VOD Roundup: 10 Best Films Streaming on Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, Shudder and Tubi TV

Netflix

It Follows

You know we had to add this, right? It Follows, a loving nod to past cinematic styles and unique aesthetics is one of the finest genre works we’ve seen released in years. It’s such a strangely ambiguous film that often finds time to throw intellectual insights into the mix, just to confuse us, all while using a myriad of Easter Eggs to further keep us on our toes. It’s that rare movie that becomes better with each viewing… so go watch it again.

The Watcher

I’m a little uncertain as to whether Ryan Rothmaier’s flick, The Watcher was absolutely bad ass, or if my expectations were so dismally low that even a fair at best film could completely blow me away. What I am certain of is the fact that I enjoyed this flick, and if you find yourself browsing Netflix and feeling as though you’ve seen it all, give The Watcher a go.

Under the Shadow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8AxkZnXAIk

I wasn’t going to include this one in the list, as I didn’t finish the film – I fell asleep, I confess – but the wife is insistent that I’ll be performing an injustice by omitting this one from the list. Having yet to finish it, I can say it had a few solid moments I caught, but I lost the entire finale to exhaustion, so it’s hard giving you a fair recommendation beyond the second act. I’d say it’s probably a W, overall.

Shelley

I’m still not entirely certain of what I thought about Ali Abbasi’s Shelley. I really don’t want to spoil anything, because what is there to be unearthed deserves the respect of serious focus. But there are things I didn’t like about the film, and there were some similarities that just felt too similar. Yet at the same time I think the film is well-shot and deserves a chance to win you over.

The Similars

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beAgxI4tNDc

One giant nod to Rod Serling, The Similars tells an awesome tale and is shot in rather unconventional fashion. It’s been something of a silent release this year, but it shouldn’t be. It’s thoroughly enjoyable and it just might catch you looking in the wrong direction as things begin to fall into place for you.

Hard Candy

This is a tough flick to watch. The subject matter far surpasses taboo and some of the dynamic moments between Patrick Wilson and Ellen Page are just downright squirm inducing. The flick is powerful, and you’re likely to enjoy it, just don’t anticipate watching it multiple times. That’s probably not going to happen.

Yoga Hosers

Truth be told, I wasn’t a big fan of Yoga Hosers. It felt a little forced and the comedic timing seemed to be consistently off. Now, with that out of the way, I’ll note that I watched this with a group of friends, and they all got a genuine laugh from the flick. So, while it may not work for me personally, it could very well be a fine pick for you.

Would You Rather

While I didn’t find Would You Rather abnormally disgusting, I’ve heard more than a single person make just that claim. It’s got a few tense moments, for sure, but there’s enough here left to the imagination to generate a nice balance that should enable a wide audience to happily tune into the film. That said, it didn’t get much promotional love, which never helps.

Pay the Ghost

One of Nicolas Cage’s best performances, this adaptation of Tim Lebbon’s captivating tale is absolutely remarkable. It has a few rough moments in the final act, but the bulk of the flick is highly refined and the story won’t let go once it gets ahold of you. Keep a tissue handy, as there are a few extremely heart breaking moments.

Rats

This is a documentary, and it’s one of the most disturbing documentaries I’ve ever seen. If you thought you viewed rats as pestering varmint, your attitude toward these nasty critters is about to take a far more disgusting plunge. I’d almost recommend you don’t watch it… but it’s so damn chilling, and strangely informative.

Check out the next page for the 10 best horror flicks on Shudder!