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USA Today
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
From 'Final Destination' to 'Happy Gilmore 2,' 10 movies you need to stream right now
The only thing that's more inevitable than death in a "Final Destination" movie is an ever-growing list of must-see movies hitting your favorite streaming services. Embrace the air conditioning this first weekend of August and tuck into "Final Destination Bloodlines." That's new to HBO Max, and other services including Netflix, Peacock and Hulu have theatrical releases coming home, like an Anthony Hopkins/Bill Skarsgård thriller. Don't sleep on the original fare, either, like Netflix queen Sofia Carson's new romantic comedy. And there's a certain witchy Oscar-nominated musical that's switching services again to satisfy another subscriber base. Here are 10 new and notable movies you can stream right now: 'The Assessment' In a futuristic landscape wrecked by climate change, people have to get government permission to procreate to save resources. Elizabeth Olsen and Himesh Patel play a scientific couple wanting a little one, and Alicia Vikander is the assessor sent to test them in extreme ways in the outrageously funny and extraordinarily bleak sci-fi thriller. Where to watch: Hulu 'Borderline' In this dark comedy set in the 1990s, a pop star (Samara Weaving) has recently returned home to her mansion when an escaped mental patient (Ray Nicholson) – and superfan – invades her home, hoping to wed his beloved. Charmingly unhinged, Nicholson is likable enough to root a little for the antagonist. Where to watch: Peacock 'Death of a Unicorn' In the trippily bonkers thriller, a widowed attorney (Paul Rudd) takes his estranged daughter (Jenna Ortega) on a work trip to a Rockies nature preserve for familial reconnection. That goes sideways when they hit a baby unicorn and the dad's pharmaceutical employers aim to use its blood for profit. Then the foal's parents show up and things get really gory. Where to watch: HBO Max 'Final Destination Bloodlines' The 2000s horror franchise is back after a long hiatus – and maybe better than ever? Kaitlyn Santa Juana plays a college student who learns that her grandmother cheated Death decades ago, and now that jerk is coming to take out her whole family via various creatively gnarly, Rube Goldberg-esque kills. Where to watch: HBO Max 'Happy Gilmore 2' This is the "Cannonball Run" of golf comedy sequels. The plot is a familiar one: Brash golfer Happy Gilmore (Adam Sandler) hits the links to raise enough money to send his daughter to ballet school. Come for the silliness, stay for the endless cameos, from women's hoopsters and pro wrestlers to musicians, gridiron stars and Sandler's old pals. Where to watch: Netflix 'Locked' Usually, Bill Skarsgård is the guy creeping people out. (Pennywise or Nosferatu, anyone?) But he's the one on the receiving end with this thriller. Skarsgård plays a young petty thief who jacks a car. But this souped-up vehicle is actually a trap, and its enigmatic owner (Anthony Hopkins) aims to teach him a lesson. Where to watch: Hulu 'My Oxford Year' Anna (Sofia Carson) is a New Yorker who fulfills her life's dream of going to Oxford University to study poetry. Things get complicated in the romantic drama, based on the Julia Whelan novel, when she falls hard for her TA, Jamie (Corey Mylchreest), who blows open her world but also comes complete with his own concerns. Where to watch: Netflix 'The Phoenician Scheme' Wes Anderson's comedy stars Benicio del Toro as a famed arms dealer who, after one assassination attempt too many, makes his estranged nun daughter (Mia Threapleton) his sole heir. Absurd shenanigans are afoot, though the real joy is watching a delightful del Toro and refreshing Threapleton navigating an oddly heartfelt family reconnection. Where to watch: Peacock 'Until Dawn' The "Until Dawn" video game is a freaky good time. The movie adaptation veers wildly from it, and not for the better. Clover (Ella Rubin) takes her friends along on a doomed trip to find her missing sister, and they wind up in a time loop where they have to stay alive till dawn to make it to tomorrow. It's a horror flick with a few cool moments but a ton more clichés. Where to watch: Netflix 'Wicked' If you didn't see the hit musical and "Wizard of Oz" prequel in theaters, on demand or on Peacock, maybe it's time to check it out on Amazon. Or simply to revisit the fantasy featuring Oscar nominees Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as pals Elphaba and Glinda before the highly anticipated sequel "Wicked: For Good" arrives in November. Where to watch: Prime Video
Tom's Guide
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
This overlooked sci-fi thriller blew my mind — and you can stream it now on Hulu
Depending on which tech billionaire you ask, we've never been closer to coming up with a cure for death. But what happens when humanity achieves immortality? That's the thorny question baked into "The Assessment," a low-budget science fiction thriller that just made its streaming debut on Hulu. And the answer is downright dystopian. From first-time director Fleur Fortuné, "The Assessment" was briefly in theaters back in March after premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024. But there's a good chance you totally missed this intimate and dark portrayal of the post-apocalypse. Now that it's finally streaming, you owe it to yourself to check out this overlooked movie you've probably never heard of. "The Assessment" stars Elizabeth Olsen and Himesh Patel as married couple Mia and Aaryan, who live in a remote house on a rocky beach. Mia and Aaryan are both leading scientists working to solve the issues of their post-apocalyptic world: Aaryan develops virtual pets to replace the live ones that were abolished, while Mia researches ways to restore plant life to the world. The movie begins when a government employee named Virginia (Alicia Vikander) shows up at their home to assess whether the couple is qualified to raise a child. The world-building of "The Assessment" is slight and subtle, so we never get all the details, but what we do learn is both fascinating and disturbing. After some sort of apocalyptic event (possibly related to climate change), a group of surviving humans retreated into a domed society to protect themselves from the dangers of the 'Old World.' Within this society, everyone uses a drug called Senoxidine to stop the aging process and live forever (one minor character, played by Minnie Driver, reveals herself to be 150 years old). Because space is limited and nobody can die, natural childbirth is banned and the only way to have a kid is through a government-approved artificial womb. Enter: The assessor. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Virginia informs Mia and Aaryan that she'll be staying with them for seven days before making her decision. The week that follows is brutal. Virginia oscillates wildly between psychological manipulation and cold observation. She also spends much of the assessment pretending to be a petulant child who throws tantrums, plays favorites between Mia and Aaryan, and constantly puts her own life at risk to see whether one of them will save her. Vikander, who trained as a ballet dancer, demonstrates impressive control of her body as she transforms into a believable child through physical motion. Olsen and Patel also do plenty of heavy lifting, quickly establishing their loving (but brittle) relationship. All it takes is a few false moves to expose the cracks in their marriage, suggesting that perhaps Mia and Aaryan aren't as ready for a child as they think. The real star of The "Assessment," however, is the world that Fortuné and the film's screenwriters (Dave Thomas, Nell Garfath-Cox and John Donnelly) have created. While the movie's visuals are minimal, and most scenes are limited to just a handful of concrete rooms and a desolate beach (filmed in the Canary Islands), there's an entire civilization hiding beneath the surface with enough material for at least a few more movies to explore the history and reality of this twisted dystopia. Then again, it's probably best if "The Assessment" never gets a sequel. Virginia's final assessment, and the brief epilogue that follows, offer the kind of thought-provoking finale that most movies can only dream of. Without spoiling any of the film's several big twists, I'll just leave you with a warning that no matter how dark and disturbing you expect it to be, The Assessment will still find a way to surprise you in its own subtle and understated style. Stream "The Assessment" on Hulu
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Celebrities Front Row at Patou Spring 2026: Susan Sarandon, Elizabeth Olsen and More
PAGING JOY: At Patou, Joy is not just a legendary fragrance, it's a state of mind. In the run-up to his spring show on Sunday, creative director Guillaume Henry enlisted Susan Sarandon to star in a humorous teaser film in which she receives gifts in her hotel room from a mysterious character named Joy. Eventually, she contacts reception to track her down, demanding: 'Give me Joy.' More from WWD Penélope Cruz Holds Court in Purple Chanel, Diane Kruger Goes Ethereal in Alberta Ferretti and More at Les Arts Décoratifs Ball Celebrities at Ralph Lauren Fall 2025: Anne Hathaway, Michelle Williams, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and More Elizabeth Olsen Goes Retro in Patou for 'Today' Show Appearance, Talks Forthcoming Film 'The Assessment' Front row at the show, the Oscar-winning actress reflected on the things that bring her joy. 'Release, freedom, imagination,' she told WWD. It's why she continues to enjoy what she does. 'That's the only reason to do it, really, because it's such an insecure job. But the fact that when you do work, you're part of a collaboration, is what interests me,' the 'Thelma and Louise' star explained. Sarandon will begin rehearsals in August for 'Mary Page Marlowe,' a drama by Tracy Letts to be staged this autumn at the Old Vic theater in London. 'I'm totally intimidated and terrified and excited simultaneously,' she said, noting that it will be her first time on stage in the U.K., and also the first time she performs in the round. 'Your audience surrounds you. I guess the good news is you don't have to worry about blocking people, but I don't really know what that means,' she said. 'Theater in England is so intimidating, because that's where it started, and they can speak so beautifully and quickly, as opposed to Americans that just garble everything.' For Elizabeth Olsen, a good book is key. 'My definition of joy would be being able to not overthink the present moment or what's to come,' she said. 'Reading helps me get back to the moment.' The 'Avengers' star is deep into the fourth book of Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novels. 'I'm a little late to the game,' Olsen confessed of her summer binge read. Diane Kruger is enjoying traveling in Europe with her daughter Nova. 'I'm feeling a lot of joy these days,' she said. That's despite getting caught up in a French air traffic controllers' strike on her way to Rome this week. 'It's like you live in Europe, you kind of gotta take the good with the bad, right?' she said with a shrug. The 'Inglourious Basterds' actress will head the jury of the Angoulême Francophone Film Festival in late August, and is set to star in the eagerly awaited series 'Merteuil,' a prequel to 'Dangerous Liaisons,' alongside Anamaria Vartolomei and Lucas Bravo. Kelly Rutherford also finds joy in togetherness. 'The first thing that comes to mind is my children and my dog, and I think the people you love,' she said. When she has a bad day, she remembers to switch perspective. 'It's about focus and refocusing,' the actress and style icon said. 'Our minds go on an algorithm, and so it's easy to keep going down one path, but if you change it and shift it, you can start to think more joyful thoughts, because it's always available as well.' Best of WWD A Look Back at BET Awards Best Dressed Red Carpet Stars: Tyla, Queen Latifah and More [PHOTOS] A Look Back at the Tony Awards Best Dressed Red Carpet Stars: Liza Minnelli, Elle Fanning, Jennifer Lopez and More [PHOTOS] Maria Grazia Chiuri's Dior Through the Years: Runway, Celebrities and More [PHOTOS]
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Alicia Vikander puts on a leggy display in a black disc-embellished mini dress as she joins glamorous Zoë Kravitz at star-studded Moët Hennessy party in London
Alicia Vikander and Zoë Kravitz were dressed to impress as they attended the Moët Hennessy Dom Pérignon Revelations dinner party at Tate Modern in London on Thursday. Swedish actress Alicia, 36, looked sensational in a black disc-embellished mini dress that showcased her long, toned pins. She added height with a pair of pointed black court heels and styled her brunette tresses in loose waves for the evening. Keeping her accessories minimal to let the outfit take centre stage, Alicia completed her look with a radiant makeup palette. Meanwhile, Zoë, 36, looked phenomenal as she went braless in a black silk body, featuring a sleeveless design and a high neckline. She paired it with a classic black midi pencil skirt and added inches to her frame with pointed, shiny black slingback heels. To finish the look, she accessorised with a black leather croc-embossed belt and bold red drop earrings. The Batman star styled her short, dark hair in a sleek, wet look and opted for a glowing makeup palette as she posed alongside her pal. Also in attendance at the soirée were Elena Ora, David Mayer de Rothschild, Iggy Pop, Alison Mosshart, Damian Lewis, Tilda Swinton, Erin O'Connor, Jefferson Hack, and Vincent Chaperon. Alicia's appearance at the event comes after she and Elizabeth Olsen attended a special screening of The Assessment at The Rhymers Club in New York. The actress and Marvel star, both 36, are starring together in the dystopian sci-fi flick, which was released in US cinemas in March. Promoting the new movie in America then, Alicia looked nothing short of incredible in a figure-hugging black maxi dress, which boasted a high neckline and shoulder cut-outs. She added inches to her height with a pointy pair of heels and swept her long brunette tresses back into a slick bun. The actress opted for a glowing palette of makeup to elevate her natural beauty and accessorised with a slew of sparkling diamante earrings. Meanwhile, Zoë styled her short, dark hair in a sleek, wet look and opted for a glowing makeup palette as she beamed alongside pal Tilda Swinton She posed up a storm alongside Elizabeth, who dazzled in a navy PVC gown, which cinched in at the waist before flowing out into a long pleated skirt. She wore her dark locks in a naturally straight style and added a glamorous swipe of makeup to complete her look for the screening. The duo seemed to be in high spirits as they posed together before heading inside to watch their movie. They then departed the venue together, with Alicia wrapping up warm in a tan trench coat and Elizabeth adding a black blazer jacket to shield themselves from the rain. The sci-fi movie is set in a not-so-distant future where parenthood is strictly controlled. It follows Mia (Elizabeth) and Aaryan (Himesh Patel), a successful couple who hope to become parents in a near future where resources are extremely limited and the government keeps firm control over reproduction. They are assigned an assessor named Virginia (Alicia Vikander), who moves into their home for seven days to evaluate whether they deserve to move forward in their parenting journey. What Mia and Aaryan are hoping is that a routine test quickly unravels into a psychological nightmare, forcing them to question the very foundations of their society and what it truly means to be human. It debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in September last year and was acquired by Prime Video, and the UK release date is yet to be set.
Daily Mirror
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Amazon adds thriller with Oscar winner that deserves more buzz
It has been added to the service without much fanfare Amazon Prime has just thrown a hidden gem into the mix with an 'under the radar' sci-fi thriller that's left viewers on edge. The second to none streaming platform has expanded its ever-evolving treasury of cinematic pieces with The Assessment from today (May 8). The film features a blockbuster roll call, starring Marvel's beloved Elizabeth Olsen and the multi-talented Himesh Patel, recognizable from EastEnders to Yesterday fame. Joining the duo is Charlotte Ritchie of Ghosts and You acclaim, alongside Minnie Driver and the Academy Award-winning Alicia Vikander. As per the film's official synopsis, we're thrust into a near-future where childbearing comes with strings attached—courtesy of government control. A couple embarks on a haunting seven-day vetting process for the privilege to parent, only to find their lives spiralling into a waking nightmare, prompting them to reckon with the very bedrock of their world. Critics have lavished the flick with an 83% fresh rating on the Rotten Tomatoes barometer. Applause has been heaped upon its story-driven narrative and thematic depth, eschewing reliance on flashy CGI fireworks, reports Surrey Live. Accolades for the sublime camera work, spell-binding central performances, and the movie's resonating themes that stick with viewers as the credits roll. One reviewer was particularly moved, stating: "From the score to the performances to the cinematography, script, and direction, The Assessment is a singular work I won't soon forget and (the director) Fortuné crafts some imagery here unlike anything that has come before in cinema." Another remarked: "Chilling because it's both outlandish and alarmingly grounded and plausible, this sci-fi drama is likely to be scrutinised in your own dome long after the credits roll." The film has similarly left a lasting impression on cinema-goers who've caught an early glimpse, with many singing high praises for Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander's portrayals. A fan shared online: "Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander deliver phenomenal performances. This was a great dystopian sci-fi thriller, and had me constantly guessing what was coming next." Another curious movie enthusiast questioned the lack of pre-release chatter on social media platforms, commenting: "This movie needs more buzz. It's going under the radar for no reason. Alicia Vikander brings in the big guns as she drives home a performance that rivals her role in Ex Machina." They endorsed Vikander's range: "She gets to play the gamut of emotions here, from adult to child to toddler.. it's an actor's wet dream! There are so many scenes in this movie that will be discussed for ages to come." Meanwhile, another viewer encapsulated the experience of watching the film with their thoughts: "What a movie. It's so uncomfortable. But in a good and bad way, like the bad is good. Definitely one of the more interesting sci-fi films." They gushed about the film, saying: "The story is very different and interesting, I was left deeply disturbed yet amazed and still curious. And on top of that, the acting? Fantastic. Seriously everyone did a great job but Elizabeth and Alicia- holy. Fabulous performances. I know this is an independent film but I really hope this gets some recognition. It was that good."
