The Top 8 New Movies and Shows to Watch This Weekend on Netflix, Prime Video, and Beyond

The first wave of December streaming releases offers a mix of heartwarming holiday fare, intense dramas, and highly anticipated returns from acclaimed creators. Highlights include a new Christmas comedy featuring a star-studded cast, the first television series in seven years from Kurt Sutter, and Noah Baumbachs latest Netflix feature. Starz also continues its "Spartacus" saga with a surprising new installment. Heres a guide to the eight standout releases to enjoy at home this weekend.

Oh. What. Fun. (Prime Video)

Kick off December with a festive, celebrity-filled comedy. Directed by Michael Showalter (The Big Sick, The Idea of You), the film follows overworked mom Claire (Michelle Pfeiffer), whose yearly holiday efforts are overlooked by her family. When they forget to include her in a planned event, she enters a contest she had hoped they would register her for. The ensemble cast also features Jason Schwartzman, Felicity Jones, Chlo Grace Moretz, Denis Leary, Dominic Sessa, Joan Chen, and Eva Longoria. Showalters blend of humor and heart promises a cheerful, holiday-appropriate experience.

Adam Sandler on My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman (Netflix)

In a special episode of Netflixs talk series, Adam Sandler sits down with David Letterman for an intimate discussion on his life, career, and personal passions. This 50-minute conversation offers a rare glimpse at two comedy icons interacting candidly, making it a unique viewing opportunity regardless of whether youre a longtime Sandler fan.

The Abandons Season 1 (Netflix)

Kurt Sutter, creator of Sons of Anarchy, returns with The Abandons, a gritty Western drama set in 1850s America. The story follows a protective Irish matriarch (Lena Headey) and a powerful frontier town leader (Gillian Anderson) as their conflicting ambitions collide. The ensemble also includes Nick Robinson, Diana Silvers, Lamar Johnson, and Michiel Huisman. True to Sutters style, the series combines intense action with operatic drama, making the seven-episode first season a gripping watch.

The New Years (Mubi)

Rodrigo Sorogoyens 10-episode series tracks the decade-long relationship of Ana (Iria Del Ro) and scar (Francesco Carril), beginning on their shared 30th birthday. Each episode focuses on a different New Years Eve, allowing the show to thoughtfully explore love, growth, and the challenges of long-term commitment. Episodes will continue weekly through January 28, offering a reflective, mature take on romance.

Jay Kelly (Netflix)

Noah Baumbachs newest film stars George Clooney as a renowned actor taking an impromptu European trip with his long-time manager, played by Adam Sandler. Co-written by Baumbach and Emily Mortimer, the dramedy delves into memory, choices, regrets, and personal reflection. Following a limited theatrical release, Jay Kelly is now streaming on Netflix and highlights the unique chemistry of its lead actors alongside Baumbachs signature contemplative storytelling.

Spartacus: House of Ashur (Starz)

The latest addition to the "Spartacus" universe, created by Steven S. DeKnight, imagines an alternate history where former gladiator Ashur (Nick E. Tarabay) survives Mount Vesuvius. The series may be challenging for newcomers but offers longtime fans an unexpected and satisfying extension of the franchise. Premiering on Starz and the Starz app, early reviews have been highly favorable.

Man Finds Tape (Magnet Releasing)

This found-footage thriller from first-time filmmakers Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman follows a documentarian (Kelsey Pribilski) who returns to her small Texas hometown to reconnect with her wary brother (William Magnuson) and investigates a disturbing, decades-old secret. Praised at festival screenings, the film blends horror and true-crime sensibilities for an unnerving, modern suspense experience.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw (Disney+)

Concluding the weeks highlights is the fourth animated installment in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, directed by Matt Danner. Based on Jeff Kinneys third book, it follows Greg (Aaron Harris) as his relationship with his father Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos) is tested during a misguided wilderness camp adventure. Premiering Friday on Disney+, the film maintains the humor and charm of the original series, making it perfect for family viewing.

Author: Chloe Ramirez