We're at a point now in the streaming world where just about every service has a multitude of quality titles available. But while we'd like to waste away days binging multiple shows at a time, sometimes we get in the mood to see a quality film. With upcoming exclusives and newly licensed films, it's admittedly a little difficult to keep track of everything worth seeing on streaming nowadays.
Therefore, we've found it helpful to highlight 50 movies from a variety of genres across all the major players in the streaming world, guaranteeing that there'll be something for everyone to watch this weekend, the next week, or any other time. From romcoms and legacy sequels to ghosts and magic elephants, there's a plethora of fascinating stories from all corners of the globe. We'll also update this list regularly to make sure we're reflecting the best new movies to watch on streaming.
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AMC+ & Shudder
Sharksploitation (AMC+ & Shudder)
If you missed out on this year's Shark Week, there's a neat documentary on Shudder that chronicles our toothy friends in the film industry. Directed by Stephen Scarlata, Sharksploitation is a brilliant documentary that focuses on the titular subgenre, which came about shortly after the release of Jaws. Just about everyone you can think of lends their analysis to Sharksploitation. Filmmakers, film critics, and those outside the film industry showcase examples of the subgenre, analyze their impact on the perception of sharks, and examine just how influential Jaws was to contemporary filmmaking as a whole.
If you're at least somewhat interested in sharks, either on the big screen or just in general, Sharksploitation is worth a watch. It's a film that takes the modern-day perception of sharks and casts a light on how it came to be. But don't worry, shark enthusiasts: the film even ends with a heartfelt plea to treat these creatures with respect instead of vilifying them further.
From Black (AMC+ & Shudder)
From Black, directed by Thomas Marchese, tells the story of a mother longing for the return of her lost son. When presented with an offer to learn what really happened to him, she may have to pay a terrifying price to find the truth.
Despite originally cutting his teeth on an award-winning police documentary, Fallen, Marchese has assembled a respectable occult horror film with plenty of notable names attached. True Blood and Pitch Perfect fans will recognize Anna Camp as the leading lady of From Black, in addition to other recognizable faces in the form of Travis Hammer (Godless) and Jennifer Lafleur (Nope).
Husera: The Bone Woman (AMC+ & Shudder)
Huesera: The Bone Woman should be on your radar if you're looking for a unique horror experience. We follow the story of Valeria, a woman excited to enter the wonderful world of motherhood. But, shortly after she's afflicted with a mysterious curse, Valeria finds herself dipping deeper and deeper into the world of magic until it may ultimately swallow her alive.
The feature film debut of Michelle Garza Cervera, this occult story originally premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival before being quickly snatched up by Shudder as an exclusive film. Joining the service's varied array of exclusives, Huesera is a bone-crunching, mind-melding examination of the conflicted feelings that motherhood may bring about, along with plenty of terrifying visuals to accompany it.
Apple TV+
The Beanie Bubble (Apple TV+)
If you're old enough to remember Beanie Babies, you're old enough to remember The Beanie Bubble. Based on a real story, Zach Galifianakis stars alongside Elizabeth Banks, Sarah Snook, and Geraldine Viswanathan in a story focused on the nostalgic toy craze of the '90s. The Beanie Bubble marks Galifianakis' latest film role after lending his voice to The Bob's Burgers Movie in 2022.
Co-directed by Kristin Gore and Damian Kulash, The Beanie Bubble has been noted by some to be a "middle ground" between the optimistic Flamin' Hot and darkly cynical BlackBerry. The result is a film that isn't afraid to mix its dramatic moments with splashes of humor here and there, along with featuring a rare beardless Galifianakis.
Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie (Apple TV+)
Whether you recognize him as Marty McFly or Mike Flaherty, there's no denying that Michael J. Fox's performances throughout the 80s and 90s left a huge impact on the world of filmmaking. After his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease became public in 1998, he became an advocate for awareness of the disease, even going so far as to fund research for Parkinson's disease through a foundation of his own creation.
In the AppleTV+ exclusive Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, you'll see Fox discuss his experiences with the disease and how he has grown and changed since his initial diagnosis in the early 90s. Primarily told via Fox himself, it's an intimate look at how Parkinson's disease can ultimately change one's life forever. Fortunately, Fox maintains a positive outlook, reflecting on his career successes and how he originally coped with his predicament.
Tetris (Apple TV+)
Joining the influx of "movies about products," the recently released Tetris is an intriguing film that takes the real-life story of the popular puzzle game and gives it a few more bells and whistles. Set in the midst of the Cold War, Henk Rogers is tasked with bringing the titular puzzle game over to the West from its country of origin. However, he'll have to pierce the iron curtain for the licensing deal of a lifetime.
With Taron Egerton as the film's lead, you'll see how the Tetris game dominated the globe from its humble origins, with a few extra car chases on the side. Nintendo fans will also see the company in its early heyday, with the release of the original Game Boy playing a vital role in Tetris' popularity.
Ghosted (Apple TV+)
As AppleTV+'s highest-viewed film debut, Ghosted is a particularly notable piece of the service's growing catalog. Starring Chris Evans and Ana de Armas, it follows the story of an average guy falling in love with a secret agent. However, he doesn't make this discovery until a grand romantic gesture goes horribly awry, leading the duo on a sprawling adventure to save the world.
Directed by Dexter Fletcher (The Offer, Rocketman), Ghosted is a film chock-full of rom-com humor, entertaining action sequences, and a surprising amount of cameos that we won't spoil for you here.
Paramount+
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (Paramount+)
If you've written off Transformers due to the mixed quality of Michael Bay's films, you may want to reconsider. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is a film made for fans of the original series and newcomers alike, featuring a long-awaited team-up that made headlines during its initial reveal to the public. The evil Decepticons are at it again, but this time around, Optimus Prime and the heroic Autobots find an unlikely ally in the Maximals: prehistoric transformers that take the form of gargantuan animals.
Nostalgia points aside, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts returns the Transformers series to what it does best via director Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Colorful machines fight for supremacy in all their mechanical glory. A certain special cameo towards the end of the film also promises a lofty crossover with another famous property, taking the franchise to new places as a result.
Scream VI (Paramount+)
If Jason Voorhees can go to New York, why can't Ghostface? Whereas Jason's romp in the Big Apple was admittedly pretty terrible, Scream VI is one of the better horror sequels to have come out in recent years. Set a year after the events of 2022's Scream; we follow the last survivors from Woodsboro as they move into the middle of New York City, hopefully freeing themselves from the traumatic killings that rocked their lives. However, when a new Ghostface killer starts making the rounds, the urban sprawl becomes his new hunting ground.
The Scream series thrived on defying and subverting expectations, and Scream VI continues this tradition tenfold. Dark humor, tense set-pieces, and an engaging whodunit mystery make for a surprising slasher sequel in one of the most consistent franchises to date.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (Paramount+)
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is easily one of the biggest sleeper hits of the year so far. Despite some mixed initial reactions, those who've seen the film in theaters typically have nothing but positive things to say about it. From the casting to the respect for the source material, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a fantastic adaptation of the tabletop game for the big screen. And now, it's streaming exclusively on Paramount+.
A charming thief and a motley crew of adventurers find themselves in the middle of a sprawling heist across some of Dungeons & Dragons' most iconic locations, all while facing off against Owlbears, Red Wizards, and a growing army of the undead. Instead of strictly adhering to a serious story, however, plenty of scenes highlight some of the concepts unique to the tabletop game and follow a similar escalation of events to that of a traditional D&D session. Hopefully, this will launch a new fantasy franchise.
Peacock
Polite Society (Peacock)
Polite Society originally made a big splash when it premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. Now you can catch it from the comfort of your home on Peacock. The film, which stars Priya Kansara (Bridgerton) and Ritu Arya (The Umbrella Academy), follows a pair of sisters as a crisis threatens to split them apart. When the older of the two agree to a marriage, the younger sibling takes it upon herself to break up the arrangement by utilizing her martial arts and stunt-woman training.
Taking notes from the works of Edgar Wright, Polite Society is an infectiously-fun action film that oozes style and comedy in equal measure. Serving as the feature film directorial debut of Nida Manzoor, those who enjoyed Manzoor's previous television project, We Are Lady Parts, will find several similarities in both it's direction and writing.
Renfield (Peacock)
Following the failure of Universal's Dark Universe, a series of stellar horror films have risen from the ashes. After a masterfully tense re-imagining of The Invisible Man, Dracula has made a return to the big screen in the form of Renfield, albeit with some minor alterations. He's played by Nicolas Cage, for starters.
Following the character of R.M. Renfield, Dracula's devoted servant, we find him struggling to balance his responsibilities to the suave count while pursuing a romantic interest in the middle of modern-day New Orleans. It's a unique spin on Dracula from the minds of Chris McKay (The Tomorrow War) and Robert Kirkman (Invincible), one that balances laughs with horror in a hopeful start to a new, better film universe.
Cocaine Bear (Peacock)
What can be said about Cocaine Bear? It's a film that wears its influences — and its story, frankly — on its sleeves for everyone to see. Loosely based on a true story, Cocaine Bear is a film about a bear that somehow finds itself stumbling across a duffel bag full of cocaine. Being a bear, his first instinct is to eat it. Shenanigans ensue shortly afterward.
Thankfully, Cocaine Bear trends more toward a comedic direction instead of outright horror. Directed and produced by Elizabeth Banks, Cocaine Bear places our drug-addled bear in a sympathetic light as our group of detectives, dealers, and ordinary citizens find themselves at the creature's mercy. Aside from its outrageous premise and the equally intriguing story the film is based on, Cocaine Bear is also notable for featuring one of the last performances by the late actor Ray Liotta.
Inside (Peacock)
Chances are, if you need someone acting absolutely unhinged, you'll call upon Willem Dafoe. After debuting in February, Inside has finally come to the streaming world, meaning you'll get to see this single-location thriller from the comfort of your own home. It'll be lucky for us but not so lucky for him. In Inside, a New York penthouse becomes the target of a crafty art thief. But when the room locks him inside with no way to escape, how will he survive?
Dafoe takes the spotlight in this tense survival thriller that surprisingly veers into philosophical territory whenever he's not scrounging for food or warmth. It isn't afraid to experiment a bit with the traditional survival formula, with Dafoe carrying its lofty ambitions throughout its runtime.
Netflix
They Cloned Tyrone (Netflix)
They Cloned Tyrone is a fresh piece of eclectic science fiction. Starring a brilliant cast with the likes of Jamie Foxx, John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, Keifer Sutherland, and more, They Cloned Tyrone is an alternate-future homage to the blaxploitation genre. When a group of friends experiences a bizarre series of events in their hometown, their investigation uncovers a mysterious government conspiracy.
Directed by Juel Taylor in his directorial debut, They Cloned Tyrone is easily one of the most intriguing movies of the year. Melding a love for a bygone era of film-making with a unique premise, They Cloned Tyrone already has all the makings of a pulpy cult classic, standing alongside other oddities like Sorry to Bother You and I'm a Virgo.
The Deepest Breath (Netflix)
Did you know that A24 also produces documentaries? If not, The Deepest Breath is easily one of their best. The sophomore film of director Laura McGann, The Deepest Breath focuses on an ocean-bound tragedy in the world of freediving -- the act of diving into the ocean with no external breathing apparatuses. Utilizing archival footage and various recordings, viewers follow a pair of freedivers named Alessia Zecchini and Stephen Keenan, as their attempt to cross a new threshold leads them on a journey with dizzying highs and heartbreaking lows.
Featuring some absolutely gorgeous views of the ocean, along with a compelling true story, The Deepest Breath is easily one of the most visually stunning documentaries on Netflix right now. You'll be amazed at how far we can traverse the ocean with nothing more than our own breath.
65 (Netflix)
With a trailer debuting during the Super Bowl, the Adam Driver science-fiction film 65 eluded audiences for a full month before debuting the following March. But now, you can watch Driver shoot down dinosaurs just about anywhere you go. That's right, the "65" in 65 refers to "65 million years" ago, as a distant future Adam Driver finds himself crash landing on Earth during this time period. Stuck with only one escape route, he and Ariana Greenblatt (Barbie) must find a way off the planet before an impending asteroid incinerates them into nothing.
Self-contained, over-the-top, and brimming with action, 65 is the perfect film to spruce up a dull evening. Movies with dinosaurs that aren't Jurassic Park seem to be pretty scarce nowadays, so if you want to see the ravenous reptiles with a bit more bite, this may be the film for you.
Bird Box Barcelona (Netflix)
Bird Box Barcelona, a surprising sequel to the viral horror film Bird Box, has come to Netflix. An indirect continuation of the first film, Bird Box Barcelona takes us to the streets of Spain with a brand-new lead: Mario Casas (The Invisible Guest).
Playing the role of Sebastian, Casas finds himself on a journey for survival, forging uneasy friendships with a band of other survivors as they attempt to escape Barcelona. But, amid their struggles, the supernatural creatures they're desperately afraid of may be the least of their concerns. If you couldn't get enough of the Bird Box universe with the first film, there's a chance that Bird Box Barcelona will pull up the blindfold and expand upon what made the original 2018 film so compelling.
The Out-Laws (Netflix)
The Out-Laws, the latest film from Happy Madison Productions, continues its trend of goofball comedies with a special twist this time around. During an exciting wedding week, a bank manager (Adam DeVine) finds his place of business robbed by a mysterious masked duo, with more and more evidence pointing towards the involvement of his soon-to-be in-laws. Along with featuring Pierce Brosnan, this Netflix feature also stars Nina Dobrev and Ellen Barkin,
Taking a more action-oriented approach, The Out-Laws is a film that can suit a variety of needs. Do you need an easy-viewing comedy? Do you want a fun film to spend an afternoon with? Do you want to see Pierce Brosnan crack jokes at his own expense? If you've answered "yes" to any of these, you may want to give The Out-Laws a good college try.
Nimona (Netflix)
Back from the dead after the dissolution of Blue Sky Studios, Netflix's newest animated exclusive, Nimona, has been making headlines since its successful debut. Based on the comic series by ND Stevenson, Nimona tells an unconventional futuristic fantasy tale with an equally unique protagonist. When Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed) is framed for a crime he didn't commit, he is visited by Nimona (Chloë Grace Moretz), a shape-shifting teen who faced similar persecution. As the two try to clear Boldheart's name, they'll uncover a grand conspiracy amid finding their place in the world.
Originally entering development as early as 2015, Nimona faced certain extinction after being bought out and quickly shut down by Disney during the coronavirus pandemic. However, against all odds, this plucky animated adventure has not only survived but thrived. Racking up positive review after positive review, we can safely assume that Nimona will be one of Netflix's better films of 2023.
Missing (Netflix)
A standalone sequel to the 2018 film Searching, Missing stars Storm Reid as June Allen, a teenager caught in a terrible predicament. When Allen's mother goes missing during a vacation to Columbia with a new boyfriend, Allen is forced to use whatever she can in order to track them both down. Directed by Will Merrick and Nick Johnson, Searching also has connections to the Hulu-exclusive thriller, Run.
As the start of a new anthology series, Searching knocks it out of the park. After Unfriended would take a bold step in making social media and "screen life" a key focus in its plotting, Searching takes it a new step further by incorporating mystery elements as well. It adds a layer of authenticity to the mystery, with the rest of the film being carried with stellar performances by Allen, Joaquim de Almeida, Ken Leung, and others.
Extraction 2 (Netflix)
Everyone loved Netflix's Extraction, right? The original Chris Hemsworth adventure was a stellar high-budget popcorn flick, all but guaranteeing the existence of a sequel three years later. Lo and behold, Extraction 2, with Sam Hargrave returning to direct.
In a perfect example of going bigger and bolder, Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth) is tasked with infiltrating one of the world's deadliest prisons for the film's namesake. However, when the extraction goes awry, Tyler finds himself in the crosshairs of a ruthless gangster. Featuring an incredible 21-minute single-take action scene, Extraction 2 is a perfect piece of explosive eye candy. If you enjoyed the first Extraction film, we can confidently say that Extraction 2 will offer more of the same with even more flourish.
Chupa (Netflix)
Netflix's Chupa tells the story of the mythical "chupacabra" — a vampiric creature that feasts on the blood of livestock. But, instead of something graphic and violent, we'll see how a young boy befriends the creature on a journey he won't soon forget.
It's an interesting subject for a film due to the creature's varied depictions across different geographical regions. In some areas, it's a horrific, reptile-like monster, whereas, in other areas, it resembles a large cat. A family film for all ages, Demián Bichir (The Hateful Eight) and Christian Slater (Inside Job) round out Chupa's cast in this light-hearted creature feature.
Murder Mystery 2 (Netflix)
A direct sequel to the surprisingly entertaining Adam Sandler flick, Murder Mystery 2 sees him and Jennifer Aniston reprising their roles as they form a devoted detective agency. When a well-off associate is suddenly kidnapped, they're tasked with solving yet another humorous mystery.
A more "fun" counterpart to whodunits like Knives Out, the Murder Mystery series continues to entertain and impress while avoiding the negative clichés associated with Sandler's comedic roles. His chemistry with Jennifer Aniston certainly helps.
Hunger (Netflix)
Described by some as "The Menu meets Whiplash," Netflix's cuisine-drama Hunger tells the story of an up-and-coming street-food chef taken under the wing of a culinary master. However, his infamous reputation and questionable methods force us to question how far we will go to achieve greatness.
Despite being about food, make no mistake — Hunger is more about the people who craft and assemble these extravagant dishes, along with those who gleefully consume them. With themes surrounding societal hierarchy and contempt between classes strewn throughout, Hunger is a fascinating examination of what it means to be "the best" from the heart of Thailand.
The Magician's Elephant (Netflix)
This recently-released animated film from Netflix has garnered some significant buzz. The Magician's Elephant leaves little to the imagination based on its title, telling a whimsical story about the relationship between a young boy desperate to find his long-lost sister.
Believing the key to accomplishing this lies in a magical elephant, he must complete three seemingly impossible tasks that'll change the future of his home forever. It's a heartwarming story with arguably some of the most beautiful 3D animation that Netflix has put out to date, making it a perfect film for family movie nights and animation enthusiasts everywhere.
The Mother (Netflix)
The biggest Netflix opening in 2023 thus far, Netflix's latest exclusive, The Mother, looks to be yet another action flick that can be enjoyed by all. Starring Jennifer Lopez, this audience favorite sees a deadly assassin return to the world of stealthy violence to protect a daughter she gave up years prior, all while fighting her own battles against a group in pursuit of her. A popcorn flick in every sense of the term, this film comes to us from director Niki Caro, who previously directed the live-action Mulan remake in addition to The Zookeeper's Wife and Whale Rider.
Sometimes, a movie doesn't have to be introspective or deep to be entertaining. Sometimes, all you need is J. Lo shooting guns and taking names in the snowy forests of Alaska. Compared to Lopez's previous films, there won't be any rom-com shenanigans to be had in The Mother, so temper your expectations accordingly.
The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die (Netflix)
Originally a series exclusive to BBC Two, The Last Kingdom would eventually become a product of Netflix after its extreme success on the streaming service. After five seasons, The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die is the final sendoff to one of Netflix's most thrilling historical dramas, completing the journey that originally started from an adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Stories.
Serving as a feature-length conclusion to The Last Kingdom's 46 episodes, The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die has series regulars Alexander Dreymon, Mark Rowley, Arnas Fedaravicius, Harry Gilby, and others attempting to unite England after a sudden death plunges the throne into chaos.
Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers: Once & Always (Netflix)
Toei Company
A childhood staple for many grown adults, Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers: Once & Always is a nostalgic return to the original Power Rangers series most of us probably grew up with. Featuring the return of multiple generations of Rangers, including the original Black and Blue Rangers (Walter Emanuel Jones and David Yost, respectively), it tells a classic passing-of-the-torch story in a film that celebrates the enduring legacy of Power Rangers while also serving as an appropriate acknowledgment of the franchise's 30th anniversary.
Is it admittedly a little strange to see our old favorites indulge in excessive backflips and delightfully cheesy acting? Sure, you could say that. But at the same time, there's something heartwarming about seeing the same actors like Amy Jo Johnson return with a similar enthusiasm they had for the original series.
Run Rabbit Run (Netflix)
Run Rabbit Run, after debuting at Sundance earlier this year, has hit Netflix. Directed by Daina Reid, notable for her work on The Handmaid's Tale, Run Rabbit Run stars Sarah Snook (Succession) as a practical woman with equally practical views about life and death. But when her daughter starts exhibiting increasingly strange behaviors, Sarah is forced to confront an uncomfortable past in order to solve the mystery of this slow-burn thriller.
While initial critical reception to Run Rabbit Run has been mixed, it's certainly struck a chord in Netflix's audience. There's plenty of creative potential to be found in its premise, and Sarah Snook is a definite highlight with her leading performance.
Hulu
Flamin' Hot (Hulu & Disney+)
Did you ever hear the story about how Flamin' Hot Cheetos were made? How a humble custodian took a batch of unflavored Cheetos, threw his own seasoning blend on them, and pitched the flavor to the CEO of Frito Lays? Well, it's not entirely true.
But, this popular story has hit streaming with Flamin' Hot, another biopic about the creation of a product. More specifically, a biopic about a contested story about the creation of a product. Underneath its source material, Eva Longoria's feature directorial debut Flamin' Hot is a positive rags-to-riches film that we can all connect to, just with some extra cheese powder on its fingertips. It makes for an easy-viewing escape with characters you can't help but root for.
Boston Strangler (Hulu)
Hulu
True crime's popularity has only ever gone up in recent years, and based on the success of Netflix's Dahmer, it's only natural that Hulu would throw its hat in the ring as well. Lo and behold, Boston Strangler is a 20th Century Studios film based on the real investigation conducted by reporting duo Loretta McLaughlin and Jean Cole.
The Boston Strangler is infamous for murdering 13 women throughout metropolitan Boston in the 1960s. While a name and face were eventually attached to the crimes, future evidence would suggest that he didn't act alone. Starring Keira Knightley and Carrie Coon as McLaughlin and Cole, respectively, this true crime thriller will surely have you on the edge of your seat throughout its brisk runtime. It's a film that focuses less on the grime and gore of the case and more on the investigative side of it, taking a tasteful approach to tackling a prolific killer's crimes.
Quasi (Hulu)
Hulu
The latest film from the comedy troupe Broken Lizard, Quasi takes our crass comedians to the past in a medieval adventure for the ages. "Quasi," aka Quasimoto, finds himself caught in the middle of a murderous feud between the king and the pope, all while he desperately searches for love in a world that rejects him.
Taking direct inspiration from Monty Python, multiple members of Broken Lizard play dual roles in the film, experimenting with their comedic formula in a setting they've never tackled before. Without spoiling any of the jokes, they knock it out of the park.
Infinity Pool (Hulu)
Following Brandon Cronenberg's monstrous body horror film Possessor, Infinity Pool brings back more of that grotesque filmmaking that we've come to love. Alexander Skarsgård and Cleopatra Coleman star in a vacation gone to Hell and back, as a drunk driving accident leaves the former put on trial for murder. When it's revealed that the punishment is death, however, an alternative offer is made: that a clone be made of him and subsequently executed in his place.
A film that takes its ludicrous concept to the ends of the Earth, Infinity Pool is equal parts existential horror and nightmarish science-fiction in a brutal examination of accountability. When you're allowed to do as you please and pass the results onto a sentient clone, how far will someone go until things get too intense? With Cronenberg directing, we can expect to go into some pretty dark places.
Door Mouse (Hulu)
A visually striking neo-noir film, Door Mouse follows a professional dancer turned amateur detective as she struggles to find out what happened to her missing friend. Door Mouse is heavily inspired by graphic novels, especially as our protagonist dabbles in comic artwork.
It's a throwback to the days of bitter coffee and unflinching cynicism found in classic noir films. While the film's budget is relatively modest, the utilization of stylized visuals inspired by comics more than makes up for it, creating the groundwork for future classics from director Avan Jogia.
Clock (Hulu)
The Hulu-exclusive horror flick Clock tackles a unique subject. In an age where more and more people debate whether they truly want to have children, what happens when a woman undergoes a procedure to "fix" her biological clock? Needless to say, the results aren't exactly what was expected.
Featuring Dianna Agron (Glee) alongside Melora Hardin (The Office), Clock is an intriguing psychological horror film that forces us to examine an increasingly prevalent question in a world that constantly pressures us to do the opposite.
Prime Video
Knock at the Cabin (Prime Video)
M. Night Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin is, for all intents and purposes, what you'd expect from a Shyamalan film. But while his previous efforts remain divisive among audiences and critics alike, Knock at the Cabin takes his formula and crafts something incredibly entertaining without his previous pitfalls.
Featuring a richly villainous performance by Dave Bautista, Knock at the Cabin sees him and three others forcibly take over a remote cabin in the woods, holding a young girl and her parents hostage in their wake. What would normally be a standard home invasion thriller turns into something much more interesting, however, when their unique motivations are revealed: the world is set to end, and a sacrifice must be made in order prevent that from happening.
80 For Brady (Prime Video & Paramount+)
NFL fans are in for a treat. 80 For Brady, based on a true story, sees a gaggle of elderly women bonding together over their mutual love of football, chicken wings, and living legend Tom Brady. When they get an opportunity to see Super Bowl LI in person, you better believe that they'll hightail it to Houston to see their favorite quarterback secure victory against the Atlanta Falcons.
Starring Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field, this silly comedy film also features a variety of guest stars from both in and outside the world of American football. Tom Brady, Guy Fieri, Rob Gronkowski, Danny Amendola, and Julian Edelman all make appearances as themselves, with other comedic talents including Andy Richter, Alex Moffat, Patton Oswalt, and Sara Gilbert lending their talents as well.
Creed III (Prime Video)
Adonis Creed is back for a third time in Creed III. Serving as the directorial debut of basketball legend Michael Jordan, Creed III continues the story of our titular boxer as he faces his most intimidating challenge yet. A childhood friend and boxing prodigy finds himself released from prison with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Will Creed be able to defeat his former protégé without the help of his longtime mentor?
That's right — Creed III is also notable for being the first film in the Rocky franchise to not feature Rocky Balboa himself, Sylvester Stallone, in an on-screen appearance. That's not to say that Michael Jordan and newcomer Jonathan Majors can't carry the film by themselves, however. In fact, some have argued that Creed III is the new peak of the series, making the film essential for both Creed fans and boxing enthusiasts.
Judy Blume Forever (Prime Video)
After a brand-new adaptation of Judy Blume's most popular work, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, succeeded in theaters, fans young and old will be delighted to check out a new documentary on Prime Video that chronicles the titular author's life and accomplishments in the form of Judy Blume Forever.
Straight from the mouth of Judy Blume herself, along with many creatives who have been impacted by her works, her life, and subsequent career will be examined for the positives it brought to pop culture and the handful of controversies she stirred up during her lifetime. It's the perfect companion piece to Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.
M3GAN (Prime Video)
M3GAN sees Allison Williams and Violet McGraw star in a killer doll movie for the modern era. When a newly-orphaned girl finds herself alone in the world, her uncle puts his financial resources towards the creation of M3GAN, a life-like doll that's as real as can be. But when the doll becomes too emotionally attached, it'll love her new friend to the end. . . Which may come sooner rather than later.
Directed by Gerard Johnstone (Housebound), this futuristic fright-fest initially went viral for M3GAN's equal parts mesmerizing and terrifying dances. Now, you can catch M3GAN on Prime Video, either with the original theatrical cut or a streaming-exclusive unrated cut with plenty of unsettling additions.
Reggie (Prime Video)
If all you know about baseball is peanuts and cracker jacks, Reggie may be the film for you. A film about the titular Reggie Jackson, this Prime exclusive documentary features the baseball legend himself as he discusses the impact of his legacy, how he set the bar for other athletes to follow in his wake, and how the color of his skin impacted how he was perceived in spite of his successes. Derek Jeter, Julius Erving, and Hank Aaron also make appearances throughout, along with archival footage detailing some of Jackson's triumphant feats.
While some feel it may go on a bit too long, it's worth it to see one of baseball's greats speak in great detail about his experiences in the sport. However, if you expect him to recall the time he tried to kill the late Queen Elizabeth in The Naked Gun, you may be slightly disappointed.
The Northman (Prime Video)
Robert Eggers and period pieces go hand-in-hand. Straight off the monumental critical success of The Lighthouse, Eggers returns with a grandiose Norse thriller in the form of The Northman. A departure from his previously isolated and subdued works, The Northman features Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anna Taylor-Joy, and even Icelandic musician Bjork in a story loosely inspired by Norse mythology.
Based on the legendary character of Amleth, our eponymous heir to the throne finds himself ousted from his homeland after his father is murdered, and his uncle assumes the throne. Swearing vengeance, an adult Amleth finds himself on a nihilistic journey through mind-blowing landscapes, primal combat, and a fascinating melding of both religious and fantasy elements in its unforgiving world.
Three Thousand Years of Longing (Prime Video)
The latest film from George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road), Three Thousand Years of Longing sees Tilda Swinton playing an isolated scholar who discovers an ancient bottle in Istanbul. After accidentally summoning a jinn, played by Idris Elba, she's offered an all-too-familiar prize: three wishes, as long as each one reflects her true desires. A brief disagreement turns into a trilogy of extravagant stories, ultimately building to how the jinn was trapped in the bottle, to begin with.
Both a box-office bomb and a critical darling, fans of Miller's grandiose cinematography will find themselves right at home with Three Thousand Years of Longing. It's more of a bittersweet tale, one that examines our relationships with escapism and loneliness. If you've been aching for an adult fairy tale, there's a good chance that Three Thousand Years of Longing is the movie for you.
Disney+
Stan Lee (Disney+)
Excelsior! With a new generation of Marvel fans born from the success of the MCU, why not introduce them to one of the minds behind it all? Stan Lee, the latest documentary from Disney+, seeks to chronicle the life of the titular former head of Marvel Comics.
Lee's collaborative efforts with other artists, notably Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, would directly lead to the creation of characters like Spider-Man, Doctor Strange, Daredevil, and just about every member of the Avengers. Stan Lee remains a stellar introduction to one of the most recognizable faces in the comic industry. Just be aware that the full breadth of Marvel's history can't be so easily condensed into a single documentary.
Avatar: The Way of Water (Disney+ & Max)
The long-awaited sequel to Avatar, Avatar: The Way of Water, is finally streaming. Due to contractual shenanigans, you're now able to watch Avatar: The Way of Water on either Max or Disney+. Coming a whopping 13 years after the original Avatar film, this sequel appropriately picks up more than a decade after the events of Avatar.
Jake Sully, having acclimated to his new life among the Na'vi, now lives happily with his newfound family. But the sudden return of the RDA to colonize Pandora threatens the sanctity of life on the planet. If you enjoyed the breathtaking visual effects of the first Avatar film, you're in luck, but the plot and emotionality are even richer. Somehow, someway, this film arguably outdoes its predecessor in nearly every single way. Better to catch this sooner rather than later, as a third film is already set to release in December 2025.
Max
Evil Dead Rise (Max)
The Deadites rise once again in the appropriately titled comeback film, Evil Dead Rise. In a bold step for the Evil Dead films, we step away from the cabin in the woods in exchange for a cramped Los Angeles apartment. A single mother of two, along with her sister, discovers the presence of the Necronomicon in the surrounding complex. A battle for survival quickly ensues, with a newfound family dynamic adding a whole new layer of tension and fear.
A full decade after the last Evil Dead film, Evil Dead Rise represents a return to form and the franchise's overall direction going forward. Originally going directly to Max, it was decided to release the film in theaters after incredibly positive test screenings. If you have keen ears, you may even catch a brief cameo from a certain fan-favorite character.
Reality (Max)
Loose government documents continue to be all the rage in the news cycle recently, and if the recent HBO film Reality is anything to go by, it'll continue to be this way for a good while longer. Debuting to critical acclaim, Reality is a drama film based on the real interrogation of Reality Winner, a former NSA translator charged with violating the Espionage Act. She did so through the unauthorized release of government documents that gave credence to Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
An intimate bundle of tension that slowly ratchets the suspense further and further, Reality is an intriguing film that takes heavy inspiration from real-life interrogation transcripts. It almost borders on being a documentary at points, highlighting an interesting story that no doubt played a role in the current American political discourse. The most impressive thing, perhaps, is Sydney Sweeney's astounding and transformative central performance.
This Place Rules (Max)
A24
With US elections rearing their heads again, it may be worth revisiting a compelling documentary assembled by a viral internet personality. This Place Rules isn't a documentary detailing the events of January 6, 2021. Rather, it features Andrew Callaghan traveling across the United States in the months leading up to the tumultuous event, exploring the mindsets of fringe populations that may have led to what transpired on that faithful day. Along the way, dramatic interviews with controversial figures -- including the infamous conspiracy theorist Alex Jones — and occasionally comedic setbacks punctuate a bizarre portrait of a polarized nation.
While Callaghan has since been disgraced for his conduct with women and largely canceled, there's no denying the hypnotic, train wreck quality of the interviews and footage found in the democracy-debunking This Place Rules. Produced by A24 and Abso Lutely Productions (The Eric Andre Show, Nathan For You), this eclectic documentary is perfect if you're looking for a unique take on a controversial subject.
All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (Max)
The aftermath of the opioid epidemic continues to ravage not just the United States but the world as a whole. Who else would be better to cover it than Nan Goldin? Her coverage of both the opioid epidemic and the related Sackler family are shown in great detail in All the Beauty and the Bloodshed.
Directly affected by opioid addiction herself, Goldin's efforts to hold the Sacklers accountable are told over seven distinct chapters, featuring narration by Goldin in addition to archival footage and her contemporary work with the advocacy group P.A.I.N. (Prescription Addiction Intervention Now).
