Looking for the best new movies to stream this week? This guide compiles the latest releases across Netflix, Hulu, Max, Apple TV+, On Demand and more — updated every week with critic favorites, audience picks and hidden gems you may have missed. Whether you want a tense thriller, a comedy or the latest family-friendly hits, The post What Should I Watch? Top New Movies to Stream This Week appeared first on DIRECTV Insider.
Looking for the best new movies to stream this week? This guide compiles the latest releases across Netflix, Hulu, Max, Apple TV+, On Demand and more — updated every week with critic favorites, audience picks and hidden gems you may have missed. Whether you want a tense thriller, a comedy or the latest family-friendly hits, find what’s new to stream right now, plus where to watch each title.
Stream Top New Movies with DIRECTV
Jump to a platform or check out our editor’s picks for the week:
Editor’s Picks: Best New Movies to Stream This Week
A mix of brand-new releases and recent fan favorites trending again – these are perfect picks for spooky season streaming this October.
- Weapons – Zach Cregger’s psychological horror, still trending on PVOD since its September debut, remains one of fall’s must-watch thrillers.
- The Lost Bus – Matthew McConaughey leads this powerful true-story survival drama, newly streaming on Apple TV+ since October 3.
- The Long Walk – Adapted from Stephen King’s first novel, the film follows an inhumane contest where boys must keep walking until they no longer can, available to rent this week.
- A House of Dynamite – A nerve-wracking, urgent political thriller about a missile launched toward the US, added to Netflix this week.
- Good Boy – A dog senses evil in a home, attempting to protect his human owner before it’s too late.
- Bring Her Back – The Philippou brothers’ occult thriller hit HBO Max on Oct. 3 after its PVOD run – a perfect pick for horror fans.
This Week’s New Movies to Watch at Home (Oct. 20)
Here’s a quick look at the biggest streaming and PVOD releases coming to your TV this week:
- Anemone, The Roses & The Long Walk all launch on PVOD, available as of Oct. 22
- The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Hulu’s remake of the 1992 cult horror, premieres Oct. 22.
- Weapons, the new critically acclaimed horror film, available on HBO Max as of Oct. 24.
- A House of Dynamitestyle="display: none;">joins Netflix’s catalog of political thrillers on Oct. 24
- Good Boy hits PVOD on Oct. 24
The Top New Movies to Stream Now – October 2025
Below you’ll find the best streaming movies available to watch at home right now On Demand, Prime Video, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Hulu and more. Each section includes the plot, cast, rating and where to watch so you can quickly pick your next movie night favorite.
‘Weapons’ – Psychological Horror-Thriller From ‘Barbarian’ Director Zach Cregger
Weapons blurs the line between psychological suspense and supernatural terror, following the mysterious disappearance of children in a small town that spirals into a chilling nightmare. Each scene layers atmosphere and dread, making it one of 2025’s most unforgettable horror experiences.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Actors: Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams
Director: Zach Cregger
How to Watch: Rent or Buy On Demand
Critics Consensus: Weapons cements itself as a standout 2025 horror film alongside Sinners, praised for its chilling atmosphere, haunting visuals and emotional depth.
‘The Lost Bus’ – Survival Thriller Based on a True Story
The Lost Bus (2025) is a shocking survival drama based on the true story of the 2018 California Camp Fire. Matthew McConaughey stars as Kevin McKay, a California bus driver who risked his life to save 22 children and their teachers as flames closed in.
Rating: R
Genre: Thriller, Mystery
Cast: Matthew McConaughey, America Ferrera, Yul Vazquez
Director: Paul Greengrass
Available on: Apple TV+
Critics Consensus: Led by Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera in a powerful supporting role, The Lost Bus delivers a tense, emotional journey that beautifully captures the will to survive against impossible odds.
a and Wilson’s chemistry, emotionally charged storytelling and a return to the old-school scares and tension that made the original films genre classics.
Related: ‘The Conjuring’ Movies in Order
‘The Long Walk’ – Thriller Based on Stephen King Novel
The dystopian thriller based on Stephen King’s first novel, The Long Walk explores a future society in which 100 boys must compete in a merciless contest each year: Walk — and keep walking — until only one remains.
Rating: R
Genre: Mystery; Thriller
Cast: Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing
Director: Francis Lawrence
Streaming: Buy or rent on demand
Critics Consensus: Francis Lawrence brings Stephen King’s debut novel to life, blending atmospheric dread, tension and raw emotion into an unsettling, unforgettable journey.
‘The Substance’ – Body Horror Film Now Streaming on HBO Max
Starring Demi Moore as fading Hollywood star Elisabeth Sparkle, The Substance explores society’s obsession with fame, beauty and youth. In an attempt to stay in the spotlight, Sparkly turns to a black-market drug that creates a younger, more vibrant version of herself (Margaret Qualley). As Sue’s fame eclipses Elisabeth’s, tension builds into a deadly struggle for identity, control and stardom.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Thriller, Dark Comedy
Cast: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid
Director: Coralie Fargeat
Available on: HBO Max
Critics Consensus: Impressive performances, a chilling atmosphere and sharp social commentary make this movie a must-watch, even for those not typically interested in body horror.
‘Bring Her Back’ – New Horror Film Starring Sally Hawkins
Bring Her Back blends psychological suspense with occult terror to create a gripping and intense experience. After their father’s sudden death, 17-year-old Andy and his younger stepsister Piper are placed in the care of a foster parent, hoping the placement is only temporary. But as Andy gets closer to turning 18, their new foster mother (played with terrifying brilliance by Sally Hawkins) begins to unravel, revealing sinister motives tied to dark occult rituals.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror
Cast: Sally Hawkins, Billy Barratt, Sora Wong, Jonah Wren Phillips
Director: Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou
Available on: HBO Max
Critics Consensus: Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou (Talk to Me), this psychological horror film has solidified their reputation as modern masters of horror.
‘Him’ – Sports Horror Film from Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions
Him takes the intensity of the gridiron to terrifying new heights, blending sports drama and psychological horror into a story about obsession and the cost of chasing perfection. Rising QB Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers) is invited to train with quarterback legend Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans), and what begins as a dream mentorship quickly morphs into a nightmare unlike anything seen before.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Sports Drama, Thriller
Cast: Marlon Wayans, Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox
Director: Justin Tipping
Streaming: Rent or Buy on Demand
Critics Consensus: Despite the films’ bold symbolism and its unique fusion of football-themed horror and social commentary, its ambitious ideas don’t always land. Regardless, Him proves that Jordan Peele’s influence continues to reshape the modern horror landscape.
Related: ‘Him’ Watch Guide
‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ – The Final Chapter in the Warren Saga
The Conjuring: Last Rites closes out the horror iconic franchise as real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren (played by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga) take on their most personal, and haunting, case yet. Set between 1964 and 1986, the story follows the Warrens as they confront a demonic force tied to a cursed mirror and the haunting of the Smurl family in Pennsylvania.
Rating: R
Genre: Supernatural Horror, Psychological Thriller, Mystery
Cast: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Mia Tomlinson, Ben Hardy
Director: Michael Chaves
Streaming: Rent or Buy On Demand
Critics Consensus: While The Conjuring: Last Rites doesn’t fully exorcise franchise fatigue, it’s a farewell powered by Farmiga and Wilson’s chemistry, emotionally charged storytelling and a return to the old-school scares and tension that made the original films genre classics.
Related: ‘The Conjuring’ Movies in Order
‘Caught Stealing’ – Austin Butler Stars in Gritty Thriller
Austin Butler’s Hank Thompson is happy with his life, even if it isn’t exactly what he planned. But when his neighbor asks him to cat sit and he somehow gets wrapped up in a group of gangsters, it’ll take everything he’s got left in him to make it out alive.
Rating: R
Genre: Mystery; Thriller
Cast: Austin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, Matt Smith
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Streaming: Buy or rent on demand
Critics Consensus: Butler shines alongside Zoe Kravitz in Caught Stealing, praised by fans and critics for its tense atmosphere, stylish 90s grit and unapologetically brutal take on the modern crime thriller.
‘Superman’ – James Gunn’s Fresh Take on the Man of Steel
James Gunn’s Superman skips the origin story and throws audiences straight into a Metropolis where Clark Kent is already juggling life as both reporter and hero. The film blends superhero spectacle with grounded human drama, redefining the Man of Steel for a new generation.
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Holt, Edi Gathegi
Director: James Gunn
Available on: HBO Max
Critics Consensus: Gunn blends humor, heart and timely social issues into an emotionally resonant superhero film, with Krypto the super-dog stealing scenes along the way.
‘Sinners’ – New Critically Acclaimed Horror Film from Ryan Coogler
The highly anticipated and critically acclaimed horror film Sinners, from visionary filmmaker Ryan Coogler, stars Michael B. Jordan in a powerful dual performance as twin brothers. The film follows their return to their rural Mississippi hometown to escape their violent pasts. But peace proves elusive as old wounds resurface and something even more sinister awaits them.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton
Director: Ryan Coogler
Available on: HBO Max
Critics Consensus: With Coogler’s signature blend of emotional depth and sharp social commentary, Sinners delivers a chilling, atmospheric tale underscored by a harrowing, skin-crawling score. Emotionally raw and deeply unsettling, Sinners secures its place as a standout in modern horror—and a landmark entry in the canon of iconic Black cinema, plus a potential entry for the best movies in 2025 so far.
‘Steve’ – A Haunting Drama Directed by Tim Mielants
Cillian Murphy stars as the titular Steve, a dedicated headteacher at a school for troubled boys. Set over the course of a single intense day, the film immerses audiences in the psychological strain, moral dilemmas, and emotional weight of a man fighting to make a difference.
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
Cast: Cillian Murphy, Tracey Ullman, Jay Lycurgo, Little Sims
Director: Tim Mielants
Streaming: Watch now on Netflix
Critics Consensus: Guided by Tim Mielants’ direction and powered by Cillian Murphy’s authentic performance, Steve has earned praise for its emotional depth, realism and unflinching portrayal of human compassion under pressure.
’28 Years Later’ – New Entry in the ’28 Days’ Saga
Nearly three decades after 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later, the story continues in 28 Years Later. A father desperately searches for help for his sick child, only to discover that the infected have evolved into more intelligent and terrifying predators than ever before.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror; Action; Thriller
Actors: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams
Director: Danny Boyle
How to Watch: Now streaming on Netflix
Critics Consensus: Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite for a haunting, high-octane horror sequel that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
Related: 28 Years Later Watch Guide
‘Together’ – A Body Horror Film with Alison Brie & Dave Franco
A longtime couple seeks a fresh start in a new town, but their relationship takes a grotesque turn when they encounter a supernatural force that literally fuses them together. Together is equal parts romance, horror and grotesque allegory of codependency.
Rating: R
Genre: Horror; Sci-fi
Cast: Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Damon Herriman
Director: Michael Shanks
Streaming: Buy or Rent On Demand
Critics Consensus: Body horror isn’t for everyone, but Together makes a strong case for adding it to your watch list – even if you’re skeptical. Disturbing yet oddly heartfelt, Together is a rare body-horror drama that balances gore with emotional weight.
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ – Netflix’s Most Watched Animated Film
This animated adventure follows the world’s biggest K-pop girl group — who also moonlight as demon hunters. Between fame, family and supernatural battles, the trio must save the world while staying at the top of the charts.
Rating: PG
Genre: Kids & Family, Animation, Musical
Cast: Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, Liza Koshy, May Hong
Director: Chris Appelhans, Maggie Kang
Streaming: Stream on Netflix
Critics Consensus: Since its release, it’s become one of the top movies on Netflix of all time, and has earned praise for its playful blend of pop culture parody, girl power and action – plus, it’s a great watch for kids and adults, alike!
Related: Top Kids Movies to Stream on Netflix
‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ – Marvel’s First Family Returns
When Galactus and the Silver Surfer set their sights on Earth, Marvel’s First Family must put aside their personal struggles to stop the intergalactic threat. With a retro-inspired 1960s vibe, the Fantastic Four fight to protect humanity while navigating the bonds of family.
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
Actors: Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn, Julia Garner
Director: Matt Shakman
How to Watch: Buy or Rent On Demand
Critics Consensus: Between the nostalgia-inducing 60s retro vibe and an A-list cast with plenty of chemistry, Marvel has another winner for the books.
‘Lurker’ – Alex Russell’s Directorial Debut
When Matthew, a reserved loner, meets an up-and-coming pop star, he jumps at the opportunity to climb the social ranks. His search for belonging, however, quickly descends into obsession and deadly consequences.
Rating: R
Genre: Thriller, Drama
Cast: Théodore Pellerin, Archie Madekwe, Sunny Suljic
Director: Alex Russell
Streaming: Watch Lurker on demand
Critics Consensus: Unsettling, tense and clever, Lurker’s standout performances from Theodore Pellerin and company paint a terrifying picture of parasocial obsession in the age of constant connectivity and fandom.
‘The Naked Gun’ – A Police Squad! Revival With Liam Neeson
Liam Neeson takes the lead in The Naked Gun, a slapstick revival that blends deadpan delivery with absurdist comedy. Playing the son of Lieutenant Frank Drebin, Neeson goes undercover to stop a gang of bank robbers chasing a mysterious device called the P.L.O.T.
Rating: R
Genre: Comedy, Action
Actors: Liam Neeson, Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser, Kevin Durand
Director: Akiva Schaffer
How to Watch: Stream on Paramount+
Critics Consensus: In an era overflowing with reboots, this hilarious mix of old-school parody and new absurdity proves that Neeson’s seriousness can be comedy gold.
‘Materialists’ – New Romance Film from Celine Song (‘Past Lives’)
Materialists centers on Lucy (Dakota Johnson), a professional matchmaker who is great at her job – but not so great at following her own advice. Unable to craft her own happy ending, Lucy becomes caught between two of the city’s most attractive — and wildly opposite — men.
View Entire Post
