January 2025 brings exciting new streaming options for movie enthusiasts, showcasing titles across various platforms sure to satisfy all types of viewers. Hulu is kicking off the year with the addition of some beloved films, including the first three entries of the John Wick franchise, which has been making waves with its thrilling choreography and Keanu Reeves’ compelling performance. Franchise lovers can also appreciate the arrival of the Paul Blart and Insidious movies, as Hulu continues to diversify its library this month.
Among the fresh selections available this month, viewers can find classics like Mr. Deeds, The Town, Heat, Paddington, and American Psycho. For those willing to try something new, three underrated films are recommended. First up is The Walk, directed by Robert Zemeckis. Chronicling the breathtaking true story of Philippe Petit, who achieved the daring tightrope walk between the Twin Towers, the film features Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the ambitious daredevil, showcasing incredible visual effects to capture this historical feat.
Next is Office Space, the cult favorite workplace comedy. The film follows Peter Gibbons, played by Ron Livingston, who finds himself overwhelmed and disillusioned by corporate life. After undergoing hypnotherapy, Peter begins to embrace life with newfound carelessness, leading to unexpected promotions and hijinks as he plots revenge against his bosses. A famous line from Peter—"What would you say you do here?"—remains relatable to anyone who's ever worked in the corporate world.
Another captivating entry is Cuckoo, starring Hunter Schafer. Set against the backdrop of the Alps, it follows teenager Gretchen as she navigates life after her mother's death. This trippy horror film takes viewers through bizarre occurrences at her father’s resort job, with mysterious figures lurking, making it hard to anticipate what happens next.
For those wishing to cut costs, 2025 is bringing attention to excellent free streaming services. Platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Plex provide subscription-free options, appealing to consumers seeking to tighten their budgets. Among the standout free movies is Wonka, the fantastical family adventure directed by Paul King. This visually appealing film, starring Timothée Chalamet as the titular chocolatier, reveals the early days of Willy Wonka as he navigates corrupt business foes.
Also available for free streaming is I’m Not There, directed by Todd Haynes. This experimental biopic features multiple actors—including the likes of Christian Bale and Cate Blanchett—each portraying different facets of Bob Dylan's life and music. For music aficionados, Almost Famous, available on Hoopla, cultivates nostalgia with its depiction of 1970s rock culture, following the experiences of teenage music journalist William Miller.
Don’t overlook Heat, the iconic crime thriller featuring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. This gripping film dives deep not only through its intense heist sequences but also examines the emotional toll demanding careers take on detectives and thieves alike.
Streaming on Hoopla, Pluto TV, and Plex is The Pianist, the heartbreaking true story of musician Władysław Szpilman’s harrowing survival during World War II. Roman Polanski’s film provides impeccable storytelling of resilience against the backdrop of brutal wartime conditions.
Another film worth noting this January is Inside Man, now streaming on Netflix. Directed by Spike Lee, this 2006 heist thriller sees Denzel Washington deliver one of his most celebrated performances as hostage negotiator Detective Keith Frazier. The film weaves through layers of tension and unexpected twists, captivating audiences with its clever plot centred on robbery, ethics, and societal issues. While critics have lauded the film as one of Washington's best, opinions have varied, with some seeing it as overly complex.
Overall, January 2025 is brimming with diverse viewing options, catering to all tastes. From nostalgic comedies and chilling horrors to poignant dramas, this month proves there's no shortage of captivating storytelling across various streaming services. Outside of primary selection highlights, viewers can explore new genres and revisit treasured classics, making for another fantastic month of cinema.