New Streaming Releases This Week
Boston.com’s weekly streaming roundup is here, featuring a selection of five must-see films and TV shows across popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max, Peacock, Paramount+, and others. For those looking to stay updated on the latest streaming news and recommendations, consider subscribing to The Queue, our dedicated newsletter that delivers industry insights and viewing suggestions directly to your inbox each week. Additionally, past editions of our must-watch list are available for review.
Noteworthy Films Now Available
“American Graffiti” (1973)
Before revolutionizing the film industry with the Star Wars saga, George Lucas laid the groundwork for the coming-of-age film genre with “American Graffiti.” This classic follows various teenagers, including notable actors like Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, and Harrison Ford, as they navigate the streets of Modesto, California, in search of excitement. Much like “Dazed and Confused,” which came two decades later, “American Graffiti” captures the essence of its era, yet the themes of youthful exploration and desire remain timeless.
How to watch: “American Graffiti” is available for streaming on Netflix.
“Babygirl” (2024)
In a bold move, Nicole Kidman takes on a provocative role in the erotic drama “Babygirl,” portraying a powerful executive embroiled in a secret romance with one of her interns, played by Harris Dickinson. Kidman’s character, Romy, engages in a wide range of sexual experiences throughout the film’s runtime, exploring the nuances of desire and power dynamics while also critiquing the instant gratification tied to modern technology. At its core, “Babygirl” serves as a captivating showcase of Kidman’s remarkable performance, including scenes that push conventional boundaries.
How to watch: “Babygirl” is streaming on Max.
“The Jerk” (1979)
Steve Martin’s debut film stands out as his finest work, chronicling the life of the hapless Navin Johnson, who transitions from a “poor Black child” to a man living in the streets. His journey includes acquiring a quirky dog, a job at a gas station besieged by vocal detractors, and navigating a series of relationships. Despite these experiences, what Navin truly treasures are seemingly trivial possessions, such as his ashtray and paddle game, underscoring the film’s humorous commentary on materialism.
How to watch: “The Jerk” is available for streaming on Netflix.
Exciting New Series Streaming
“Andor”
Tony Gilroy’s “Andor,” a spinoff from the Star Wars franchise, has emerged as a remarkable achievement in streaming television. Serving as a prequel to a prequel, this series is essential viewing for fans. The first season earned acclaim as one of the top shows of 2022, effectively depicting the origins of a rebellion through the experiences of ordinary individuals, particularly the character Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna. In its second season, Cassian continues to fight against the oppressive Empire, highlighting the ongoing struggle for freedom. Given the long history of the franchise, it’s surprising that Lucasfilm waited this long to create a project tailored for its adult audience. By allowing a talented director like Gilroy the creative freedom to craft a compelling narrative devoid of Jedi elements, Lucasfilm has successfully produced one of the best entries in the Star Wars universe since the original films.
How to watch: “Andor” is streaming on Disney+.
“The Four Seasons”
Reuniting after their collaboration in “Date Night,” Tina Fey and Steve Carell star in “The Four Seasons,” a dramedy inspired by the 1981 film of the same name. This series follows a group of six close friends, made up of three couples, who embark on seasonal vacations each year. The dynamics shift dramatically when one member reveals plans for a divorce, leaving the others in shock. Throughout the eight-episode series, each couple—Kate (Fey) and Jack (Will Forte), Danny (Colman Domingo) and Claude (Marco Calvani), and Nick (Carell) and Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver)—must navigate the unforeseen consequences of this revelation on both their friendships and romantic relationships.
How to watch: “The Four Seasons” is available for streaming on Netflix.
