If you loved the sound of the films in Reel Ruminators but weren’t looking for group discussions, this is for you.
Reel Ruminators: Explorer gives you the same carefully selected, under-the-radar films—without the extra layers. It’s designed for film lovers who want to watch something meaningful with a bit of context.
Inside Explorer, I will introduce you to films that spark your imagination, expand your empathy, and stir that quiet, rebellious part of you that yearns for a better world — for yourself and others.
And I’ll offer my lens on the film to help make it a more rewarding watch, based on years of watching widely and thinking politically.
Title of one remarkable under-the-radar film—handpicked for its emotional resonance and thoughtful storytelling.
An introduction video from me (Alex):
Cultural and cinematic context
Why this film is worth your time
A few spoiler-free things to notice as you watch
A streaming guide to locate the film in your country
Four spoiler-free prompts to guide your viewing (if you want them)
No group calls. No homework. Just watch and enjoy — knowing there’s another gem waiting next month.
“I LOVE how Reel Ruminators: Explorer introduces me to filmmakers, actors, and genres I never would have discovered. A recent favourite opened me up to a whole new genre, which my husband and I continue to explore — including films and TV by the director and lead actor.”
— Cate Poe
Here, the focus isn’t just recommending films—it’s about offering thoughtful timing and context, so you feel ready and excited to sit down to watch.
“It was just such a lovely film, and I'd somehow missed it, apart from maybe a couple of references you had made to it in the podcast. And, yeah, I didn't know anything about it. I had no real idea what it was, what it could be. I think I'd heard of one of the director's previous films, but not seen it.
That was a really lovely feeling of opening something and receiving a present. It was a film that was so, so up my street and yet that I had no idea about, which, despite however long I've been spent listening to your podcast, I'd still somehow let this one pass me by—until Reel Ruminators got me to watch.”
— Hazel Shaw
Over 12 months, you’ll explore films from different countries, genres, and moods—sometimes joyful, sometimes challenging, always worth your time.
The cumulative experience changes how you watch, and connects films in unexpected ways—building a rewarding habit of exploration.
“Most of the Reel Ruminators films have been such a discovery for me — and aren’t ones I would have chosen on my own. It’s opened me up to new types of films that I really like.”
— Nurri Kim