Natalie Portman Sci-Fi Film Secures New Streaming Platform

Just recently, fans got a bit of a scare when it was announced that the beloved sci-fi film Annihilation was getting removed from Netflix. Luckily, the critically acclaimed movie has found a new streaming home. Originally released in 2018 as a “Netflix Original,” this film has captured hearts and minds for the past seven years before it was taken off the platform in March 2025.

Starring the talented Natalie Portman and directed by Alex Garland, Annihilation draws inspiration from Jeff VanderMeer’s book of the same name, which is the first installment in his Southern Reach trilogy. Portman takes on the lead role of a biologist who ventures into an environmental disaster zone in search of answers about her missing husband, played by Oscar Isaac. Alongside her are other specialists portrayed by Gina Rodriguez, Tessa Thompson, and Jennifer Jason Leigh.

While labeled a “Netflix Original,” it’s worth noting that Paramount actually distributed the film and it even had a theatrical release in the US. When Netflix calls something an “Original,” it means they have exclusive rights to host it rather than producing it themselves.

Unfortunately, Netflix subscribers have felt the sting of losing other titles like Hemlock Grove, The Alienist, and His House, all of which were removed under similar circumstances. But fear not, because Annihilation has found a new home on Prime Video in the UK.

The decision to move Annihilation to a new platform came after some public sparring between VanderMeer and Garland in March 2024 over Garland’s comments about the state of US politics. Garland expressed frustration with the moralization of political differences, sparking a heated debate. Despite this, Garland’s latest film, Warfare, is now in theaters, and he’s also penned the screenplay for the upcoming horror sequel 28 Years Later under the direction of Danny Boyle.

It’s great to see Annihilation find a new place to call home, and fans can continue to enjoy this captivating sci-fi journey. Get ready to immerse yourself in this mysterious world all over again on Prime Video!