New to Streaming: Apocalypse in the Tropics, No Sleep Till, Queens of Drama, and More

      Every week, we spotlight the notable titles that have recently launched on streaming platforms across the United States. Take a look at this week's picks below, and find previous summaries here.

      Apocalypse in the Tropics (Petra Costa)

      After five years, the closest presidential race in Brazil's history, and one insurrection following her previous exploration of Brazil's volatile socio-political landscape, Petra Costa—the talented documentarian known for Elena and The Edge of Democracy—focuses on Jair Bolsonaro, the radical evangelical right that supported his 2018 presidential campaign, and the theocracy they aim to establish together. With nearly unrestricted access to key figures in contemporary Brazilian politics, the events in Apocalypse in the Tropics unfold almost in real-time, resulting in a captivating and deep documentary horror. – Luke H. (full review)

      Where to Stream: Netflix

      No Sleep Till (Alexandra Simpson)

      Following its theatrical releases of Eephus and Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point, Omnes Films’ latest project is hitting theaters and digital platforms today. Alexandra Simpson's feature debut, No Sleep Till, premiered at Venice last fall, screened at New Directors/New Films, and at the Los Angeles Festival of Movies in the spring, making its way to audiences this month. Jared Mobarak noted in his review, “A hurricane is approaching, and Atlantic Beach, Florida is directly in its path. The tourists have already evacuated, but most residents remain. Why? Because this is hurricane territory. This scenario isn't new. Perhaps the storm will hit. Maybe it won't. Is the gamble of leaving town worth it? Or is the thrill of experiencing the storm as it arrives too appealing to resist? And what about those who can't leave due to age or indifference? This is, after all, home. For some, this is all they’ve ever known. Alexandra Simpson's No Sleep Till unfolds in a slice-of-life documentary style. It's a quiet film with stunning visuals (thanks to cinematographer Sylvain Froidevaux) and compelling characters navigating the striking contrasts of sustaining a mundane existence amidst the uncertainty of chaos on the horizon.”

      Where to Stream: Metrograph at Home (on Sunday)

      The Other Queen of Memphis (Luna Mahoux)

      Belgian artist Luna Mahoux captures Memphis rapper La Chat as she recounts the history of the Southern city’s music scene. A collaborative effort between the artist and her subject, The Other Queen of Memphis delivers a unique perspective on a highly significant rap scene in the United States. Collaboratively presented with AIRTIME.

      Where to Stream: Le Cinéma Club

      Queens of Drama (Alexis Langlois)

      The bond the queer community shares with a constantly evolving roster of pop divas spans decades, even if the current form of this relationship in the age of social media—highlighted by conflicts between fervent fan accounts and countless posts regarding failed stars destined for the “Khia asylum”—feels like an entirely new chapter in parasocial fandom. The decades-long pop industry satire Queens of Drama may overlook the present entirely, focusing instead on the mid-2000s prominence of stars shaped by the Simon Cowell machine than more modern themes, yet it resonates with contemporary relevance regarding how cultural backlash has evolved in the digital era. It would be oversimplified to consider this solely a reaction from the pearl-clutching right; this toxicity can often stem from within the queer community itself—especially regarding openly queer artists, who often face as much harsh criticism within the LGBTQ community as they do from those who wish to erase them. – Alistair R. (full review)

      Where to Stream: VOD

      Suze (Dane Clark, Linsey Stewart)

      Nearly two years after its festival debut, Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart's witty and insightful dramedy Suze is finally being released. Featuring Michaela Watkins in her strongest performance to date, the film provides a unique viewpoint on shared heartache, following a single mother feeling down after her daughter leaves for college. Meanwhile, due to a series of unfortunate events, she takes in her daughter’s ex-boyfriend (Charlie Gillespie), who is still reeling from their breakup. Although Clark and Stewart may not be exploring new territory in a formal sense, there is genuine emotional depth and empathy as the unexpected situation unfolds, never losing sight of the right moments to introduce humor. – Jordan R.

      Where to Stream: Tubi

      Also New to Streaming

      Hulu

      The Amateur

      Kino Film Collection

      As I Open My Eyes

      How to Come Alive with Norman Mailer