Top 5 Must-Watch Movies and TV Shows Available for Streaming

Welcome to our weekly streaming guide where we bring you five must-watch movies and TV shows available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max, and more. If you want even more streaming goodness, sign up for The Queue, our streaming newsletter filled with industry news, movie and TV recommendations, and more delivered to your inbox every week. And for additional great streaming options, check out previous editions of our must-watch list here.

New Movies Streaming:

“Ghostlight”:
In 2024, two fantastic movies were released about the healing power of theater. While A24’s “Sing Sing” made a splash with multiple Oscar nominations, IFC Films’ “Ghostlight” quietly entered and exited theaters. But don’t let its low profile fool you, this film is equally moving. “Ghostlight” follows a middle-aged construction worker named Dan who surprises everyone by joining a local theater production of “Romeo and Juliet.” Amidst family struggles, Dan finds personal resonance in the centuries-old tragedy. You can watch “Ghostlight” on Hulu and AMC+.

“Thelma”:
2024 was a stellar year for films about phone scammers getting their due. “Thelma,” starring June Squibb as a grandmother who falls victim to a phone scam, is a standout among them. Rather than taking the loss lying down, Thelma enlists her grandson and a friend from assisted living to track down the scammers. You can catch this gem on Hulu.

New TV Shows Streaming:

“Bill Burr: Drop Dead Years”:
Bill Burr, a veteran of Netflix specials, has now switched platforms to Hulu with his latest one-hour set. In “Drop Dead Years,” Burr’s trademark cantankerous humor comes with a dose of perspective as he reflects on aging and mortality. You can stream “Bill Burr: Drop Dead Years” on Hulu.

“Dope Thief”:
Directed by Ridley Scott, “Dope Thief” is an 8-episode thriller set in Philadelphia. Two small-time criminals’ latest scheme puts them in the sights of various dangerous factions after they attempt to rob drug dealers while posing as DEA agents. Although the series sags a bit between action sequences, the compelling setpieces keep you hooked. Watch “Dope Thief” on Apple TV+.

“Long Bright River”:
Another Philadelphia-set crime thriller, “Long Bright River” follows Amanda Seyfried as a cop deeply invested in finding women who have gone missing from the city streets. The dark narrative delves into addiction, law enforcement’s shortcomings, and the systemic forces that perpetuate destructive cycles. Based on the novel by Liz Moore, “Long Bright River” is a gripping watch on Peacock.