New to Streaming: The Brutalist, The Wedding Banquet, Deaf President Now!, I’m Still Here, and More

      Every week, we spotlight notable titles that have recently been added to streaming services in the United States. Take a look at this week’s picks below and previous compilations here.

      The Brutalist (Brady Corbet)

      Brady Corbet’s long-awaited architectural saga is as meticulously crafted as the detailed designs of its protagonist, László Tóth (a superb Adrien Brody). Though his designs are stark and minimalist, they possess a captivating, enigmatic, and occasionally enlightening quality, mirroring Corbet’s intricate three-and-a-half-hour narrative (complete with an intermission!). The story follows a Hungarian architect who emigrates to New York after World War II, becoming psychologically and emotionally entangled in a monumental, decades-long project overseen by a ruthless Pennsylvania business mogul. Its vast scope is almost irresistibly immersive. The film carries a palpable weight of reality, as if we are witnessing actual history unfold. Cinematographer Lol Crawley depicts expansive green hills, shimmering Italian marble quarries, unyielding caves, and grand structures in a richly detailed VistaVision that draws the viewer in, while composer Daniel Blumberg, in his second-ever score, captivates with energetic motifs that propel The Brutalist forward, with ethereal pianos evoking sympathy for the characters. – Luke H.

      Where to Stream: Max

      The Code (Eugene Kotlyarenko)

      Prior to its world premiere at the Fantasia Film Festival, The Code raised several concerns. Set during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and featuring themes like “cancel culture,” it stars Dasha Nekrasova and Peter Vack, controversial filmmakers often seen as reactionary figures. This blend of contentious topics with polarizing leads might suggest mere provocation. Would The Code merely be a relentless jab at viewers? Surprisingly, it’s not. Primarily, this is a film by Eugene Kotlyarenko, and casting these controversial actors aligns with his aim to directly confront the internet's influence on culture in recent years. Although not all attempts succeed, The Code makes a commendable effort to grapple with what some may view as the negative facets of contemporary life, exploring potential outcomes on the other side. – C.J. P. (full review)

      Where to Stream: MUBI (free for 30 days)

      Deaf President Now! (Nyle DiMarco and Davis Guggenheim)

      One of the most impactful documentaries from Sundance this year is Nyle DiMarco and Davis Guggenheim’s Deaf President Now!, which chronicles the student protests against the appointment of a hearing individual as president of Gallaudet University, a renowned institution for the deaf and hard of hearing. While the film adheres to typical structures of an inspiring documentary about a significant moment in history, the directors have thoughtfully augmented the audio in certain archival footage to immerse viewers into the experiences of the brave individuals at the center of the story. It’s also fulfilling to see the key leaders of the movement appear on camera decades later, acknowledging their rightful place in history. – Jordan R.

      Where to Stream: Apple TV+

      The Featherweight (Robert Kolodny)

      Amidst the abundance of biopics, particularly those focusing on sports, it can feel like new ground is rarely broken. While Sean Durkin’s The Iron Claw recently showcased how a unique vision can elevate the genre, Robert Kolodny’s The Featherweight revitalizes the biopic format by partially unfolding within the boxing ring. Making his feature debut, Kolodny, who contributed to the cinematography of All the Beauty and the Bloodshed and Procession, portrays the comeback of veteran boxer Willie Pep (James Madio), who faces intensifying personal and business challenges. The film adopts a compelling documentary-style approach, as if a filmmaking crew is capturing Pep’s every moment, including direct-to-camera confessions from the boxer. This creative risk offers a compelling narrative link and, paired with Adam Kolodny’s grainy 60s-style cinematography, keeps viewers engrossed in Pep’s journey. – Jordan R.

      Where to Stream: VOD

      Hard Truths (Mike Leigh)

      The legendary Mike Leigh’s latest work features Marianne Jean-Baptiste as a woman grappling with profound anger—directed at her family, passersby during her daily routines, and the world at large—which is both humorously absurd and heartbreakingly sad. Hard Truths may be the first truly exceptional film to examine the lasting effects of COVID-19 on our shared consciousness. Although the pandemic is only mentioned briefly, the pervasive feelings of discontent, malaise, and simmering rage are palpable throughout the film. Leigh's extensive filmography is filled with masterpieces (such as Life Is Sweet, Naked, Secrets & Lies, and Topsy-Turvy), making it challenging to rank Hard Truths. However, it should be recognized as one of the most impactful films of 2024. – Chris S.

      Where to Stream: