In the wake of the Academy Awards season, audiences seeking fresh entertainment can look forward to an exciting array of films debuting on various streaming platforms. Among the notable releases are works featuring Lindsay Lohan, Ethan Coen, Daisy Ridley, Nicolas Cage, and Ava DuVernay. Adding to the anticipation, Taylor Swift’s acclaimed concert film, ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour,’ is set for its SVOD launch.
Below is a curated list of the latest movie offerings available for streaming:
Available on VOD:
‘Drive-Away Dolls’ (Ethan Coen)
Ethan Coen emerges from the shadows of the Coen Brothers to present his first solo directorial venture, ‘Drive-Away Dolls.’ This film introduces viewers to Geraldine Viswanathan and Margaret Qualley, who portray Jamie and Marian. These characters navigate life’s challenges and embark on a journey to Tallahassee, Florida, seeking rest and relaxation. However, their plans are upended when they become entangled in a chase involving a mysterious briefcase and a band of relentless criminals. ‘Drive-Away Dolls’ showcases a stellar cast, including Beanie Feldstein, Colman Domingo, Pedro Pascal, Bill Camp, Matt Damon, Joey Slotnick, and C.J. Wilson, bringing to life a story filled with twists and turns.
‘Origin’ (Ava DuVernay)
Directed by Ava DuVernay, ‘Origin’ stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor in a poignant role as Isabel Wilkerson, an author grappling with personal loss while undertaking a global journey to pen her nonfiction book, ‘Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents.’ Isabel’s quest involves engaging with individuals across a spectrum of beliefs, aiming to underscore her thesis on racism’s foundations in the caste system. The film features performances by Jon Bernthal, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Niecy Nash-Betts, Nick Offerman, and Blair Underwood, offering a deep dive into themes of identity and societal structure.
‘Sometimes I Think About Dying’ (Rachel Lambert)
Daisy Ridley steps away from the intergalactic battles of Star Wars to lead in Rachel Lambert’s ‘Sometimes I Think About Dying.’ Ridley portrays Fran, a reserved office worker whose life revolves around solitude and a fascination with death. Her world begins to shift with the arrival of a new co-worker, Robert (Dave Merheje), sparking a connection that challenges her solitary existence. The film delves into themes of isolation and the struggle to find connection, showcasing a different facet of Ridley’s acting prowess. The cast also includes Parvesh Cheena, Marcia DeBonis, Meg Stalter, Brittany O’Grady, and Bree Elrod, contributing to a narrative that’s both dark and delicately humorous.
‘Stopmotion’ – Premiering on Friday, March 15
In a unique blend of live-action and animation, ‘Stopmotion’ emerges as a standout piece in the horror genre. Directed by Robert Morgan, the film follows Ella Blake (Aisling Franciosi), a stop-motion animator coping with the death of her mother. Determined to complete her mother’s final film, Ella’s journey takes a sinister turn when advice from a mysterious young girl leads her down a disturbing path. ‘Stopmotion’ is a testament to the power of creative storytelling, combining psychological horror with the artistry of stop-motion animation. The cast includes Aisling Franciosi, Stella Gonet, Tom York, and James Swanton, crafting a narrative that’s as eerie as it is visually captivating.
‘Irish Wish’ — Arriving on Netflix on Friday, March 15
Following the success of ‘Falling for Christmas,’ Lindsay Lohan returns to Netflix with the romantic comedy ‘Irish Wish.’ In a narrative steeped in whimsy and charm, Maddie (Lohan) finds herself caught in a magical dilemma when a wish on an ancient Irish stone leads her to become the bride-to-be of her dream man, Paul (Alexander Vlahos), who is set to marry her best friend. The film explores themes of love, fate, and the unexpected paths to finding true happiness. Directed by Janeen Damian, ‘Irish Wish’ features a cast including Ed Speelers, Elizabeth Tan, Ayesha Curry, and Jane Seymour, promising a heartwarming addition to the romantic comedy genre, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day viewing.
‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version)’ — Arriving on Disney+ on Friday, March 15
Disney+ is set to premiere ‘Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour,’ a concert film that not only captures the essence of Swift’s record-breaking tour but also includes exclusive songs and footage not previously shown in theaters. The film, directed by Sam Wrench, offers fans a chance to experience the magic of Swift’s performances, featuring hits like “Maroon,” “I Can See You,” “You Are In Love,” and “Death By A Thousand Cuts.” Swifties who missed the cinematic release now have the perfect opportunity to enjoy the concert film from the comfort of their homes.
‘Frida’ — Arriving on Prime Video on Thursday, March 14
Prime Video introduces ‘Frida,’ a documentary directed by Carla Gutierrez that explores the life of the legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Utilizing Kahlo’s personal diaries, letters, essays, and interviews, the film paints a vivid picture of her life, from her harrowing trolley car accident to her tumultuous relationships, including her marriage to Diego Rivera and affair with Leon Trotsky. The documentary also highlights Kahlo’s time in America and features stunning animation inspired by her artwork.
Watch on Prime Video on release date
‘Dream Scenario’ on Max
Nicolas Cage stars in ‘Dream Scenario,’ a surreal dark comedy directed by Kristoffer Borgli. Cage plays Paul Matthews, a college professor whose mundane life is upended when he inexplicably starts appearing in people’s dreams worldwide, transforming him into an overnight sensation. However, the dream appearances soon turn nightmarish, leading Paul down a path of social ostracism. The film, produced by Ari Aster, features a cast including Julianne Nicholson, Michael Cera, and Tim Meadows, offering a blend of fantasy and satire.
‘Trolls Band Together’ on Peacock
Peacock adds ‘Trolls Band Together,’ the latest installment in the DreamWorks animated musical series, to its lineup. This new adventure follows Poppy and Branch as they discover Branch’s past as a member of the boy band “BroZone.” The duo embarks on a mission to save Branch’s kidnapped brother, Floyd, reuniting the band and exploring new musical landscapes. The film boasts an all-star voice cast, including Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, and cameo appearances by numerous celebrities, promising a fun and vibrant experience for families and fans of the franchise.
Each of these releases offers something unique for viewers, from the immersive concert experience of Taylor Swift’s tour to the artistic journey of Frida Kahlo, the peculiar allure of ‘Dream Scenario,’ and the animated joy of ‘Trolls Band Together.’
