Streaming Debuts: The Ugly Stepsister, The Ballad of Wallis Island, One to One: John & Yoko, Warfare, and More

      Every week, we spotlight significant titles that have recently become available on streaming platforms in the United States. Check out this week's picks below and previous compilations here.

      The Ballad of Wallis Island (James Griffiths)

      Have you ever heard a song that takes you back to a specific era, memory, or moment? This unintentional mental response can be beautiful, painful, or a mix of both, and it's heightened by the music that evokes it. This well-known experience serves as the rhythm for The Ballad of Wallis Island, a charming comedy that captures your heart while resonating emotionally. The film serves as a recollection for writers/stars Tim Key and Tom Basden, along with director James Griffiths, being shot in just eighteen days and inspired by a short film made eighteen years prior. – Kent W. (full review)

      Where to Stream: VOD

      Bob Trevino Likes It (Tracie Laymon)

      This film, inspired by director Tracie Laymon’s experience connecting with a stranger online during a challenging time, is a crowd-pleaser that illustrates the existence of good people. With outstanding performances from Barbie Ferreira and John Leguizamo––portraying two strangers with the same last name but no other connection––the film evolves into a touching yet somewhat predictable narrative. That’s perfectly fine, though. Ferreira delivers an impressive range of emotional vulnerability, humor, and at times youthful naivety, providing a performance that is deeper than it initially seems. – John F. (full review)

      Where to Stream: VOD

      Black Bag (Steven Soderbergh)

      Imagine if a James Bond or Mission: Impossible film stripped away all the action sequences—save for the occasional explosion or gunfire—and incorporated a script with a John le Carré-inspired vibe; it might look like Steven Soderbergh’s Black Bag. This stylish spy thriller primarily unfolds at dining tables and office spaces, featuring rapid-fire, sharply witty dialogue crafted by David Koepp, who returns to the genre after Ethan Hunt’s initial adventure. Mainly centered around three couples in British intelligence, Koepp’s screenplay questions whether it’s feasible to maintain a healthy relationship when work and life are inseparable, especially when one's occupation involves deceit. – Jordan R. (full review)

      Where to Stream: Peacock

      The Empire (Bruno Dumont)

      Bruno Dumont presents The Empire, showcasing his distinctive rural French absurdity set against the backdrop of grand sci-fi narratives. The film depicts two battling factions—one with a mothership resembling Versailles, and the other made up of two Notre Dames joined together. It follows their envoys on earth, now in human form, as they seek to capture a child they believe is the Chosen One, whose mere presence causes them to bow like rigor mortis victims. The film features blasé beheadings with lightsabers and a group of men on Boulonnais horses branding themselves the Knights of Wain, accompanied by, for no clear reason, the commandant and lieutenant from P’tit Quinquin. – Rory O. (full review)

      Where to Stream: VOD

      Henry Johnson (David Mamet)

      David Mamet’s new film Henry Johnson evokes a strong sense of the abyss staring back. Adapted from his 2023 play of the same name, the film’s political stance can be presumed based on its title and Mamet’s recent public image. Throughout the viewing, there’s an underlying reminder of the potential for shared understanding with those on the opposing side. Consisting of four scenes set in three locations, Henry Johnson retains its theatrical roots, clear yet not distracting. Evan Jonigkeit plays the titular role—Mamet’s real-life son-in-law—offering a character that serves as a revealing avatar of the tough persona associated with the theater world. The film portrays Henry facing off against a boss (Chris Bauer), a cellmate (Shia LaBeouf), and a prison guard (Dominic Hoffman). – Ethan V. (full review)

      Where to Stream: Official Site

      Marcella (Peter Miller)

      Marcella Hazan’s Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking has long been a cherished resource in many households, known for presenting Italy’s culinary treasures in the most straightforward manner. A new documentary profiling the beloved cook and author seems to embrace her philosophy, taking a humble approach that frequently pauses the biographical narrative to showcase her recipes in action. While the film might benefit from a bit more polish, Hazan’s passionate spirit shines through each segment. Like all great cooking documentaries, it will inspire viewers to seek out her writings and start preparing a sauce. – Jordan R.

      Where to Stream: VOD

      One to One: John & Yoko (Sam Rice-Edwards, Kevin Macdonald)

      In Kevin Macdonald’s captivating ’70s New York City music documentary One to One: John & Yoko, the music is undoubtedly the highlight. Thanks to Sean Ono Lennon’s