Hidden Gems You Probably Missed — But Should Watch Right Now
When we talk about cinema from the last decade, big franchises and blockbuster hits dominate the conversation. But behind the glare of mainstream releases sits another category — underrated films that never got the attention, marketing, or praise they truly deserved.
These movies delivered incredible storytelling, emotion, innovation, and performances, yet somehow slipped through the cracks.
So here is a curated list of the Top 10 Underrated Movies of the Last Decade, combining your selected films along with three additional gems that fit perfectly into this collection.
1. Annihilation (2018)
Alex Garland’s Annihilation is one of the most intellectually ambitious sci-fi films of the 2010s. Adapted from Jeff VanderMeer’s novel, it takes viewers deep into “The Shimmer,” a mysterious zone where biology behaves unpredictably.
Why It’s Underrated
Despite its breathtaking visuals and philosophical themes, the film suffered from limited theatrical release and marketing conflict. Many viewers dismissed it as confusing, but in reality, Annihilation explores identity, grief, self-destruction, and evolution in a way few films dare to attempt.
Why You Must Watch It
- Stunning cinematography
- Emotional performances led by Natalie Portman
- A haunting score
- A finale that stays with you long after the credits roll
If you enjoy atmospheric sci-fi like Arrival or Blade Runner 2049, this film is an absolute must-watch.
2. The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
Guy Ritchie’s stylish spy adventure is one of the most charming films of the decade. Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, and Alicia Vikander create the perfect trio of coolness, humor, and chemistry.
Why It’s Underrated
Released during a time when spy films were overshadowed by Bond and Mission Impossible, this movie didn’t get a fair chance at the box office. But over time, it gained a strong cult following who appreciate its fashion, soundtrack, and smooth 60s-era vibe.
Why You Must Watch It
- A fun, fast-paced narrative
- Witty humor and classy espionage
- A soundtrack that elevates every sequence
- Gorgeous retro production design
This film deserved a franchise — and fans still hope for a sequel.
3. Brightburn (2019)
Brightburn flips the superhero narrative on its head by asking a chilling question: What if Superman turned evil?
The movie follows Brandon Breyer, a child with alien powers who chooses destruction instead of heroism.
Why It’s Underrated
Many dismissed it as another horror shocker, but the film cleverly blends superhero mythos with slasher-style terror. It’s bold, disturbing, and refreshingly original.
Why You Must Watch It
- Violent and terrifying set pieces
- A cynical but inventive twist on superhero tropes
- Strong performances from the cast
- A chilling ending that hints at a dark cinematic universe
Horror-superhero hybrids are rare — this one delivers.
4. Trap (2024)
M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap is a clever thriller with one of the most unique setups in recent years. The story revolves around a father and daughter attending a concert — only for the father to realize the entire venue is a trap set to catch a serial killer… and he is the killer.
Why It’s Underrated
Many viewers misunderstood its tone and slow-burn storytelling. Shyamalan’s films often divide audiences, but this one has a surprisingly tight script filled with dread, clues, tension, and moral complexity.
Why You Must Watch It
- A chilling cat-and-mouse narrative
- Outstanding central performance
- Constant unpredictability
- A smart commentary on surveillance culture
This is Shyamalan at his most restrained and most cunning.
5. Turning Red (2022)
Pixar’s Turning Red is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about a girl who transforms into a giant red panda when dealing with overwhelming emotions.
Why It’s Underrated
It faced unnecessary backlash at release, overshadowing its message and creativity. Over time, however, audiences recognized it as one of Pixar’s most emotionally honest films.
Why You Must Watch It
- A relatable story about growing up
- Beautiful animation inspired by East-Asian culture
- A powerful message about identity and parent-child relationships
- One of Pixar’s funniest films
Perfect for families, teens, and anyone who’s battled expectations.
6. Pig (2021)
Nicolas Cage delivers one of his best performances in Pig, a quiet film about a truffle hunter searching for his stolen pig.
Why It’s Underrated
This movie was marketed as a revenge thriller — but it is actually a delicate drama about grief, love, and dignity. Cage’s emotional depth surprised even his longtime fans.
Why You Must Watch It
- A soul-touching story
- Minimalistic but powerful cinematography
- A career-defining performance by Cage
- Real human emotion replaces typical Hollywood violence
Few films this decade have been as gentle yet heartbreaking.
7. The Wailing (2016)
A masterwork of Korean horror, The Wailing combines supernatural mystery, folklore, religious symbolism, and psychological terror.
Why It’s Underrated
While praised by critics, mainstream audiences often overlooked it due to subtitles and its slow-burn approach. But make no mistake — this is one of the scariest and most intelligently crafted horror films ever made.
Why You Must Watch It
- Mind-bending plot
- Unsettling atmosphere
- Deep symbolism
- A shocking twist that changes everything
If you love Hereditary, The Exorcist, or Korean thrillers, this belongs on your watchlist.
8. Upgrade (2018)
This cyberpunk action film by Leigh Whannell explores a world where technology can enhance — or control — the human body. After a tragic attack leaves him paralyzed, a man receives an AI implant called STEM… which has its own deadly intentions.
Why It’s Underrated
Overshadowed by superhero movies of the time, Upgrade gained popularity only later through word-of-mouth.
Why You Must Watch It
- Brilliant action choreography
- A gripping sci-fi concept
- A dark twist ending
- Surprisingly emotional
This is the movie Venom wished it could be.
9. A Ghost Story (2017)
This experimental drama follows a recently deceased man who returns as a ghost covered in a simple white sheet. It sounds odd — but what follows is a poetic meditation on time, love, loss, and human existence.
Why It’s Underrated
Its quiet pacing and artistic style turned away mainstream viewers, but critics consider it a masterpiece of minimalist cinema.
Why You Must Watch It
- Raw emotional impact
- Stunning long-take sequences
- A haunting soundtrack
- Deep philosophical themes
It’s a movie you feel more than you watch.
10. The Nice Guys (2016)
Shane Black’s action-comedy featuring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe is one of the most entertaining films of the decade.
Why It’s Underrated
Despite rave reviews, it failed at the box office due to poor marketing and competition from bigger studio films.
Why You Must Watch It
- Hilarious buddy-cop chemistry
- Sharp writing and punchy action
- A refreshing 70s setting
- Endless rewatch value
This film deserved sequels — and still does.
Conclusion
The last decade gave us hundreds of films, but many of the best ones were overshadowed by blockbuster marketing, franchise fatigue, or shallow social media trends.
These Top 10 underrated gems — from sci-fi masterpieces to emotional dramas, from twisted horrors to clever comedies — deserve far more appreciation than they ever received.
If you’re searching for fresh, intelligent, emotional, or exciting cinema, start with these ten.
They don’t just entertain — they remind us why movies matter.