Weekend Streaming Recommendations: Featuring ‘Wicked’ and New Releases
Location: Chicago
Now Streaming: ‘Wicked’
Overview: Based on the critically acclaimed Broadway musical, ‘Wicked’ serves as a prequel to ‘The Wizard of Oz’, exploring the complex friendship between two college roommates, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Galinda (Ariana Grande). While Elphaba is destined to become the famed Wicked Witch of the West, Galinda transforms into Glinda the Good Witch.
Film Insights: Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film is noted for its vibrant visuals and emotionally engaging performances. It delves into themes of prejudice, propaganda, and societal perception, enhancing the original storyline. This adaptation has earned ten Oscar nominations, underscoring its technical and artistic achievements.
Streaming Availability: ‘Wicked’ is currently available on Peacock, offering both the original version and a sing-along edition.
Additional Streaming Options This Weekend
- ‘O’Dessa’: Starring Sadie Sink, this post-apocalyptic rock opera is now available on Hulu.
- ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’: The sequel to the 2018 heist film is streaming on Netflix.
- ‘Sing Sing’: A powerful drama centered on theater programs for incarcerated individuals, featuring an Oscar-nominated performance by Colman Domingo, available on Max.
- ‘Anora’: This critically acclaimed film is now streaming on Hulu after an extended rental period.
In Theaters: ‘Black Bag’
Plot Summary: Directed by Steven Soderbergh, ‘Black Bag’ presents a riveting narrative centered on a married couple, George (Michael Fassbender) and Kathryn (Cate Blanchett), who navigate complexities in their relationship while working in an intelligence agency.
Critique: Praised for its sharp writing and significant performances from its ensemble cast, the film has garnered early acclaim, positioning it as a possible contender for year-end accolades. Soderbergh’s direction lends itself to a taut cinematic experience that is both compelling and entertaining.
Current Availability: ‘Black Bag’ was released in theaters last weekend.
Post-Credits Scene: There is no post-credits scene for ‘Black Bag’; viewers can exit once the credits conclude.
Upcoming Theatrical Releases
- ‘Disney’s Snow White’: A live-action retelling of the beloved animated classic featuring Rachel Zegler.
- ‘Locked’: A unique horror film starring Bill Skarsgård as a thief trapped by a sinister owner, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins.
- ‘The Assessment’: A dystopian drama featuring Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander.
- ‘The Alto Knights’: Robert De Niro stars as a mob boss facing off against another crime lord, also played by De Niro.
Home Viewing: ‘Companion’
Synopsis: In ‘Companion’, a seemingly perfect weekend for three couples takes a dark turn when one woman defends herself from an assault, revealing her true identity as an AI companion unaware of her nature.
Viewer Insights: This horror-thriller, featuring Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid, combines humor with smart storytelling, making it a compelling watch.
Where to View: ‘Companion’ is now available for digital rental and purchase.
Family-Friendly Pick: ‘The Wild Robot’
Storyline: This animated feature follows Roz (voiced by Lupita Nyong’o), a service robot who learns to adapt and find purpose in nature after a crash on a remote island.
Reception: Despite competing against several acclaimed films, ‘The Wild Robot’ has been celebrated for its heartwarming narrative and is suitable for all ages.
Streaming Information: Available on Peacock and also for digital rent or purchase.
