New to Streaming: Cloud, Afternoons of Solitude, The Baltimorons, Lurker, and Additional Titles

      Every week, we spotlight significant titles that have recently appeared on streaming services in the United States. Check out this week’s picks below and previous collections here.

      **Afternoons of Solitude (Albert Serra)**

      Albert Serra’s latest film, *Afternoons of Solitude*, resembles two hours of Sky Sports more than you might anticipate from the director of *Story of My Death*. Adhering, if not entirely embodying, the spirit of the ever-popular observational and direct cinema, the film spends much of its duration with long takes examining Spanish bullfighting arenas, centering on Andrés Roca Rey, a Peruvian "exemplar" of the sport engaged in brutal, ritualistic violence. In an age where we are acutely aware of the constructed reality of documentary film, Serra’s main achievement is his attainment of an objective viewpoint. With cinematography by Arthur Tort, the camera avoids leering, and the editing refrains from close-ups that would compel us to disapprove, forging a connection where we might agree, “this is dreadful, isn’t it?” It presents an anthropological depiction of a pastime that commands our respect and ambivalence while also acting as a critique of something primal and ultimately nonsensical. Roca, depicted in a powerful pose with focused and vulnerable eyes like those of the bulls, embodies both hero and villain, though these labels are inadequate here. Sculpturally and monumentally framed within the cinematic space, he simply exists. – David K. (full review)

      **Where to Stream**: VOD

      **The Baltimorons (Jay Duplass)**

      Returning to form, Jay Duplass makes his solo-directing debut with *The Baltimorons*, a charming nod to the low-budget indie films he once created with his brother Mark. Written by and featuring burly stand-up comic Michael Strassner, the film, set in Baltimore, follows the romantic escapades of an unlikely couple: Strassner's Cliff, a stand-up comedian who is six months sober, and the older, hard-working dentist Didi (Liz Larsen). While joking with his fiancée Brittany (Olivia Luccardi), Cliff accidentally chips a tooth, leading him on a frantic hunt for a dentist available on Christmas Eve. Didi is the only one to take his call, agreeing to meet him in her vacant office for treatment. – John F. (full review)

      **Where to Stream**: VOD

      **Cloud (Kiyoshi Kurosawa)**

      While we may not yet have reached the late-stage of Kurosawa's career, after four decades behind the lens, there are already hints of his newfound simplicity in filmmaking. The opening of *Cloud* presents a complete psychological portrait of the main character before the title card even appears. In this segment, our morally ambiguous reseller negotiates the purchase of medical supplies: intensely bargaining with the seller, carefully crafting the listing, and then enduring an agonizing wait as he observes the products being purchased, releasing a haunting sigh of relief as the final item turns from white to red. – Rory O. (full review)

      **Where to Stream**: The Criterion Channel, VOD

      **East of Wall (Kate Beecroft)**

      Creating *East of Wall* must have been a significant challenge: with a limited budget, numerous remote locations, a cast of non-professional actors, and the demanding task of working with horses. Written and directed by Kate Beecroft, the film features Tabatha Zimiga as a fictionalized version of herself. In reality, Zimiga owns a South Dakota ranch where she raises horses for sale through social media. Her daughter Porshia also appears in the film and delivers a strong performance. This story is a fictional narrative intertwining the realities of the Zimiga family. After the tragic loss of her husband, Tabatha faces substantial financial obligations while managing a large, chosen family of older children without homes who have found refuge with her and her biological children. – Dan M. (full review)

      **Where to Stream**: VOD

      **Henry Johnson (David Mamet)**

      The feeling that "the abyss stares back" encapsulates the essence of David Mamet’s new film, *Henry Johnson*. Based on his 2023 play of the same name, and considering both the date and Mamet’s recent public image, one might have expectations about the political slant of this tale. The film illustrates how we can reach some mutual understanding with those holding opposing views. Comprising mainly four scenes across three locations, *Henry Johnson* retains its theatrical roots without being overtly distracting. The main character, played by Evan Jonigkeit—Mamet's real-life son-in-law—suggests an on-screen avatar that may reflect the persona of the theater world’s tough guy. Throughout the film, Henry faces off against his boss (Chris Bauer), a cellmate (Shia LaBeouf