Binge-Worthy Blockbusters and Hidden Gems: Your Ultimate Streaming Guide This Oscar Season
As the glitz and glamour of Oscar weekend descends, cinephiles might be tempted to catch up on the nominated features. However, for those seeking something a little different – perhaps involving talking animals, historical intrigue, or even the former First Lady – a wealth of new and noteworthy films are now readily available to stream from the comfort of your own couch. Major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video are bringing a diverse slate of theatrical releases directly into Australian homes. From gripping thrillers to heartfelt dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies, there’s something to suit every taste.
Here’s a curated list of 10 must-watch movies you can stream right now:
1. ‘Bodycam’
Dive into the gritty world of urban horror with ‘Bodycam,’ a found-footage flick that blends the intensity of police investigations with genuine scares. The premise is simple yet chilling: two officers respond to a domestic dispute, but the situation escalates rapidly, leading to a shooting. What follows is a desperate attempt to cover up an accidental murder, plunging the duo into a night of escalating dread and increasingly bizarre neighbourhood events. If you’re a fan of suspenseful, first-person perspectives, this one’s for you.
- Where to watch: Shudder
2. ‘Fackham Hall’
Prepare for a dose of delightfully absurd British humour with ‘Fackham Hall,’ a spoof that masterfully parodies the beloved period drama ‘Downton Abbey.’ Set in 1930s England, this hilariously daffy film centres on the eccentric and rather incestuous Davenport family. Young Rose Davenport finds herself in a quandary: should she marry her cousin Archibald to secure the family estate, or follow her heart and elope with Eric, a charming pickpocket who has unexpectedly found employment as a servant? It’s a witty and over-the-top take on class, romance, and family obligation.
- Where to watch: HBO Max
3. ‘Hamnet’
For a deeply emotional and profoundly moving cinematic experience, look no further than ‘Hamnet.’ Directed by Chloé Zhao, this heartfelt drama offers an intimate glimpse into the family life of none other than William Shakespeare. Jessie Buckley delivers a powerful performance as Agnes Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, who navigates the challenges of raising their children while Will (played by Paul Mescal) pursues his career in London. The film poignantly explores themes of love, loss, and the profound impact of tragedy on relationships, ultimately illuminating the inspiration behind Shakespeare’s most famous work, ‘Hamlet.’
- Where to watch: Peacock
4. ‘It Was Just an Accident’
Jafar Panahi’s ‘It Was Just an Accident’ is a masterful blend of intense moral questioning and surprisingly clever screwball comedy. The narrative follows a mechanic who, convinced he has kidnapped the man who tortured him in an Iranian jail, enlists the help of fellow political prisoners to decide the fate of his captive. This contemporary fable is a breathtaking exploration of justice, revenge, and the complexities of the human psyche, all wrapped in a thrilling and thought-provoking package.
- Where to watch: Hulu
5. ‘Melania’
Directed by Brett Ratner, ‘Melania’ offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of Melania Trump, the former fashion model and wife of President Donald Trump. The documentary follows the pivotal 20 days leading up to the 2025 presidential inauguration, with the former First Lady providing a personal narration. Viewers are given an intimate glimpse into her private world and her experiences during a significant period in American political history.
- Where to watch: Prime Video
6. ‘Not Without Hope’
Based on a harrowing true story, Joe Carnahan’s survival thriller, ‘Not Without Hope,’ is a testament to human endurance. The film stars Zachary Levi as one of four friends whose ambitious fishing expedition turns into a desperate fight for survival when their boat is capsized by a brutal storm. As they face the unforgiving elements, dehydration, and hypothermia, a determined Coast Guard captain, played by Josh Duhamel, leads the perilous rescue mission. It’s a gripping tale of courage against overwhelming odds.
- Where to watch: Paramount+
7. ‘Nuremberg’
‘Nuremberg’ is a compelling historical thriller that is both crowd-pleasing and deeply resonant. The film centres on the aftermath of World War II, as Hermann Göring, Adolf Hitler’s narcissistic right-hand man, portrayed by Russell Crowe, stands trial for war crimes. Göring engages in a tense psychological battle of wits with Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, played by Rami Malek. The film offers a powerful look at the pursuit of justice and the enduring impact of historical events.
- Where to watch: Netflix
8. ‘The Secret Agent’
Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1970s, ‘The Secret Agent’ is a gripping political thriller featuring a standout performance from Wagner Moura. Moura plays a Brazilian researcher who finds himself the target of mercenary killers. As he attempts to flee the country’s oppressive dictatorship with his son, adopting a new identity and aligning with fellow dissidents, he is forced to question whom he can truly trust in a world rife with danger and betrayal.
- Where to watch: Hulu
9. ‘War Machine’
Imagine a cinematic collision between the intense military drama of “Full Metal Jacket” and the high-octane action of a “Transformers” movie, and you’ll get a sense of ‘War Machine.’ Starring Alan Ritchson, known for his role as “Reacher,” this film follows an Army combat engineer who enlists in a prestigious Ranger program. His final mission takes a dramatic turn when an extraterrestrial armoured enemy emerges, forcing him and his fellow soldiers into an unexpected and epic battle for survival.
- Where to watch: Netflix
10. ‘Zootopia 2’
The beloved animated world of Zootopia is back with ‘Zootopia 2,’ a highly anticipated sequel that reunites audiences with fan favourites Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman). The unlikely duo of bunny cop and street-smart fox are back to save their bustling metropolis once again. This time, they must help a snake on the loose and unravel a long-standing conspiracy targeting the city’s reptilian inhabitants. It’s a fun, family-friendly adventure filled with humour and heart.
- Where to watch: Disney+
