19 Must-See Movies Hitting Streaming in May: Unmissable Titles!

May is Movie Month! As the year 2025 progresses, movies that premiered in cinemas earlier in the year are now becoming available to stream. For instance, Steven Soderbergh’s spy thriller “Black Bag” is making its debut on Peacock, while Netflix has secured streaming rights for the romantic slasher film titled “Heart Eyes.” Additionally, a few movies that were contenders in the awards season are now available on streaming services as well. These include “The Brutalist,” directed by Brady Corbet, and “The Last Showgirl” directed by Gia Coppola. Notably, these films have gained recognition for their outstanding lead performances by Adrien Brody and Pamela Anderson respectively.

Additionally, you’ll find even more recent films to enjoy. Guy Ritchie has created another caper with “Fountain of Youth” on Apple TV+, starring John Krasinski, Natalie Portman, and Eiza González in a worldwide adventure. For fans who want to reconnect with the eccentric style of Paul Reubens’ iconic character Pee-wee Herman, Max will be streaming the first feature film of this beloved character before the release of the intimate, emotional documentary “Pee-wee as Himself.

Check out a rundown below of the biggest movies new to streaming this May

‘The Brutalist’ (Max on May 16)

A masterpiece indeed! Brady Corbet’s grandiose and harsh historical epic is definitely worth your time and anticipation, now available on streaming platforms following its 70mm theatrical release and impressive awards campaign. Adrien Brody delivers an Oscar-winning portrayal as a Hungarian architect, who immigrates to the United States post-Holocaust, only to find himself in the circle of a rough, aristocratic patron (Guy Pearce). What could possibly go awry? The film also earned Academy accolades for its exceptional music and cinematography.

‘Spider Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (Disney+)

As a dedicated film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the grandly scaled animated sequel is now available for streaming this month on Disney’s service, joining the impressive lineup of Marvel Cinematic Universe titles it subtly connects with. Following the successful launch of “Into the Spider-Verse” in 2018, Sony Pictures Animation has raised the stakes with this sequel that boasts a hilarious troupe of Spider-Characters, a standout vocal performance from newcomer Jason Schwartzman, and a captivating storyline centered around Gwen Stacy.

‘The Last Showgirl’ (Hulu on May 23)

Last season at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Pamela Anderson earned a best actress nomination for her performance in Gia Coppola’s latest drama. This film tells the story of a longtime performer from Las Vegas whose time on stage is coming to an end. Alongside Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis garnered critical acclaim for her supporting role, and the cast features Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, and Kiernan Shipka. In his review of the film, EbMaster’s chief film critic, Owen Glieberman, stated that “the film restores Pamela Anderson as an actor, and one of the things she accomplishes is to restore the humanity of many women who took on roles that the world often saw as degraded, perhaps because it couldn’t see them for who they truly are.

‘Paddington in Peru’ (Netflix on May 15)

In this third live-action film about Paddington, the beloved character who immigrated to the UK, we find him returning home after an absence of seven years since his last movie, “Paddington 2,” was released and highly praised. Joining the cast is Olivia Colman, bringing a delightfully wicked portrayal to her role as a troublesome nun.

‘Fountain of Youth’ (Apple TV+ on May 23)

John Krasinski, Natalie Portman, and Eiza González share a common endeavor: they’re all on a quest for the Fountain of Youth in the upcoming Apple film titled “Fountain of Youth,” directed by Guy Ritchie. This adventure movie, imbued with Ritchie’s classic touch of capers, revisits an old concept. The production spans various locations worldwide, and the cast also features Domhnall Gleeson, Carmen Ejogo, and Stanley Tucci. If things go according to the usual plot, these characters will never grow a day older – at least that’s what the story often suggests.

‘Twilight’ (Netflix)

As a film aficionado, I can’t help but be captivated by the unusual love story unfolding on screen: the naive newcomer, swept up in the tumult of adolescence, and the timelessly handsome centenarian who seems to radiate under the sun. Seems like an impossible pairing, doesn’t it? Yet, their hearts have spoken, and they’ve decided to take a chance. If you haven’t already, give the five-part vampire teen romance series on Netflix a watch – starring none other than Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner.

‘Mountainhead’ (Max on May 31)

There’s quite a buzz surrounding the movie titled “Mountainhead,” which seems to be another exploration of the vanity and mistakes of today’s mega-rich, created by Jesse Armstrong, known for his work on “Succession.” This is his first directorial feature film, and it was shot in Park City, Utah in March. Remarkably, it will premiere on the Max streaming service only two months later. The main cast consists of Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Ramy Yousef, and Cory Michael Smith, each portraying a ruthless billionaire. They are like a comedic time bomb, waiting to explode in the snow-covered mountains while the world below appears precarious.

‘Batman Forever’ (Tubi)

Val Kilmer portrayed Batman in just one film, but his distinctive jawline and unconventional acting style perfectly suited the eccentric character. Notably, “Batman” films are streaming on Tubi, and for fans who want to reminisce about Kilmer’s portrayal as the superhero, the movie “Forever” will be accessible on the platform.

‘Black Bag’ (Peacock)

The title “Pack Swag” was likely suggested by director Steven Soderbergh to his cast before they embarked on the film’s shoot, given its high-stakes espionage and intricate plot twists. This gripping caper, with elements of both marital and international intrigue, sees Michael Fassbender as a cunning spy, subtly probing his peers, even his wife (the captivating Cate Blanchett, who embodies the role of the femme fatale flawlessly). The film cleverly uncovers a traitor within their ranks while also serving as a witty commentary on the narcissistic nature of intelligence agency jobs and the secret longing for genuine love among self-centered individuals.

‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ (Max)

If you’re excited about the upcoming original HBO documentary “Pee-wee as Himself,” you can reminisce about Paul Reubens’ outstanding performance in his feature film role as the cunning and charming man-child. Notably, “Big Adventure” was Tim Burton’s directorial debut; this film perfectly captures two giants of comedy at the pinnacle of their comedic prowess.

‘Heart Eyes’ (Netflix on May 8)

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement about a fresh take on rom-com tropes that’s downright chilling! This unique spin on the genre is now available for streaming on Netflix, having graced the big screen in February, perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day. In this thrilling tale, Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding portray a pair of workmates who are mistakenly thought to be a couple by a ruthless killer stalking those on lover’s lane.

In an exclusive interview with EbMaster, director Josh Ruben revealed his inspiration for the film’s tone – drawing from the timeless chemistry of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in their classic two-handers. The result is a hilarious yet fast-paced horror-slasher that manages to be both funny and spooky. Don’t miss out on this unconventional love story turned nightmare!

‘The Mule’ (Netflix)

Is it possible for an elderly gardener, who happens to be in his eighties, to secretly transport illegal substances for a criminal organization? Absolutely, and Clint Eastwood plays both the director and the protagonist in a poignant, elegantly crafted thriller that skillfully intensifies the suspense. One particularly striking scene unfolds at a Waffle House where Eastwood confronts Bradley Cooper, portraying the federal agent chasing him, which is a moment that lingers in memory.

‘Ocean’s Eleven’ (Netflix)

The remake of the heist film reached its zenith when director Steven Soderbergh took hold of it. This version features George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Bernie Mac, and seven other charming scoundrels collaborating to rob a casino vault and, as an added bonus, embarrass Danny Ocean’s ex-wife’s new boyfriend. You can watch the more relaxed sequel “Ocean’s Twelve” and its follow-up “Ocean’s Thirteen,” which serves as the extravagant conclusion of the trilogy, on Netflix.

‘Summer of ’69’ (Hulu on May 9)

In the seventh season and beyond on “Saturday Night Live,” Chloe Fineman has now been given a genuine comedy lead role in this Hulu original. She portrays an exotic dancer who is hired by a female high school student to win over (and offer advice on romance and dating) her crush. Jillian Bell takes charge as the director for her debut feature film, leading a cast that includes Charlie Day, Alex Moffatt, and Natalie Morales.

‘Airport’ (Netflix)

Although the film “Airport” served as inspiration for the Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker parody “Airplane!”, it’s a completely unique cinematic experience altogether. Boasting an eclectic cast with varying acting skills, ranging from Dean Martin to Jean Seberg, Helen Hayes (who received an Oscar), and George Kennedy who later became a regular in ZAZ productions, “Airport” is a grand, eccentric homage to the era of blockbuster filmmaking – both its glory days and its shortcomings. Interestingly, Netflix offers streaming options for two of its sequels, “Airport 1975” and “Airport ’77.

‘The Town’ (Peacock)

In a unique twist to an otherwise typical crime tale, Ben Affleck masterfully directs his second film, a Boston-based heist thriller that sees criminals pulling off an audacious robbery at Fenway Park. Brimming with local dialect and the essence of the city’s atmosphere, this movie is more than just a run-of-the-mill programmer; it showcases the unparalleled charm and panache that only superior on-location filming can capture. Fresh from his breakthrough Oscar nomination for “The Hurt Locker”, Jeremy Renner truly shines as the wildcard member of Affleck’s criminal crew.

‘The Jerk’ (Netflix)

Whenever Netflix streams a movie that is over 40 years old feels incredibly special, and it’s an even greater delight when they manage to secure a classic like “The Jerk.” For decades, we’ve been following Steve Martin’s comedic journey; now, it’s more enjoyable than ever to witness such a defining comic figure breaking into the mainstream with the force of a cannonball. Notably, Carl Reiner also masterfully directed this film.

‘Spree’ (Mubi)

Joe Keery lands a role tailored for him in Eugene Kotlyarenko’s unconventional and modern neo-noir, focusing on a rideshare driver who goes to great lengths for internet popularity. The outcome is more than just eerie – it’s confusing, awkward, and as we’d say today, incredibly entertaining. In essence, it captures the essence of being online in today’s world.

‘Fear Street: Prom Queen’ (Netflix on May 23)

In the summer of 2021, Netflix spread out the release of “Fear Street” movies over several weeks. Now, they’re back with another installment from the R.L. Stine adaptation titled “Prom Queen”. This film is a self-contained story that delves into the ruthless (possibly lethal) competition among high school popular girls. The action unfolds in 1981. Matt Palmer is directing, and the cast includes India Fowler, Suzanna Son, Fina Strazza, Ariana Greenblatt, Chris Klein, David Iacono, Ella Rubin, Lili Taylor, and Katherine Waterston.

2025-05-03 01:56