5 Must-See Movies Premiering This Week on Netflix, Paramount+, and More (October 26-November 1)
The month of October is coming to a close, ushering in the end of the spooky season. For those looking to get their horror fix, Netflix has a range of terrifying films, featuring titles like Friday the 13th and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. This week’s streaming lineup isn’t solely horror, but it does include nail-biting thrillers, such as an engaging documentary on Paramount+.
This week on Peacock, the charming Minions return for a fresh escapade. Additionally, Paramount+ is set to launch the first Jack Ryan feature film as November begins. Netflix is also releasing a compelling new documentary about Canadian humor and an Oscar-winning psychological drama that stands out as my top pick of the week. All five films will be available for streaming across the U.S.
5
Hanging by a Wire
Hold on
If heights make you uneasy, you may want to pass on this title. However, those who can brave the altitude should brace themselves for Hanging by a Wire, an outstanding documentary that received acclaim at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.
In August 2023, a cable car with eight occupants, including six children, found itself stranded over 900 feet in the air in a Pakistani ravine. The documentary captures that day and the heroic rescue efforts made to save those individuals. The drone footage is sure to leave viewers feeling anxious, prompting deep reflection on how one might react in such a life-threatening situation.
Hanging by a Wire streams on Paramount+ on October 28.
4
Minions & Monsters
The Minions take Hollywood
Who can resist the Minions? If you’re in a neighborhood where trick-or-treating is prevalent, you’re bound to see several kids dressed as these little yellow characters. Coincidentally, the third Minions installment debuts on Peacock this week. In Minions & Monsters, our beloved yellow pals travel back to the 1920s to experience the glamour of Old Hollywood.
This time, the Minions become silent film stars, drawing upon their entertaining antics. However, the emergence of “talkies” complicates matters due to their inability to speak English. They embark on a quest to create their own monster movie to make a mark in Hollywood. Featuring numerous classic film references, this installment is sure to amuse children while captivating cinephiles as well.
Minions & Monsters streams on Peacock on October 28.
3
SCTV: The Greatest Show You’ve Never Heard Of
Canada’s hidden treasure
Saturday Night Live has historically been a launchpad for comedic talent. Interestingly, SCTV, a Canadian sketch comedy series, served a similar purpose for various comedy stars, albeit on a smaller scale. Airing from 1976 to 1984, it became a cultural phenomenon, paving the way for the careers of icons like John Candy, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara.
SCTV: The Greatest Show You’ve Never Heard Of delves into how this modest show left an indelible mark on comedy over the decades.
SCTV: The Greatest Show You’ve Never Heard Of streams on Netflix on October 30.
2
The Hunt for Red October
Submarine warfare
Since 1990, Tom Clancy’s renowned character Jack Ryan has been brought to life in various films and TV adaptations. John Krasinski recently portrayed the character, but the standout remains the original film, The Hunt for Red October.
Set during the Cold War in 1984, the U.S. is on high alert for a potential attack from Soviet captain Marko Ramius (played by Sean Connery) and his submarine, the Red October. However, Jack Ryan (Alec Baldwin) suspects that Ramius may actually be defecting. As tension escalates, Ryan races against time to validate his theory before the threat of nuclear conflict looms. A perfect blend of action and suspense, this political thriller reveals Baldwin’s impressive performance as Jack Ryan, leaving fans wishing he had continued beyond this single role.
The Hunt for Red October streams on Paramount+ on November 1.
1
Whiplash
How bad do you want it?
Is Whiplash a sports film? Many think so, and I agree. It captures the essence of an underdog striving for greatness, featuring a demanding coach who challenges his student to the brink, a series of hurdles to overcome, and a climactic performance akin to a major championship.
Written and directed by Damien Chazelle, Whiplash tells the story of Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller), an ambitious jazz drummer at New York City’s Shaffer Conservatory who lands a spot in the top ensemble led by the merciless Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons). Fletcher’s severe training methods test Andrew to his limits, yet he practices tirelessly, longing to win Fletcher’s approval. Simmons’ portrayal of the antagonist earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film examines the sacrifices required for success and questions the lengths one would go to achieve it.
Whiplash streams on Netflix on November 1.
More movies to check out
On Netflix, fans can find the two 28 Years Later films ready for viewing. Both are captivating and truly addictive from the very first moment. Sci-fi fans can also explore Paramount+’s impressive array of genre films, including Interstellar and Edge of Tomorrow.
