The streaming services are really pulling out all the stops this week, delivering a massive slate of new films for every kind of movie buff. Whether you’re looking for some action-packed counterprogramming to the March basketball frenzy or simply want to settle in for a spring break binge, there’s something for everyone. We’re seeing a wave of theatrical releases making their way to your home screens, including a fun-sounding remake of “Anaconda” starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd, and a high-concept AI thriller featuring Chris Pratt. Beyond that, there’s a treasure trove of original content, from a deep dive into the life of rock icon Billy Idol to a wild time-travel crime caper starring Vince Vaughn.
Here’s a rundown of 15 new and notable films you can stream right now:
‘Anaconda’
This comedic reimagining sees a wedding video director, played by Jack Black, and his best mate, a Hollywood actor portrayed by Paul Rudd, embark on an ambitious project. Their goal: to recreate their favourite B-movie from their youth, the 1997 Jennifer Lopez flick “Anaconda.” However, their plans take a sharp turn when the snake intended for their film perishes, and they’re forced to use a replacement that turns out to be a gigantic, monstrous reptile, leading to some deadly shenanigans.
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Anniversary’
Phoebe Dynevor stars as a young woman who finds herself entangled with the son of a wealthy couple, played by Dylan O’Brien, Kyle Chandler, and Diane Lane. The situation quickly becomes complicated when the mother of the family recognises her as a former student who espoused a radical, totalitarian ideology. As the new girlfriend begins to cultivate a powerful following, she threatens to tear the family apart from the inside out.
Where to watch: Hulu
‘Ballerina’
This exciting “John Wick” spinoff introduces us to Eve, a skilled dancer and assassin portrayed by Ana de Armas. She goes rogue from her crime family, driven by a mission to track down the cult responsible for her father’s murder. Her path of vengeance is paved with spectacular action sequences, including an incredible flamethrower shootout and a brutal brawl that incorporates dinner plates. Along the way, she makes new allies and enemies, even crossing paths with the legendary Wick himself, played by Keanu Reeves.
Where to watch: HBO Max
‘Bambi: The Reckoning’
Emerging as one of the more compelling entries in the recent wave of public domain indie horror films, this is a particularly gory take on the classic “Bambi” narrative. Following the tragic death of his mother at the hands of hunters, a young deer consumes toxic water, transforming into a mutated monster. This monstrous creature then embarks on a reign of terror against a human mother and her son, played by Roxanne McKee.
Where to watch: Peacock
‘Billy Idol Should Be Dead’
The title of this documentary is quite literal, as it delves into the near-death experiences of British rock icon Billy Idol. The film explores the harrowing period in the ’80s when a severe heroin addiction and a devastating motorcycle accident could have easily ended his life. Thankfully, Idol is still very much alive and kicking, and he shares his fascinating journey, charting his evolution from a “pretty boy” punk in the ’70s to the sneering, fist-pumping rock god of the Reagan era.
Where to watch: Hulu
‘Is This Thing On?’
Bradley Cooper’s latest directorial venture is a departure from his previous, more dramatic works like “A Star Is Born” and “Maestro.” This outing is a more relatable and genuinely funnier film that also showcases the dramatic capabilities of Will Arnett. He plays a middle-aged man who, after splitting from his ex-athlete wife (Laura Dern), stumbles into the world of stand-up comedy. This new path provides him with a much-needed outlet to confront and process his issues.
Where to watch: Hulu
‘Mercy’
In this futuristic sci-fi thriller, Chris Pratt takes on the role of a Los Angeles homicide detective. He awakens strapped to an electric chair, finding himself accused of murdering his wife. Facing an AI judge, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson, he has a mere 90 minutes to sift through the evidence against him and prove his innocence – or at least cast enough reasonable doubt – before his execution.
Where to watch: Prime Video
‘Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice’
This action-comedy centres on time travel, with mob enforcer Mike (James Marsden) receiving a dire warning from his partner, Nick. The catch? This Nick is from six months in the future, revealing that Mike has been framed and their boss wants him dead. To survive the night, Mike must enlist the help of the present-day Nick (also played by Vince Vaughn) and Alice (Eiza Gonzalez), who happens to be Nick’s wife and Mike’s girlfriend.
Where to watch: Hulu
‘1000 Women of Horror’
This documentary challenges the notion that scary movies are solely a male domain. It serves as a perfect way to engage with International Women’s History Month by exploring the pioneering women who have shaped the horror genre. The film celebrates iconic movies like “Jennifer’s Body” and “Possession” and features interviews with influential filmmakers such as Mary Harron, known for her work on “American Psycho.”
Where to watch: Shudder
‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’
Following the extensive journey of ex-gangster Tommy Shelby, brilliantly portrayed by Cillian Murphy, across six seasons of “Peaky Blinders,” this new film sees him confronting the ghosts of his past. Tommy must step in to help his estranged criminal son (Barry Keoghan) when the young man becomes embroiled in a dangerous Nazi plot aimed at crashing the British economy.
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Pretty Lethal’
This action thriller boasts a cast of talented young actresses, including Maddie Ziegler, Lana Condor, Millicent Simmonds, Iris Apatow, and Avantika. They play ballerinas whose bus breaks down en route to a major competition in Budapest. Their misfortune takes a dark turn when they are captured by Hungarian gangsters and are forced to fight – and kill – their way out of an inn run by a shady former dance prodigy, played by Uma Thurman.
Where to watch: Prime Video
‘Primate’
This film offers a simian twist on the classic slasher movie formula. College student Lucy (Johnny Sequoyah) returns to her family home in Hawaii for a visit, bringing along Ben, a highly intelligent chimpanzee and her late mother’s research project. However, a single rabid mongoose bite transforms Ben into a terrifying, skull-crushing menace, putting Lucy and her friends in grave danger.
Where to watch: Paramount+
‘Sentimental Value’
Directed by Joachim Trier, this touching drama, which garnered an Oscar for best international feature, stars Stellan Skarsgård as an aging filmmaker embarking on a comeback. His new movie is inspired by his own family, and he also faces the challenge of mending fences with his two estranged daughters: a determined stage actress (Renate Reinsve) and a former child star (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas).
Where to watch: Hulu
‘Wicked: For Good’
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande reprise their beloved roles as the “wicked” witch Elphaba and the popular Glinda, respectively, infusing the musical sequel with renewed energy. Elphaba takes a stand against the corrupt Wizard, played by Jeff Goldblum, while the frenemies navigate their evolving relationship through song in a fantasy flick that offers a surprisingly relevant message about the importance of standing up for what’s right.
Where to watch: Peacock
‘Zootopia 2’
This animated comedy sequel from Disney catches up with the determined bunny cop Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and the street-smart fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). The unlikely partners are once again tasked with saving the city of Zootopia. Their mission involves assisting a fugitive snake (Ke Huy Quan) and uncovering a long-standing conspiracy targeting reptiles.
Where to watch: Disney+
