The body horror film “The Substance” along with a new album from Tyler, the Creator are among exciting new entertainment choices coming soon to various streaming platforms and devices.
Additionally, streaming highlights curated by entertainment professionals include “Despicable Me 4” on Peacock, the political drama series “The Diplomat” featuring Keri Russell and Rupert Sewell with its second season debuting on Thursday, and the concert documentary “Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour” available on Tuesday.
**NEW MOVIES TO STREAM OCT. 28-Nov. 3**
— A notable release includes Coralie Fargeat’s thought-provoking body horror film, “The Substance,” which will be available on MUBI on Halloween. The narrative follows Demi Moore’s character, Elisabeth Sparkle, a washed-up Hollywood celebrity who gets dismissed from her TV aerobic show on her 50th birthday. In a moment of despair, she opts for a black market drug named The Substance that promises to restore her youth, showcasing her younger self played by Margaret Qualley. One review highlighted that the film transitions from an intriguing sci-fi premise into a chaotic and violent spectacle, eventually evolving into a grotesque monster movie.
— Two intriguing documentaries are also on the horizon. First, on Wednesday, October 30, Netflix will release “Martha,” a film that reexamines the life of Martha Stewart, directed by R.J. Cutler. Following this, on Friday, November 1, Disney+ will debut “Music by John Williams,” a documentary that delves into the life of the legendary composer known for his iconic film scores, featuring testimonials from notable figures like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
— Annie Baker, a renowned playwright, makes her directorial debut with the understated film “Janet Planet,” arriving on MAX on November 1. Set in rural Western Massachusetts during the summer of 1991, the story centers on a mother, played by Julianne Nicholson, and her 11-year-old daughter, Zoe Ziegler. This film evokes the nostalgia of summers long past before the age of smartphones and social media.
— For younger audiences eager for more Minion antics, “Despicable Me 4” will premiere on Peacock on October 31. The film has been described as a light-hearted addition from Illumination Entertainment that’s entertaining yet perhaps forgettable like a classic Saturday morning cartoon.
**NEW MUSIC TO STREAM OCT. 28-Nov. 3**
— Willie Nelson is set to release a new album titled “Last Leaf On the Tree” on Friday. This marks his first collaboration with his son, Micah, in the production role, and is notable for being his 76th solo studio album. The release features a variety of covers, including tracks originally by Tom Waits and Nina Simone. Nelson’s knack for reimagining cover songs is evident, once again demonstrating his unique musical artistry with this follow-up album for the year.
— Tyler, the Creator is making waves once again with the release of his seventh album, “Chromakopia,” coming this Monday. Known for his innovative and transgressive approach to hip-hop, this album is anticipated to carry the same adventurous spirit evidenced by the single “NOID,” which features an inventive sampling from a 1977 Zambian rock song.
— On Halloween, Amazon Prime Video will unveil “Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words,” a documentary centered on the influential rapper known for her empowering ethos and undeniable musical talent. The film explores the complexities of her journey in the music industry, including the scrutiny she faced during challenging personal trials, providing an in-depth view into her life beyond the public persona.
— Following the wave of concert films featuring top artists, “Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour” arrives on Netflix on Tuesday. This film offers a close-up experience of Rodrigo’s celebrated performance, showcasing her strikingly emotive pop-punk anthems and poignant ballads, encapsulating the raw dissatisfaction that drives her artistry.
— The new music project “BLISS!! BLISS! BLISS” by Lanny, the solo endeavor of Lan McArdle of Joanna Gruesome fame, reflects a fresh take on indie-pop. This debut features eclectic soundscapes and intricate layering that invites listeners into an imaginative auditory space, kicking off with the compelling single “ur an angel im evil.” McArdle’s unique perspective continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting their artistic versatility.
**NEW SHOWS TO STREAM OCT. 28-Nov. 3**
— Fans can look forward to the highly anticipated return of “Wizards of Waverly Place,” with its sequel releasing its first two episodes on Tuesday on Disney Channel. The initial eight episodes will then become available for streaming on Wednesday on Disney+. This series finds Selena Gomez’s character Alex returning to train a young wizard under the watchful eyes of her older brother Justin, reprising his role played by David Henrie. A guest appearance by Gomez will delight fans of the original series.
— Netflix’s “The Diplomat,” featuring Keri Russell and Rupert Sewell, is set to unveil its second season on Thursday. Picking up from the previous season’s events, the story continues exploring the complicated marriage of diplomats Katherine and Hal, as new challenges arise alongside political intrigue with Allison Janney joining the cast as the Vice President.
— Hallmark+ will introduce “Finding Mr. Christmas,” a reality competition show where ten contestants vie for a starring role in a holiday movie. Hosted by Jonathan Bennett, the show will engage contestants in festive challenges, leading to a chance at cinematic stardom opposite Jessica Lowndes when the new original “Happy Howlidays” premieres in December.
— HBO will launch a Spanish-language adaptation of “Like Water for Chocolate” on Sunday, November 3, focusing on a passionate love story set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution. The series explores the hardships faced by Tita and Pedro as they navigate family customs that thwart their romantic aspirations, with Salma Hayek Pinault serving as an executive producer.
**NEW VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY**
— After a lengthy wait, BioWare welcomes gamers back to its storied RPG universe with “Dragon Age: The Veilguard,” releasing on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, and PC on October 31. This installment involves handling a crisis initiated by irritable Elven deities wreaking havoc across the land of Thedas, forging alliances with a diverse team of fighters, rogues, and mages. The game promises extensive narration and beloved character-driven storytelling for its fans, alongside potential nostalgic cameos from previous installments.