentary, we find out how crummy thieves looted these priceless treasures.

Even the story of how the Mona Lisa got stolen is the focus of one episode. Yes, Da Vinci’s most famous work was once kidnapped. And though it’s hanging safely at The Louvre now, the same can’t be said of many other stolen works featured in this series.

Director: Cal Seville, Daniel Kontur – Cast: Various – Subject/Topic: Art, Art History, Heists – Release Date: 2014 – Present – Run Time: Varies

713th

13th

Ava DuVernay, who directed the Oscar-nominated film Selma, follows up her seminal film with 13th, the bulk of which explores racial tensions in America.

Tracing back to the Emancipation era, the film makes a compelling yet hardly-startling case on racial oppression in the stateside. It presents ways that institutional bias has created systemic inequalities that lead black men and women to receive heavier criminal sentences than any other groups.

13th refers to the country’s 13th Amendment, which freed slaves and prohibited slavery. The film takes a critical look at how slavery runs rampant still in America long after the amendment was passed.

Director: Ava DuVernay – Cast: Various – Subject/Topic: Racial Bias, Racism, Slavery, Black Lives Matter – Release Date: 2016 – Run Time: 1h 40m

8Karl Marx City

Karl Marx City

Part cinema, part personal history, Karl Marx City sees filmmaker Petra Epperlein reach deep within to find the truth about her late father’s suicide.

Chances are you weren’t in East Germany during the height of the Stasi and don’t really have a firm grasp on the atrocities on privacy the GDR secret police committed.

Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker go deeper than some films about the Stasi plight, taking care to illustrate the period as accurately as possible. They unravel the Stasi authoritarianism in all its bleakness.

Politics and personal history converge in Karl Marx City. The film’s most striking achievement is how it carefully inserts Epperlein’s own story as a way to examine the broader fabric of Germany’s paranoia period.

Director: Petra Epperlein, Michael Tucker – Cast: Christa Epperlein, Petra Epperlein, Uwe Epperlein – Subject/Topic: Karl Marx, Personal History – Release Date: 2016 – Run Time: 1h 29m

9Let It Fall

Let It Fall

America in the 1980s. A time of electronic music, disco, and fanny packs. But also rampant racism. Oppression. Marginalization. A country of vibrant music, colorful clothing, and cheesy TV sitcoms. But also a country divided over growing racial tensions.

Let It Fall takes a closer look at the building aggressions between African Americans and the Los Angeles police department during the ‘80s up to the early ‘90s. Recounting various events that led up to the Los Angeles riots, the film explores vile symptoms of America’s crumbling racial politics.

Through archival footage and firsthand accounts, it analyzes many facets that triggered this harrowing period in American civil rights history. The death of James Mincey Jr. The 1984 Summer Olympics. America’s growing crack problem. The beating of Rodney King. It puts civil unrest front and center and asks you not to flinch. The people lost in bloodshed didn’t have a chance to.

Director: John Ridley – Cast: Tim Goldman, Damian ‘Football’ Williams, Henry Keith Watson – Subject/Topic: Racism, Black Lives Matter, Civil Rights – Release Date: 2017 – Run Time: 2h

10Last Days In Vietnam

Last Days In Vietnam

It’s often said that the final days of the Vietnam War were the period’s most morose segment. Yes, in 1973, the then-president of America, Richard Nixon, commanded the exit of U.S. troops from Vietnam.

But the North Vietnamese Army nevertheless resumed its march toward Saigon. American soldiers and diplomats then had to ask themselves whether to obey White House orders or stay and help those in imminent danger.

In the thick of it, an unlikely band of heroes emerged as Americans and South Vietnamese took matters into their own hands.

Last Days in Vietnam is aware of the moral burdens of war. But it also leaves space to explore a hint of humanity in the midst of terrible tragedy and looming danger. Faced with a terrible moral question, would you defy orders in favor of autonomously doing what you think is right?

Director: Rory Kennedy – Cast: Richard Nixon, Henry Kissinger, Stuart Herrington – Subject/Topic: Vietnam War – Release Date: 2014 – Run Time: 1h 38m

11The Thin Blue Line

The Thin Blue Line

The second Errol Morris in this list, The Thin Blue Line is documentary about one midnight.

In 1976, in chilly November, Dallas police officers Robert Wood and Teresa Turko performed a routine traffic stop for a car driving without headlights. When Wood approached the vehicle, the driver shot him five times and sped off, leaving Wood’s lifeless body on the ground and Turko firing helplessly.

Turko hard trouble recounting details of the incident. So, a total of 50 investigators worked on the few clues available. There wasn’t a single witness, to make matters worse.

Then, on Dec. 21, less than a month later, authorities seized Randall Dale Adams, a 28-year-old itinerant laborer from Ohio. He said he was innocent. But the jury still declared him guilty. The judge put him on death row.

Then Morris made this documentary and proved Adams’ innocence.

Director: Errol Morris – Cast: Randall Adams, David Harris, Gus Rose – Subject/Topic: Criminal Justice System – Release Date: 1988 – Run Time: 1h 41m

12Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Jiro Dreams of Sushi, released in 2011, is kind of the proto-Chef’s Table. It’s a film that makes mouth-watering food also things of visual splendor.

The film is a profile of Jiro Ono. He’s the beloved and renowned owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro, a sushi restaurant with Michelin stars under its belt. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping yet weirdly zen-inducing shots of food. Director David Gelb knows how to film food in a way that it’s rendered like love poems onscreen.

But Gelb is interested in more things than just sliced raw fish. Beyond a painstaking documentation of the practice of preparing sushi, the film serves at the same time an ode to family. Gelb also films, with delicate sensitivity, the interesting dynamics behind this little sushi empire.

Ultimately, and above all else, it’s a film about the merits tireless passion. And also the toils required for its upkeep.

Director: David Gelb – Cast: Jiro Ono, Yoshikazu Ono, Masuhiro Yamamoto – Subject/Topic: Food, Family, Japan – Release Date: 2011 – Run Time: 1h 21m

13Icarus

Icarus

Director Bryan Fogel set out to make a film about performance-enhancing drugs. But things don’t always go the way you want them to. Though he originally aimed to illustrate a broad portrait of doping in sports, Fogel went off the rails.

And thank god he did, because now we have this fleshed out documentary that digs deeper than doping. When Fogel encountered the Russian doping scandal from the Sochi Olympics, he suddenly thrust himself into a complex whirlwind of international sports fraught with under-the-table political shenanigans.

Icarus is an eye-opening account of how far some people will go to win. How expendable dignity is in the relentless desire for honor. How ultimately valueless the people who make the sports are to the sporting world.

Director: Bryan Fogel – Cast: Thomas Bach, Sebastian Coe, Bryan Fogel – Subject/Topic: Sports, Doping, Geographical Politics – Release Date: 2017 – Run Time: 2h

14Tickled

Tickled

Much like Icarus, Tickled was also one thing before it germinated into a far more compelling film that goes beyond its origins.

David Farrier, a pop culture writer from New Zealand, thought he hit gold when he stumbled upon the bizarre world of endurance tickling. It’s a sport in which the participants, with their hands and feet tied down, endures tickling for as long as they can.

But when Farrier tried to contact the organizers for an interview, he was met with severe and unexpected disdain. But it didn’t unnerve him. In fact, Farrier grew more curious about the sudden defensiveness initiated by his very polite inquiry and decided to press on.

What followed was a sequence of events far, far stranger than fiction. Seriously, the less you know about Tickled, the better the experience will be.

Director: David Farrier, Dylan Reeve – Cast: David Farrier, Dylan Reeve, Marko Realmonte – Subject/Topic: Toxic Masculinity, Online Bullying, Conspiracies – Release Date: 2016 – Run Time: 1h 32m

15Shirkers

Shirkers

Closing this is a little gem of a film called Shirkers. Full disclosure: this isn’t what you’d call a typical documentary. It involves much more personal fare, but is better for it. Sandi Tan recounts a vivid but fleeting account of her childhood.

In it, she hunts lost footage that she and a bunch of friends made when they were kids, which mysteriously disappeared.

Shirkers pokes an open wound with gentle hands. It strives for past memories not to recollect them, but to reconstruct them and bring closure to the present. It is at times mournful, elegiac, but never drenching in its own sentimentality.

Shirkers shows ephemeral memories as fragile as physical objects that get lost without a trace. But rather than grieve, it contemplates, broods, then tries to make do with what’s lost.

Director: Sandi Tan – Cast: Sandi Tan, Jasmine Kin Kia Ng, Philip Cheah – Subject/Topic: Childhood, Personal History – Release Date: 2018 – Run Time: 1h 37m