As we transition from November into December, a diverse range of films is arriving on streaming platforms, offering everything from heartfelt dramas to quirky comedies. Here’s a closer look at some of the notable titles releasing this week:
The Lesson
Release Date: Monday, November 27 on Paramount+
Paramount+ presents “The Lesson,” a thriller featuring Richard E. Grant and Daryl McCormack in standout performances. The film revolves around a conflict between a harsh author and a young tutor, leading to an intense battle of wills. While the movie delivers a gripping narrative in its initial parts, it faces some challenges in maintaining its momentum towards the end. Despite these shortcomings, the film’s strength lies in the compelling performances of its cast, especially Grant and McCormack, who bring depth and intrigue to their roles. “The Lesson” is an engaging thriller that, despite its flaws, offers an absorbing viewing experience.
Bottoms
Release Date: Monday, November 27 on MGM+
Emma Seligman’s “Bottoms” is an audaciously humorous teen comedy starring Ayo Edebiri and Rachel Sennott. The plot revolves around two high school friends who start a fight club for girls, leading to a series of hilarious and unexpected events. The film is marked by its absurd humor and strong performances, making it a standout comedy. While “Bottoms” might have found a more natural home in theaters, it remains a joyous and entertaining watch for those streaming it at home, showcasing Seligman’s skill in creating engaging, comedic narratives. Read our review here.
A Good Person
Release Date: Tuesday, November 28 on Prime Video
Directed by Zach Braff, “A Good Person” presents a complex narrative exploring themes of addiction, loss, and recovery. The film showcases compelling performances by Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman, standing out in an otherwise uneven storyline. While it has garnered mixed reviews, largely due to its lack of subtlety in critical moments, the film shines in scenes where Pugh and Freeman share the screen, bringing depth and emotion to their roles. This character-driven drama offers an insightful, if somewhat flawed, look at personal struggles and redemption.
Five Nights at Freddy’s
Release Date: Tuesday, November 28 on VOD
“Five Nights at Freddy’s,” available on Prime, brings the popular video game to life in a cinematic adaptation. The film stars Josh Hutcherson as Mike, who takes a job at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, only to find himself in a nightmarish scenario. The animatronic characters in the pizzeria come to life, turning his job into a fight for survival. This adaptation aims to capture the essence of the game’s horror and suspense, while adding its own cinematic flair. It’s an intriguing choice for fans of the game and those who enjoy horror movies with a unique twist. The film’s success in translating the game’s eerie atmosphere to the big screen will be a key factor in its reception by audiences.
American Symphony
Release Date: Wednesday, November 29 on Netflix
“American Symphony” is a deeply personal documentary that delves into the life of musician Jon Batiste and his wife Suleika Jaouad, who is undergoing cancer treatment. The film captures the raw emotion and challenges of supporting a loved one through a health crisis, while also exploring the creative process under such circumstances. Having received positive feedback in festival circuits, this documentary stands out for its intimate portrayal of love, pain, and artistic expression. It’s a thought-provoking choice for viewers seeking a film with depth and real-life resonance.
Candy Cane Lane
Release Date: Friday, December 1 on Prime Video
Eddie Murphy stars in “Candy Cane Lane,” a holiday film blending humor and festive spirit. Murphy plays a character determined to win a neighborhood Christmas decoration contest, but his plans take a whimsical turn when he encounters an elf who brings the 12 Days of Christmas to life. This film, reminiscent of holiday classics like “Deck the Halls” and “The Santa Clause,” promises to be a delightful addition to the holiday movie genre. It’s a test to see if this new release can become a seasonal staple, showcasing Murphy’s enduring appeal as a comedy icon.
Family Switch
Release Date: Thursday, November 30 on Netflix
“Family Switch” offers a unique twist on the body-swap genre, envisioning a scenario where an entire family experiences the swap. Directed by McG, this holiday comedy attempts to carve its niche in the body-swap subgenre. Playing with the familiar premise seen in “Freaky Friday,” “Family Switch” promises to bring a fresh, humorous perspective to the concept, adding a festive touch to the mix. This film could be an entertaining pick for those looking for a light-hearted, family-centric comedy during the holiday season.
The Holdovers
Release Date: Tuesday, November 28 on VOD
“The Holdovers,” available on Prime, is a dramedy featuring the talents of Paul Giamatti, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Dominic Sessa. This film, ideally suited for a theatrical run, finds itself on VOD earlier than expected, reflecting the trend of shrinking theatrical windows. Despite its early release, the movie shines with strong performances and a poignant narrative, exploring themes of life, challenges, and interpersonal relationships. The film’s early transition to streaming might have cut short its potential in theaters, but it remains a compelling watch for those at home.
The Exorcist: Believer
Release Date: Friday, December 1 on Peacock
“The Exorcist: Believer” arrives on Peacock, marking the first installment of a Blumhouse trilogy. Despite its ambition to build upon the original “Exorcist” film, this sequel has been met with lukewarm reception, lacking the expected level of scares. Its underwhelming performance at the box office has set modest expectations for streaming viewers. Those curious about this latest addition to the “Exorcist” franchise can now see for themselves if it lives up to its legendary predecessor or falls short of the mark.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
Release Date: Friday, December 1 on Disney+
Harrison Ford reprises his iconic role in “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” now streaming on Disney+. Despite its relatively unnoticed theatrical release, the film offers moments of excitement and nostalgia. While the movie has faced criticism for its uneven storytelling, Ford’s portrayal of Indiana Jones remains a highlight. Viewers who missed its theatrical run now have the opportunity to experience this latest installment in the legendary franchise and judge for themselves if it lives up to the Indiana Jones legacy.
May December
Release Date: Friday, December 1 on Netflix
“May December” is a film that masterfully blurs the lines between horror and dark humor, showcasing director Todd Haynes’ unique ability to find terror in the mundane. The performances by Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, and Charles Melton are particularly noteworthy, with Portman’s transformative role and Moore’s enigmatic portrayal adding depth to the narrative’s complexity. Cinematographer Christopher Blauvelt’s surreal depiction of Savannah and Marcelo Zarvos’ intense score amplify the film’s unsettling atmosphere. This film, while challenging in its refusal to provide clear-cut moral judgments, stands out for its exploration of scandal, perception, and the impact of history on the present, making it a provocative and compelling watch for those seeking cinema that pushes boundaries and provokes thought. Read our review here.
