No April Fools here. Just great movies.
Did I make the same joke for last April’s Movies to Stream? Most likely. Will I make it again next year? The chances are strong. But that’s okay. You’ll forgive me (I’ll hope). The only way that I can truly make it up to you is by offering up a good slate of movies to stream this month. With all that said, here goes nothing:
Netflix: Hustle (2022)
This is the second best entry in the “Adam Sandler in a dramatic role about a guy who is obsessed with basketball” genre. He doesn’t quite reach the heights of his performance as Howie in Uncut Gems, but Sandler breathes charming and sympathetic life into the Stanley Sugerman character. The real revelations in this film though are the acting talent of some of the featured NBA players. Juancho Hernangomez displays a surprising emotional depth as Bo Cruz, and Anthony Edwards shows to be one of the most charismatic young stars in the NBA. He has an undeniable comfort and ease in front of the camera that few NBA players have. Nonetheless, a fun watch for basketball and film fans alike.
FOR FANS OF: Air; Uncut Gems; Space Jam
Prime Video: Burn After Reading (2009)
Burn After Reading can make a strong case for being the Coen Brothers’ funniest movie. It won’t get the same love as classics like Fargo or The Big Lebowski. And it doesn’t quite reach the heights of a masterpiece like No Country for Old Men. It is, however, one of those movies that you forget how enjoyable it is, and revisit every few years to rediscover how great it is. Brad Pitt and Frances McDormand are clearly having an absolute blast in this (as is George Clooney).
FOR FANS OF: The Big Lebowski; Death to Smoochie; Pain & Gain
Max: Priscilla (2023)
In an ironic (perhaps tragic) version of art intimidating life, Priscilla didn’t get the love or attention it deserved last year, even though it was directed by one of the best directors of the modern era. Sofia Coppola immediately draws you into the movie doesn’t let you go. The soundtrack is absolutely killer, the production design and costuming is stunning, and the casting is damn near perfect. I only blame myself for not checking this out earlier, but am very happy we can all see it now on Max.
FOR FANS OF: Elvis; Walk the Line; Maestro
Hulu: The Last Duel (2021)
I’m not quite sure why The Last Duel went under the radar of so many people in 2021, but it was one of the strongest movies of that year. It marked the return of the Matt Damon/Ben Affleck writing duo, who co-wrote this absolutely killer script with Nicole Holofcener. It was also one of two 2021 movies directed by Ridley Scott (the other was the fairly dreadful House of Gucci). Lastly, it featured insane haircuts on Adam Driver, Matt Damon, AND Ben Affleck. If all of that isn’t enough, the titular duel is pretty freaking awesome as well.
FOR FANS OF: Kingdom of Heaven; The King; The Last of the Mohicans
Peacock: Half Baked (1998)
This pick is for all of folks who may be celebrating the 4/20 holiday later this month. There are many great stoner comedies out there, but Half Baked is among the best. A young Dave Chappelle (he also co-wrote it with longtime collaborator Neal Brennan) stars in this wild romp about the unstoppable forces of friendship. Between the insanely quotable lines, memorable cameos, and obviously a crapload of joints, Half Baked features all of the hallmarks of a great stoner flick.
FOR FANS OF: Pineapple Express; Clerks; Up in Smoke
Make sure you check out all of these awesome options and let us know what you think. Also, be sure to let us know the best hidden gems you’ve streamed recently. Share in the comments and help us expand the list!
See you next month!