The Best Movies That Never Got a Theatrical Release

The world of film has changed. Not long ago, a movie not shown in theaters was seen as a failure. These “direct-to-video” releases were often low-budget sequels or films that studios didn’t believe in. But now, with the rise of streaming services, things are very different. Major directors and big-name actors are now creating films that go straight to our homes, and many of them are excellent.

This shift means that a theatrical release is no longer the only mark of a film’s quality. Some of the most talked-about and critically acclaimed movies in recent years never played on the big screen. From epic action films to quiet dramas, these streaming-only releases have proven that a great movie can be found anywhere. This list celebrates 50 of the best films that you might have missed if you only go to the multiplex.

Roma (2018)

Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, “Roma” is a deeply personal film that captures a year in the life of a middle-class family’s maid in 1970s Mexico City. The movie is shot in beautiful black and white, which adds to its timeless and artistic feel. It’s a quiet and moving story that focuses on the everyday life, struggles, and relationships of its characters.

“Roma” was praised by critics for its stunning cinematography and emotional depth. It was the first movie released by a streaming service to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. The film went on to win three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Cuarón, proving that a streaming-first film could compete at the highest level.

The Irishman (2019)

Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” is a sweeping epic about organized crime in post-war America. The film tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who becomes a hitman for the mob. The movie features legendary actors Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, who all deliver powerful performances.

Using impressive de-aging technology, the film follows its characters over several decades. It’s a long and thoughtful look at loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime. While it had a limited theatrical run to qualify for awards, it was primarily a Netflix release, bringing a major cinematic event directly to home viewers.

Prey (2022)

This film is the fifth installment in the “Predator” series and serves as a prequel to the other films. “Prey” is set in 1719 and follows a young Comanche warrior named Naru. She is a skilled hunter who must protect her tribe from a highly evolved alien predator.

The movie was praised for its intense action, strong lead performance by Amber Midthunder, and fresh take on the franchise. It was released directly to streaming, a move that surprised many given its quality and connection to a popular series. Many fans and critics consider it to be the best “Predator” movie since the original.

Palm Springs (2020)

“Palm Springs” is a clever and funny romantic comedy with a science-fiction twist. The story follows two wedding guests, Nyles and Sarah, who get stuck in a time loop, forced to live the same day over and over again. The film stars Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, who have great chemistry.

While the “Groundhog Day” concept isn’t new, “Palm Springs” finds a fresh and modern way to tell its story. It’s a heartfelt and often hilarious look at relationships, commitment, and what it means to be stuck. The movie was a big hit when it premiered on streaming and received very positive reviews.

Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Directed by Spike Lee, “Da 5 Bloods” follows four African American veterans who return to Vietnam. They are searching for the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold they buried years ago. The film explores the lasting impact of the war on these men and touches on issues of race and history.

The movie was originally planned for a theatrical release but was moved to streaming due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It features a strong ensemble cast, including a powerful final performance from Chadwick Boseman. The film was praised for its bold storytelling and timely themes.

The Animatrix (2003)

“The Animatrix” is a collection of nine animated short films that expand the world of “The Matrix” trilogy. Each short has a unique animation style and tells a different story set within the Matrix universe. The stories range from the origins of the war between humans and machines to tales of individuals fighting for freedom.

Originally, four of the shorts were released online, one was shown in theaters with another movie, and the rest premiered on DVD and VHS. This collection was praised for its creativity and for adding depth to the franchise’s lore. It remains a fan favorite for its stunning visuals and imaginative storytelling.

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

The sequel to the hit murder mystery “Knives Out,” “Glass Onion” brings back detective Benoit Blanc for a new case. This time, he travels to a private Greek island where a tech billionaire has gathered his friends for a murder mystery party. When a real murder occurs, Blanc must unravel the secrets of the wealthy and powerful guests.

The film features a new all-star cast and the same clever writing and twists as the original. It had a one-week limited theatrical release before becoming a major streaming hit. The movie’s success confirmed the appeal of old-fashioned whodunits in the modern streaming era.

CODA (2021)

“CODA,” which stands for Child of Deaf Adults, is a heartwarming and emotional film. It tells the story of Ruby Rossi, the only hearing member of her deaf family. When she discovers a passion for singing, she must choose between helping her family’s fishing business and pursuing her dream.

The film was celebrated for its powerful story and wonderful performances, especially from its deaf actors. “CODA” went on to win three Academy Awards, including the award for Best Picture. Its success showed that a smaller, character-driven story could find a huge audience through streaming.

The King (2019)

“The King” is a historical drama based on several of Shakespeare’s plays. The film follows the journey of Hal, a young prince who turns his back on his royal life. When his tyrannical father dies, Hal is crowned King Henry V and is forced to embrace the life he tried to escape.

The movie stars Timothée Chalamet in the lead role and offers a gritty and realistic look at medieval warfare and politics. It was praised for its strong performances and impressive battle scenes. As a streaming exclusive, it brought a classic story to a new generation of viewers.

Okja (2017)

Directed by Bong Joon-ho, “Okja” is a unique and imaginative film about a young girl named Mija. For ten years, she has been the caretaker and friend of Okja, a massive animal that looks like a cross between a pig and a hippo. When a powerful corporation takes Okja away, Mija embarks on a daring rescue mission.

The film is a mix of adventure, comedy, and social commentary, exploring themes of corporate greed and animal rights. It features an international cast and stunning visual effects. “Okja” was a critical success and one of the first major original films from a streaming service to compete at the Cannes Film Festival.

Hush (2016)

“Hush” is a tense and effective horror film with a simple but clever premise. The story centers on a deaf and mute writer who lives in a secluded house in the woods. Her peaceful life is shattered when a masked killer appears at her window, forcing her into a terrifying fight for survival.

The film uses its main character’s deafness to create a unique and suspenseful experience for the audience. Without relying on jump scares, it builds a sense of dread and vulnerability. “Hush” was praised as a smart and scary thriller when it was released directly to a streaming platform.

Beasts of No Nation (2015)

“Beasts of No Nation” is a powerful and unflinching war drama. It tells the story of Agu, a young boy in an unnamed West African country who is forced to become a child soldier. The film follows his brutal journey under the command of a charismatic and manipulative warlord.

The movie features a stunning performance from a young Abraham Attah as Agu and a chilling turn by Idris Elba as the Commandant. It was one of the first major feature films to be released by a streaming service on the same day as its limited theatrical debut. The film’s difficult subject matter and gripping storytelling earned it widespread critical acclaim.

I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017)

This film is a dark comedy thriller about a nursing assistant named Ruth. After her house is burglarized, Ruth becomes fed up with the world’s injustices and decides to take matters into her own hands. She teams up with her oddball neighbor, and together they try to track down the thieves.

Their amateur investigation quickly spirals into a dangerous and violent journey. The movie is a quirky and unpredictable blend of humor and suspense. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival before being released on a streaming service, where it found a appreciative audience.

The Vast of Night (2019)

“The Vast of Night” is a low-budget science fiction film that feels like an extended episode of “The Twilight Zone.” Set in a small New Mexico town in the 1950s, the story follows a young switchboard operator and a radio DJ. They discover a strange audio frequency that may be of extraterrestrial origin.

The movie builds suspense through its clever use of sound and long, continuous shots. It’s a stylish and atmospheric mystery that captures the look and feel of its time period. “The Vast of Night” was a breakout hit on the festival circuit before landing on a streaming platform.

Kimi (2022)

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, “Kimi” is a tense thriller that speaks to our modern, tech-driven world. The film stars Zoë Kravitz as an agoraphobic tech worker who analyzes audio data streams. While reviewing a recording, she believes she has overheard a violent crime.

When she tries to report it, she is met with resistance and bureaucracy, forcing her to confront her greatest fears to seek justice. The movie is a tight and suspenseful story that plays on themes of surveillance and corporate power. It was released exclusively on streaming and was praised for its classic thriller elements and modern relevance.

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022)

This film is a wildly funny and intentionally inaccurate biopic of the famous parody musician “Weird Al” Yankovic. Starring Daniel Radcliffe, the movie satirizes the conventions of music biopics by presenting a completely fabricated version of Yankovic’s life and career. It playfully rewrites his history to include fame, fortune, and dangerous excess.

“Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” is a hilarious and absurd comedy that pokes fun at the very idea of biographical films. It was released exclusively on a free streaming service, which perfectly matched the quirky and accessible nature of its subject.

After Yang (2021)

“After Yang” is a quiet and thoughtful science fiction drama. In the near future, a man searches for a way to repair his daughter’s beloved android companion, Yang. During his search, he discovers a hidden memory chip that allows him to experience moments from Yang’s life.

The film explores deep questions about memory, loss, and what it means to be human. It’s a gentle and visually beautiful story with a focus on emotion rather than technology. “After Yang” was highly praised for its originality and poignant themes after its streaming debut.

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

Based on the August Wilson play, this film takes place during a tense recording session in 1920s Chicago. The story centers on the trailblazing blues singer Ma Rainey and her ambitious horn player, Levee. As the day unfolds, tensions rise between the musicians, their white management, and each other.

The film features powerful performances from Viola Davis as Ma Rainey and a final, brilliant role from Chadwick Boseman as Levee. It’s a passionate and explosive drama about art, race, and power. The movie was a major awards contender and a flagship streaming release.

Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

Eddie Murphy stars in this joyful and entertaining biopic about filmmaker and comedian Rudy Ray Moore. In the 1970s, Moore created the character of Dolemite, a larger-than-life pimp who became a star in the world of stand-up comedy and blaxploitation films. The movie follows Moore’s journey as he risks everything to make his first movie.

“Dolemite Is My Name” is a celebration of creativity, perseverance, and the power of independent filmmaking. Murphy’s performance was widely hailed as a major comeback. The film was a feel-good hit for the streaming service that produced it.

The Fear Street Trilogy (2021)

This series of three interconnected horror films was released over three consecutive weeks on a streaming platform. Based on the books by R.L. Stine, the movies tell the story of the cursed town of Shadyside. Each film is set in a different time period—1994, 1978, and 1666—and explores the origin of the town’s bloody history.

The trilogy is a fun and gory tribute to different eras of horror movies, from 90s slashers to 70s summer camp massacres. The unique release strategy created a summer movie event for horror fans. It was praised for its ambition, interconnected story, and nostalgic thrills.

Paddleton (2019)

“Paddleton” is a touching and funny film about the friendship between two misfit neighbors, Michael and Andy. When Michael is diagnosed with terminal cancer, he asks Andy to help him end his life before the illness gets worse. The two friends embark on a road trip that tests their bond in unexpected ways.

The film is a heartfelt and honest look at friendship, mortality, and saying goodbye. The performances from Mark Duplass and Ray Romano are natural and moving. “Paddleton” is a small, character-focused gem that found its perfect home on a streaming service.

His House (2020)

“His House” is a terrifying and socially relevant horror film. It follows a refugee couple from war-torn South Sudan who are struggling to adjust to their new life in a small English town. They are given a rundown house to live in, but they soon discover that a sinister force lurks within its walls.

The film brilliantly blends the real-life horrors of the refugee experience with supernatural scares. It’s a powerful and deeply unsettling story about trauma, guilt, and the ghosts of the past. “His House” was critically acclaimed for its originality and emotional depth.

The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) (2017)

Directed by Noah Baumbach, this film is a witty and poignant comedy-drama about a dysfunctional family. It centers on the adult children of an aging and eccentric New York artist, played by Dustin Hoffman. When the family gathers to celebrate their father’s work, old resentments and sibling rivalries come to the surface.

The movie features a fantastic ensemble cast, including Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, and Elizabeth Marvel, who all give strong, dramatic performances. It’s a sharp and funny look at family dynamics and the long shadows cast by difficult parents. The film was a high-profile streaming release after competing for the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

First They Killed My Father (2017)

Directed by Angelina Jolie, this film is based on the memoir of Cambodian author and human rights activist Loung Ung. It tells the story of the deadly Khmer Rouge regime through the eyes of a five-year-old girl. After her family is torn apart, Loung must fight for survival as a child soldier and laborer.

The movie is a harrowing and immersive account of a dark chapter in history. It was shot in Cambodia with a local cast and crew, adding to its authenticity. The film was praised for its powerful storytelling and for bringing this important story to a global audience through streaming.

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)

This film from the Coen Brothers is an anthology of six different stories, all set in the Old West. Each tale offers a unique and often darkly comic look at life on the American frontier. The stories range from a singing gunslinger and a bank-robbing cowboy to a lonely prospector and a traveling theatrical troupe.

Originally conceived as a limited series, it was re-edited into a single film. The movie is a beautiful and strange collection of fables, filled with the Coens’ signature blend of humor, violence, and philosophy. It earned three Oscar nominations after its streaming premiere.

Private Life (2018)

“Private Life” is a smart and honest dramedy about a couple struggling with infertility. Played by Kathryn Hahn and Paul Giamatti, Rachel and Richard are navigating the exhausting and emotional world of assisted reproduction and adoption. Their lives are further complicated when their college-aged niece comes to stay with them.

The film is a raw and funny look at the challenges of building a family in middle age. The performances from Hahn and Giamatti are incredibly real and relatable. “Private Life” was praised for its witty script and for tackling a difficult subject with humor and grace.

The Two Popes (2019)

This film imagines a series of conversations between Pope Benedict XVI and the future Pope Francis. Set behind the walls of the Vatican, the movie explores the differences and surprising similarities between the conservative Pope Benedict and the reform-minded Cardinal Bergoglio. Their debates cover faith, tradition, and the future of the Catholic Church.

The film is driven by the magnificent performances of Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce. It’s a thoughtful and often humorous look at two very different men who find common ground. “The Two Popes” was a critical success, earning Oscar nominations for both of its lead actors and its screenplay.

Set It Up (2018)

“Set It Up” is a charming and funny romantic comedy that revitalized the genre for the streaming age. The story follows two overworked and underpaid assistants who hatch a plan to set up their demanding bosses. They hope that if their bosses fall in love, they will have more free time for themselves.

The movie stars Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell, whose chemistry is the heart of the film. It’s a light and breezy comedy that delivers on all the classic rom-com tropes in a fresh and modern way. “Set It Up” was a surprise hit and became a much-loved staple of the streaming library.

A Futile and Stupid Gesture (2018)

This film tells the story of Doug Kenney, the co-founder of the influential humor magazine National Lampoon. The movie charts the rise and fall of Kenney, from his time at the Harvard Lampoon to the creation of a comedy empire that included magazines, radio shows, and classic films like “Animal House” and “Caddyshack.”

The film uses a meta and unconventional style to capture the anarchic spirit of National Lampoon’s humor. It’s a funny and ultimately tragic look at a brilliant but troubled comedic mind. The movie serves as a great tribute to a man who changed the face of American comedy.

Mank (2020)

Directed by David Fincher, “Mank” is a black-and-white drama about the writing of the classic film “Citizen Kane.” The movie follows screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz as he battles alcoholism and personal demons while racing to finish the screenplay. The story flashes back to his time in 1930s Hollywood, showing the real-life people and events that inspired his work.

The film is a visually stunning and meticulously crafted tribute to the Golden Age of Hollywood. It’s a complex and witty look at the creative process and the politics of the studio system. “Mank” was a major awards contender, earning ten Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.

Mudbound (2017)

“Mudbound” tells the story of two families in the Mississippi Delta during and after World War II. One family is white and owns the farm, while the other is black and works as tenant farmers on the same land. The film follows the return of two soldiers, one from each family, as they struggle to readjust to life in a deeply racist society.

The movie is a powerful and epic look at race, class, and the scars of war. It features a brilliant ensemble cast and stunning cinematography. “Mudbound” was a landmark film for its streaming distributor, earning four Oscar nominations, including one for its screenplay and another for Mary J. Blige’s supporting performance.

Win It All (2017)

“Win It All” is a small-scale comedy-drama from director Joe Swanberg. The film stars Jake Johnson as Eddie, a small-time gambler who is asked to hold a duffel bag for an acquaintance heading to prison. When Eddie discovers the bag is full of cash, he can’t resist the temptation to use it to pay off his debts.

The movie is a charming and grounded look at addiction and responsibility. It features a largely improvised script, which gives the performances a natural and realistic feel. “Win It All” is a funny and heartfelt character study that was a perfect fit for a streaming release.

Gerald’s Game (2017)

Based on the Stephen King novel, “Gerald’s Game” is a tense psychological thriller. The story begins with a married couple trying to spice up their relationship at a remote lake house. But when the husband suddenly dies of a heart attack, his wife is left handcuffed to the bed with no hope of rescue.

What follows is a terrifying struggle for survival as she battles dehydration, a stray dog, and her own inner demons. The film is a masterful and suspenseful adaptation of a book that many thought was unfilmable. It was praised for its clever direction and a tour-de-force performance from Carla Gugino.

The Little Prince (2015)

This beautifully animated film is a creative adaptation of the classic book by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The story is framed by the tale of a young girl who is being pushed by her mother to grow up too fast. She befriends her eccentric elderly neighbor, an aviator who tells her the story of the Little Prince.

The film uses a mix of computer animation for the “real world” and lovely stop-motion for the storybook sequences. It’s a charming and visually stunning movie that captures the heart and magic of the original book. After being dropped by its original studio, it found a home and a global audience on a streaming service.

Imperial Dreams (2014)

“Imperial Dreams” is a powerful drama that follows a young, aspiring writer who is released from prison. He returns to his home in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles and tries to build a better life for himself and his young son. However, he finds his path blocked by the systemic challenges of poverty and crime.

The film is a moving and realistic look at the struggles of a reformed criminal trying to break free from his past. John Boyega gives a star-making performance in the lead role. “Imperial Dreams” won an audience award at the Sundance Film Festival before being acquired for streaming distribution.

Tramps (2016)

“Tramps” is a charming and offbeat romantic comedy. The story follows a young man and woman who are hired as drivers for a shady briefcase swap. When the exchange goes wrong, the two strangers are forced to spend the next two days together trying to fix their mistake.

As they travel through the suburbs and boroughs of New York City, an unlikely romance begins to blossom. The film is a sweet and low-key adventure with winning performances from its two leads. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and became a hidden gem in the streaming library.

Blue Jay (2016)

“Blue Jay” is a small, intimate drama shot in black and white. The film follows two former high school sweethearts who run into each other in their hometown after twenty years. They spend the rest of the day together, reminiscing about their past and confronting the choices that led them to their present lives.

The movie is a simple and powerful story that relies on the strong performances of its two leads, Mark Duplass and Sarah Paulson. Their natural chemistry and largely improvised dialogue make the film feel incredibly real and emotional. It’s a bittersweet and nostalgic look at first love and lost time.

ARQ (2016)

“ARQ” is a low-budget, high-concept science fiction thriller. The story is set in a future where corporations have replaced governments. An engineer and his former lover are trapped in a home invasion that is also a time loop. Every time they are killed, the day resets, forcing them to relive the same terrifying events over and over.

As they try to break the loop, they uncover a conspiracy involving a powerful energy source. The film is a clever and suspenseful puzzle box that makes the most of its limited setting and budget. It’s a great example of the kind of original genre filmmaking that has flourished on streaming platforms.

Shirkers (2018)

“Shirkers” is a fascinating and personal documentary about a lost film. In 1992, a teenage Sandi Tan and her friends shot an independent movie on the streets of Singapore. But after filming wrapped, their enigmatic American mentor disappeared, taking all the footage with him. Twenty years later, the stolen film was recovered.

This documentary is Tan’s attempt to reclaim her story and solve the mystery of what happened to her film and her mentor. It’s a unique and captivating story about creativity, friendship, and the sting of betrayal. “Shirkers” was a critical sensation at the Sundance Film Festival before its streaming debut.

I Am Mother (2019)

“I Am Mother” is a stylish and suspenseful science fiction thriller. The film is set in a post-apocalyptic bunker where a teenage girl is being raised by a robot named Mother. Mother tells her that the outside world is toxic and uninhabitable. But the girl’s worldview is shattered when a wounded woman from the outside arrives at their door.

The film is a tense three-character drama that explores themes of trust, humanity, and artificial intelligence. It features impressive visual effects and a compelling mystery at its core. “I Am Mother” was a popular and well-regarded entry in the growing library of streaming sci-fi.

Cargo (2017)

“Cargo” is an emotional and unique take on the zombie genre. Set in the Australian outback, the film follows a man who has been infected with a zombie virus. With only 48 hours before he turns, he must embark on a perilous journey to find a new guardian for his infant daughter.

The film is less about horror and more about a father’s love and sacrifice. Martin Freeman gives a powerful and moving performance as the desperate father. Based on a viral short film, “Cargo” was praised for its heart and for bringing a fresh perspective to a familiar genre.

Little Evil (2017)

“Little Evil” is a horror-comedy that lovingly pokes fun at classic evil-child movies like “The Omen.” The film stars Adam Scott as a man who has just married the woman of his dreams. The only problem is that he’s pretty sure her five-year-old son is the Antichrist.

The movie is a funny and sweet story that balances horror tropes with a heartfelt story about step-parenting. It’s a lighthearted and clever parody that will appeal to both comedy and horror fans. “Little Evil” is a fun and easy watch that found a perfect audience on streaming.

6 Balloons (2018)

“6 Balloons” is a raw and intense drama that takes place over the course of one night. The film follows a woman who drives across Los Angeles with her heroin-addicted brother in search of a detox center. With his two-year-old daughter in the back seat, the night becomes a stressful and emotional journey.

The film is a tough but compassionate look at the impact of addiction on a family. Abbi Jacobson and Dave Franco give powerful dramatic performances that are a departure from their comedic work. “6 Balloons” is a small but affecting film that highlights the power of character-driven storytelling.

The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)

This film is a funny and uplifting road trip dramedy. Paul Rudd stars as a retired writer who becomes the caregiver for a cynical teenager with muscular dystrophy. The two of them, along with a runaway they pick up on the way, embark on a road trip to see the world’s deepest pit.

The movie is a heartfelt story about friendship, loss, and finding hope in unexpected places. It’s a charming and feel-good film with great performances from its lead actors. “The Fundamentals of Caring” premiered at Sundance before becoming a popular and well-liked streaming feature.

Tallulah (2016)

“Tallulah” is a drama about a young drifter who impulsively kidnaps a baby from a neglectful mother. Unsure of what to do, she seeks help from her ex-boyfriend’s mother, telling her the baby is her granddaughter. The film explores the complex bonds between these three women as they form an unlikely family.

The movie features strong performances from Elliot Page, Allison Janney, and Tammy Blanchard. It’s a thoughtful and emotional story that deals with themes of motherhood and responsibility. “Tallulah” was a compelling character study that opened the Sundance Film Festival before its streaming release.

To the Bone (2017)

“To the Bone” is a drama that offers a raw and honest look at the struggle with anorexia. The film follows a 20-year-old woman who has spent most of her teen years in various recovery programs. She agrees to enter a group home run by a doctor with an unconventional approach.

The film is a personal and unflinching story that aims to shed light on eating disorders. Lily Collins, who has spoken about her own past struggles, gives a brave and committed performance. The movie sparked a lot of conversation and was praised for its intentions and for tackling a difficult subject.

Our Souls at Night (2017)

This film brings together screen legends Robert Redford and Jane Fonda for a quiet and gentle love story. They play a widow and widower who have been neighbors for years but barely know each other. One day, she proposes that they start sleeping in the same bed platonically, just to have someone to talk to at night.

What begins as a practical arrangement slowly blossoms into a deep and meaningful relationship. It’s a sweet and touching film about finding companionship and love later in life. “Our Souls at Night” is a wonderful showcase for its two iconic stars and a heartwarming story for a mature audience.

Wheelman (2017)

“Wheelman” is a stripped-down and high-octane action thriller. Frank Grillo stars as a getaway driver who, after a bank robbery goes wrong, is double-crossed and left on the run. The entire film takes place inside his car, as he tries to figure out who betrayed him and protect his family.

The movie is a tense and fast-paced ride that uses its confined setting to create maximum suspense. It’s a stylish and efficient thriller that puts the audience right in the driver’s seat. “Wheelman” was a gritty and entertaining genre film that was a perfect fit for a streaming audience.

The Incredible Jessica James (2017)

This film is a fresh and funny romantic comedy starring former “Daily Show” correspondent Jessica Williams. She plays an aspiring playwright in New York City who is getting over a recent breakup. When she goes on a blind date with a divorced app designer, she finds an unlikely connection.

The movie is a smart and confident comedy that is powered by Williams’s charismatic and energetic performance. It’s a modern and relatable look at dating, ambition, and figuring out your life in your twenties. “The Incredible Jessica James” was the closing night film at the Sundance Film Festival and a celebrated streaming release.

Amateur (2018)

“Amateur” is a sports drama about a talented 14-year-old basketball player who is recruited to play for an elite prep school. As he navigates the competitive and often corrupt world of amateur basketball, he struggles to fit in and balance his dreams with the pressures from his family and coaches.

The film offers an inside look at the high-stakes business of youth sports. It’s a compelling coming-of-age story that explores themes of talent, ambition, and exploitation. “Amateur” was praised for its authenticity and for showcasing a world not often seen in movies.