Each week, Polygon curates a selection of the most noteworthy new releases in streaming and video-on-demand, showcasing the finest cinematic offerings for your at-home viewing pleasure. This week marks a significant return for the Final Destination horror franchise, which has resurfaced after nearly 15 years with Final Destination: Bloodlines, directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein. This chilling tale of death pursuing a family is now available for rent, inviting fans to experience the suspense anew.
For those seeking lighter fare, the much-anticipated A Minecraft Movie has made its debut on Max, offering a whimsical escape into the pixelated universe without the risk of popcorn mishaps. Meanwhile, romantic sci-fi enthusiasts can indulge in Love Me on Paramount Plus, while horror aficionados will find delight in the Dead Space-inspired Ash on Shudder.
New on Netflix
KPop Demon Hunters
Genre: Family musical
Run time: 1h 35m
Director: Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans
Cast: Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong
In a delightful twist on the magical girl genre, Sony Pictures Animation presents KPop Demon Hunters, where a K-pop trio moonlights as demon hunters. When a rival boy band of demons emerges, the stakes rise as the heroes must battle for their fans and their very souls, all while delivering catchy original songs from a diverse lineup of performers.
New on HBO Max
A Minecraft Movie
Genre: Fantasy comedy
Run time: 1h 41m
Director: Jared Hess
Cast: Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Danielle Brooks
Jason Momoa shines in A Minecraft Movie, portraying the owner of a struggling game store who, alongside two orphaned siblings, finds himself transported to the enchanting Minecraft Overworld. The adventure unfolds as they confront quirky challenges, including a baby-zombie chicken jockey, all while navigating the whimsical rules of the game. The film, while less earnest than The Lego Movie, is brimming with humor and nods to the beloved video game.
“At first, the CG interpretations of Minecraft settings, animals, monsters, and villagers are overwhelming: A carnival of nightmare visuals marches across the screen. Eventually, though, the alarming effect fades, and the story takes center stage, leading to a fun-filled experience.”
New on Hulu
Out Come the Wolves
Genre: Horror thriller
Run time: 1h 26m
Director: Adam MacDonald
Cast: Missy Peregrym, Joris Jarsky, Damon Runyan
In Out Come the Wolves, a planned couples hunting trip takes a dark turn when a last-minute cancellation leaves three individuals grappling with past romantic tensions. Their retreat becomes a fight for survival as they are hunted by wolves with a taste for blood, transforming their getaway into a nightmare.
The Quiet Ones
Genre: Action thriller
Run time: 1h 50m
Director: Frederik Louis Hviid
Cast: Reda Kateb, Gustav Giese, Amanda Collin
Inspired by the true events of Denmark’s largest heist, The Quiet Ones follows a boxer who orchestrates a daring plan to steal million, revealing the intricate motivations and secrets of those involved in this high-stakes endeavor.
New on Paramount Plus
Genre: Post-apocalyptic romance
Run time: 1h 32m
Directors: Sam Zuchero and Andy Zuchero
Cast: Kristen Stewart, Steven Yeun
Set in the year 2500, Love Me tells the story of a solitary weather buoy (Kristen Stewart) and a satellite (Steven Yeun) attempting to forge a connection in a world devoid of humanity. Blending stop-motion, live action, and animation, this film presents a unique take on companionship amidst desolation.
“While the film’s critique of influencer culture may feel somewhat dated, it delivers an oddly enjoyable experience that ultimately encourages authenticity.”
New on Shout TV and Shout Movies
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Genre: Comedy adventure
Run time: 1h 32m
Directors: Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones
Cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Monty Python and the Holy Grail features John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, and Michael Palin reminiscing about their iconic comedic journey. This special event includes a 24-hour stream filled with laughter and nostalgia as they revisit the absurdities of their quest for the Holy Grail.
New on Shudder
Genre: Science fiction horror
Run time: 1h 35m
Director: Flying Lotus
Cast: Eiza González, Aaron Paul, Iko Uwais
In Ash, an astronaut awakens from a coma on a distant planet, surrounded by lifeless bodies and with no recollection of her past. As she navigates her unsettling reality, she must decide whether to trust her supposed rescuer, played by Aaron Paul, while confronting haunting memories through dream sequences inspired by popular video games.
New to Rent
Eye for an Eye
Genre: Horror
Run time: 1h 41m
Director: Colin Tilley
Cast: Whitney Peak, S. Epatha Merkerson, Golda Rosheuvel
In Eye for an Eye, a teenager grappling with the loss of her parents relocates to Florida, where she witnesses a horrific act of violence. As she becomes the target of The Sandman, a vengeful spirit, she must confront her fears and the darkness that haunts her dreams.
Final Destination: Bloodlines
Genre: Horror
Run time: 1h 50m
Directors: Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein
Cast: Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Teo Briones, Richard Harmon
The revival of the beloved franchise, Final Destination: Bloodlines, quickly ascended to become the most successful film in the series. This installment follows a woman whose premonition in 1969 saved her life, as her descendants face an improbable fate, one by one.
Friendship
Genre: Black comedy
Run time: 1h 41m
Director: Andrew DeYoung
Cast: Tim Robinson, Paul Rudd, Kate Mara
Friendship explores the complexities of adult relationships through the lens of two new neighbors who bond over quirky adventures, only to find their connection unraveling in unexpected ways.
Genre: Psychological thriller
Run time: 1h 45m
Director: Vasilis Katsoupis
Cast: Willem Dafoe
In a gripping tale, an art thief (Willem Dafoe) finds himself trapped in a luxurious New York penthouse, abandoned by his accomplices. As he grapples with his sanity amidst priceless artwork and dwindling resources, the film unfolds as a darkly humorous reflection on survival and desperation.
