During this period of ample binge-watching, I have decided that along with reviews of new films, I am going to also review some hidden gem movies I find on the various streaming services that you may have scrolled past. First up is ANGEL OF MINE, streaming on Hulu.
I came across this film because it stars one of my favorite actresses, Yvonne Strahovski (more on her incredible performance later) and I admittedly watch anything she’s in. At first glance, this film may be perceived as your average HAND THAT ROCKS THE CRADLE-esque psychological thriller, but it is so much more than that. Thanks to a multi-layered script full of surprising twists and turns, as well as amazing performances from both Noomi Rapace and Strahovski, ANGEL OF MINE was a surprise hit for me. The only criticism I have is that it didn’t feature Monica’s “Angel of Mine” music video. SHAME!
Lizzie (Rapace) is struggling to make a life for herself in the aftermath of a horrible tragedy, which involved the loss of her daughter. Now going through a divorce from her husband (Luke Evans), Lizzie’s grief is negatively affecting her relationships with her friends and family, including her son. But when she starts to believe her neighbors’ (Strahovski and Richard Roxburgh) daughter is actually her own, Lizzie channels her emotions into investigating the matter herself. Is Lizzie’s grief causing a paranoid delusion or is there some truth to her suspicions?
Strong performances from Noomi Rapace and Yvonne Strahovski are the anchor of the movie. Rapace always chooses such interesting roles, which let me know from the beginning that this wasn’t going to be your average psychological thriller. Even at her most unhinged, Rapace is able to always make Lizzie relatable and create an air of mystery of whether her concerns are justified.
As I said above, Strahovski is one of my favorite actresses and I am so glad she has been given meaty roles like this to show off her incredible talent. Her performance anchors the film and provides a needed contrast to Rapace’s agitation. Strahovski shows off her incredible range, playing a calm, normal mother that is sent to the brink as she tries to protect her family from danger.
I love finding hidden treasure movies like ANGEL OF MINE that may have been missed when first released, but can now be a movie you recommend to friends. If, like me, you love psychological thrillers and are up for a truly emotional thrill-ride, definitely put this one at the top of your queue! It’s one of those movies you will want to discuss afterward, so I’m glad my mom took my recommendation and enjoyed the movie too!
If you’re looking for some television recommendations, check out Yvonne Strahovski in CHUCK (streaming on Amazon Prime), my favorite show of all time, and HANDMAID’S TALE (streaming on Hulu).
