A variety of fresh movies, TV shows, music, and games are arriving on streaming platforms, creating excitement for fans this spring. Among the highlights are the much-anticipated Moana 2, which is already one of 2024’s top-grossing films, and Amanda Seyfried’s compelling performance as a Philadelphia police officer tackling the opioid crisis in Peacock’s Long Bright River.
From the entertainment experts at the Associated Press, several must-watch releases are gaining attention: the rediscovered Tom Petty documentary Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party, comedian John Mulaney’s new live talk show on Netflix, and the six-part series Confessions of Octomom, which revisits Nadya Suleman’s dramatic life after giving birth to octuplets.
New Movies to Stream (March 10-16):
Moana 2, initially planned as a streaming series, debuted on Disney+ after exceeding $1 billion at the global box office. Set three years after the 2016 original, the film features Moana, voiced by Auli’i Cravalho, setting off on another oceanic adventure to unite various Pacific Island communities. Alongside her, Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as Maui. Critics have noted, though, the sequel captures the essence of Polynesian culture but falls short of the humor and catchy tunes present in its predecessor, illustrating a heartfelt yet lackluster continuation.
Another film making its debut is The Electric State, directed by the Russo brothers, who gained fame with Avengers: Endgame. Streaming on Netflix, this sci-fi adventure follows teenager Millie Bobby Brown on her quest to find her lost brother through retro-futuristic America, accompanied by her robot (voiced by Anthony Mackie) and Chris Pratt as the drifter. The film, based on Simon Stalenhag’s illustrated novel, is built upon the unique premise of combining nostalgia with fantasy.
Meanwhile, All We Imagine as Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, is now streaming on the Criterion Channel. The film follows three Mumbai hospital workers facing personal struggles, who, upon visiting a coastal town, find themselves lost in dreamlike explorations of their lives.
New Music Releases (March 10-16):
Fans of K-pop can rejoice as LE SSERAFIM returns with their new EP HOT, introducing tracks filled with rock and disco influences centered on themes of love. This release marks the group’s continued evolution within the genre as they aim to captivate their audience.
Also making waves is the long-lost 1983 documentary Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party, which has resurfaced on Paramount+. Originally aired only once on MTV, the film gives audiences rare behind-the-scenes insights from Petty’s Long After Dark tour.
New Shows to Stream (March 10-16):
A six-part series titled Confessions of Octomom is streaming on Hulu, revisiting the life of Nadya Suleman, who became a household name after giving birth to octuplets. This series offers glimpses of how Suleman and her 14 children managed financial troubles, public attention, and personal hardships.
On Netflix, comedian John Mulaney has launched
Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney, returning to live television to deliver celebrity interviews and spontaneous chaos. Joining him as the sidekick is Richard Kind, whose comedic timing perfectly complements Mulaney’s unpredictable style.
Over on Peacock, Long Bright River stars Amanda Seyfried as a dedicated Philadelphia cop investigating murders amid her search for her missing sister who battles addiction. This eight-episode thriller, adapted from Liz Moore’s novel, showcases Seyfried’s gritty performance as she unravels the dark web entwining her family and community.
Adding to the excitement, Dope Thief, produced by Ridley Scott, begins streaming on Apple TV+ on Friday, March 14. This limited series follows two friends who impersonate DEA agents to steal drugs, but their heist goes wrong when they target the wrong people.
New Video Games to Play:
For gamers, Wanderstop, the latest indie game by Davey Wreden, the mind behind The Stanley Parable, invites players to step away from heroics and enjoy tea shop management following the protagonist Alta’s new life. Positioned on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, and PC, this indie title promises cozy charm with unexpected twists around its corners.
With this diverse lineup of entertainment, viewers and gamers alike have plenty to look forward to. New projects offer both nostalgic reflections and innovative storytelling, ensuring there’s something for everyone as we round off winter and embrace the freshness of the new season.