10 Most Underrated Movies Of 2016 (So Far)

Jake Gyllenhaal has proven himself to be one of the best and most accomplished actors of his generation. That's one of the biggest reasons why Demolition, a drama released earlier in this year to little fanfare or acclaim, is well-worth watching in spite of its tonal misdemeanors: he's absolutely fantastic in it.

Demolition tells the story of Davis Mitchell, an investment banker who - after the death of his wife - struggles to find a way forward. Helmed by Jean-Marc Vallee, it's true that Demolition can't quite stick to a singular approach, but that doesn't make it any less watchable: embrace its scattershot nature and you'll find this be dark, wacky and humorous in equal measure. Better than just "plainly generic," surely?

Coming from the director of Dallas Buyers Club, perhaps some were expecting something of equal weight and depth, which Demolition largely isn't. And yet it's strange that so many reviews attacked what is an otherwise enjoyable film, packed with memorable dialogue cues and fine performances (Chris Cooper and Naomi Watts play Davis' father-in-law and new-found love interest respectively).

Still, it is Gyllenhaal who carries Demolition, who is captivating in every scene, no matter what's going on, proving that - in this day and age - he is able to nail one character type better than anyone else: all hail the king of the "irresistible oddball."