The Best Movies to Stream on Hulu This Week: Must-Watch Films Right Now

Hulu has firmly established itself as a major force in the streaming world. While it made history in 2017 with The Handmaid’s Tale becoming the first streaming series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama, the platform has also been steadily building an impressive film library. Beyond its own original movies, Hulu has secured exclusive streaming rights to a variety of acclaimed features, including recent Oscar contenders. This curated list dives into some of the top movies currently available on Hulu, offering something for every taste, from intense thrillers and thought-provoking dramas to sharp comedies and insightful documentaries.

Exploring Hulu's Diverse Film Catalog

While platforms like Netflix have often dominated the conversation around original films, Hulu is increasingly becoming a destination for movie lovers. Its strategy seems to involve a mix of acquiring exclusive streaming rights to films that had theatrical or festival runs, alongside developing its own original content. This approach results in a diverse catalog that includes critically lauded independent films, foreign-language features, genre fare, and documentaries, sitting alongside more mainstream studio releases and library titles. Navigating this extensive collection can be daunting, so we've compiled a list of standout films worth adding to your queue this week.

Whether you're in the mood for a chilling horror sequel, a satirical look at society, a high-octane action flick, or a quiet character study, Hulu likely has something to satisfy your cinematic craving. Our selections aim to highlight the breadth and quality of films currently available on the platform.

Must-Watch Movies Streaming on Hulu Right Now

28 Weeks Later

Picking up five years after the devastating events of Danny Boyle and Alex Garland’s seminal post-apocalyptic horror film 28 Days Later, director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo delivers a potent and terrifying sequel. 28 Weeks Later plunges viewers back into a Britain ravaged by the Rage Virus. The story centers on a family – father Don (Robert Carlyle), mother Alice (Catherine McCormack), and their children Tammy (Imogen Poots) and Andy (Mackintosh Muggleton) – who are reunited in a supposedly safe zone in London, established and controlled by the US military. The military aims to restore order and rebuild society, but the virus, thought to be contained, proves far more resilient and insidious than anticipated. The narrative explores themes of family, survival, and the failure of authority in the face of overwhelming chaos. Robert Carlyle delivers a memorable performance as a man haunted by his past actions, while Imogen Poots and Mackintosh Muggleton portray the vulnerability and unexpected resilience of the younger generation. The film is known for its intense action sequences, bleak atmosphere, and relentless pacing, effectively capturing the horror of a world teetering on the brink. It serves as a thrilling continuation of the saga and provides compelling context for the upcoming 28 Years Later.

Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything

Documentarian Jackie Jesko offers an intimate look at the life and career of Barbara Walters, a true pioneer in broadcast journalism, in Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything. Released just over two years after her passing, the film explores Walters' groundbreaking career, her distinctive interviewing style, and the significant impact she had on the field, particularly for women journalists. Walters was renowned for her ability to elicit emotional responses from her subjects, often through persistent and sometimes uncomfortable questioning. The documentary features insights from many prominent figures she interviewed and those she inspired, including fellow journalists like Katie Couric and media mogul Oprah Winfrey. These perspectives shed light on Walters' complex legacy – her trailblazing achievements in breaking down barriers for women in a male-dominated industry, as well as the occasional friction her methods caused. The film is a compelling portrait of a woman who reshaped television news and became a cultural icon, known for her signature phrase and her ability to connect with audiences and interviewees alike.

Idiocracy

Mike Judge's satirical science fiction comedy Idiocracy, much like his earlier film Office Space, was not a box office success upon its release in 2006 but has since gained a significant cult following and is often cited for its eerily prescient social commentary. The premise involves Joe Bauers (Luke Wilson), an average US Army librarian, and Rita (Maya Rudolph), a prostitute, who are chosen for a top-secret military hibernation experiment. They are supposed to sleep for one year but are forgotten and wake up 500 years later, in the year 2505. They discover a world where human intelligence has drastically declined due to dysgenics – the least intelligent members of society outbreeding the more intelligent ones. The world is filled with rampant consumerism, corporate control, and a general lack of critical thinking, making Joe, with his average intelligence, the smartest person alive. The film uses exaggerated humor and absurd scenarios to critique consumer culture, anti-intellectualism, and the potential consequences of societal trends. Its growing popularity reflects a feeling among many viewers that its dystopian vision is becoming increasingly relevant.

Mission: Impossible—Fallout

For fans of high-stakes action and intricate espionage, Mission: Impossible—Fallout is widely considered a pinnacle of the genre and the best entry in the long-running franchise. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, who has helmed the series since 2015's Rogue Nation, Fallout sees Tom Cruise return as the seemingly indestructible IMF agent Ethan Hunt. The plot involves Hunt and his team racing against time after a mission goes wrong, leading to stolen plutonium and a global threat posed by a terrorist group known as the Apostles. What sets Fallout apart is its combination of breathtaking, practical stunts (including Cruise's famous halo jump and helicopter chase), a complex and engaging plot, and a surprising amount of emotional depth for an action film. McQuarrie, the first director to return for a second Mission: Impossible film, weaves in elements of Hunt's past and relationships, particularly with his estranged wife Julia (Michelle Monaghan), adding a layer of personal stakes. The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast, including returning favorites like Simon Pegg and Ving Rhames, and compelling new additions like Henry Cavill as a formidable CIA agent and Vanessa Kirby as the enigmatic White Widow. If you're looking to dive into the M:I series on Hulu (which currently hosts the first six films), starting with Fallout offers an immediate dose of peak action cinema.

The Order

Director Justin Kurzel's gritty and unsettling drama The Order, which we previously highlighted as one of the best movies you might have missed in 2024, is now available for Hulu subscribers to discover. Based on a true story, the film delves into the dark underbelly of extremism and corruption in America. Jude Law stars as Terry Husk, a dedicated FBI agent investigating a series of brazen daylight robberies across the Pacific Northwest and into the Midwest. Husk begins to suspect that these seemingly disparate crimes are connected and are being used to fund a burgeoning white supremacist movement. His investigation leads him to Bob Mathews (Nicholas Hoult), the charismatic but dangerous leader of a neo-Nazi group known as The Order. The film is a stark and often disturbing portrayal of radicalization and the lengths to which extremist groups will go to achieve their goals. Law delivers a compelling performance as the determined agent, while Hoult is chillingly effective as the unlikely figurehead of the violent organization. The fact that the film is based on real events adds a layer of tragic resonance to its narrative.

Small Things Like These

Following his Oscar-winning turn in Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy delivers another powerful and understated performance in Small Things Like These, an adaptation of Claire Keegan’s acclaimed 2021 novella. The film sees Murphy return to the kind of character-driven independent dramas that marked much of his earlier career. Set in Ireland in 1985, he plays Bill Furlong, a coal merchant, devoted husband, and father to five daughters. Bill is a seemingly ordinary man leading a quiet life, but his world is shaken when he makes a delivery to the local convent and school for girls and witnesses a disturbing scene involving a young girl trapped in a coal shed. Haunted by what he saw and compelled by his conscience, Bill begins to investigate the convent further, questioning the treatment of the girls housed there, who are often referred to as 'fallen women'. His inquiries quickly draw the attention and ire of the convent's formidable Mother Superior (played with chilling authority by Emily Watson). Despite veiled threats and the potential repercussions for his family and livelihood in the close-knit community, Bill's innate compassion and sense of justice ultimately outweigh his fear. The film is a poignant and quietly devastating exploration of conscience, complicity, and the courage it takes to stand up against systemic cruelty, even in the face of personal risk.

Longlegs

Maika Monroe, who has solidified her status as a modern 'scream queen' with roles in films like It Follows and Watcher, adds another chilling entry to her resume with Osgood Perkins' offbeat horror-thriller Longlegs. Monroe stars as Lee Harker, a new FBI agent with a unique, almost intuitive sense for murder investigations. She is assigned to a cold case involving a string of seemingly unrelated murder-suicides across the country. As she delves deeper into the investigation, Lee begins to notice unsettling patterns and symbols left at the crime scenes, leading her to believe they are the work of a single, elusive serial killer known only as 'Longlegs'. The case takes a personal turn when Lee realizes the killer's methods and symbols feel eerily familiar, hinting at a connection to her own past. Monroe delivers a strong performance as the determined but increasingly disturbed agent. However, the film also features a performance from Nicolas Cage as the titular killer that has been described as both terrifying and, at times, unintentionally comical due to its sheer intensity. Longlegs is a visually distinctive and atmospheric horror film that leans into psychological dread and occult undertones, offering a unique take on the serial killer genre.

Alien: Romulus

Set between the events of Ridley Scott's original Alien (1979) and James Cameron's action-packed sequel Aliens (1986), Fede Álvarez's Alien: Romulus attempts to breathe new life into the iconic sci-fi horror franchise. The film follows a familiar premise: a group of young space scavengers exploring a derelict space station stumble upon something horrifying – the terrifying extraterrestrial life forms that have plagued the universe. As they navigate the claustrophobic corridors of the station, they encounter the franchise's infamous creatures, from the parasitic facehuggers and explosive chestbursters to the deadly, acid-blooded Xenomorphs. Álvarez, known for his visceral filmmaking style seen in the 2013 Evil Dead remake and Don't Breathe, aims to capture the tension and terror of the original film while introducing a new cast of characters facing unimaginable horrors. The film promises a return to the franchise's horror roots, focusing on suspense and survival in the face of an unstoppable biological weapon. For fans eager to see the Xenomorph back in action, Romulus offers a fresh perspective within the established timeline.

A Complete Unknown

James Mangold's biopic A Complete Unknown offers a compelling look at the early, formative years of folk music legend Bob Dylan, with Timothée Chalamet delivering a performance that earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. The film begins in January 1961, chronicling Dylan's journey as a young, aspiring musician hitchhiking from his native Minnesota to New York City with the dream of meeting his idol, the ailing folk singer Woody Guthrie. It captures the vibrant Greenwich Village folk scene of the early 1960s, where Dylan quickly makes a name for himself. A key relationship depicted is with Pete Seeger (Edward Norton, who received a Best Supporting Actor nod), a prominent folk musician who became one of Dylan's early champions and mentors. The film builds towards Dylan's controversial and game-changing performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, where he famously plugged in an electric guitar, alienating many of his folk purist fans but ushering in a new era of rock music. A Complete Unknown is a fascinating exploration of an artist's evolution, capturing the energy of a pivotal moment in music history and the complex personality of a young man on the cusp of superstardom. Whether you're a lifelong Dylan fan or new to his story, the film offers an insightful narrative.

Anora

Sean Baker, the acclaimed director known for his empathetic portrayals of marginalized characters in films like The Florida Project and Red Rocket, returns with the powerful dramedy Anora, which is now available on Hulu. The film stars Mikey Madison (who won Best Actress for her role) as Anora, or Ani, an exotic dancer in New York City. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Vanya (Mark Eydelshteyn), the impulsive and sheltered son of a wealthy Russian oligarch. What begins as a paid encounter quickly blossoms into a whirlwind romance, culminating in a spontaneous marriage during a trip to Las Vegas. Ani believes she has found her fairytale ending, but their union is met with fierce disapproval from Vanya's powerful and controlling parents. Faced with the ultimatum of choosing between his new wife and his family's immense fortune, Vanya's decision sets off a chain of events involving comical and increasingly desperate attempts by his parents' enforcers to annul the marriage and bring Vanya back into the fold. Baker's signature style blends humor, heart, and a raw authenticity, offering a nuanced look at class, desire, and the pursuit of happiness in a world often dictated by wealth and power. Madison delivers a captivating and complex performance at the film's center.

Sexy Beast

Jonathan Glazer's directorial debut, the 2000 crime thriller Sexy Beast, is a masterclass in tension and performance, featuring unforgettable turns from Ray Winstone and Ben Kingsley. The film introduces Gal Dove (Ray Winstone), a retired British safecracker living a life of blissful leisure in a luxurious villa on the Spanish coast with his beloved wife Deedee (Amanda Redman). His peaceful existence is shattered by the arrival of Don Logan (Ben Kingsley), a former associate and a man of terrifying intensity and volatile temper. Don has been sent from London by a notorious crime boss to recruit Gal for one last, high-stakes heist. Despite Gal's firm refusal, citing his retirement and contentment, Don is relentless and menacing, unwilling to take no for an answer. The core of the film lies in the escalating psychological battle between Gal, who desperately wants to protect his newfound peace, and Don, whose sheer force of will and barely contained rage threaten to destroy everything Gal holds dear. Winstone and Kingsley deliver electrifying performances, with Kingsley's portrayal of the terrifyingly insistent Don Logan earning him an Oscar nomination and becoming one of cinema's most memorable villains. Though perhaps less widely known than other crime films, Sexy Beast is a sharp, stylish, and brilliantly acted thriller that deserves to be rediscovered.

Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)

From Questlove, the acclaimed director of the Oscar-winning documentary Summer of Soul, comes Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius), a deep dive into the complex life and career of Sly Stone, the visionary frontman of the groundbreaking band Sly & The Family Stone. The documentary explores the band's rise to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s, their revolutionary fusion of funk, soul, rock, and psychedelic music, and their impact on popular culture. However, the film also tackles the challenges and pressures faced by Black artists, particularly the unique burdens and expectations placed upon those deemed 'geniuses'. Questlove, serving as a knowledgeable and insightful guide, navigates Stone's creative brilliance, his struggles with fame, addiction, and the music industry, and his eventual retreat from the public eye. The film's title, The Burden of Black Genius, hints at its central theme: the immense pressure and often unfair standards that Black artists have historically faced. Poignantly, the film arrived shortly before Sly Stone's passing in June, adding a layer of retrospective significance to its exploration of his legacy and the complexities of his life. It's a must-watch for music fans and anyone interested in the intersection of art, race, and fame.

Alien

Ridley Scott's 1979 masterpiece Alien remains a landmark in science fiction and horror cinema, a film that has lost none of its terrifying power over the decades. The story unfolds aboard the commercial spacecraft Nostromo, where the seven-member crew is awakened from hypersleep to investigate a mysterious distress signal originating from a desolate planetoid. Among the crew is Warrant Officer Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver), who would go on to become one of cinema's most iconic heroes. What they discover on the planetoid is not a survivor, but a derelict alien spacecraft containing strange eggs. This leads to a horrifying encounter with an unknown life form – the Xenomorph – a perfect organism designed for killing. The film excels in building suspense and atmosphere, utilizing claustrophobic environments and a sense of dread to create palpable terror. The creature design by H.R. Giger is iconic and deeply unsettling, giving the Xenomorph distinct and horrifying life stages, including the facehugger and the chestburster. Alien is not just a creature feature; it's a tense, atmospheric thriller that redefined the possibilities of sci-fi horror and launched a hugely successful franchise. It also marked the emergence of Ridley Scott as a major directorial talent, paving the way for his subsequent genre-defining work like Blade Runner.

Prometheus

Serving as a prequel (or perhaps more accurately, a companion piece) to the original Alien, Ridley Scott's 2012 film Prometheus delves into the origins of the Xenomorph and the mysterious Engineers who seemingly created both humanity and the deadly alien species. While met with mixed reactions upon its initial release, Prometheus has gained a greater appreciation over time for its ambitious themes and stunning visuals. The film follows a team of scientists, led by the archaeologist Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace) and her partner Charlie Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green), who embark on an interstellar expedition aboard the spacecraft Prometheus. Their mission is to follow a star map found in various ancient cultures on Earth, believing it will lead them to the Engineers and unlock the mysteries of human existence. However, their search for answers leads them to a moon where they uncover a horrifying truth about the Engineers' creations. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Michael Fassbender as the android David, who adds a complex layer to the narrative with his own evolving consciousness and agenda. Charlize Theron, Idris Elba, Guy Pearce, and Ben Foster also feature in prominent roles. Prometheus is a visually spectacular film that grapples with big ideas about creation, faith, and the dangers of seeking forbidden knowledge, expanding the lore of the Alien universe in thought-provoking ways.

A Real Pain

Written, directed, and co-starring Jesse Eisenberg, A Real Pain is a poignant and often humorous buddy-ish road trip film that showcases a standout performance from Kieran Culkin, who won his first Oscar for the role. The film follows cousins David (Eisenberg) and Benji (Culkin) as they travel to Poland to honor the memory of their late grandmother, a Holocaust survivor. Despite their vastly different personalities and life paths – David is seemingly more reserved and conventional, while Benji is chaotic and unpredictable – the trip forces them to confront their shared history and complicated family dynamics. As they journey through Poland, visiting sites connected to their grandmother's past and the broader history of the Holocaust, they navigate their awkward relationship and the weight of their heritage. Culkin is a scene-stealer as the irreverent but deeply vulnerable Benji, bringing both humor and pathos to the role. Eisenberg provides a grounded counterpoint as David, exploring themes of identity, trauma, and the enduring bonds of family. The film is a moving exploration of memory, history, and the unexpected ways in which we connect with our past and each other. Eisenberg's connection to the story was further cemented when he was granted Polish citizenship, adding a personal dimension to the film's themes.

Arcadian

Nicolas Cage delivers a performance that leans into his signature intensity in Arcadian, a post-apocalyptic thriller directed by Benjamin Brewer. Set in a world ravaged by a mysterious event, the film follows Paul (Cage), a father trying to protect his twin teenage sons, Thomas (Jaeden Martell) and Joseph (Maxwell Jenkins), in a desolate landscape. They are among the few human survivors, living a precarious existence where safety is only guaranteed during the day. At night, terrifying, homicidal creatures emerge, hunting down any remaining humans. Their fragile existence is threatened when Thomas, venturing further than he should, goes missing. Paul, despite the extreme danger, must venture out into the perilous night to find him. This ill-advised rescue mission leads to Paul being severely wounded, leaving the brothers to fend for themselves and rely on their own skills and courage to survive the nightly onslaught. The film is a tense survival story that explores the bonds between family members in the face of existential threat. Cage brings a raw, protective energy to the role of the father, while Martell and Jenkins portray the challenges and growth of young men forced to mature rapidly in a brutal world. Arcadian is a creature feature with a focus on character and atmosphere, offering a bleak but compelling vision of survival.

Nightbitch

Marielle Heller writes and directs this darkly comedic horror film, Nightbitch, based on Rachel Yoder's 2018 novel, offering a biting and surreal take on the challenges and anxieties of modern motherhood. Amy Adams delivers a fearless and ferocious performance as the protagonist, known only as Mother. A former artist, she has put her career on hold to become a stay-at-home mom, a role that leaves her feeling increasingly isolated and resentful of her traveling husband (Scoot McNairy) and even her young son. As the pressures and monotony of motherhood mount, Mother begins to experience strange physical and behavioral changes, leading her to suspect that she might be slowly transforming into a dog. The film uses this bizarre premise as a metaphor for the primal instincts, loss of identity, and overwhelming demands that motherhood can entail. Adams fully commits to the role, portraying Mother's descent into this surreal reality with a mix of desperation, confusion, and unexpected ferocity. Nightbitch is a unique and provocative film that blends body horror, dark humor, and social commentary to explore the often-unspoken struggles of navigating identity and creativity within the confines of domesticity. It's a film that is as unsettling as it is insightful.

Thelma

At 95 years old, June Squibb proves that it's never too late to become an action hero in the delightful and heartwarming comedy Thelma. In the decade since her Oscar-nominated role in Nebraska, Squibb has become a beloved screen presence, and this film gives her a well-deserved starring vehicle. She plays the eponymous Thelma, a feisty and independent grandmother who falls victim to a common phone scam targeting elderly individuals, losing $10,000. Frustrated by the slow pace and perceived inaction of the authorities, Thelma decides to take matters into her own hands. Armed with a handgun and her trusty motorized scooter, she embarks on a cross-valley quest to reclaim her money and confront the scammers. The film is a charming blend of action, comedy, and a poignant look at aging and agency. It's based on the real-life grandmother of writer-director Josh Margolin, adding a layer of personal affection to the narrative. Squibb is utterly captivating as Thelma, bringing humor, determination, and vulnerability to the role. The film subverts expectations by casting an elderly woman as the lead in a vigilante story, offering a fresh and empowering perspective. Thelma is a testament to the spirit of its protagonist and the enduring appeal of a hero who refuses to be underestimated.

Ad Astra

Director James Gray's ambitious science fiction drama Ad Astra stars Brad Pitt as US Space Command Major Roy McBride, an astronaut known for his calm demeanor and ability to handle extreme pressure. Set in the near future, Roy learns that mysterious and destructive power surges originating from deep space are threatening life on Earth. He discovers that these surges are linked to the Lima Project, a mission launched 30 years prior to search for extraterrestrial life, led by his father, H. Clifford McBride (Tommy Lee Jones), who was presumed lost in space. Tasked with making contact with his father and stopping the surges, Roy embarks on a perilous journey across the solar system, a mission that becomes as much about confronting his past and his relationship with his father as it is about saving the planet. Gray famously stated his intention to create "the most realistic depiction of space travel that's been put in a movie," and the film strives for scientific accuracy in its portrayal of space environments and travel, contrasting with its more introspective and psychological narrative. Pitt delivers a restrained and compelling performance as Roy, internalizing the emotional weight of his mission. The film is a visually stunning and contemplative exploration of isolation, legacy, and the human need for connection, set against the vast and indifferent backdrop of space.

Late Night With the Devil

Praised by many critics as one of the best horror movies of 2024, Cameron and Colin Cairnes' found-footage horror film Late Night With the Devil offers a clever and unsettling premise. Set in 1977, the movie takes the form of a rediscovered broadcast of a fictional late-night talk show hosted by Jack Delroy (David Dastmalchian). Jack is a charismatic but struggling host, constantly vying for ratings against the dominant Johnny Carson. After the tragic death of his beloved wife Madeleine (Georgina Haig) from cancer, Jack takes a hiatus. Determined to boost his show's fortunes upon his return, he plans a sensational Halloween night special focused on the occult. His guests include a psychic (Fayssal Bazzi), a parapsychologist (Laura Gordon), and, most controversially, a young girl named Lilly (Ingrid Torelli) who is believed to be possessed by a demon. As the live broadcast unfolds, supernatural events begin to occur, blurring the lines between entertainment and genuine terror. The film masterfully replicates the look and feel of 1970s television, using a mix of broadcast footage and behind-the-scenes segments to build tension. Dastmalchian is excellent as the increasingly desperate host, and Ingrid Torelli is chilling as the possessed girl. Late Night With the Devil is a smart, atmospheric, and genuinely creepy horror film that uses its unique format to great effect, exploring themes of ambition, grief, and the dark side of television.

Babes

Pamela Adlon's directorial debut, the comedy Babes, offers a refreshingly honest and often hilarious look at female friendship and the unexpected journey into motherhood. The film centers on lifelong best friends Eden (Ilana Glazer) and Dawn (Michelle Buteau), two New Yorkers navigating different stages of life. Dawn is already a mother, struggling with the realities of postpartum depression and balancing her career and family life. Eden, on the other hand, is single and seemingly unburdened by such responsibilities. However, Eden's life is turned upside down when a one-night stand results in an unexpected pregnancy. Despite her initial shock, she decides to embrace the idea of becoming a single mother. This decision, however, puts a strain on her decades-long friendship with Dawn, as their lives diverge in significant ways. The film excels due to the undeniable chemistry between Glazer and Buteau, who portray their characters' deep bond and the friction that arises from their changing circumstances with brutal honesty and sharp wit. Babes is a brash, funny, and ultimately poignant exploration of friendship, motherhood, and the messy realities of adult life, unafraid to tackle difficult topics with humor and heart.

Kinds of Kindness

Just months after the critical and awards success of Poor Things, director Yorgos Lanthimos reunites with several key collaborators, including actors Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, and Margaret Qualley, for the anthology film Kinds of Kindness. Marketed as a "triptych fable," the film is composed of three distinct but thematically linked stories, each featuring the same core cast members in different roles. True to Lanthimos' signature style, the film is steeped in absurdist humor, dark satire, and unsettling scenarios. The narratives explore themes of control, freedom, power dynamics, and the strange ways humans seek connection and meaning. The stories involve bizarre premises, including a man whose life is controlled by his boss, a policeman whose wife returns changed after being lost at sea, and members of a cult searching for a specific individual. The film is characterized by its deadpan delivery, surreal situations, and the actors' committed, often over-the-top performances. Kinds of Kindness is a challenging but rewarding watch for those who appreciate Lanthimos' unique cinematic voice – a blend of the bizarre, the humorous, and the profoundly strange.

Little Women

Greta Gerwig's 2019 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel Little Women stands out as a fresh and vibrant interpretation of a story that has been brought to the screen many times before. While Gillian Armstrong's 1994 version is widely beloved, Gerwig's take feels remarkably modern while remaining faithful to the spirit of the 19th-century source material. Gerwig's screenplay, which earned an Oscar nomination, cleverly plays with the novel's timeline, weaving together moments from the March sisters' youth and adulthood to create a dynamic narrative that highlights the themes of ambition, independence, family, and societal expectations for women. The film boasts an exceptional ensemble cast featuring some of the most talented actors working today. Saoirse Ronan shines as the spirited and independent Jo March, leading a cast that includes Emma Watson as Meg, Florence Pugh as Amy (in an Oscar-nominated performance), and Eliza Scanlen as Beth. Timothée Chalamet plays the charming Laurie, with Laura Dern as Marmee, Chris Cooper as Mr. Laurence, Tracy Letts as Mr. Dashwood, Meryl Streep as Aunt March, and Bob Odenkirk as Father March. Gerwig's direction brings a lively energy and emotional resonance to the familiar story, making Little Women a timeless tale that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Immaculate

Sydney Sweeney takes on a starring and producing role in the religious horror film Immaculate, directed by Michael Mohan. Sweeney plays Cecilia, a young American nun who, after surviving a traumatic near-death experience, believes she has been saved by God for a higher purpose. Seeking a deeper connection to her faith, she accepts an invitation to join a remote convent in the picturesque Italian countryside. The convent is a seemingly peaceful place dedicated to caring for dying nuns. However, Cecilia soon discovers that the idyllic setting harbors dark secrets. After inexplicably becoming pregnant despite being a virgin, Cecilia is hailed as a miracle, but she begins to suspect that something sinister is at play within the convent walls. The film leans into the tropes of religious horror, exploring themes of faith, doubt, bodily autonomy, and the corruption of sacred institutions. Sweeney delivers a committed performance as the innocent nun whose faith is tested by terrifying circumstances. Immaculate is a stylish and atmospheric horror film that builds a sense of dread and paranoia, culminating in a visceral and memorable conclusion.

Ferrari

Michael Mann's biographical drama Ferrari offers a glimpse into a pivotal and tumultuous period in the life of the legendary Italian entrepreneur Enzo Ferrari, played by Adam Driver. Set during the summer of 1957, the film finds Ferrari, a former race car driver and the founder of the iconic Ferrari car company, facing immense personal and professional crises. His company is on the brink of bankruptcy, his marriage to his wife and business partner, Laura (Penélope Cruz), is strained by grief over the death of their son Dino and Enzo's infidelity, and he is trying to keep his relationship with his mistress Lina Lardi (Shailene Woodley) and their son Piero a secret from Laura, whose financial stake is crucial to the company's survival. The film builds towards the perilous Mille Miglia race, a thousand-mile endurance event across Italy, where Ferrari's team hopes to secure a victory that could save the company. While the film received mixed reviews, it is praised for its period detail, intense racing sequences, and strong performances. Adam Driver captures Ferrari's complex mix of charm, ambition, and emotional distance, but it is Penélope Cruz who delivers a truly bravura performance as the grieving and formidable Laura Ferrari, anchoring the film with her raw emotional power. Ferrari is a compelling portrait of a complicated man at a critical juncture in his life and career.

Perfect Days

Nearly six decades into his illustrious career, renowned German filmmaker Wim Wenders delivered one of his most acclaimed films with Perfect Days, a quiet and contemplative drama set in Tokyo. The film centers on Hirayama (Kōji Yakusho), a middle-aged man who works as a public toilet cleaner. Despite the seemingly mundane nature of his job, Hirayama finds profound contentment and beauty in the simple routines of his life. His days are structured around his work, his passion for music (listening to classic rock and soul on cassette tapes), reading books, and observing the natural world, particularly trees, which he photographs daily. The narrative is not driven by dramatic conflict but by the gentle rhythm of Hirayama's life and his quiet interactions with the people he encounters – his colleagues, strangers he meets briefly, and unexpected visits from family members. Kōji Yakusho gives a deeply moving and understated performance, conveying a wealth of emotion and inner peace through subtle gestures and expressions. The film is a poetic meditation on finding joy and meaning in the everyday, the beauty of routine, and the quiet dignity of labor. Perfect Days is a serene and ultimately uplifting cinematic experience that reminds us to appreciate the small things in life.

Origin

Ava DuVernay's powerful film Origin is a unique blend of biopic and historical exploration, based on Isabel Wilkerson's acclaimed 2020 book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents. The film follows the journey of Wilkerson (portrayed with depth and nuance by Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), the first Black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in journalism. After experiencing personal loss, Wilkerson embarks on a monumental undertaking: researching and writing her groundbreaking book, which examines caste systems throughout history and across different cultures. Her research takes her on a global journey, from the United States to Germany and India, where she investigates the historical roots and enduring impact of hierarchical social structures. The film interweaves Wilkerson's personal story and the challenges she faces in her research with dramatic recreations and historical context illustrating the concepts of caste as a hidden framework shaping societies. DuVernay finds a compelling cinematic language to translate Wilkerson's complex academic work into a moving and accessible narrative. Origin is a thought-provoking and essential film that challenges viewers to reconsider how social hierarchies are formed and perpetuated, and the profound ways they affect human lives.

The Contestant

Blending reality television history with a disturbing psychological study, the documentary The Contestant tells the incredible and ethically dubious true story of Tomoaki Hamatsu, a Japanese comedian known as Nasubi. In 1998, Hamatsu entered a small apartment as part of a reality show contest called Susunu! Denpa Shōnen (Go Forth! Electric Boy). The premise was simple: he had to live in isolation, nude, and with no contact with the outside world, relying solely on winning prizes from magazine sweepstakes to survive. Unbeknownst to Hamatsu, his life was being broadcast live to millions of viewers across Japan, who became captivated by his bizarre and increasingly desperate situation. The documentary explores how this extreme experiment was conceived and allowed to happen, raising serious questions about media ethics, exploitation, and the voyeuristic nature of reality television. It delves into the psychological toll the isolation and constant surveillance took on Hamatsu, who spent 15 months in the apartment. The Contestant is a riveting and unsettling film that examines the real-world consequences of this controversial broadcast and the cultural phenomenon it became, prompting reflection on the boundaries of entertainment and human dignity.

Anatomy of a Fall

Justine Triet's compelling French courtroom drama Anatomy of a Fall, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes and earned multiple Oscar nominations (including Best Picture and Best Director), is a masterfully constructed mystery that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. German actress Sandra Hüller delivers a captivating performance as Sandra Voyter, a successful writer whose life is thrown into turmoil when her husband, Samuel (Samuel Theis), is found dead from a fall outside their remote chalet in the French Alps. What initially appears to be a suicide quickly becomes a murder investigation, with Sandra becoming the prime suspect. The film meticulously dissects the couple's complex and often fraught marriage through courtroom testimony, revealing secrets, resentments, and conflicting perspectives. The trial hinges on the testimony of their visually impaired son, Daniel (Milo Machado-Graner), who is forced to recount the events of the day and whose perspective is crucial but unreliable. Adding another layer of intrigue is the family's border collie, Messi, who plays a small but memorable role. Anatomy of a Fall is a smart, nuanced, and morally ambiguous film that explores themes of truth, perception, marriage, and the difficulty of truly knowing another person. Hüller is phenomenal, portraying Sandra with a compelling mix of intelligence, ambiguity, and emotional complexity.

BlackBerry

Matt Johnson's biographical comedy-drama BlackBerry offers an immensely entertaining and often darkly humorous look at the rapid rise and spectacular fall of the iconic smartphone. The film chronicles the story of Mike Lazaridis (Jay Baruchel) and Douglas Fregin (Matt Johnson), the engineering masterminds behind Research In Motion (RIM), the Canadian company that created the BlackBerry. Their world is turned upside down when they partner with Jim Balsillie (Glenn Howerton), a ruthless and ambitious businessman brought in to help navigate the cutthroat world of technology and finance. Howerton, best known for his comedic role in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, is practically unrecognizable and delivers a transformative performance as the driven and volatile Balsillie. The film captures the chaotic energy of RIM's early days, the clash between the engineers' passion for technology and Balsillie's relentless pursuit of market dominance, and the eventual struggle to compete with the advent of the iPhone. BlackBerry is a fascinating and often hilarious portrayal of innovation, ambition, and the unpredictable nature of the tech industry, highlighting the human drama behind one of the most significant technological shifts of the early 21st century.

The Royal Hotel

Director Kitty Green (The Assistant) reunites with actress Julia Garner for the taut psychological thriller The Royal Hotel. The film follows two young American backpackers, Hanna (Garner) and Liv (Jessica Henwick), as they travel through the remote and rugged Australian outback. When they find themselves running low on funds, they take a temporary live-in job working at a remote pub called The Royal Hotel. The pub is located in a small, isolated mining town and is frequented by a rowdy and predominantly male clientele. While Liv tries to make the best of their situation, Hanna becomes increasingly uneasy about the behavior of the locals and the unsettling atmosphere of the hotel. Her instincts tell her that something is not right, and the film builds a palpable sense of tension and unease as the women navigate the potentially dangerous environment. Garner, known for playing strong and resilient characters, delivers another compelling performance as Hanna, portraying her growing fear and determination to protect herself and her friend. The Royal Hotel is a gripping exploration of gender dynamics, vulnerability, and survival in an isolated and potentially hostile setting, showcasing Green's skill at creating atmospheric and unsettling narratives.

Self Reliance

Actor Jake Johnson makes a confident and wonderfully weird feature directorial debut with the dark meta-comedy Self Reliance, which he also wrote and stars in. Johnson plays Tommy Walcott, a man stuck in a mundane life who is suddenly presented with an extraordinary opportunity. He is approached by a limousine carrying Andy Samberg (playing himself), who invites him to participate in a mysterious reality competition with a grand prize of $1 million. The rules are simple but terrifying: Tommy must survive for 30 days while being hunted by a team of contract killers. The catch? The hunters can only attack him when he is completely alone. This bizarre rule forces Tommy to seek constant companionship to stay alive. He teams up with Maddy (Anna Kendrick), another contestant in the game, and they make a pact to spend every waking moment together. The film cleverly plays with the conventions of reality TV and thriller genres, blending genuine suspense with quirky humor and introspective moments. Just when you think you've figured out where the story is going, Self Reliance takes unexpected turns, exploring themes of isolation, connection, and the absurdity of modern life. It's a unique and entertaining film anchored by Johnson's likable performance and his chemistry with Kendrick.

No One Will Save You

Brian Duffield's sci-fi horror film No One Will Save You is a remarkably effective and almost entirely dialogue-free thriller that showcases a powerful performance from Kaitlyn Dever. Dever stars as Brynn Adams, a young woman living a solitary and isolated life in her childhood home. Haunted by a past trauma, she spends her days as a seamstress, estranged from her community and mourning the loss of her mother and a childhood friend. Her quiet existence is shattered one night when she is awakened by strange noises and discovers that her home is being invaded – not by a human intruder, but by an extraterrestrial being. What follows is a tense and terrifying battle for survival as Brynn must use her wits and resourcefulness to fight off the alien threat. The film is a masterclass in visual storytelling and physical performance, with Dever carrying the weight of the narrative through her expressions and actions alone. By focusing on a single character and minimizing dialogue, the film creates a heightened sense of vulnerability and immediacy. No One Will Save You is a fresh and compelling take on both the home invasion and alien invasion genres, proving that a simple premise executed with skill and a strong lead can be incredibly impactful. It's 93 minutes of pure, nail-biting suspense.

Miguel Wants to Fight

The coming-of-age comedy Miguel Wants to Fight, co-written by Shea Serrano and Jason Concepcion, offers a charming and relatable story about a teenager facing a unique personal challenge. Miguel (Tyler Dean Flores) is a 17-year-old living in a neighborhood where fighting is a common rite of passage, yet he has managed to avoid getting into a single physical altercation his entire life. When he learns that his family will be moving away soon, forcing him to leave behind his friends and the only home he's ever known, Miguel decides that before he leaves, he must finally experience his first fight. He enlists the help of his three best friends to find a suitable opponent and prepare him for the inevitable confrontation. The film is a humorous and heartfelt exploration of friendship, masculinity, and the awkwardness of adolescence. It captures the dynamics of a close-knit group of friends navigating the cusp of adulthood and the pressure to conform to perceived norms. The talented young cast, led by Tyler Dean Flores, brings authenticity and charm to their roles, making Miguel's quest both funny and genuinely touching. It's a watchable and enjoyable entry in the coming-of-age genre.

Sanctuary

Zachary Wigon's psychological thriller Sanctuary is a sharp, witty, and often claustrophobic two-hander that explores power dynamics and sexual politics with a dark comedic edge. The film is set almost entirely within a single hotel suite and centers on two characters: Hal Porterfield (Christopher Abbott), the heir to a massive hotel empire who has just inherited control of the company after his father's death, and Rebecca Marin (Margaret Qualley), a professional dominatrix who has been working with Hal. As Hal prepares to take on his new role, he attempts to end his relationship with Rebecca, offering her a severance package. However, Rebecca believes she is owed more – not just for her services, but for the insights and influence she has had on Hal's life and career. What begins as a negotiation quickly devolves into a tense and manipulative battle of wills, filled with mind games, revelations, and shifting power dynamics. Abbott and Qualley deliver mesmerizing performances, playing off each other with electric intensity. Qualley, in particular, is captivating as the cunning and complex Rebecca. Sanctuary is a stylish and dialogue-driven film that is as funny as it is unsettling, offering a fascinating look at control, desire, and the blurred lines between personal and professional relationships.

Corsage

Marie Kreutzer's historical drama Corsage offers a fictionalized portrayal of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, played with captivating complexity by Vicky Krieps. The film is set in 1877, as Empress Elisabeth, known for her beauty and strict adherence to a rigorous physical regimen, celebrates her 40th birthday. Feeling increasingly constrained by the rigid protocols of court life and her public image, she longs for the freedom and vitality of her youth. The film depicts Elisabeth's growing rebellion against her ceremonial duties and the expectations placed upon her as a royal figurehead who wields little actual political power. She engages in various acts of defiance, traveling, seeking out new experiences, and pushing against the boundaries of her gilded cage. Krieps delivers a superb performance, capturing Elisabeth's intelligence, wit, melancholy, and fierce desire for independence. While based on a historical figure, the film takes creative liberties, blending historical detail with a modern sensibility to explore themes of aging, beauty standards, female agency, and the pressures of public life. Corsage is a visually striking and thought-provoking character study of a woman struggling to maintain her identity and exert control over her own life in a world that seeks to define and constrain her.

How to Blow Up a Pipeline

Director Daniel Goldhaber's thriller How to Blow Up a Pipeline is a rare film that successfully merges environmental activism with the structure and tension of a heist movie. Based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Andreas Malm, the film follows a diverse group of young environmental activists who decide to take radical action against the fossil fuel industry. Their plan is to sabotage an oil pipeline in West Texas, aiming to disrupt the flow of oil and expose the vulnerability of the infrastructure that contributes to the climate crisis. The film introduces each character and their personal motivations for joining the mission, highlighting the various ways climate change has impacted their lives. As they execute their dangerous plan, the film builds intense suspense, showing the meticulous preparation and the high stakes involved. It's a film that doesn't shy away from the controversial nature of its subject matter, presenting the characters' actions as a desperate response to a perceived existential threat. Cinematographer Tehillah de Castro's work contributes significantly to the film's gritty and urgent atmosphere. How to Blow Up a Pipeline is a timely, provocative, and gripping film that sparks debate about the urgency of the climate crisis and the lengths people might go to in response.

Rye Lane

Raine Allen-Miller's directorial debut, the British romantic comedy Rye Lane, offers a fresh and vibrant take on the genre, set against the colorful backdrop of South London. The film introduces Yas (Vivian Oparah) and Dom (David Jonsson), two twentysomethings who are both reeling from recent, painful breakups. They have a chance encounter in a public restroom at a mutual friend's art exhibition – an awkward but ultimately serendipitous meeting. Drawn to each other's honesty and shared vulnerability, they decide to spend the day together, wandering through the vibrant neighborhoods of South London, including the titular Rye Lane. As they talk, share stories about their exes, and engage in playful, sometimes elaborate schemes to confront their past relationships, they begin to form a connection. The film is characterized by its witty dialogue, dynamic visual style, and the undeniable chemistry between its two leads. Oparah and Jonsson are charming and relatable as Yas and Dom, navigating the complexities of heartbreak and the tentative beginnings of a new romance. Rye Lane is a joyful, funny, and visually inventive rom-com that celebrates Black British culture and the possibility of finding love in unexpected places.

Triangle of Sadness

Ruben Östlund's satirical black comedy Triangle of Sadness, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes and received multiple Oscar nominations, is a scathing critique of wealth, beauty, and social hierarchies. The film is divided into three parts. The first introduces Carl (Harris Dickinson) and Yaya (Charlbi Dean), a model couple navigating the fashion world and their own relationship dynamics, particularly concerning money. The second part sees Carl and Yaya invited on a luxury cruise for the ultra-rich, captained by a cynical, alcoholic Marxist (Woody Harrelson). This section features a now-infamous, extended sequence of grotesque chaos during a storm, involving extreme seasickness and a lavish captain's dinner gone horribly wrong. The third part follows the survivors of the shipwreck who find themselves stranded on a seemingly deserted island. On the island, the established social order is completely upended, as the only person with practical survival skills is Abigail (Dolly de Leon), one of the ship's cleaners. The film uses outrageous humor and uncomfortable situations to expose the absurdities and hypocrisies of the wealthy elite. It's a provocative and often shocking film that, like The Menu, delights in turning the tables on its privileged characters and exploring how power shifts when traditional structures collapse.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire

Céline Sciamma's exquisite French historical drama Portrait of a Lady on Fire is widely regarded as one of the finest queer romance films of recent years, standing alongside acclaimed movies like Moonlight and Carol. Set on a remote island off the coast of Brittany, France, in the late 18th century, the film tells the story of Marianne (Noémie Merlant), a painter commissioned to paint a portrait of Héloïse (Adèle Haenel), a young aristocratic woman who has recently left a convent. The portrait is intended to be sent to Héloïse's wealthy fiancé in Milan, but Héloïse is reluctant to pose, having refused previous painters. To circumvent this, Marianne is introduced as a companion to Héloïse, observing her by day to paint her portrait in secret by night. As Marianne studies Héloïse, a deep connection forms between them, blossoming into a passionate and clandestine love affair against the backdrop of the stunning coastal landscape. The film is a masterclass in visual storytelling, using lingering gazes, subtle gestures, and evocative cinematography to convey the growing intimacy and desire between the two women. It's a deeply moving and heartbreaking portrayal of a forbidden romance, exploring themes of art, memory, freedom, and the female gaze. Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a film of immense beauty and emotional power that has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

Fresh

Mimi Cave's directorial debut Fresh is a genre-bending thriller that starts as a romantic comedy and quickly descends into something far more sinister, offering a chilling commentary on the perils of modern dating. Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is a young woman disillusioned with the online dating scene, having endured a string of awkward and disappointing encounters. When she meets Steve (Sebastian Stan) at a grocery store – a charming, quirky, and seemingly perfect stranger – she decides to take a chance and gives him her number. Their initial dates are promising, and Noa feels a genuine connection with Steve, leading her to impulsively agree to a romantic weekend getaway with him. However, upon arriving at his secluded home, Noa discovers that Steve has been hiding a horrifying secret, one that turns her romantic escape into a terrifying fight for survival. The film is notable for its sharp tonal shifts, its stylish direction, and the committed performances from its leads. Edgar-Jones is compelling as the resourceful protagonist, while Stan is chillingly effective as the charming facade drops away. Fresh uses its shocking premise to explore themes of trust, vulnerability, and the hidden dangers that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly normal interactions, particularly in the digital age of dating. It's a disturbing but captivating watch that will make you think twice about swiping right.

Palm Springs

In the wake of Harold Ramis' beloved classic Groundhog Day, creating a successful time-loop story requires a fresh perspective, and Max Barbakow's directorial debut Palm Springs delivers exactly that. This sci-fi romantic comedy takes the familiar premise and adds its own unique twists and layers. The film centers on Nyles (Andy Samberg), a seemingly carefree guest at a wedding in Palm Springs who is stuck in a mysterious time loop, reliving the same day over and over. His monotonous existence is disrupted when Sarah (Cristin Milioti), the bride's sister and maid of honor, also gets caught in the loop with him. Unlike Phil Connors in Groundhog Day, Nyles isn't the only one aware of the loop; Sarah's presence changes the dynamic entirely. They are joined by Roy (J.K. Simmons), another man who is also aware of the loop and holds a grudge against Nyles. The film explores the existential absurdity of their situation with humor and heart, as Nyles and Sarah initially embrace the freedom from consequences before grappling with the emotional toll of their endless repetition. Samberg and Milioti have fantastic chemistry, making their journey through the loop both hilarious and genuinely touching. Palm Springs is a clever, funny, and surprisingly philosophical film that builds upon the foundation of its predecessors to offer a smart and entertaining take on finding connection and meaning in the face of the infinite.

Beyond the List: More to Explore on Hulu

This list represents just a fraction of the compelling films available on Hulu. The platform's library is constantly changing, with new titles added regularly. Whether you're interested in acclaimed independent features, foreign cinema, documentaries, or genre films, Hulu offers a wide array of choices. Keep an eye out for new arrivals and delve into different categories to discover hidden gems.

For those looking to expand their streaming horizons further, consider checking out our guides to the best TV shows on Hulu, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Disney+, and the best movies on Amazon Prime. Happy streaming!