This weekend brings a diverse slate of new films to streaming and VOD, including the highly anticipated, though polarizing, theatrical release of Tom Cruise's Digger. Despite a reportedly abysmal box office performance, Cruise's involvement may still position the film for awards consideration. For those seeking something more titillating, Verity offers a throwback to erotic thrillers.
Beyond these, a wealth of content is available for home viewing. Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma is now streaming, notable for its unique opening credits and its revival of the art of matte painting for its surreal aesthetic. The long-troubled Coyote vs. ACME also makes its debut, offering a live-action and animated hybrid that has been lauded for its humor and rapid-fire gags. Another highlight is The Uprising, a medieval action drama that has shifted its narrative focus during its promotional cycle. Rounding out the notable releases is The Last First: Winter K2, a documentary detailing the perilous race to summit the world's second-highest mountain in winter.
Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma
Available on Mubi, this horror film directed by Jane Schoenbrun stars Hannah Einbinder as a director tasked with rebooting a slasher franchise. She seeks out the original film's reclusive final girl, played by Gillian Anderson, who resides at the abandoned camp where the movie was filmed. Director Schoenbrun has noted that a common rule for long-running horror franchises is that "If you keep the shitty horror franchise running long enough, eventually, they're probably gonna go to space."
Coyote vs. ACME
This comedy, available on VOD, features Will Forte as a lawyer hired by a fed-up Wile E. Coyote to sue the ACME Corporation for its consistently faulty products. Polygon's review praises the film for being "funny — like, really funny," with jokes ranging from physical gags to sharp one-liners and Easter eggs for fans, delivered at a pace comparable to classic Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker comedies.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle I
Streaming on Hulu, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle I is a major anime release that follows the Demon Slayer Corps as they pursue a demon through a pocket dimension. It serves as the first part of a planned trilogy. A review notes that while the action is the focus, the film's pacing is frequently interrupted by flashbacks and character reflections, a common element in the shonen genre that helps make characters, even antagonists, relatable.
The Uprising
This drama, available on VOD, is inspired by the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. Set in England under King Richard II, the film depicts a farmer, played by Andrew Garfield, who incites a revolt against rising taxes and the lingering effects of the Black Plague.
Soulm8te
Available on Hulu, this sci-fi film takes inspiration from the M3gan universe and the erotic thriller genre. It centers on a grieving engineer who creates an AI lovebot, only for the bot to develop its own agenda.
Evil Dead Burn
This horror film, streaming on HBO Max, continues the gory and realistic style of recent Evil Dead entries. It follows Alice, who is grieving her husband and staying with her in-laws when they are attacked by Deadites. The film's technical aspects are highlighted, particularly its dynamic camera work and sound design, though the script is noted as needing improvement.
Lockbox
This horror film is available on MGM+. It follows Ellen, who moves to a new town to grieve her mother's death, but her plans are disrupted by her withdrawn and traumatized cousin.
Infirmary
Available on Shudder, Infirmary is a horror film about a rookie security guard working night shifts at an abandoned psychiatric hospital. Supernatural events begin to occur after a mysterious break-in.
Union County
This drama, available on VOD, is set against the backdrop of the US opioid crisis. It follows Cody, an addict recently released from prison, who must complete a court-mandated recovery program. The film is noted for its realistic portrayal, blending professional actors with individuals involved in local recovery efforts.
The Last First: Winter K2
This documentary, available on Apple TV, chronicles the intense competition to achieve the first winter ascent of K2. The film captures how a race for a historic mountaineering achievement devolves into a chaotic scramble, ultimately resulting in tragedy.
