With a seemingly endless amount of streaming options — not only the titles at our disposal, but services themselves — we believe it’s our duty to highlight the recent, recommended titles that have recently hit the interwebs. Every week, one will be able to see the cream of the crop (or perhaps some simply interesting picks) of streaming titles (new and old) across platforms such as Netflix, iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, and more (note: U.S. only). Check out our rundown for this week’s selections below, and shoot over suggestions to @TheFilmStage
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Francis Lawrence)
She may live in a dystopic nightmare where the reigning government wants her head on a plate, but Katniss Everdeen is one fortunate girl. She emerged from the titular and brutal Hunger Games unscathed, outwitting the game-makers and saving her friend Peeta in the process. More than that, she has managed a neat hat trick in our world, too. The first adaptation of her story was actually good entertainment, and the sequel is even better than that. No one expected it, but Catching Fire turns out to be the best of last year’s fantasy blockbusters, weaving in compelling ideas amidst entertainment that delivers on all counts. – Nathan B. (full review)
Where to Stream: iTunes, Amazon, Google
The Ice Storm (Ang Lee)
For a movie about beautiful people living in beautiful homes in a beautiful neighborhood, Ang Lee‘s The Ice Storm is oppressively cold and eerie. Released in the fall of 1997 to critical acclaim, the film — despite its fine reviews and all-star cast — was a financial flop: it grossed a mere $8 million in the United States, a good deal less than an $18 million budget. Even more surprising, perhaps, was its lack of awards season recognition, failing to earn so much as a single Academy Award nomination. – Danny K. (full review)
Where to Stream: Netflix
Maidentrip (Jillian Schlesinger)
If one couldn’t buy into the harrowing one-man adventure at sea with All is Lost, perhaps a true tale will be up your alley. At the age of 14, after much struggle with the government, Laura Dekker, became the youngest person to trek around the globe in her sailboat. She thankfully brought a camera with her and the result is Maidentrip, a documentary which is now available to stream. – Jordan R.
Where to Stream: iTunes
Nymphomaniac: Volume 1 (Lars von Trier)
While it’s difficult to judge just half a film, a viewing of Volume I of Nymphomaniac indicates that it’s the beginnings of one of Lars Von Trier‘s finest films. With surprising hilarity and his trademark bare-all style (in more ways then one, as you might have figured), the first four chapters (and a little extra) is among the most impressive filmmaking we’re bound to get this year. Arriving on VOD this week ahead of a theatrical release later this month, the second chapter arrives on the same schedule, staggered a few weeks later ; whether it’s from the comfort of your own home or on the big screen, it’s an experience not to be missed. – Jordan R.
Where to Stream: Amazon
Also New to Streaming
What are you streaming this week?