Apple TV's collection of original films contains numerous overlooked treasures that failed to receive their due recognition, and the selections for this weekend confirm that notion. Ranging from a factual account of two Black businessmen navigating a discriminatory system, to Denzel Washington's intense portrayal of Shakespeare's power-hungry antagonist, to a lively Dublin household discovering unity via melody, these three films cover a broad spectrum of genres.

The Banker (2020)

Genre: Biography, Drama, History
IMDB rating: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 78%

Bernard Garrett (Anthony Mackie) and Joe Morris (Samuel L. Jackson) executed one of the most daring business maneuvers of the 1960s by acquiring properties in segregated neighborhoods, with a white associate named Matt Steiner (Nicholas Hoult) serving as the public front for their operations. The Banker draws from this real-life tale to illustrate the lengths two Black entrepreneurs needed to reach in order to seize opportunities routinely available to others. The film succeeds by blending indignation with ingenuity, allowing viewers to cheer for both the scheme and the underlying purpose. Rooted in actual events, every development carries genuine significance.

Stream The Banker on Apple TV.

The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
IMDB rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

Following an unsettling prophecy from three ominous witches, Scottish noble Macbeth (Denzel Washington) falls under the spell of unchecked ambition. Urged on by his calculating spouse Lady Macbeth (Frances McDormand), he murders King Duncan (Brendan Gleeson) to seize the throne. Overcome by paranoia and remorse after his coronation, the new ruler descends into brutal acts while targeting threats such as Macduff (Corey Hawkins).

Director Joel Coen pares Macbeth to its essentials in this version by replacing elaborate castles and spectacle with stark, minimalistic environments. The monochrome visuals provide unexpected impact. This production earned three Oscar nominations, among them Best Actor for Washington, establishing it as one of the strongest Shakespeare adaptations in recent cinema.

Stream The Tragedy of Macbeth on Apple TV.

Flora and Son (2023)

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
IMDB rating: 7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

Flora (Eve Hewson) reaches a point of desperation with her defiant teenage son Max (Orén Kinlan) after police recommend a constructive activity, prompting her to retrieve a worn acoustic guitar from a trash bin. When Max shows no interest, Flora begins online lessons with a faded Los Angeles musician named Jeff, portrayed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and their remote connection gradually transforms her perspective on life.

Director John Carney, known for Once and Sing Street, applies his characteristic mix of raw appeal and musical elements to this underappreciated Apple TV film. Jack Reynor portrays Max's mostly absent father, deepening the sense of Flora's fatigue. The story delivers equal parts humor and heartfelt moments.

Stream Flora and Son on Apple TV.