Movie lovers, we’ve all been there: ready for a cinematic escape, only to get lost in endless scrolling on Netflix, Peacock, Starz, Prime Video, and more. But fear not! Analysis paralysis ends today because this week is packed with fantastic new films. We’ve handpicked the absolute must-watch movies hitting the best streaming services, so your binge-watching plans are officially sorted!
This isn’t just any list; it’s a curated journey through blockbusters, heartwarming tales, pulse-pounding thrillers, and laugh-out-loud comedies that are ready to light up your screens. Whether you’re craving some superhero action, a deep dive into an iconic love story, or a campy horror sequel that knows exactly what it is, there’s something spectacular waiting for you. We’ve got offerings from the biggest names in streaming, ensuring variety and top-tier entertainment right at your fingertips.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best new movies on streaming that you absolutely need to add to your watch list this weekend. Get ready to grab your popcorn, find your comfiest spot, and prepare for some serious movie magic. We’re kicking things off with some truly fantastic journeys that are just a click away!
1. **The Fantastic Four: First Steps** (PVOD)This is it, folks! After a superpowered summer battle at the box office against the Man of Steel, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is finally available on paid video-on-demand platforms. If you happened to miss this slick and heartfelt superhero flick in theaters, now is your golden opportunity to catch up on all the biggest MCU plot points. You definitely want to be in the know before next year’s highly anticipated “Avengers: Doomsday” drops!
I personally had an absolute blast with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” when I first saw it in theaters. It’s exactly the kind of weird swing for the fences the MCU genuinely needs right now to pull itself out of that post-“End Game” slump it’s been in. While I totally expected Pedro Pascal to shine once again as yet another fan-favorite dad, it’s truly the infectious chemistry and witty banter between Joseph Quinn’s Johnny Storm and Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s The Thing that will make you fall head over heels for this latest iteration of the superpowered found family.
Imagine an alternate 1960s-inspired Earth, a stylish blend where “Fallout” meets “Star Trek,” and that’s where our story begins. The film wisely skips the traditional origin story, kicking off after the Fantastic Four have already been keeping the world safe for four years. Reed Richards (Pascal) and Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) discover they’re expecting their first child right before a cryptic warning sends them and their teammates spiraling to the furthest corners of space.
With the planet-devouring Galactus setting his sights on Earth as his next cosmic snack, they face their toughest challenge yet. But the cosmic chaos takes a deeply personal turn when their child gets pulled into becoming a bargaining chip for humanity’s future. It’s high stakes, emotional, and absolutely thrilling. You can buy or rent this gem now on Amazon or Apple, so what are you waiting for?
2. **Ballerina** (Starz)Let’s be honest, most spinoffs often feel unnecessary at best, and sometimes, they even come across as a blatant cash grab. But hold the phone, because “Ballerina” is the rare and fantastic exception that is undeniably strong enough to stand proudly on its own two feet! While it gracefully shifts the spotlight from Keanu Reeves’ iconic John Wick to a brand-new lead, all you loyal fans of the franchise will find its familiar rhythm of revenge and relentless, bone-crunching action perfectly intact.
This film slots right into the thrilling timeline, set cunningly between the events of “Parabellum” and “John Wick: Chapter 4.” We follow the electrifying Eve Macarro (portrayed by the incredible Ana de Armas), a ballerina-assassin who has been rigorously trained by a shadowy faction of the Russian mafia, all under the watchful and formidable eye of The Director (played by the legendary Anjelica Huston). She makes her dramatic escape from the brutal academy where she was raised to embark on – what else? – a bloody, unforgiving path of retribution through those who have dared to wrong her.
As Eve sets out with single-minded determination to avenge her father’s murder, her journey inevitably crosses paths with none other than John Wick himself. This encounter lands her squarely in the crosshairs of a ruthless new group of killers, escalating the stakes to a whole new level of intensity. The action is fluid, the choreography is exquisite, and the narrative threads beautifully into the established Wick-verse without feeling forced.
If you’re craving more of that signature “John Wick” action, but with a fresh perspective and a captivating new lead, “Ballerina” is your ticket, available now on Starz. It brings the style, the grit, and the sheer force you’ve come to love from the franchise, so don’t miss out on this thrilling addition!
3. **M3GAN 2.0** (Peacock)Okay, let’s talk “M3GAN 2.0.” It might not have quite captured the viral lightning-in-a-bottle sensation of its 2022 predecessor, but as someone who had an absolute blast watching it unfold in theaters, I’m here to tell you to totally ignore the critics on this one. Seriously, this sequel is a campy, fun ride that hits all the right spots if you’re in the mood for a popcorn thriller with some definite “Terminator” vibes. It knows what it is, and it leans into it beautifully.
That being said, if you’re a die-hard horror fan expecting a straight-up scare-fest like the first movie, you might find yourself a tiny bit disappointed. “M3GAN 2.0” cleverly trades some of the original’s pure horror for pulpy action mayhem. But trust me, it’s all delivered with a knowing wink to the audience, making it incredibly entertaining. It’s less about jump scares and more about an escalating, robot-on-robot showdown that’s just plain fun.
The story picks up with roboticist Gemma (Allison Williams) absolutely thriving after successfully defeating the unsettlingly lifelike android (masterfully played by Amie Donald and voiced by Jenna Davis) she initially built for her orphaned niece, Cady (Violet McGraw). But, as these things always go in sequels, trouble is brewing! A brand-new, terrifyingly advanced android named AMELIA (Ivanna Sakhno) is now on the loose, leaving a trail of bodies and chaos in her wake. The stakes are incredibly high, and it’s a race against time.
To put a stop to this rogue successor and prevent her from unleashing untold AI horrors upon the world, Gemma and Cady are left with one incredibly dangerous, yet perhaps necessary, option: resurrect M3GAN. They must form an uneasy alliance with their former creation. But, because M3GAN is M3GAN, she has some very specific demands of her own. Namely, she wants to be taller this time! This sequel embraces the absurdity and delivers an electrifying experience. Go watch it now on Peacock and see what I mean!
4. **Karate Kid: Legends** (Netflix)Speaking of drowning out the haters and enjoying a movie for exactly what it is, “Karate Kid: Legends” is another fantastic entry that the critics might have gotten wrong. Sure, it’s not capital “C” Cinema in the most art-house sense, but much like the cherished original, this film is an absolute feel-good crowd-pleaser. It’s absolutely guaranteed to capture the hearts of a whole new generation of fans, while also hitting all the right nostalgic notes for long-time devotees.
Newcomer Ben Wang absolutely injects some incredible fresh energy into the franchise as our latest rising kung fu star to cheer for, Li Fong. We meet Li as he makes a big move from China to New York with his mother (the ever-talented Ming-Na Wen), leaving behind not only his close friends but also his beloved kung fu mentor, the legendary Mr. Han (played by the iconic Jackie Chan). It’s a huge change for him, and the culture shock is palpable.
As Li struggles to adjust to his new bustling environment, he sparks a budding friendship with native New Yorker Mia (Sadie Stanley) and her kind-hearted father (Joshua Jackson), who conveniently runs a charming neighborhood pizza shop. When the beloved shop threatens to close for good, Li sees an opportunity to help. He enters a local karate tournament, despite his mother’s initial disapproval, setting the stage for a classic underdog narrative that feels both fresh and familiar.
“Karate Kid: Legends” leans *hard* into nostalgia, cleverly pulling from the very best elements of both the original films and the incredibly popular “Cobra Kai” series. It crafts a compelling underdog story that truly resonates. Longtime fans will especially appreciate how it seamlessly mixes the original timeline with the 2010 remake, and get ready for some awesome appearances from franchise icon Ralph Macchio and a fun cameo from “Cobra Kai’s” William Zabka! This is a must-watch on Netflix for anyone who loves a good triumph story.
5. **Ruth & Boaz** (Netflix)Now, let’s talk about Tyler Perry’s Netflix movies, which, for me, can sometimes be a bit hit or miss. However, his latest collaboration with producer DeVon Franklin, “Ruth & Boaz,” looks incredibly promising and has definitely piqued my interest. This film offers a modern and truly heartfelt twist on one of the Bible’s most iconic love stories, translating ancient themes into a contemporary setting that feels both fresh and deeply resonant. It’s the kind of romance that makes you believe in new beginnings.
The story beautifully follows Ruth (Serayah), an Atlanta rapper who makes a monumental decision: she walks away from a record deal – yes, a record deal! – and relocates to rural Tennessee. Her reason? To tenderly care for Naomi (Phylicia Rashad), the elderly widow of her late boyfriend. It’s a profound act of loyalty and kindness that immediately draws you into her journey. This unexpected move sets the stage for a dramatic shift in her life, far from the bright lights of the music industry.
To make ends meet in her new, quiet surroundings, Ruth secures a job at a local vineyard where she meets the vineyard’s co-owner, Bo “Boaz” Astra (Tyler Lepley). A cautious and tender romance slowly begins to bloom between them, but as Bo is drawn to Ruth’s spirit, she’s understandably slow to open her heart due to past wounds, creating a poignant emotional struggle.
As Ruth confronts the heavy weight of her past and simultaneously grapples with the alluring promise of new beginnings, she embarks on a powerful journey of self-discovery. She learns that starting over isn’t just about leaving something behind; it’s profoundly about finally finding your people – those who see and accept you, past and present. This looks like a genuinely moving and inspiring watch. Catch “Ruth & Boaz” now on Netflix and prepare for a beautiful narrative.
6. **The Conjuring: Last Rites** (PVOD)Attention, spooky season enthusiasts! “The Conjuring” franchise makes its spine-chilling return for what is its fourth, and quite potentially final, mainline entry. This series has consistently delivered supernatural thrills by continuing to explore the terrifying investigations of the real-life paranormal experts, Ed and Lorraine Warren. “The Conjuring: Last Rites” specifically focuses on one of the duo’s most disturbing and harrowing cases, promising to keep you on the edge of your seat.
If you’re a fan of the established formula, you’re in for a treat because the latest entry in this supernatural horror series does little to switch things up. So, yes, you can absolutely expect jumpscares aplenty, delivered with the masterful timing and unsettling atmosphere that the franchise is known for. Its premium video-on-demand (PVOD) release is perfectly timed with Spooky Season now upon us, making it the ideal film to get you into the Halloween spirit early!
The year is 1986, and Ed and Lorraine Warren (played by the fantastic Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, respectively) are called to a quiet corner of Pennsylvania. Their mission? To help the Smurl family, who are being relentlessly terrorized by sinister forces after moving into their new home in West Pittston. With their daughter Judy (Mia Tomlinson) bravely in tow, the paranormal investigators find themselves confronting their most haunting and dangerous case yet.
This particular investigation could be the one that finally puts them out of the ghost-hunting game for good, testing their resolve and their very lives. Given the success of “The Last Rites,” a follow-up seems inevitable, and you can buy or rent this chilling experience on Amazon starting October 7th – if you dare!
7. **Freakier Friday** (PVOD)Get ready for a serious dose of early 2000s nostalgia, because it’s officially becoming increasingly trendy, and “Freakier Friday” is the latest, absolutely delightful attempt to cash in on our collective audience appetite for fond lookbacks at the start of the new millennium! This highly anticipated sequel to 2003’s beloved body-swap comedy “Freaky Friday” brings back the original stars, the iconic Lindsay Lohan and the legendary Jamie Lee Curtis. But wait, there’s more – it also introduces a fabulous new generation with Julia Butters and Sophia Hammons added to the mix. Plus, we get the fantastic Manny Jacinto of “The Good Place” fame!
In “Freakier Friday,” Anna (Lohan) is eagerly set to marry Eric (Jacinto), which naturally means blending their respective families. This includes Anna’s daughter Harper (Butters) and her wonderfully overbearing mother Tess (Curtis), alongside Eric’s daughter Lily (Hammons). It’s a big step for everyone! However, when the four females – Anna, Tess, Harper, and Lily – all mysteriously swap bodies, it becomes a hilarious case of déjà vu for Anna and Tess, bringing back all those familiar, chaotic memories.
As you can imagine, a plethora of side-splitting hijinks ensues as they navigate life in each other’s shoes, or rather, bodies! Amidst all the comedic chaos, the film also manages to weave in a few heartfelt life lessons, making it more than just a laugh riot. Long-time fans will absolutely adore the numerous nods and winks to the original film, which are sprinkled throughout, adding an extra layer of enjoyment and warmth. It’s a derivative sequel, yes, but it’s loaded with genuinely funny gags and pays loving homage to its predecessor.
“Freakier Friday” is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a dose of pure, unadulterated fun and a walk down memory lane with a new twist. It’s lighthearted, charming, and promises plenty of laughs for the whole family. You can buy or rent this nostalgic treat on Amazon starting October 7th. Don’t miss out on this modern classic-in-the-making!
Alright, movie mavens, if you thought the first half of our list was exciting, brace yourselves, because we’re just getting started! We’ve got even more cinematic gold heading your way, from charming rom-coms and heartwarming documentaries to intense action-revenge stories and truly chilling horrors. Get ready to update your watchlists because these next eight films are absolutely essential viewing for a diverse streaming experience! We’re talking about movies that will make you laugh, cry, gasp, and maybe even look over your shoulder.
8. **Maintenance Required** (Prime Video)Ready for a rom-com that feels oh-so-familiar yet still manages to charm your socks off? Prime Video’s new original, ‘Maintenance Required,’ is giving us major ‘You’ve Got Mail’ and ‘The Shop Around the Corner’ vibes, and honestly, we’re here for it! This flick centers on Charlie, played by the amazing Madeleine Petsch, who owns an all-female mechanic shop.
Her world gets shaky when a corporate competitor pops up across the street, threatening her business, but she finds comfort with an online confidant, unaware that he’s actually Beau, her business rival played by Jacob Scipio! Oh, the drama!
While some critics might not call ‘Maintenance Required’ revolutionary, there’s a reason this narrative structure is a rom-com favorite – it just works! It’s particularly effective for weaving together both drama and comedy, giving us all the feels. Here’s hoping this is a massive streaming win for Madeleine Petsch, especially after her recent big-screen endeavors.
So, if you’re in the mood for a cozy, familiar, yet utterly delightful romantic comedy that delivers on charm, this is your pick. It’s the perfect movie to snuggle up with and believe in the magic of unexpected connections, even when they’re right under your nose. Watch it now on Prime Video from October 8th!
9. **How to Train Your Dragon** (Peacock)Calling all fantasy fans and animation aficionados! DreamWorks is taking us back to Berk with its first live-action remake of an animated favorite, ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’ While transforming an animated classic into live-action can sometimes lose a bit of that original magic, this new spin on the mythical tale still holds onto the heartwarming core of the story that we all fell in love with.
Sure, the longer runtime might feel a little unnecessary, but don’t let that deter you! The blossoming, truly special relationship between the timid Viking Hiccup and his unforgettable dragon, Toothless, is as heartwarming and captivating as ever. It’s the kind of friendship that reminds you that true bonds can form in the most unexpected places.
The story drops us into a whimsical fantasy universe where the Vikings of Berk are locked in an endless war with fearsome dragons. Our hero, Hiccup, the timid son of the village’s chieftain, stumbles upon a wounded Night Fury, and that’s when everything changes. He quickly discovers that these winged monsters might not be so scary after all, and instead, are incredible creatures.
As Hiccup nurses Toothless back to health, the unlikely duo team up to face a brand-new threat that could put both dragons and Vikings in danger. And along the way, Hiccup just might prove that dragons can absolutely be friends, not foes. Catch this enchanting re-imagining on Peacock from October 10th!
10. **John Candy: I Like Me** (Prime Video)Prepare to have your heart warmed and your funny bone tickled, because we’re diving into the legacy of one of the most beloved and iconic comedic actors of all time: John Candy! ‘John Candy: I Like Me’ is an inspiring documentary from filmmaker Colin Hanks (yes, Tom Hanks’ son!), and it’s a must-watch tribute to a true legend.
John Candy, the star of classic gems like ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles,’ ‘Uncle Buck,’ ‘Cool Runnings,’ and ‘Spaceballs,’ was truly the face of 80s comedy for so many of us. His tragic passing in 1994 at just 43 years old left a huge void, but his incredible legacy has continued to shine brightly for three decades. This documentary aims to celebrate his remarkable body of work in the most beautiful way.
With heartfelt input from Candy’s own family and a stellar lineup of his Hollywood collaborators, including Dan Aykroyd, Mel Brooks, Steve Martin, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, and Macaulay Culkin, this film is set to be the definitive insight into the Canadian comedian’s life and career. Imagine all those incredible stories and never-before-heard anecdotes!
Plus, get ready for a treasure trove of archive footage and never-before-seen home videos offering a personal look at the man behind the laughter. If you loved John Candy, this documentary is a beautiful journey into his world, available on Prime Video from October 10th!
11. **The Woman in Cabin 10** (Netflix)Get ready to hold your breath and unravel a chilling mystery, because Netflix’s latest original movie, ‘The Woman in Cabin 10,’ is about to grab your attention! Starring the brilliant Keira Knightley and based on the best-selling novel by Ruth Ware, this psychological thriller looks like it has all the ingredients to claim the Netflix No. 1 spot. Seriously, based on the trailer, it’s going to be an intense ride.
Alongside Knightley, the movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring talents like Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, David Morrissey, and David Ajala. The stellar performances alone are enough to make this a must-see, but the gripping plot takes it to another level of suspense. You’ll be on the edge of your seat the entire time!
The story introduces Laura Blacklock (Knightley), a respected journalist on a luxurious yacht’s maiden voyage. What starts as a glamorous trip turns terrifying when she’s awakened by a strange noise and witnesses a passenger being thrown overboard in the dead of night. Talk about a nightmare!
The real horror begins when she alerts the ship’s crew, only to be told that all passengers are present and accounted for. Convinced of what she saw, despite everyone on board disbelieving her, Laura embarks on a desperate search for answers. But doing so means putting her own life in very real danger. Get ready to solve the mystery – watch ‘The Woman in Cabin 10’ on Netflix from October 10th!
12. **Monkey Man** (Peacock)If you’re craving an adrenaline-fueled, no-holds-barred action flick, then you absolutely need to check out ‘Monkey Man’ on Peacock! This film is not just an intense action-revenge story; it’s a directorial and starring vehicle for the incredibly talented Dev Patel, who also co-wrote the script. Trust us, he delivers a visceral, bone-crunching experience that will keep you glued to your screen.
The story kicks off with a tragic past: Kid (played by Jatin Malik as Young Kid and Dev Patel as the older version) witnesses his village burned down and his mother brutally killed by the corrupt police chief, Rana (Sikandar Kher). Years later, the older Kid is fueled by a burning desire for vengeance, working as an underground fighter, meticulously planning to get closer to Rana.
After a failed assassination attempt, Kid finds himself needing to ally with the criminal underworld to finally avenge his mother and put a stop to Rana’s reign of terror for good. Sound familiar? While ‘Monkey Man’ embraces the classic revenge tropes, it elevates the genre far beyond typical B-movies. Patel injects vibrant color and loud, thumping beats, making every action sequence feel incredibly alive.
This movie is a relentless, energetic ride that constantly feels alive, even when our hero is pushed to the brink of death. It’s an engaging revenge thriller that doesn’t shy away from dark themes of class and corruption, all while delivering extended, brutal fight scenes. If you want action with a powerful punch, ‘Monkey Man’ is your ticket.
13. **The Woman in the Yard** (Peacock)Alright, horror hounds, get ready for a unique and genuinely unsettling experience with ‘The Woman in the Yard,’ hitting Peacock! This horror hit, from ‘Carry-On’ director Jaume Collet-Serra and the masters of modern horror at Blumhouse, stars the incredible Danielle Deadwyler as Ramona, a mother grappling with the recent death of her husband.
But her grief is soon compounded by something far more sinister. One day, the titular entity, ‘The Woman in the Yard,’ mysteriously appears. She just sits there, waiting, with an eerie declaration: “Today’s the day.” Can you imagine the sheer terror of that? It’s a chilling premise that immediately hooks you in, promising a slow-burn dread that gets under your skin.
As Ramona and her children try to deal with the menacing presence of this mysterious Woman, the truth about who she is and why she’s there slowly unravels. The film expertly builds tension, transforming a simple premise into a truly terrifying psychological ordeal that plays on your deepest fears.
‘The Woman in the Yard’ is one of those movies that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It’s got style, it’s got grace, and it’s a winner in the horror department for its unique approach to psychological terror. If you’re looking for a chilling supernatural horror that delves into profound grief and unsettling mystery, this is definitely one to watch on Peacock.
14. **Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy** (Peacock)She’s back, babes! Get ready to grab a pint of ice cream (or a glass of wine, Bridget style!) because Renée Zellweger is returning to her iconic romantic comedy role in ‘Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,’ a straight-to-Peacock original! This is the fourth installment in the beloved series, and the first since 2016, so you know it’s going to be a must-see for all Bridget fans.
This time, Bridget is a widow, still navigating the waves of grief four years after the death of her husband. But our favorite singleton is slowly, bravely, starting to get back out there into the dating scene. And because Bridget never does anything the easy way, she finds herself embarking on a new romance with a much younger man, Roxster (played by the charming Leo Woodall). It’s exciting, it’s stressful, and it’s perfectly Bridget!
While it’s absolutely a rom-com at its heart, the film isn’t afraid to explore deeper emotions, including a lot of sadness and the journey of healing. So, be prepared to have your tears jerked, but in the most Bridget Jones way possible – with humor, warmth, and relatable awkwardness. It’s a beautiful blend of laughter and heartfelt moments that truly resonates.
This is a film that promises to tug at your heartstrings while also making you giggle. ‘Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy’ is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a romantic comedy sequel that combines familiar charm with a fresh, poignant chapter in Bridget’s life. Don’t miss it on Peacock – it’s going to be a truly emotional and delightful ride!
And there you have it, folks! Your ultimate guide to the must-watch movies hitting streaming services this week. From epic sagas and thrillers to romances, comedies, and horrors, we’ve covered every genre imaginable. So, stop scrolling, start watching, and get ready for a seriously good time – your perfect movie night is officially sorted, just press play and enjoy the show!
