Must-See Netflix Premieres: 3 Thrilling Films to Dive Into This Week (October 12-18)
This month brings a plethora of exciting new content to Netflix; scrolling through it might just consume your evening. Russell Crowe’s Unabomber and a film from Tyler Perry continue to reign in the Top 10, while the rest of October promises intriguing documentaries about personalities like Mike Tyson, Norm Macdonald, and Matthew Perry as Halloween approaches.
In the spirit of helpfulness, I’ve tackled the scrolling for you. Starting with the movie refresh from October 1, I’ve found a delightful buddy comedy that’s perfect for rewatching, alongside a wild true story about a drug-fueled bear arriving on the 14th. My top recommendation this week is Animals, where Ben Affleck not only directs but stars as an aspiring mayor in Los Angeles whose son is kidnapped.
3
21 Jump Street
A comedic buddy cop duo in action
Reimagining the classic late ’80s cop drama, 21 Jump Street, known for launching Johnny Depp’s career, this 2012 film takes a raunchy approach with an R rating. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller in their live-action debut, the film stars Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum), two high school opposites who bond in the police academy. After a failed arrest, they’re reassigned to Jump Street, an undercover unit led by the fiery Captain Dickson (Ice Cube). Their youthful appearances land them back in high school to investigate a drug called H.F.S.
While Schmidt mingles with the popular crowd, including dealer Eric (Dave Franco) and Molly (Brie Larson), Jenko finds himself among the nerds. Tatum and Hill’s chemistry is undeniable, especially during their hilarious trip on H.F.S., leading to a sequel, 22 Jump Street, also available for streaming.
2
Cocaine Bear
A bear on a wild rampage
Another offering from the duo of Lord and Miller, the outrageous comedy Cocaine Bear (2023) is inspired by a real 1985 incident where a black bear consumed a drug smuggler’s stash. Instead of a tragic ending, screenwriter Jimmy Warden envisioned a more entertaining path: the bear goes on a rampage fueled by cocaine.
Directed by Elizabeth Banks, the film showcases a group of characters crossing paths with the bear’s chaotic adventure, including Sari (Keri Russell), a mother searching for her daughter Dee Dee (Brooklynn Prince), and a couple of unsuspecting European hikers. The ambulance chase scene alone is a highlight worth watching.
1
Animals
Ben Affleck takes the helm in this dark thriller
Originally set to star Matt Damon, the intense film Animals changes direction when Damon joins Christopher Nolan for a different project. Instead, Ben Affleck, who co-wrote and directed the film, casts himself as Mark Kimball, a slick politician running for Los Angeles mayor. When his young son Denny is kidnapped, Mark and his wife Abigail (Kerry Washington) must raise a hefty ransom under significant time pressure, as their finances are tied up in the campaign.
The couple seeks help from their campaign manager Sam (Steven Yeun) and a fixer named Dayle (Gillian Anderson) in their desperate attempt to gather the funds. However, their quest quickly entangles them in a web of deceit and extortion that leads them deeper into danger.
Get ready for some thrilling movie nights
Whether you choose to enjoy the comedic antics of Tatum and Hill, dive into the madness of Cocaine Bear, or follow Affleck on a suspenseful journey, your movie nights this week are bound to be thrilling. After your binge, be sure to check back for more streaming suggestions, including the best thrillers or exciting new documentaries.
