The world of streaming entertainment is a treasure trove of surprises, and this week's edition of Stream On delves into some fascinating finds. From horror hits to comedy specials and thought-provoking documentaries, there's a diverse range of content to explore.
The Sleeper Horror Hit: Obsession
Obsession, a film directed by Curry Barker, has become an unexpected box office sensation. Its success is a testament to the power of a simple yet captivating premise: a young man's wish gone horribly wrong. The film's ability to balance horror and performance is a standout feature, with Inde Navarrette's portrayal of terror leaving a lasting impression. However, the graphic nature of certain scenes might deter some viewers, despite the lack of explicit animal violence.
Improvised Comedy: Connor Ratliff Presents The Acting Class
Connor Ratliff, a comedian and actor, takes center stage in this improvised comedy special. Filmed at the UCB Theater in New York, Ratliff's one-person show is a meta exploration of his craft. The special, titled "DEAR STEVEN SPIELBERG: An Hour-Long Audition For You," showcases Ratliff's versatility as he plays himself and even auditions for a role. It's a unique and fascinating glimpse into the world of comedy and the creative process.
Burning Man's Evolution: The Man Will Burn
The Man Will Burn, a three-part documentary series on HBO Max, offers an intimate look at the Burning Man festival and its recent challenges during the COVID crisis. The doc explores the event's humble beginnings on a San Francisco beach and the hard choices that have shaped its community. It's a compelling examination of a unique cultural phenomenon and the people who make it happen.
Action-Comedy Hybrid: Ride or Die
Ride or Die, streaming on Prime Video, blends action and comedy with a unique twist. The series stars Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer as longtime friends, one of whom is a professional assassin with a moral compass. It's a fun and dramedic take on the spy genre, with solid action sequences and fantastic friend chemistry between the leads.
A Blast from the Past: Merlin
In tribute to the late Sam Neill, we revisit the 1998 TV miniseries Merlin. This cable show, with its campy vibe and aging CGI, offers a sweet reminder of Neill's commitment to his roles. The miniseries features a stellar supporting cast, including Isabella Rossellini, Helena Bonham Carter, and Miranda Richardson, who bring their unique talents to the Arthurian legend.
Special Guest Recommendations: Patrick Cotnoir
Patrick Cotnoir, a producer and casting director, shares his streaming picks. He highly recommends Widow's Bay, a TV show that strikes a unique tone and features superb casting. He also praises Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, starring Tatiana Maslany, and his first-time watch of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Cotnoir's picks showcase the diverse range of content available on streaming platforms.
A Quick Watch Before Bed: The Lovebirds
For a pre-bedtime watch, The Lovebirds on Netflix offers a unique blend of romantic comedy and Scorsese-esque violence. Director Michael Showalter skillfully navigates the tone, and the chemistry between Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani is a highlight. Nanjiani's romantic comedy stare is a memorable touch.
The world of streaming is a vast landscape, and these picks offer a glimpse into the diverse and captivating content available. From horror to comedy, documentaries to action-packed series, there's something for every taste. So, stay tuned, stay safe, and keep exploring the endless possibilities of streaming entertainment.
