It’s a big weekend for streaming enthusiasts! While Disney Plus and Max are rolling out their heavy hitters, other top platforms are joining the fray with a diverse lineup of new movies and TV shows. Whether you’re into gripping horror, captivating dramas, or superhero spin-offs, there’s something for everyone. Here are our top picks debuting this weekend that you won’t want to miss.
Blink Twice
Streaming on VOD
Zoë Kravitz makes her directorial debut with “Blink Twice,” a thriller that wastes no time setting up its tension. The film follows Frida (Naomie Ackie) and Jess (Alia Shawkat), two friends who crash a high-profile gala after devising a daring plan to escape their mundane lives. An unexpected encounter with tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) turns their night upside down. With sharp storytelling and intriguing characters, “Blink Twice” offers a fresh take on the classic meet-cute scenario wrapped in suspense.
Challengers
Streaming on Prime Video
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, “Challengers” stars Zendaya as Tashi Donaldson, who finds herself entangled in a love triangle with two former best friends, played by Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist. Set against the backdrop of a mid-tier tennis tournament in New Rochelle, New York, the film unravels the complicated relationships and past histories that led to this intense rivalry. Guadagnino’s signature style brings depth to this sports drama, making it a compelling watch.
His Three Daughters
Streaming on Netflix
Azazel Jacobs’ “His Three Daughters” is a powerful family drama centered around three sisters who reunite in their small New York City apartment to care for their dying father. The film captures the raw emotions of grief, love, and sibling dynamics without ever showing the father on screen. With standout performances that explore the messy nature of family relationships during trying times, this Netflix release is both intimate and profound.
Mother, Couch
Streaming on VOD
“Mother, Couch” is a gripping drama directed by Niclas Larsson, adapted from Jerker Virdborg’s novel Mamma i soffa. The film explores how minor grievances can escalate into significant, even violent, confrontations. The story centers on three half-siblings—played by Ewan McGregor, Rhys Ifans, and Lara Flynn Boyle—who are forced to reunite when their mother (Ellen Burstyn) refuses to leave a couch in a sprawling, dilapidated furniture store. Adding to the intrigue is the store owner’s daughter, portrayed by Taylor Russell, who seems surprisingly unconcerned by the situation and even offers them a place to stay. With its edgy storytelling and strong ensemble cast, “Mother, Couch” delves deep into family dynamics and simmering tensions, making it a compelling watch this weekend.
I Saw the TV Glow
Streaming on Max
Jane Schoenbrun’s “I Saw the TV Glow” is a haunting coming-of-age horror that delves into themes of identity and fandom. The story revolves around two teenagers who bond over a mysterious 80s-esque supernatural TV show called “The Pink Opaque.” Eschewing cheap jump scares, the film builds a subtle yet persistent sense of unease. It’s a unique addition to the horror genre that’s both beautiful and unsettling, making it a standout pick on Max this weekend.
Cuckoo
Streaming on VOD
Hunter Schafer steps into her first leading role in “Cuckoo,” a supernatural horror film directed by Tilman Singer. Known for her captivating performance in “Euphoria,” Schafer brings her emotive prowess to this eerie tale that blends classic horror tropes with modern storytelling. The film also features a standout performance from Dan Stevens, adding depth to its unsettling atmosphere. If you’re a fan of psychological horror that doesn’t rely on easy explanations, “Cuckoo” is a must-watch this weekend.
The Penguin (Season 1)
Streaming on Max
Colin Farrell reprises his role as Oz Cobb, also known as The Penguin, in this HBO Max miniseries that dives deep into the criminal underworld of Gotham City. Building on his memorable but brief appearance in “The Batman,” Farrell delivers a captivating performance alongside Cristin Milioti’s Sofia Falcone. With its gritty atmosphere and complex characters, “The Penguin” stands tall among HBO’s acclaimed crime dramas and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story
Streaming on Netflix
The latest installment in Ryan Murphy’s “Monsters” anthology series delves into the infamous case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, brothers convicted of murdering their parents. Featuring powerful performances by Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny, the series explores the media frenzy and courtroom drama that captivated America. It’s a gripping true-crime drama that sheds new light on a notorious case, making it a compelling watch for fans of the genre.
A Very Royal Scandal
Streaming on Prime Video
“A Very Royal Scandal” offers a dramatized retelling of Prince Andrew’s explosive 2019 interview with journalist Emily Maitlis. Starring Michael Sheen as Prince Andrew and Ruth Wilson as Maitlis, the series delves into the behind-the-scenes negotiations and fallout from one of the most controversial interviews in recent history. With its high-caliber cast and timely subject matter, this Prime Video release is poised to be a standout in the realm of biographical dramas.
Agatha All Along (Season 1)
Streaming on Disney Plus
Kathryn Hahn returns as the mischievous witch Agatha Harkness in “Agatha All Along,” a spin-off from the hit series “WandaVision.” Stripped of her powers, Agatha must assemble a new coven to navigate the perilous Witches’ Road, hoping to regain her abilities. With its blend of campy humor and dark magic, the series promises to be another engaging entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. If the premiere episodes are any indication, “Agatha All Along” is set to enchant audiences throughout its run.
Twilight of the Gods (Season 1)
Streaming on Netflix
Director Zack Snyder brings his signature style to “Twilight of the Gods,” an R-rated animated series inspired by Norse mythology. The story follows Sigrid, voiced by Sylvia Hoeks, an iron-willed warrior on a quest for vengeance after Thor murders her betrothed on their wedding day. With epic battles and mature themes, the series aims to join the ranks of adult animated hits like “Arcane” and “BoJack Horseman.” For fans of mythological tales and action-packed animation, this is a must-see.
Enjoy your weekend binge-watching!
